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Italics: (Na'vi language, or Metkayina sign language, and Jake's inner thoughts)

A/N: The credits of the artist and designer that created y/n's oufit will be credited at the end if you guys want to check out more of their work! It's truly beautiful and deserves to be seen by so much more people! 🤍

The dts of this chapter goes to anyone who reads this chapter :,) Ive only gotten to this point of the story because of you guys and Im happy i've gotten to the point of the story that ive been planning and imagining since I started the book! <3

As always, don't forget to comment and vote <3 I love reading and replying to all of your comments and they truly make my day 🤍 Without further ado, I hope you guys like it!
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The Tulkun left much sooner than you would have liked. The arrival of the sentient creature was over just as fast as it started, and before you knew it, you had to say goodbye to Eylti. You'd have to wait until next year to see her again, and as you watched the pod of Tulkuns leave through where they came from, you could not wait until next year to come around. This feeling of longing after your spirit sister left was always the same, but the next year was always arriving before you knew it. You hoped that Eylti could arrive with a calf next year.

After hearing that she had a mate now, it wouldn't be long before she would be able to birth a small, adorable, and cute calf. You already couldn't wait until next year. And if you were being honest, by the next time she comes around, you wished that you could give her the good news that you and Jake were together. You knew that Eylti probably already had an inkling about you and Jake, even if you weren't together. You hoped it wasn't just you trying to aim high and that something could happen.

Warriors were returning, the village was taking time to be happy and relax just for one night. It is supposed to be a happy occasion, just like the Tulkun arrival, and people were looking forward to it. Parties like these were usually a chance for men and wonen to try and find a mate, so you hoped it still wasn't too late for Jake to become yours. With so many women looking for someone to be with, you were scated that if you took too long, someone else might get together with him first. You spent most the of your morning in your hut thinking about what you could do and it all narrowed down to you simply just...telling him. That's it.

The more you mulled over it and thought about everything you've been through with him, you realized that you weren't scared anymore. You weren't scared of rejection anymore, purely because you know that if he doesn't feel the same that you do, your friendship with him is strong enough to go on if he doesn't like you back. As much as you'd like to be with him as more than friends, your friendship with him was more important and you wouldn't give up on that even if he didn't feel that way about you. You'd take a chance on what you felt, and if it didn't work out, then you hoped that you and him could still be friends like you've been all this time. He's brightened up your life in more ways than one, and you treasured that.

Speaking of, it has been a couple of days since the Tulkun left and the one chance of you being able to get closer is just around the corner. In fact, it was just later tonight. Right now, it is only the afternoon and the party that Tonowari has been organizing is just later that very same night. As of now, you still had nothing to wear for an event like the one Tonowari had already described. Everything you own is too plain and not suitable for something so important. Right now, you were trying to see if you could create a top at the last minute. You could have wished to think about this a lot earlier but there have been other things running through your head.

You didn't have many materials left, mostly because you'd used them all when crafting and weaving with Kiri and it was too late to go out and search in the reef and the beach for more. You had started creating this top earlier in the day and now its the afternoon, which meant that the party was just in a couple hours after sundown. You tried to finish as fast as you possibly could. You hadn't seen Jake all day, mostly because you've been cooped up in your tent preparing for the party, but these last few weeks were full of you hoping and waiting that Jake would ask you to go with him. And now that Jake hasn't asked you or even brought it up, Tonowari would probably use this party as a chance for you and Vokan to get closer and spend some time as mates-to-be. You weren't exactly looking forward to it, as nice as Vokan has been recently. But, It's not him who you want. The one you want was just a hut over.

As you continued to work, sitting in a criss-crossed position on the ground as you threaded one bead through another, you sighed as you took one look at it. It was nowhere near done. You wouldn't get it done by then, but even so, you'd continue until the last minute, no matter how really behind you were. You slowly began to slowly regret starting this just a few hours before the party. You continued to thread one bead after another, and slowly, you could begin to see that the sun was setting, which made you start to work even faster even if you still had the bottom of your outfit to finish. You needed a miracle by now. And suddenly, you got one.

As you continued to work, suddenly two figures appeared at the entrance of your home and you looked up to see Tsireya and Ronal standing side by side with happy expressions on their faces. You stopped what you were doing for a moment and saw that Tsireya had a bunched up cloth in her hands. You looked up at the two with curiosity, and all of a sudden, they both stepped into your home and you stood up from your spot to greet them, leaving your work at your feet. As much as you didn't want to stop, there was no point in finishing and you'd just have to find something you already had.

"Hey," You said, and your eyes trailed over to the cloth that Tsireya was holding in her hands. What was inside looked a bit clunky and you could not guess what it was. "What is that?" You finally asked, and Tsireya looked at her mom excitedly before she extended the bag over to you with both of her hands. "This is for you," Tsireya smiled, and you looked at Ronal and her with surprise. You looked at both of them with hesitation and then reached up to grab the cloth. When it was in your grasp, you felt that it was a lot heavier than you would've thought. You suddenly became very curious as to what was inside and turned to Ronal.

"What is this?" You asked, starting to slowly sit down on the floor again. Ronal and Tsireya slowly followed and they both sat in front of you, excited for you to see what they had prepared for you. As you slowly started to unravel the cloth, they began to speak. "Well, we know how distracted and busy you've been lately that you haven't had time to think about this gathering, so me and Tsireya decided to craft a little something for you," Ronal said as she placed a hand on your shoulder, right as you finished unwrapping it. When you did, you gasped and covered your mouth with both hands. It was so beautiful that you couldn't believe what you were seeing, even if it was still bundled up together and havent seen it fully.

"Is this...?" You asked as you started to pick it up and hold it up so that what they've made you could be in full display. It was a beautiful outfit set of a top and a bottom that were made out of glowing hardened coral fragments that were originally molded to fit as a top and pearls that served as waist chains. You could hardly believe that this was yours and that they took the time to make it for you. "Tsireya, Ronal, this is...beautiful. You made for me?" You asked almost breathlessly at how in shock you were. You couldn't take your eyes off of it. It also had straps made out of more pearls that connected all the way up to your neck, serving as a necklace or choker of some sort. The bottoms, or skirt so to speak, that came with this piece were made up of strings of white beads. There were some that glowed and others didn't, but that gave it such a beautiful effect.

"Of course we did. We know that you didn't have a lot of options and even if you already look beautiful every day, we wanted to make something for you that would make you feel as special as you are," Tsireya said sweetly, and you couldn't help but embrace her in a hug at her words. She quickly hugged you back and after a few seconds, you separated and didn't hesitate to hug Ronal as well. She had to do with this as much as Tsireya and you were incredibly grateful for both of them.

"Thank you, so much. I can't believe you did this," You said, turning your eyes to gaze at your new outfit once again, not believing that this was meant for you to put on now. "Well, what are you waiting for? Put it on! Me and my mom will do your hair when you have it on," Tsireya said, and Ronal nodded, confirming that they'd stay here to help. You were getting more and more excited by the second that you didn't hesitate to stand up and go behind a curtain that you had at the end of your hut. Ronal and Tsireya chuckled at your excitement, and they both couldn't wait to see you. There were rarely times you dressed up like this, so they knew you'd love to take this opportunity.

