Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Ugh. Finally!” Asami said, exhausted from a long day at work. Five back-to-back meetings and a little trouble at the Engineering Department had her slumping back in her seat, looking at the ceiling.

Contemplating what her life had become, Asami sighed deeply. Her life first turned around when her mother died in a car accident when she was 12. At 21 years old, she took over as CEO of Future Industries because her father, Hiroshi, had suddenly died from a heart attack. She wasn’t ready then, but Asami stepped up, so his father’s lifelong work wouldn’t go to waste, and also for the employees that rely on them for their jobs.

Now, it has been 10 years, and Future Industries is stronger than ever. Hiroshi was a good businessman, but he was a very traditional man, so the company’s growth plateaued. As soon as Asami held the reigns, it became the forefront of innovation in the automobile industry once again. She was a force to be reckoned with.

What’s the point? A voice in the back of her mind told her. While her career was at an all-time high, her personal life became stale. She didn’t have time to go out with her friends anymore, and that was why she lost contact with them, leaving her alone in life. Asami only had herself, and she didn’t even have time for herself! So what was the point of everything?

Asami thought of resigning and just running away somewhere, anywhere. She wanted to go back to when her life was simple. Back when she was just a junior engineer for her father. But she couldn’t. This was her life now, so she had to face the music.

However, she wanted more out of her life. Surely her company would understand. She gave up 10 years of her life for them, so it was fair if she could live her life for herself this time. “What are you doing still sitting then? If you want to live your life, start by going out tonight,” she said to herself, slapping both of her hands on her cheeks lightly.

Asami stood up and gathered the remaining paperwork, and put them inside her drawer. She would get back to them tomorrow. No! Not tomorrow. Tomorrow’s a Sunday, Asami. Break your habit!

Tuning out of her musings, she walked out of her office with strong, long strides, and within a couple of minutes, she was out of the building and inside a cab. Asami decided to kick off living her life back by going to a bar and having a couple of drinks.

Taking her phone out of her purse, she searched for the nearest one. “The Lion Turtle’s Den.” she read. It has 5 out of 5 reviews from a thousand people who tried the place. The drinks, as one review said, were “heavenly.”

“Okay, then,” she said to herself and then instructed the driver to her destination.

Five minutes later, she was outside the place. The Lion Turtle’s Den was a quaint place, more looking like a hole-in-a-wall than what Asami remembered what a bar looked like. Nonetheless, she got out of the cab and walked into the place.

Stepping into the bar, she was greeted with soft music and dim lighting. There was a dance floor in the middle, but only a few people were dancing. Asami ignored them and walked straight into the bar, placing her purse on the counter. A bartender quickly approached her with a smile.

“Good evening. What can I get you?” the bartender greeted her. He was a bulky man with green eyes and short hair, one strand sticking down on his forehead. His name tag read, ‘Bolin.’

“I’ll have one glass of margarita, Bolin?”

The burly bartender smiled at her when she included his name. He must’ve been used to people ignoring him after they placed their orders. “Right away, um, miss…”

“Asami.”

“Right away, Miss Asami!”

Bolin turned around and immediately prepared her drink. Asami took out her phone again from her purse, thinking about how to spend time while waiting for her drink when a voice on her left startled her.

“Hi. Is this seat taken?”

“Oh, no, it’s no-” Asami stopped abruptly when she saw who was talking.

The CEO and driving force of the most successful company in the world was stunned speechless by the woman beside her. Her gaze trailed up and down the other woman, taking in her alluring appearance. Bright blue eyes that shone like sapphires, chestnut brown hair cropped in a messy bob that framed her handsome face, tan skin that seemed to glisten in the dim bar light, rippling muscles that were hugged by a plain white v-neck t-shirt, and her powerful legs covered by her ripped jeans had Asami drooling at the sight. She felt overdressed now and wished she had changed clothes more appropriate for the setting than her business shirt and pencil skirt.

Oh, and did she mention the woman’s sharp jawline?

“I’m guessing that’s a no?” the woman said with a chuckle.

“Oh. Um, no. It’s not. Go ahead and have a seat.” Asami stumbled over her words. What’s happening with me? I do not stutter. Ever!

The other woman held out her right hand and said with a smile, “I’m Korra, by the way.”