After a few seconds of trying to figure out how to put on the outfit, after trying to see where your arms went since there were so many straps, you finally finished and your outfit was ready. You had a small fragment of a reflective stone and when you looked at yourself in it, you could hardly believe it was you. You felt and looked like a completely different person than you did a few minutes ago. This outfit was able to show off every curve of your body, and flattered parts of your body that most people didn't notice because of your regular clothes. You felt a bit more exposed than usual, but maybe that was a good thing. You would be lying if you said you didn't feel good in what you were wearing. You felt pretty, and you hoped a certain someone thought so, too.

Suddenly you remembered that there were two people waiting outside to see you, so you took a deep breath, then finally managed to step out of the curtain you were standing behind. When you stepped out, Ronal and Tsirya stopped whatever they were talking about and looked at you with their mouths agape, in complete awe. Suddenly, you felt very vulnerable and you awkwardly began to play with your fingers. There was silence for a bit until you waited for them to speak, but after a while, they still looked in shock. "So, what do you think?" You said a bit bashfully, deciding to break the ice and the trance that they seemed to be in.

That seemed to knock them out of their trance  because they immediately stood up and moved to stand right before you, marveling over how beautiful you look. "Sister, you look amazing!" Tsireya said as she looked at you with wonder and loved how the outfit looked on you. As for Ronal, she was in absolute awe of you. Not only because of how you looked, but she has seen you grow up into an amazing woman that has really gotten into her own. She couldn't be prouder of the person that you have become. Ronal raised a hand and put it on your cheek, making you turn to look at her expectantly.

"I couldn't be prouder. You've really grown into every bit of the woman I hoped you'd be," She said, and you smiled at her, leaning against her hand on your cheek. This woman raised you and you were sure that the small and tiny baby growing inside of her would be nothing short of excellent, extraordinary, and exceptional all in one. "Thank you," You said loudly enough for her to hear, and she moved her hand to brush some hairs away from your face. Which was a sudden reminder that you had still yet to have your hair done. Ronal noticed that wouldn't be long until the party started, so they had better get it done soon if they want to make it there.

"Come on, we still have to do your hair," Ronal smiled, and then turned to look at Tsireya who nodded eagerly. The girl grabbed your hand gently and began to lead you over to a free spot on the floor. When you were properly seated, Ronal and Tsireya both moved to sit behind you, and they got to work. The two already had an idea of what they wanted to do for you and that would match your outfit. While the two continued worked, there was something in the back of your head that you wanted to add to your look, and it was something that you knew would tie everything together perfectly. This specific thing was something that you hoped a certain someone noticed, since it's something that is entirely related to him. You really hoped that he got to notice those small details, too.

It wasn't long before Tsireya and Ronal were done. To show you what it looked like, they picked up one if those reflective stones that you had to show you the back, and when you did, you let out a gasp and then smiled as you admired what they did with your hair. They had pulled a few of your frontal strands of hair, braided them and looped them through small rings and hoops, while styling those fragments of hair into a half-up half-down style. It kept your face clear with no hair in front, but they pulled out a few baby hairs to frame your face. You really liked what they did, and it really fit with the outfit, pulling everything together. You were ready now, well almost. There was still something left that you had yet to add.

You surprised Ronal and Tsireya when you suddenly stood up and rushed to a corner in your tent, where you had a small stand with many accesories of yours. You began to look and rummage through until you finally found what you were looking for. It was the flower that Jake had given you a few days ago and had put it behind your ear, right before he almost kissed you. Your face warmed up at the sweet memory but, in the end, you had decided to preserve the flower and keep it. You had been thinking during the time that Tsireya and Ronal did your hair and you thought it'd be a nice touch, and it was something just for him.

You walked back to Tsireya and Ronal, so when they saw the flower perfectly preserved in your hand, it caught their attention. When you sat in front of them again, they looked at you with confusion as to what you were doing with a flower. "I wanted to add this to my outfit if it's okay. Would it look good?" You asked, lifting the floor for them a bit so they could see. Surely it would be a bit of a clash of color, but you had a feeling it wouldn't look too bad. "Sure, y/n. But, where did you get it? If you had it stored over there and it doesn't look wilted at all, then it must not have been long" Tsireya asked, and you tensed, not knowing if you should say that Jake gave it to you. Too many questions would be asked and you would not know how to answer any of them at all.

"Oh, uh- just someone I know gave it to me. I thought it would make a nice touch," You said vaguely, but Ronal's look told you that she wasn't convinced. In any case, they accepted your response and dropped it, so you were able to relax for it. You handed the flower to Tsireya and she smiled while sliding it directly behind your ear and secured it behind a braid. It was not very long before your look was completely ready and Tsireya and Ronal had to head out to get ready themselves. You didn't fail to thank them deeply for helping you get out of the tight spot and spending so much time to create something so beautiful for you. You couldn't believe you were wearing such gorgeous piece of clothing. You would never forget it.

"Thank you again!" You called out to them as you watched them walk out. You were left standing on the same spot as before, and now alone once again in your hut. You blew a small raspberry berry before walking over to another part of your hut to gather a last minute item that you needed. You had your back to your entrance and were completely unaware of who was walking up to the entrance. It was a few seconds until you heard a gasp, scaring the life out of you. You turned around and quickly relaxed when it was Zara standing outside with her mouth agape. You watched as she quickly stepped inside and then grabbed both of your hands, then spun you around to get a full look at your outfit. Her actions made you laugh, and when you stopped in front of her again, she had the happiest expression on her face.

"Y/n! You look- you look- Wow, I don't even have the words. You look from another world," Zara said with astonishment clear in her world, checking out every detail of your look. She has never seen an outfit like that on any Na'vi before. She was in complete awe. "How did you get this? It's beautiful" She said, referring to your top and beaded skirt. You looked down at yourself and then looked back up at her. "Ronal and Tsireya made it for me. I had your same reaction when they brought it over," You said, laughing a bit as Zara grabbed one of your hands again and twirled you around again, not getting enough of how unreal you look. Zara was your best friend and she never failed to lift your confidence when you needed it, and she was honest so she always meant what she said.

"They did a really great job. Jake will not be able to keep his eyes off you. Or his hands" Zara said, nudging you with her shoulder and you suddenly felt your face heat up nervously. You wanted to assure her that it wasn't like that, but not even you could believe that lie at that point. You couldn't deny that you wanted him to be with you, and you hoped he noticed you tonight. Not even your face could hide how excited you were, prompting Zara to tease you even more. "Trust me, something will happen between the two of you tonight. If he isn't in love already, I'm sure he'll fall deeper in love when he sees you," Zara said, and you smiled hopefully. You had such high hopes that you wished this night didn't end in heartbreak.

"You really think so?" You asked, inadvertently exposing how badly you really wanted to be with Jake tonight, but if you aimed too high, you'd crash, but as of now, you were ready for anything. Zara gave you a look of disbelief that said 'are you serious?', and that her look made you laugh, as if my question was truly the most obvious thing ever. "If he doesn't, he's blind. He doesn't deserve you," Zara said, and you smiled at her, really wishing her word was law and that she was right about all of this. Zara has observed you and Jake, and from what she's seen, that was a man in love. She was never wrong about these things. Zara really wished you could see what she saw. That Jake wouldn't think twice about being with you.

"By the way, how long until the party? We have to be there before the warriors arrive," You asked, trying to leave behind the conversation of Jake for now. You took this this time to notice that Zara was all dressed up as well. She had a seashell top and a loincloth skirt that matched. She looked beautiful as well. She also had a seastar and pearl headband that framed her face. She's always had really great outfits and had a good eye for them. Zara always found the best materials in the ocean. "Well, it should be in about half an hour or so. We have time to talk for a bit, or if you want to head out, we can. I know you've been cooped up in here all day long" Zara said, and you considered her proposition. It has started to feel a bit cramped being inside your hut all day, so you wouldn't mind heading out for a bit before the party.