Asami took the offered hand and shook it, but instead of letting go, she held Korra’s hand way longer than intended. She felt the electricity run down her spine as soon as their skin touched. Her mouth turned dry, so she gulped before answering, “Asami.”

“Asami,” Korra said like she was testing how it rolled on her tongue. Oh, how Asami wanted that tongue rolling in other places. Preferably on her. Anywhere on her.

The CEO was distracted out of her thoughts when Korra took her seat beside her and ordered her drink. A rum soda. She shook her head slightly. Come on, Asami. Get your head out of the gutter!

“So, is this your first time here? I never saw you come here before.” Korra asked her while looking directly into Asami’s eyes. Oh, how she could get lost in those blue orbs and never want to be found.

“Uh, yeah. I never had enough time to go out in like ten years. So yeah, this was my first bar in a really long time. How about you? You come here often?” Asami answered confidently, even though inside, she was nervous as hell.

Korra’s eyes widened. “No way. You haven’t gone out in ten years? That’s insane! You’re like a hermit. I couldn’t believe a beautiful woman such as yourself would lock herself up and not go out.” she said while gesturing animatedly with her arms.

Asami blushed hard. Hearing the gorgeous woman tell her she was beautiful had her giddy. She felt like she was back in high school when her first crush told her he had a crush on her, too. Except now, it was more intense. Maybe because she was now 31, and she felt old, or maybe because of how Korra stared at her. Her blue gaze burned Asami’s skin even without touching her. She turned away and bit her lip so that she could hide her smile from the tan woman. But Asami was sure that the tan woman saw her red face.

Before she could answer Korra, Bolin placed their drinks in front of them. “Here ya go, ladies. Enjoy your night,” the bartender said with a wink.

Korra laughed deeply, “Thanks, Bo. Tell Mako and Maia not to forget game night tomorrow!”

“I won’t! Thanks, Kor.”

Asami looked at the tan woman with wide eyes. “You know him?”

“Yeah. Bolin and his brother, Mako, have been my friends since middle school.” Korra answered.

“Wow.” That was all Asami could say. She looked down a bit, feeling a bit jealous of Korra having friends. She was glad the other woman didn’t notice her sadness when she heard Korra give another hearty laugh. Oh, how I  wish I could hear her laugh more after this. Her loneliness was forgotten.

“So, what do you do, Asami?”

At that question, Asami’s mood instantly changed once again. Her lips thinned into a line as she looked away again. Now, Korra must’ve sensed her mood swing, so she quickly added, “You don’t have to answer if you don’t feel like it. I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable.”

“No. You didn’t.” The CEO paused. It was not that Asami didn’t want Korra to know, it was just people were intimidated by her whenever they discovered or knew that she was the CEO of Future Industries. Like she was on a pedestal, sitting high above them. Like they didn’t deserve to be in her presence. Or sometimes, other people would use her because of her money and power, so she avoided talking about her background altogether. She didn’t want Korra to treat her that way.

However, she had a feeling that Korra was different than the people she encountered, so she drank her margarita and started to share. She explained her situation, and the tan woman listened to her finish rather than interjecting every now and then. Her gaze was also the same as before. Asami thanked the Spirits for that little blessing.

“I’m sorry you had to encounter assholes, Asami,” Korra said. The CEO felt Korra’s hand on hers, and her cheeks turned pink instantly.

“Don’t worry about it. I’m just thankful you’re here listening. I didn’t have someone to talk to about this before,” she answered as she turned her hand over and gripped the tan one. Asami smiled at Korra with tears brimming in her eyes. She decided right then and there to tell Korra her life story. It was like a dam opened, and her words couldn’t stop.

All that time she was talking, Korra never once let go of her hand. She listened intently, nodded at the right time, and asked questions when needed. She was a great listener, and Asami didn’t know she needed someone to listen to her until Korra.

“Wow. You’re so strong and brave, Asami. Most people would give up after all that, but you didn’t.” the tan woman said, smiling at her softly. Asami’s heart felt full to bursting at Korra’s statement.

“What about you? What do you do?” the CEO asked, changing the subject before her tears could even form.

Korra smiled, and her eyes lit up like a kid in a candy store. “I’m a SPED teacher! I just love kids so much, especially those who were left out by society. I wanted to give them a second chance, you know. They have so much potential, Asami! You wouldn’t believe one of my students could play the piano even if she’s blind. She’s so talented!”

Korra’s enthusiasm was infectious. Asami found herself smiling at the other woman’s stories about her students. Her cheeks hurt from smiling so much at the woman’s stories. She could tell that Korra loved what she was doing, she could see her passion for helping those kids have a stronger standing in life.

Time flowed fast as they talked and talked about everything and anything. Like they were two long-lost friends reconnecting after being separated for years. Asami stayed longer at the bar than intended, and she found herself happy for the first time in a long time. They only had one drink, their original order, but Bolin said he didn’t mind the least. He said he was happy that Korra found someone to finally make her radiate like that.

The teacher blushed, and her eyes widened. That was the first time Asami saw the generally composed woman stutter and be nervous all night. And she took that to her advantage. “Oh, so there’s no one special in your life right now?” the CEO teased her with a sly grin.

“Um, no, I’m- I’m not seeing someone right now, but…” Korra stuttered.

“But what?” Asami pried with her eyebrow raised, urging her to continue.

The tan woman raised her hand and rubbed the back of her neck nervously, “But, well, you see.” Korra cleared her throat before continuing. “I’m open to one right now,” she said while glancing at Asami shyly.

“Then let’s go on a date. Right now.” Asami blurted out. She didn’t want to take things slowly, not with Korra. She wanted the woman all to herself.

“Now?” the teacher said. Her tone was clearly in disbelief over the turn of events.

Asami didn’t waste any time and paid both of their tabs. “Yes. Now. Let’s go!” she said enthusiastically before grabbing Korra’s hand. She dragged the woman out of the bar and heard Bolin laugh.

“Okay. I know a great restaurant nearby, but it closes in, like, 10 minutes, so we need to hurry.” Korra was also laughing, trying to catch up to her long strides.

Trying to race against the time, Asami’s heels gave out, so Korra offered her a piggyback ride, and she gladly accepted. “Onward!” she yelled as she jumped and threw her arms around the woman.

They laughed while Korra ran toward the restaurant, but they didn’t make it. So the strong woman carried her all the way to a small noodle shop called Narook’s. Asami realized they could’ve just taken a cab rather than run, but she didn’t care. As long as she could hug and/or  touch the woman, she would take that opportunity.

They spent the rest of the night there, eating and laughing, getting to know each other, and confessing their tiny little crushes for each other.

Asami learned that Korra has a dog, a golden retriever named Naga. She learned that Korra was an athlete back in high school and college, and she still participated in charity games whenever there was one in town. She learned Korra’s favorite color: blue (obviously), and her favorite food: seaweed noodles which they were currently eating (Asami had to admit, the noodles were good). And they talked about all the things people talk about during a first date.

The CEO only realized what time it was when a server tapped her shoulder and told them they were closing already. “Oh my gosh. It’s already this late?!” she exclaimed. “I am so sorry for keeping you out, Korra.”

“Don’t worry about it, Asami. I enjoyed spending this evening with you.” Korra replied with a lopsided smile.

Oh, gosh. That smile could be the end of Asami. If she died right then and there, she wouldn’t regret anything. Maybe perhaps, not knowing what could be her future with Korra, so no. She wouldn’t want to die yet. She would claw out of hell if that ever happened.

She was pulled out of her thoughts when she heard Korra clear her throat.

“So, let me walk you home. Where do you live?” the tan woman asked while holding out her hand, and Asami took it instinctively like they were magnets.

“The apartment near Avatar Avenue corner Main street. But are you sure? Won’t Naga look for you?” Asami asked worriedly.

“No, it’s okay. Naga’s in good hands. My mom is here for the weekend, and I already texted her earlier that I have a date today. She actually blew up my phone, but I turned it off.” Korra said with a deep laugh.

But Asami was not amused. “What!? You turned your phone off so that you wouldn’t answer your mom? Korra!”

The tan woman raised her hand and rubbed the back of her neck nervously. “Uh, yeah. But don’t worry! She’ll understand. She was the one pushing me to go on a date, so I’ll explain everything to her later.” Korra said sheepishly.

Asami raised her left eyebrow and crossed her arms. “Well, if you say so. But don’t blame me if your mom disowned you,” she said, her voice clearly teasing despite her stoic face.

Korra held her hand again, and they started to walk toward her apartment. “Don’t worry, I can handle myself.”