"Okay, yes. You're right. Let's go. Are there people already crowding the area of the party?" You asked as you and Zara intertwined your arms and started walking out together. Zara turned to look at you and nodded. People were probably excited for the event so the area was most likely getting slowly more and more full. The party was set to be in the small beach at the entrance of the village, where the Sully family first arrived. Tonowari thought it would be a good place to welcome back the warriors, since it's where they'd come back to the village.

As you and Zara walked out, you could see a bunch of over Metkayina villagers all dressed up for the party. You suddenly didn't feel as estranged as you thought you would, but what you did feel was a bit vulnerable. While you and Zara walked together, you could feel eyes on you and when you turned to look, many people you walked past kept looking at you. By the looks on their faces, its hard to decipher whether what they were thinking was positive or negative. You've never had so many eyes on you this way before. Why were people looking at you all of a sudden? The party would be starting soon so there were more and more people beginning to leave their homes and heading to the party area across the village.

While walking through the weaved path with Zara, every villager you passed by looked at you. You did admit that your outfit was very beautiful, but not very common to see. You've never used anything like it before. "Zara, is it just me or are people staring at me?" You said in a much quieter tone, not wanting anybody to hear. Zara turned to you, and the look on her face told you that she must have noticed, too. "Why wouldn't they? You look incredible, y/n" She said, and you chuckled nervously. You were never one for too much attention, it made you nervous. Zara's words were very nice but it didn't exactly ease your nerves. "That doesn't really make me feel better," You said, trying to walk a bit faster. Maybe the quicker you get there, the faster the party will get started.

Little by little, as you and Zara talked on the way there, you began to ignore the stares. Soon, you were able to block them out and it was as if nobody was looking at you anymore. Suddenly, many things about the party itself started to run through your head. You didn't know what to expect at all if you were being completely honest. You had hopes and wishes that came true tonight, and there was only one person that was running through your head. You'd just let the night go by and see what would happen. There's just no way to know.

While walking, you suddenly heard a voice that made your heart flutter. You and Zara stopped walking and turned around to see Jake lightly jogging to catch up with you and your friend. He seemed to slow down suddenly when he layed eyes on you, and Zara noticed. She smirked mischievously and then turned to you, putting a hand on your shoulder. "Y/n, I have to go. I'll see you at the party, okay?" Zara said, winking at you briefly, making you catch on to what she was trying to do. Before you could say anything, she was walking away and now, you were standing before Jake in total silence.

When you turned your head to look at him, your breath hitched by the way he was looking at you. His eyes were soft, yet his pupils were dilated. He wasn't scared to let his eyes trail in between your eyes and your body, making you shiver on the spot. When he got his eyes back up to meet yours, he did not want to miss a single detail. He was afraid that he'd blink and he'd lose his chance. Your gazes locked and you couldn't take it away, and neither could Jake. There was only silence as you two looked at one another, not knowing what to say whatsoever.

You looked at Jake in a way that made it seem as if you knew what he was thinking, but he prayed to God that you couldn't. What he was thinking didn't classify as something that he could tell you and it would remain as words that a friend said to another. If you wanted to know what he was thinking, then you'd be in for a hell of a ride. Beautiful didn't even begin to cover it. He loved looking at you so much in this moment that he didn't want anyone else staring because he wants it to be just for him. Being friends with you, he has never focused on your body, your figure, or almost anything physical, but now, those doors have opened. He was certain that you would be the most astonishing and gorgeous woman out there at the party, and what you were wearing only added to the beauty that you had on the inside.

When he had spotted you walking with Zara, he didn't expect for you to turn around and then he'd be graced with something that had him now breathless before you. What you were wearing complimented you perfectly, hugged your curves in a way that made Jake feel like he was being unfaithful to his recurring thoughts about simply staying friends because he didn't want to ruin what he had with you. But now, he just wanted throw all of that away. Your hair styled in way that accentuates your facial features beautifully with no way to explain how it is that you manage to look good in practically everything. As his eyes trailed around your face, your eyes, your nose...your lips, and then everything in between, his eyes landed on a familiar flower resting behind your ear. His heart swelled and fluttered when he recognized it, realizing now that you had kept it all this time, preserved completely and not letting it wilt away. He'd like to think it was for him.

His heart felt like it was going to beat out of his chest the more that he looked at you. He truly just wanted to admire you forever if he could, and he had completely forgotten of what he wanted to tell you in the first place. He was frozen. Jake was losing his mind, and he hoped he wasn't making it too obvious. His thoughts trailed back to the undeniable fact that Jake wanted to kiss you, didn't matter if it was here, at the party, or anywhere. There's nothing he wanted more, but no. He needed to push it down. He knew that the moment he heard your voice, it'd be all over for him. He wouldn't last throughout this entire party if he didn't get at least one moment by your side. It's all he wants and he had hopes for how the night might end.

You, on the other hand, couldn't take your eyes off of him. He did do something different with the way he looked. His dreads were tied back, and he didn't have the holster of his dagger across his chest anymore. So, he kept a very simple look for the party. He had his loincloth as he always did, he weaved arm bracelets, leather straps wrapped from his forearms oer to his hands, and had his beaded choker around his neck. He looked like he always did and yet, he still managed to take your breath away. You moved your arms from behind your back and then proceeded to move them in front of you to unconsciously play with your fingers.

You were beginning to see him in a different light than ever before. Sure, you liked him, but now it felt like something entirely different. He was standing right before you, and now that you've gotten to know who he is on the inside and the kind of a person that he is, you're starting to see other attributes that are making your heart start to accelerate. He looks so incredible handsome standing before you like this, and the way that he's presenting himself is making it harder for you to ignore the beating of your heart againsg your chest. Telling you to throw everything away and just tell him how he makes you feel. You were starting to feel like it was starting to be a losing battle, and that if he rejected you, you wouldn't be able to move on and be just friends like you thought you would. 

Butterflies swarmed your stomach as he continued to stare at you wordlessly, and started to think what it would have been like if you two hadn't been interrupted from that kiss a couple days ago. What would it feel like? To have him in that way? The turmoil you were feeling just felt painful but in the best kind of way, but also in the worst. Knowing that you felt great now, but also because your world could come crashing down if you told him everything. It was bittersweet. Everything inside you felt like it was burning each time you looked at him, and your desire to be with him only grew stronger. He is unreal. He is everything you've ever wanted. Compassionate, loving, funny, respectful, and handsome all in one. You still don't know what you could have possibly done to be able to stand before him.

You didn't know where you got the courage to speak up, but you were the first one to break the deafening silence. "Hey, Jake," You said, stepping up to Jake, and as usual he towered over you because of how much smaller in heigh you were than him. You reached up to the length of his collarbone at most. He looked down at you and your sweet and honeyed voice seemed to finally knock him out of his stupor. "Hi, Y/n" He said, his eyes trailing and scanning every inch of your face, and you unknowingly did the same. It was as if neither of you could believe that one was standing in front of the other, even if you saw each other just the day before. Like a long lost reunion.

Once again, nothing more was said and neither of you knew what to say. Jake even surprised himself when he finally began to speak up and started to say what he'd been thinking. Abeit, a much more cut down version. "I..." Jake said and started to speak, but cut himself off when he saw the way you were looking at him. He sighed and forced himself to look away for a moment. "Y/n, believe me when I say that...I am sure you'll be the most beautiful women out there tonight" Jake whispered, dangerously close to your face. His breath brushed against your cheeks and your lips that it was almost torturous. Your face heated up at his words, smiling gently. Your eyes looked into his, and he already knew that it was your way of saying 'thank you'. No words were needed for it.

Suddenly, something in your head clicked and you took a couple of steps back from Jake, but even so, you two were incredibly close to one another. You didn't realize how much time had passed and the realization that the party was about to start quickly brought you back to your senses. "The party is about to start. Want to head out there?" You said, gesturing with your head to the very prominently lit up beach just down the paths of the village. You moved to stand next to him and took a shot. You raised your hand, flipping it over with the palm of your hand offered to him. He quickly got the message and didn't hesitate to join his hand with yours, intertwining his fingers with yours. "I would love to" He said, and you beamed at him, smiling from ear to ear as you started walking forward, leaving him trailing behind you, hopelessly gazing after you with a soft smile. He was loving every minute of this.

You and him walked hand in hand into the beach that was now flooded with people. It was nighttime by now and the sun had finally set, but there were torches that lit up the area beautifully. You searched the beach for Ronal and Tonowari, only to see them across from you, speaking and inspecting that the party was going smoothly since the warriors would arrive any moment now. Tsireya and the kids were all back at their own homes since the party was for adults and the kids had to stay behind, being looked over by any older sibling they might have. Ao'nung was looking over Tsireya and Neteyam was looking over his young siblings.

You looked up at Jake and saw that he was looking over the area of the partyas well. He noticed that you were looking at him, so he turned his head to gaze down at you. He smiled at you and after that, you soon got the courage to spark up a conversation. "Everything looks beautiful, doesn't it?" You said, turning to look at the crowd of happy Metkayina villagers. You were completely unaware of how Jake gazed at you as you spoke. "Yeah, it does" He muttered, his eyes not leaving you. Watching as your eyes sparkled with happiness and with so much life and joy inside of them. He swore that he wouldn't let anyone take that away from you.

The party seemed to be get started shortly after that. You and Jake had been making small talk and just waiting until the warriors arrived. As if on cue, the sound of a horn resonated through the crowd of people. Everyone's knew what that meant so everyone gathered around the end of the peninsula in the beach, knowing that the warriors would be arriving any second now. You and Jake didn't have anyone to wait for so you stayed behind, still having a clear view of the horizon waiting for the returning warriors.

It wasn't long before the sound of screeches and chirps of Skimwings and Ilu's gradually began to become louder in the distance and the people began to get antsy. Tonowari usually has these sort of parties every couple months since missions and expeditions for Metkayina warriors usually took a couple months, so you always looked forward to these wholesome moments. Warriors returned to their families, their wives, their children, and it was truly just heartwarming. Once upon a time, you stood at the end of that beach waiting for Hahona. Now, you were on the other side of things, with those who has nobody to welcome back. You sighed shakily and wrapped your arms around yourself nervously, putting on a smile.

This didn't go unnoticed by Jake. He suddenly felt saddened because you used to have your mate be in that crowd of warriors, and you used to stand with excitement alongside other women who were expecting the loves of their lives to come back from on the other side of the ocean. He couldn't imagine how you were feeling on this moment. Plagued by memories of events that are annual and that keep coming back, reminding you of what you've lost.

Ever since Jake left the forest, he hasn't had the courage to attend events or anything at all that reminded him of Neytiri because it was too damn hard, but here you were, really trying to conceal it and be happy for those families that were awaiting to see who they love most again. Jake swore to himself to always come back to you, whether you were together or not, making it a goal to swear to himself that he wouldn't let you go through that ever again. He's been through he, he genuinely knows how it feels.

And then, it happened. The warriors arrived in the distance in what looked like an incoming wave. The warriors yipped and announced their arrival, slowly approaching the beach. The women started chattering excitedly amongst themselves, and some men were so excited that they couldn't wait to reach the beach and meet their families again, but they disconnected their queue's, leaped off their Skimwings and Ilu's midway and then began to swim over to the people waiting for them. It was understandable. These man haven't seen their families, their wives or children, in months. You'd think it was strange if they reacted any differently. Still, it was sweet.

You had forgotten how bittersweet this felt. You watched as warriors embraced their wives in tight hugs, with happy tears streaming down the women's faces, then seeing as the husbands lift their children up in the air, spinning them around in circles and then bringing them down to give them kisses on their heads. Wives and their respective mates kiss and embrace one another after not seeing another in months. The distance only made their love stronger.

You didn't realize how heavy your breathing had gotten, and how a lump in your throat was building up. You breathed in shakily, and before you knew it, you felt yourself being tugged to the side and then a body was pressed up against yours. You were too shocked to notice, but Jake now had one arm wrapped around your waist and another cradling the back of your head, rubbing this thumb against your scalp affectionately. You sighed and closed your eyes shut, hesitantly wrapping your arms around his midsection. Jake set his chin on top of your head and ran his hands through your hair. He hates seeing you like this.

After a few seconds when your nerves and emotions finally calmed down, you separated from Jake, but your hands stayed around his waist. You looked up at him and smiled weakly. He searched your face as his own expression contorted into one of concern, looking to see if you were okay. "Do you feel better?" He said as he whispered, tucking a stray hair behind your ear. You couldn't believe that he knew exactly what you needed and you didn't even have to say anything. You were left in a trance as your eyes were locked on his, but you quickly came back to your senses and nodded, fully moving away from away, but staying in front of him.

Before you and Jake could speak up again and hopefully make conversation, Tonowari's resounding voice resonated through the people. You turned your back back and saw that he was standing over a rock, sort of like a pedestal, with Ronal beside him. You looked back at Jake and gestured with your head, as if you were asking if he wanted to head into the crowd to listen. "Let's go," He said softly, grabbing onto your hand and leading you himself over to the front of the crowd. You didn't object and let him take you there, and once you reached a spot within the crowd, you and Jake turned your attention to an awaiting Tonowari and Ronal so they could speak.

When everyone was silent, Tonowari had that as an indication to finally start speaking up. This would be what finally get the party started and he wanted everyone to listen to what he had to say. This party was for the warriors who ventured out into uncharted territory and had also fought with their hearts against any threat. "This gathering is to celebrate the return of our brave warriors. This night is for them, their families, their children, wives, and everyone who's dear to them, so enjoy yourselves. Forget about anything that may be troubling any of you, and remember that this is a celebration. Now, let the party begin," Tonowari smiled, and people quickly began to cheer. Neither of them knew that Tonowari had one more thing to say, so the man cleared his throat and soon, that caught people's attention back to him.

"Before we begin, I'd like to commence this party with a dance dedicated to those who are soon-to-be mates. So everyone here, find that person and bring them out to the center," The man said, and with that, the people began to scatter everywhere, finding those people that they were supposed to be mated with soon. Your heart suddenly dropped to your stomach at Tonowari's words, because you knew exactly what that meant. You knew Vokan would come looking for you any moment now. Nobody knew that you wanted to be mated to Jake. All people in the village were aware that Vokan was the one to be arranged to mate with you.

You turned to look at Jake and saw that the same realization dawned on him. He had a hard expression on his face, with his eyebrows furrowed, his lips turned downward just the smallest fraction, and he looked at you with conflict. You'd have to dance with Vokan, and if it was anything like the mating dances back with the Omaticaya, he was in trouble, and so were you. Jake did not want to see you with anyone else, or dance with another man other than him, much less Vokan. He wanted to be the one out there with you, and he knew he wouldn't be able to take it if he stood on the sidelines. That was the only thing left for him to do, be on the sidelines. He didn't want to dance with anyone else other than you.