They spent the walk hand in hand in comfortable silence. This was the first time in a long time that Asami felt free. Free from responsibilities, free from being the CEO, and, more importantly, she was free to be herself.

A few minutes later, they arrived at Asami’s apartment building, but neither let go of the other’s hand.

“I had a really good day today, Korra. The best, I would dare say.” Asami broke the silence.

“Me, too,” Korra replied, tenderness obvious in her tone. “So, when’s our next date?” the teacher added as she glanced at the CEO.

Asami giggled at her eagerness. “Well, how about we exchange numbers so we can plan our next date, ” the CEO emphasized the last word.

“Sounds perfect.”

After exchanging numbers, Korra cleared her throat, “Well, I guess this is good night.”

“Good night, Korra. Text me when you get home?”

“Yeah, I will.” Korra smiled. She turned to go home, but Asami pulled her hand so she’d turn back to the CEO. “What is it? Did I forget something?”

“Yes, you did.”

Korra tilted her head in confusion. Then her eyes went wide in realization. She stepped forward, leaned into the CEO, and tiptoed while Asami leaned down into the kiss.

Sparks ignited throughout Asami’s body when their lips brushed tentatively for the first time. Korra’s lips were soft despite their rough appearance, and Asami couldn’t get enough. So she let go of Korra’s hand and placed it on the back of her head, slightly playing with her brown locks. She then tilted her head slightly to deepen their kiss.

Asami felt Korra’s tongue brush against her lower lip, begging for entrance, and she allowed it. They both moaned when their tongues touched for the first time.

After a few minutes, they broke the kiss to take a breather. Both were panting and smiling widely. “Wow. That was…Wow.” Asami couldn’t form any words. Her mind was blank from the pleasure Korra’s kiss gave her.

The teacher laughed, “Yeah. That was amazing.” She paused and looked at Asami tenderly. “Go on inside, it’s getting cold. I’ll text you later, I promise.”

“Okay, okay.” Asami couldn’t stop smiling. Her cheeks hurt, but she didn’t care. “Good night, Korra. Have a safe walk home.” She placed a chaste kiss on the other’s lips and one more on her cheek. Asami finally let the tan woman go.

Once she was inside her apartment, Asami sighed and leaned her back against the door. She couldn’t help daydreaming about their next date, and the next one, and the next. She only stopped when she heard her phone ping and saw a text from Korra.

12:02 Korra: I’m home. ;)

The CEO giggled and replied back with a good night.

She took off her makeup, did her nightly routine, and changed into her sleeping gown. Once her back hit the mattress, her eyes instantly closed, and she dreamed about Korra.

Asami couldn’t wait to see her again. Finally, she had something, someone, to look forward to in her life.

Chapter Text

Korra walked toward her apartment with a skip in her steps. When Korra was sure she was out of earshot of Asami’s house, she screamed “YES!” at the top of her lungs. She couldn’t believe her luck! First time going into The Lion Turtle’s Den in a long time, and she managed to get a date with the most gorgeous woman Korra had ever laid her eyes on.

She was immediately mesmerized by the other woman. Her jet-black wavy hair flowed like waves, her green eyes shone like emeralds, and her ruby red lips that Korra couldn’t help but kiss all night. If they didn’t need to breathe, she would’ve spent all night kissing Asami.

Finally arriving at her apartment door, Korra let Asami know that she had gotten home safely. Just before she pushed the door open, she felt her phone vibrate in her hands. It was Asami’s reply.

12:04 Asami: I’m glad you got home safely. Have a good night, Korra.

The teacher felt giddy at the other woman’s text. Her cheeks hurt from smiling the whole way home.

Korra opened the door and was greeted by her very enthusiastic dog. “Hey, Naga. Miss me, girl?” Korra greeted in return while patting Naga’s head and getting slobbered in the process.

Their playful greeting was interrupted when someone cleared their throat.

“Where have you been, young lady?” Senna, her mother, asked, arms crossed across her chest.

Korra stood up and rubbed the back of her neck. “Hey, ma. Did Naga give you a hard time?” she deflected. She knew she had to tell her mom, but she didn’t know where to start.

“No, Naga was well-behaved with me. I swear she took after your rambunctiousness,” her mom sighed. “You didn’t answer my question.”