"Help me," You whispered urgently, which made Jake chuckle at your words. He was just having the most distressed thoughts about you being with someone else, and here you were, dreading it. Maybe just as much as him, if not more. Jake wouldn't deny the chance to help you, but he had to figure out something fast. You were looking up at him with such hopeful eyes, that if this dance wasn't meant for people who's mates were already declared, he'd be taking you out there himself. But, luck did not seem to be on his side tonight whatsoever.

Suddenly, the voice the you were dreading the most appeared just behind you. You groaned inwardly and smiled awkwardly at Vokan who was standing just behind you with an excited smile on his face. "Hey, Y/n," He said, and you watched as he extended his hand out to you. You grimaced and looked at his hand, not wanting to accept but also hating you'd hurt his feelings. As much as you didn't want to dance with him, just seeing him out there, the only one not dancing without his 'future mate' made you feel very conflicted. Vokan suddenly noticed Jake's presence and turned to look at him. "You don't mind if I steal her away for a second, right? Toruk Makto?" Vokan inquired with a very knowing tone, aware that Jake was actually hoping that he could dance with you.

Actually, did mind. He minded quite a bit. He didn't want you running off with Vokan, especially if you just pointed out to Jake that you didn't want to dance with the warrior. Jake wanted to be the one out there with you. And the way that Vokan insinuated his question, only made Jake's blood boil with annoyance. Jake hated himself for what he was about to do, but he knew there wasn't anywhere around it anymore. He wasn't the one in line to be your mate, and Vokan was. He wanted to make up for not taking you on a proper date, but now he made it worse by saying; "She's all yours," Jake said, and your eyes widened with confusion and you gaped at him, but Jake could not even make eye-contact with you. Your words got caught up in your throat as you noticed that Vokan had gotten all the confirmation he needed, because the warrior began to drag you away out to the center of the circle where young couples and pairs danced together.

Jake hated every word that came out of his mouth when he said that. He didn't want to let you go, especially with Vokan. But it had to be done. He wasn't who people were expecting you to be seen with. Everyone knew that you has someone else who was arranged to you, and nobody knew how much you and him were yearning, longing, desiring and pining for the other. But, he also did that for another reason. He would ask you to dance later, when the dancing was meant for everyone, and you two could be together, unimaginably close like he wanted, without being judged. Jake would have his chance, and he'd let Vokan know that you were meant to be with Jake, not him. It did hurt Jake like hell to see your reaction after what he'd said, but he pushed it down.

As Vokan took you away, you turned your head back and watched Jake get smaller and smaller until you saw him walk away to a nearby tree and lean against it with his arms crossed. Why didn't he say anything? Why did he let you go off with Vokan so easily? You wanted him to take you out to dance, and you didn't care if it was for mates or to-be-mates only. You wanted to be with him and all that told you is that he didn't care. Did he really not care? Your face visibly dropped as you and Vokan around to the circle. When everyone started to preform a traditional Na'vi dance, with loud drums and instruments playing in the background, all of that was muffled when you noticed that Jake was the one supposed to be here with you.

You eventually gave in and danced, but didn't do it as enthusiastically as everyone else. You went along with it but couldn't help but let your eyes trail to Jake who had his eyes fixated on you and Vokan every couple of seconds. You couldn't enjoy this at all. Vokan tried to engage you in the dance but you just didn't have the energy for it. You longed for someone else and you were tired of keeping it a secret. You didn't want to think that Jake let Vokan take you away because he didn't care, because you did. You did want him to care so much, but you don't even know if he did. It saddened you.

Meanwhile, there was a certain someone that had watched his happen with pure disbelief. Zara had seen you and Jake holding hands, hugging one another, looking at one another as if you couldn't wait to just throw all inhibitions away, but now, she was confused. She was frustrated with Jake for letting Vokan take you away when you clearly wanted to dance with him. You were just waiting for him to ask, and Zara could see it in your face how much it crushed you to hear that Vokan could take you away. Zara would have a serious talk with Jake, and she would make sure he finally saw sense.

Zara huffed with frustration as she shook her head and began to make her way over to Jake. The man was looking at you with such longing that it frustrated Zara how easily he let you go. You did not look happy out there, and it was clear even to Vokan who was trying his best to make you seem happy during the dance. Zara made her way up to Jake and stood by his side, and even then, the man was so entranced by you that he didn't even notice her presence. Your best friend sighed loudly and put her hands on her hips. "You are an idiot," Zara said, with no filter at all. Jake seemed to hear that because he turned around and saw your best friend standing there with a serious expression written all over her face.

"Excuse me?" Jake prompted, not knowing if he had heard correctly. Sure he was entranced by you out there and couldn't pay attention to anything else, but that was something that he couldn't have missed. Although, in his mind, Jake was calling himself an idiot too for letting his unreasonable logic lead him to this point. "You heard me. What are you doing way out here? Why did you let her go with him?" Zara said as she pointed out to you and Vokan still out there dancing with the other couples. Jake looked back and watched the two of you again, trying to find an explanation or an excuse for this but he couldn't find any. He was screwed.

"I have a plan, don't worry," He said, hoping thay Zara bought his words, but when he turned to look at her, her deadpanned look told Jake that she didn't believe him at all. "Oh really? Because it looks like it's going very well, I gotta say," Zara said with sarcasm filled in her voice. Jake sent her a frustrated look and he adjusted his arms across his chest, looking away from the woman and not maintaining eye-contact. "I know what I'm doing, okay?" Jake said, but not even he believed that himself. He didn't know where to go from here and if he was being honest, he needed Zara's help. As much as he didn't want to admit it. She knew you better than anyone, so she was the best person to go to when it comes to this.

Zara was growing very tired and frustrated with Jake's answers. He was very stubborn and didn't let himself be helped, not to mention beyond oblivious. So,  Zara snapped. "What are you doing? You're losing her!" She told him, and hopefully her tone would bring him to his senses. Jake turned to look at Zara and then back at you in the dance circle, and suddenly, Zara's words made the situation that much more real. Was he really losing you and the chance to be with you? He really was blowing it, wasn't he? He wasn't thinking before, letting you run off with Vokan. Everything started to settle in by now and it was all crashing down.

Then, another thought ocurred to Jake and he looked over to the dance circle, letting his doubts run wild again. He's never had this much trouble with love before. What was happening to him? What was it about you that sent him on a spiral of doubts and anxiety? "Do you really think I can ask her now? This dance is for people who are going to be mates soon. I can't be out there" Jake said, using his hand to gesture out to the crowd. Zara looked at him, genuinely dumbfounded. She was feeling like she was about to have an aneurysm. She groaned and finally spoke up; "When will you see that she doesn't care about that, you skxawng! She wants to dance with you!" She snapped, but still didn't reveal your feelings for him yet, because that was still your job to do.

Jake slowly turned to look at the girl and then let his eyes trail over to you and Vokan already finishing up dancing by what it seemed like. You looked beyond relieved to be over and done with the dance. Mates and future couples were starting to disperse, but Vokan still stayed stuck to you like glue. Something suddenly snapped inside Jake and before he could regret it, he leaned forward from against the tree and began making his way over to you and Vokan.

He seemed to making most of the talking while you listened, and by his body language, Jake could tell that the warrior was about to ask her out for another outing in the future. Jake couldn't let that happen. He knew what to do now. Zara crossed her arms over her chest and watched with a sly smile as Jake was getting closer to you. Her job was done. Hopefully she was able to penetrate that stubborn brain of his, and finally was able to get through to him. She wouldn't look away just yet. Zara was really excited to see this happen for herself, so she decided stayed nearby. If things went right, then this night would end in exactly the way that you had told her about earlier.

Eventually, Jake reached Vokan and you with a sly smile painted across his lips. When you noticed his presence, your eyes lit up and you beamed at him. You weren't upset that he had willingly put you on the spot for Vokan to whisk you away to dance, because all that mattered to you was that he had come back. He was here now. Meanwhile, Vokan could not look more annoyed. Jake was right, and he was about to ask you out again after the party, but Jake came around just in time before he asked.

You stood silently as Vokan and Jake stared each other down. That was until Jake spoke up; "Hey, you don't mind if I steal her away for a second, right?" Jake said lowly, throwing Vokan's words right back at him. The warrior narrowed his eyes at Jake after hearing his words, and just like Jake, Vokan minded quite a bit. But this time, Jake wouldn't let the warrior have the satisfaction of keeping you. Jake would now whisk you away just like Vokan did before, and he'd feel good about it.

Jake proudly took your hand, and you smiled as you intertwined his fingers with yours. As Jake was about to take you away, Vokan was left there in shock,. Jake did not waste this opportunity to stop for a moment in his tracks and then turn back around. "No hard feelings, buddy" Jake quipped, 'innocently' patting Vokan's shoulder. After that, Jake didn't waste any time. He immediately turned back around and the two of you began running down the beach together. He was the one guiding you, though. You two ran, but you stayed behind him as he dragged you somewhere, you didn't know where, but you'd go anywhere he went.

You knew it wasn't time to bring up what happened earlier. He didn't need to explain himself to you. He wasn't your mate and as much as it hurt, you didn't need to know why he had done it. If he wants to tell you its up to him. You weren't upset either. You began to think about the reasons as to why let you ruj off with Vokan and they all seemed plausible. You were just glad you got to be by his side again, and that he came back for you in the end.

Sure you would have wanted to dance with him, but you just hoped that there would be other chances in the future. A future where you and him were together. But, apparently you'd be doing it even sooner, simply by the words that suddenly left Jake's lips. You were left with butterflies emerging in your stomach and a shivering feeling running down your spine.

"Come on, there's a place I want to show you. Besides, I owe you a dance," He said with a smile as he turned back to look at you. The two of you were no longer running, but he was walking hand in hand with you as he still pulled you behind him. He still wanted to dance with you. Your entire being just filled up with so much warmth and joy that you could not possibly let him see it or it would give you away. Now, he was pulling you along and leading you to the forest that was behind the village. You knew this forest well, but where he was taking you was a section that you've never been to before. It felt completely foreign even if you've lived in this region your whole life.

All of a sudden, Jake stopped in his tracks, making you suddenly skid in your step and stumble a bit. But you looked at him and before you knew it, he was behind you. With the way that his chest was practically pressed and up close against your back, your breath became a bit shaky. "Close your eyes," He whispered, and his lips were right against your ear, and that only managed to create a burning feeling that was spreading through your body. It was no longer comfortable warmth, but something much stronger. He hasn't even done anything and you were already felt yourself crumbling.

Either way, you did as told and your eyes slowly fluttered closed. You waited for a few seconds for something to happen. Then, you gasped softly when a pair of hand suddenly were placed on both of your eyes. You were startled for a second, but now, you chuckled softly and relaxed into the feeling of his hands on your skin. "Relax, it's just me" Jake said, laughing softly. It prompted you to laugh bashfully at your small scare. "Okay, I am ready," You said, and with that, Jake muttered a small 'okay' and started to lead you to where he was planning to take you. You could still feel the grass and the ground of the forest beneath your feet so you could tell that you hadn't left.

It seemed that when Jake asked you to cover your eyes, you were much closer the spot he wanted you bring you to, because he suddenly came to a stop and so did you. You stayed in place for a few seconds and then he finally spoke up. "Okay, on the count of three, i'll take my hands off and you open your eyes," Jake said and you nodded, understanding what he wanted you to do. You were really excited to see what he wanted to show you, and his enthusiasm was really contagious, too.

You really loved that it was just you and him now with nobody else around, and a long distance from any sort of distraction. Soon enough, he started counting down and you began to get excited on the spot. "Okay, now, 3...2...1...open!" Jake said with pure excitement in his voice, eagerly wanting for you to see this, right as he took his hands away from your eyes at the same time as they fluttered open and you tried to see through your blurred vision. It was a bit hazy at first, but when everything focused, you were in awe. You couldn't believe where you were standing. It was absolutely beautiful and you didn't know how you've never seen it.

How was this place just right behind the village? You and Jake were standing before a trail or path of some sort that had lit up sections littered all over it. There were glowing and bioluminescent plants that illuminated the space in a way that seemed unreal. The hues that were being created and infiltrated into the place made it seem like you weren't standing in the same forest you've known your whole life. There were chattering of small critters, plants that only lit up at this time of night, and it was completely secluded from everything. These are the types of landscapes that you only saw below water, and it felt like that, but with no water surrounding you. It felt comforting yet so foreign at the same time. It was all so beautiful that you let your eyes slowly trail over anything that your eyes had the ability to see before you.

You turned your body around to look at Jake and stand before him, seeing that he was in just as much awe as you were. He has probably been to this place far more times than this one and he still wasn't used to its eerie beauty. He noticed you looking at him, so Jake moved his gaze to look downward at you. "Jake, how did you find this place?" You said, letting your eyes go from Jake and the forest around you, not nearly getting enough of it. It was incredible.

Jake shrugged and started to recall how it was that he found this place. He remembers that it was the first few nights when he had arrived at the village with his family. He wanted a special something that was familiar, something that could ease his homesickness. He spotted the forest behind the village and he hoped he could be back in his element even for a few minutes, and after a while of searching, he found this place and he's used it to think. You're the only one he's ever shown this place to, and he didn't regret it one bit. "I was wandering for a bit when we first arrived to the village, and I come here now to remember what I can hopefully go back to one day. I brought you here to give you a glimpse of my home. It scared me how alike and similar this place is to back at the forest, and it's...reassuring. Comforting," He finished, and you smiled fondly, loving that he had something that could bring him back to his roots of the forest. It really must not have been easy to leave like they did, but they owed it to themselves to visit. Possibly in the near future.

"I'm happy you brought me here. I hope I get to visit your home just like you've done with mine," You said to him, your tone full of sincerity. If it happens to be peaceful again one day, with no Sky People. You'd love to learn about the ways of his people, just like his family as done here. If it mamaged to mold the person thay Jake is today, you were sure that you'd love every part of it. It's clear that this place is very special to Jake, and you were honored to be someone that he can trust, and rely on for anything. You feel the exact same way about him. You wanted to show him your spot, the one you took Kiri to, and you were sure and very certain that he'll love it as well.

It seems like time slowed down again as you and Jake looked at one another, scanning each other's faces, trying to see if either of you could figure out the other's thoughts, or just trying to memorize every miniscule detail about one another because you're both scared that if you don't, you'd miss your chance forever. All of a sudden, Jake raised his hand and offered his hand out to you. You looked down at it and without a second thought, you joined yours with his. Before you could register what he was doing, he was beginning to work in silence, moving your hand that was on his, and placing your arm around his neck. He didn't take his eyes off of yours once as he did so.