Oops. Korra never stood a chance against her mom. “Well, I was out on a date, just like I texted you. I was planning on spending the night with Bo, but ma, I just met the most wonderful woman in the world!” she said dreamily and then proceeded to tell Senna what had transpired that evening.

Senna listened intently. Her face was unreadable the whole time. Korra wondered if there was something wrong. “Ma, are you okay?” she asked.

“Hmm.” 

Her mom seemed to be thinking of something deep. Her face was full of worry, and her body was rigid with tenseness, crossing her arms over her chest. Finally, after what felt like hours, Senna spoke, “Based on your story, this Asami woman seemed to be a good person. Are you happy?”

Korra was taken aback. She didn’t expect that kind of questioning from her mom, especially when she was the one pushing her to date in the first place.

“I feel she’s a good person, too, ma. I can feel it in my bones. As for your question, yes. The short time I was with her, I was truly happy.”

Senna let out another sigh, and her face changed from worry to relief. “Okay. As long as you’re happy, I’m okay with it. I just want you to be careful, sweetie. Remember what happened with Hana? I don’t want to see you like that again, I don’t want to see you hurt. And I especially don’t want to receive another call saying you’re in the hospital while I’m in the South and couldn’t do anything.”

“I know, ma. Please don’t worry. I can handle myself. I was a different person then, and I feel like Asami is different from Hana.” Korra felt guilty all of a sudden. She remembered that tumultuous time in her life. She felt guilty for making her mom worry.

“I know you can handle yourself, sweetie. I just don’t know this Asami, unlike Aya. She’s your childhood friend, and that was why I was trying to set you two up. But if Asami is the one you want, then I won’t push through with the arrangement.” Senna said.

Korra hugged her mom tightly while Naga circled them happily. “Thank you, ma.” They broke their hug, and Korra noticed her mom wiping tears from her eyes. “Ma, are you okay?”

“Yes, I’m fine. These are happy tears. So, when can I meet her?”

If Korra were sipping water, she would’ve spat it out instantly. She couldn’t believe her mom would ask that question! “Ma! We’ve only been on just one date!”

“What? Can’t I meet her? From what you’ve told me, she seems like a lovely person.”

The teacher groaned and wiped her face with her hand. “Fine. But I’ll ask her first, okay?” she said while going into her bedroom.

“That’s fine with me, but remember, I’ll only be here until tomorrow!” Senna yelled at her.

“Good night, ma!” She groaned even more loudly than before. “I swear she just wants to embarrass me!” she exclaimed to herself, but she still texted Asami to ask if she would like to meet up the next day.

12:30 am Korra: hey, I know you’re sleeping now, but I told my mom what happened earlier, and now she kinda wants to meet you

12:31 am Korra: that is if you’re okay with meeting her!

12:31 am Korra: no pressure!

12:31 am Korra: good night! :)

Korra left her phone on her study table and went to shower. Once finished, she looked at her phone again to see if Asami answered, but no luck. So Korra laid herself in bed and tried to sleep. She’d wait for Asami’s reply in the morning while dreaming of green eyes and ruby-red lips.

***

Asami woke up with a smile on her face for the first time in a long time, as she’d just had the most wonderful dream.

She dreamt that she and Korra were already married and were getting ready for their honeymoon. She dreamt that they were on Ember Island, splashing seawater against each other. She dreamt of them making sweet, sweet love under the setting sun. She dreamt of Korra’s hands wandering her body, making her shiver on the sand. She dreamt of Korra’s body on top of her, her hips rolling between her legs.

Asami swore she could still feel the sensation of their lovemaking even now that she was awake. Even if it was just a dream. If she was this turned on by just dreaming of what they would be like when having sex, what more would she feel when they did the thing in real life? Oh, how Asami wanted that to come true. She got up and went into the bathroom to relieve herself and to take a long, cold shower.

About half an hour later, she was out and freshly showered, ready to take on the day. Wait. It’s Sunday. I was supposed to sleep in and relax! She went back into her closet and changed into more comfortable clothes, mainly a loose t-shirt and short cotton shorts. After changing, she finally decided to check if she had any messages. She had four, all from the woman of her dreams. Korra texted me! That giddiness returned, so she eagerly opened her phone to read, only to drop it in surprise. What!? Korra’s mom wanted to meet me! But we’ve only just been on one date. Asami hyperventilated. She didn’t know what to feel or do. Calm down, Sato. The CEO breathed in and out deeply before replying.