Your heart soon began to race and accelerate when he didn't even ask to have your other hand, but he simply gingerly grabbed your other hand and put it around the other side of his neck. His forward and sudden actions forced you to be impossibly close to him, with your body pressed up against his. His eyes began to dilate when he let his gaze drop down to your lips for a miniscule of a second. Your arms were wrapped around his neck now, and then, still, in complete silence, he placed both of his hands on your waist, just below your ribcage. It made your breath start to quicken.

"Like I said. I owe you a dance," Jake said as he whispered, moving his face to be inches away from yours. You just couldn't find the words, so you simply nodded. You knew Jake wasn't about to dance with you the way that the Na'vi do. You've never seen a Na'vi constitute this position as something part of dancing, so you finally pieced it together. Jake was about to dance with you the way Sky People do. Back on Earth. "Y/n, put your head here," Jake said, momentarily removing his hand from your waist to point to a spot on his shoulder, right on his collarbone. He was quick to place his hand back on your waist where it belongs.

Your body felt like it was about to dissolve. You haven't felt like this in years, and you had forgotten how it works, what to do and how to do it. Still, you did what Jake asked you and placed your head on his chest, right over his heart. Your breath hitched and you took a deep breath when you heard his steady heartbeats. How was he so calm? Right now, you could barely function and had no idea what was happening to you. Every part of your body was on fire, burning, and completely out of control. Then, he suddenly pulled you even closer and you were now touching in every concievable way, in every single way possible. You feel Jake's every sensation as your body stayed practically glued to his. But, somehow, you slowly relaxed into his hold and sighed gently.

What lulled Jake into finally swaying you both from side to side was the sounds of nature everywhere as if it was your very own natural orchestra. It was simply beautiful. You moved your heard up a little higher and your neck was now touching Jake's neck, as well as your soft breaths coming out of your nose tickling his neck and making his breath hitch. But, soon, he got ahold of his bearings and he moved his lips to be right next to your ear. When he did, he gathered up the courage. "You look beautiful tonight. I...I hated seeing you with Vokan like that," Jake whispered as he admitted, then he proceeded to continue to sway you two from side to side. He couldn't possibly keep that inside of him any longer. It was eating him up on the inside and he needed to tell you. What he didn't expect was what you replied back.

"Then, why did you let it happen?" You muttered, and closed your eyes, relishing in how nice it felt to be this close to him. You didn't want this to end. You never realized how close you wanted to be with until this moment. Jake mulled over your words and he didn't know why, but now he knew that you didn't want to be out there with the warrior.

You wanted to be with him too. Jake inhaled sharply and tightened his hold around your waist. "I didn't want to hurt you. I figured you'd be better off with him" Jake said and regretted it as soon as he said it. Your eyes opened at his words and as much as you didn't want to, you pulled away from his neck and looked up at him. You removed one of your hands from around his neck and moved it to cup his cheek, running your thumb on his jaw. Suddenly, his attention was on you now more than ever. You seemed like you had so much to say, but couldn't find the right words.

"Jake," You started, in an almost inaudible tone. The sounds of the forest filled in those empty moments of silence that you took as you prepared yourself for what you were about to say. "Trust me when I say that...there's no one i'd be better off with than you," You said, and Jake's eyes widened a fraction before you finally felt his heart start to speed up, making you giggle a bit and smile up at him. Is that what he thought it meant? Did you really feel as crazy about him as he did with you?

All he wanted to stay with you for the rest of his life and never have to be anywhere else. He hasn't been able to express how he felt through words, no matter how many times he tried to ask you out, tried to protect his feelings, or anything of the sort. He didn't care how many rules it broke if he were to be with you in the way he wanted, but he would go through it all just to be with you and Jake knew exactly what to do. He hoped you wouldn't push him away. Yours and Jake's mind clicked at the same time, and both of you knew exactly what to do. No more pushing each other away, and instead, it'd be better to put their words into actions.

"Jake, answer me this...and be honest with me, please" You said barely, just barely above a whisper. You watched as he hummed and nodded. You moved your hand from his cheek back to be around his neck. What you were about to say would settle everything that you have been holding inside for so long, what you thought would send you into an abyss, what you thought would end your friendship with him if you weren't careful, and what you thought would end everything that you have worked for with him to be here right now.

"Do you love me?" You asked, once and for all, sure of what you wanted and what you wanted to know. You didn't want to beat around the bush anymore. You've tried to convince yourself you didn't feel anything, that anything that happened between you was impossible, and that you were better off with someone else. You love him. You're undeniably in love with Jake, and you would tell the whole world if you could. He's your person and has been ever since he stepped foot into the village. You watched as he was looked directly into your eyes, and to you it seemed like moments of agony where he would reject you right then and there, but in reality, he couldn't believe that you loved him too after all this time of thinking the exact opposite. That nothing could happen.

Then, you started to prepare for the worst. After seconds of agony where it felt like if he hadn't answered already, then that meant that your hope was slowly starting to leave your body and silence only filled the air. As much as you looked at him with anticipation, your mind was cruel and kept trying to tell you that his answer was no. Maybe he did love you, but not in the way that you'd hoped, which is how you had originally thought that this would lead. Torment circled your head as you felt like the world had completely come to a stop, and it wouldn't ever start turning ever again.

His feelings weren't imaginary, he wasn't going after something that was one-sided and unrequited, but something completely real. He wanted to say yes, that he loved you with every fibre of his being and that he didn't plan on letting you go until he gives his last breath. He loved you so much that he would stay by your side through everything, not letting you go through any agony and pain alone ever again. If something were to happen to you today, tomorrow, and the day after that, and he didn't tell you how he felt, then that would hurt the most. He doesn't think he could go without you, and you are everything to him. Without a doubt. His life isn't complete without you in it.

That's why Jake said; "Yes," He said, a lot more eagerly than he thought it would come out. But then, he regretted nothing. "Y-Yes, I do" He said as his breath quickened and he moved a hand from your waist to cup your cheek and your jaw. You breathed out with a gentle smile coming in and suddenly you put one of your hands over his, leaning into his touch. His words were spoken with such a hurry that you felt like it was your mind playing tricks on you and that you'd imagined it. You needed to make sure that what you heard is what you've been waiting to hear for weeks now. And that your head wasn't playing sick jokes on you.

"Why?" You whispered, and Jake moved his other hand from your waist and was no cupping both of your cheeks, wanting you to have your full attention on what he was about to say. He didn't want you think you were imagining things because you weren't. He wanted you to know that this was real, he was real, and that everything around them was real. You wanted to know why he chose to love you. Why does he choose to spend his endless amount of love that he has to give with you? Why were there so many things he had to say? You felt urgency and anxiety awaiting his answer. The reason why...is because he wasn't capable of letting go. Not even if he tried.

"Because I've spent too much time trying to convince myself that i'm not" He finally admitted and suddenly all that you felt was relief, happiness, love, and comfort coursing everywhere through you. You smiled and laughed weakly as waves of an unknown feeling suddenly washed over your entire being. You had been waiting to hear those words for weeks and now, everything you've been wanting has come down to this very moment. All of those times of laughter, when butterflies filled your stomach, when you felt like you were bonding in a way that you have never before with anyone, and all those times you thought it was all in your head were all proven the moment he spoke those words with such certainty.

Comfortable silence filled the air after that, and all your eyes were doing were gazing from Jake's eyes to his lips, and he was doing the same. His eyes seemed to be going through a series of emotions that were led by hesitance, preparation, and then something that you'd never see in a man when he looked at you ever again. It was desire. Very strong desire. Even in the darkness of the night you could see that his breaths has become uneven and his eyes had become dilated, looking at the woman he loved so intensely that he almost felt too guilty for looking at you that way. The two of you just continued to trace each other's features with your eyes, with your hands still on one another.

You shakily lifted a hand and took a step thay you never thought you would have had the courage to do. You raised your hand and let your fingers trace every part of his face. Every single thing that made him special, and set him apart from other Na'vi. Your first stop was his eyebrows. You lightly ran your fingers through them and Jake's eyes fluttered shut as he let you touch him all you wanted. Then you moved onto his hair. You reached a hand back to his hair and combed it back, giving him a soothing sensation. He sighed shakily and you bit back a smile. You moved to his eyes that were closed, and then ran your fingers through his nose, his cheekbones, his jawline, and finally, his lips.

A ghost of a smile appeared on your face when your fingers came in contact with his lips. When you touched them, he instinctively parted them and they were soft the moment you touched them. You knew you shouldn't have gone through such territory just yet, but the moment that the pads of your fingertips touched the skin of his lips, you began to feel a sensation that you haven't felt in years. The longing and desire of being with someone in a much bigger step. You could feel soft breaths come in and out of his mouth as he breathed, not really knowing why you've still got your hands there. You could not seem to bring yourself to do take your hand away. Your longing for him was growing stronger every second. It was becoming hard to ignore.

Before you could let your hand travel anywhere else, you were surprised when Jake suddenly lifted his hand and took ahold of your wrist. You looked up at him with wide eyes, but then you saw something that sent a cold shiver run down your body. Desperation, clear in his eyes. Your breathing became heavy and erratic while his looked completely calm and collected. He wasn't trying to hide anymore that his eyes were trailing down to your lips every couple of seconds. You finally started to gather the courage to speak, because the silence was deafening. What was he thinking right now?

"Jake, I-" You started, but before you could even get another word into your sentence, Jake put his hand on the back of your neck, tilted his head, and smashed his lips against yours. Your eyes widened in surprise and then, you were overcome by how good it felt. Your eyes quickly fluttered close and sighed at the feeling of his lips moving against your own. They were so urgent, crashing into yours before you could comprehend what was happening, and they were so forceful that you could tell it was after a lot of pent up frustration, along with mind and body desires, that he decided to put it all into how fervently he was kissing you.

He intertwined his fingers in your hair and tilted his head deeper against yours to deepen the already passionate and deep kiss. You couldn't explain how you were feeling inside. It was a mix of burning fire, yet exciting so much electricity that was making you feel a way that you have never felt before. This is everything that you've been wanting. It felt too good the way that his lips felt against yours, it was so smooth and gentle, yet desperate and fast.

God, this was much better than Jake could have ever imagined. Just as you were about to even attempt to kiss back like he was, Jake suddenly pulled away as he panted softly and his breath fanned against your lips and your cheeks, leaving you wanting for more. You were completely breathless and your lips already felt a bit swollen even if he only kissed you for a couple of seconds. You could only think about how he stopped too soon and you wanted to kiss him again so badly.

Before you knew it, all of that desperation kept rushing back towards you and then, a switch went off in your head. You didn't know what came over you, and you've never been as bold as you were about to be, but you threw your arms around his wide and broad shoulders, and reconnected your lips with his. Jake didn't fail to reciprocate and was quick to kiss you back intensely, holding onto your waist and leaning you back a bit while you held on by his shoulders. The only sounds that could be heard from both of you were your intense and heavy breaths clashing against one another, and the sounds of lips reconnecting over and over.

Now that you've finally breached this barrier, neither of you wanted it to stop. Everything was thrown out the window and now you and Jake could never go back to how it used to be. "God, you have no idea of much I've thought about this," Jake said breathlessly in between kisses as he reconnected his lips with yours repeatedly, not getting enough. You smile against his lips and the world around you started to feel like it wasn't real. He was real, he was here in front of you and you began to question why you two didn't do this earlier. It just felt so good that it felt illegal to stop.

You retracted your hands a bit from behind his neck and tangled them back into his hair. Jake groaned and at the feeling and you chuckled softly while letting your hands trail from his hair, down to press against his chest. All things around you and Jake began to feel blurry, and dizziness was starting to catch up with you, but in the best way. You barely have air left in your lungs but you two continued nonetheless. What you didn't expect was for Jake to suddenly walk you backwards until your back was pressed up against a nearby tree and his hands had moved from your waist to rest on either side of your head. You moved your hands from his chest over to cup his face and you could barely keep your hands in one place at this point.

Suddenly, Jake let you catch your breath, and himself too, when his kisses slowed down and he was showing so much care and gentleness that it sent warmth to your heart that you could barely express. It's been so long since you've been kissed like that, and now that everything was setttling in, you smiled against Jake's lips as he slowly broke away the kiss, leaving you gasping for air. You leaned back against the tree Jake had pushed you up against and his forehead leaned against yours, trying to catch his breath. He had put everything into that kiss and he still wanted more, he knew you did too. Both you and Jake panted softly as you two began to miss that warmth and burning sensation that you felt just a few seconds ago.

As you two took a couple seconds to regain air into your lungs, even if both of you were speechless, you and Jake couldn't help but start laughing. Jake tucked his face into your neck as you wrapped your arms around his shoulders, staying leaned against the tree. You couldn't stop laughing breathlessly. Your laughter resonated through the trees and the forest, reminding you of how happy you and Jake truly were. After a few seconds when the laughter died down and both of you were left with soft smiles gracing your lips, you reached a hand from around his shoulders and used it to cup his cheek, rubbing your thumb against his cheekbone and looking into his eyes.

His anber eyes locked onto your turquoise ones with so much love that he didn't want any of this to end. You still had something that was a bit overdue, and you couldn't wait a single second to say those words. "I love you, too" You breathed out, beaming at him after finally reciprocating. Jake suddenly felt a wave of happiness and contentment come over him as slowly he leaned in and connected his lips with yours again. Both of you knew that you had the same idea of where this night would go.

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Please tell me I didn't mess this up lmao I really spent the longest time making sure it's perfect and that the last scene was the perfect transition to what I'm sure you guys know is coming next chaper lol but yeah! I'm not so good at writing mature and intimate scenes so I'm still relatively new at it since the only other one Ive written was for my first Barricades book. I hope i've gotten better at it SHSJ Ive built up this chapter from the beginning of the book so I'm hoping its as good as I imagined it.

Also, I finally have a visual for Vokan. I decided to use a background character in the movie. I chose that one guy that was with Tonowari when Jake was learning to ride a Skimwing, since Vokan was there in the story too during that moment and I just decided to have that character be his visual lmao he has that warrior appearance to him too.

As usual, I put these at the end of every chapter, but there's not much else that I have to say now, but as always, I'll add other news in future chapters if there are any at all or if anything changes. Anyway, I'll see you all in the next one! 🤍 Have a good start of your weekend everyone! :,)

Also, remember if you want a dt for the next chapter, let me know! I love doing these because I can really express my gratitude to all of you that way :,)

Also, the credits to the designer who made the outfit I chose for y/n belongs to @/ziwu_artemis on Instagram! All of their work is so beautiful and gorgeous that it deserves to be seen! :,)
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