7:31 am Asami: Good morning! Yep, I was already in dreamland by the time you texted. It’s a good thing my mind was already awake before I read your messages, or I would be panicking.

7:34 am Asami: But yes, I would very much like to meet your mother.

She waited for Korra’s reply, but it didn’t come. Maybe she’s still sleeping. So, Asami decided to make herself breakfast with scrambled eggs, toast, and some coffee.

While cooking, Asami kept glancing at her phone, waiting for it to ping. She hadn’t felt this fidgety since taking over Future Industries. The CEO sighed and kept cooking. A few minutes later, she served herself the food and sipped her coffee while reading her morning paper.

Suddenly, her phone pinged. Asami quickly grabbed her phone and opened Korra’s series of messages.

8:02 am Korra: hey! sorry for replying late. mornings are evil, so I slept in. :D

8:03 am Korra: really? i’m glad you’re open to meeting my mom. she’s excited to see you.

8:03 am Korra: although she’ll only be here until the afternoon. she has to go back home to the swt

8:04 am Korra: so, if you’d like to meet her, the best chance would be today

8:05 am Asami: I would love to meet your mom. I’m not doing anything today, so I’m fine whenever’s good for you both.

8:07 am Korra: great! mom says 3pm is a good time.

8:08 am Korra: her flight’s at 5

8:08 am Korra: let’s meet at Fan’s Dumplings at 3?

8:09 am Asami: I’m good at that time.

8:09 am Korra: great! see ya later ;)

The CEO couldn’t help but smile while reading her lover’s(?) replies, but then her panic set in again when she thought of meeting Korra’s mom. Oh, my Spirits! This is really happening. What do I wear? What should I say? Asami thought while pacing back and forth in her kitchen, her food was entirely forgotten.

She snapped out of her panic and steeled herself. Okay, Sato. You can do this! She ate her now cold food in disgust and got ready to meet and impress her future mother-in-law. Yes, she was that bold.

—

Asami was seated in a booth inside Fan’s Dumplings in her red short-sleeved blouse, black skirt, and red-heeled boots at exactly 2:55 pm because she prided herself on being on time. The mantra, “you’re late when you’re on time,” was strongly ingrained in her being ever since she was a kid, as Hiroshi Sato was a very punctual man. So now, her legs bounced up and down in nervousness while waiting for Korra and her mom to arrive.

After what felt like hours, Korra finally arrived with who Asami assumed was her mom. The teacher looked adorable in her short-sleeved light blue shirt, dark-washed jeans, and from what Asami could see from her point of view, a pair of black vans. The teacher swung her head around the restaurant looking for her, and when their eyes finally met, Korra smiled at her widely and waved.

“Asami! There you are!” the tan woman greeted her with a megawatt smile as she walked toward her. That smile would be the end of me.

Asami stood up as the two approached, and she hugged the teacher tightly. “Hi,” she greeted Korra warmly. When they pulled apart, Korra put her arm around her mom and introduced her to Asami.

“Ma, this is Asami. Asami, this is my mom, Senna.” Korra said as she gestured to them.

The CEO smiled and reached her hand out for Senna to shake, but she was surprised when the other woman embraced her instead.

“Hi, Asami. It’s really nice to meet you. Korra wouldn’t shut up about you.”

Asami and Korra both blushed at Senna’s admittance, but the CEO quickly recovered her composure. “Hi, Miss…”

“Senna’s just fine, dear”

“Senna. Hopefully, she told you good things?” she laughed.

“Oh, yes. Definitely. She told me how you two met, and I must admit, I only heard those stories in books or in the movies. What do they call it? Meet-cute?” Senna answered with a playful smile.

The trio laughed before taking a seat in the booth. Asami sat on the window side, across from Senna and Korra. A waitress approached them and took their order, but not without giving Korra a flirty smile which made the teacher uncomfortable. The CEO would’ve rejoiced if Senna wasn’t there, so she resorted to smiling inside her mind.

While waiting for their food, Senna asked Asami very typical questions about herself, and she happily answered all of them. She didn’t have any reservations about sharing her past with Korra, so why do it with her mother, who’d shown nothing but kindness to her since the moment they met?

As they savored their afternoon meal, Senna regaled Asami with stories from her own past and also shared amusing anecdotes about Korra's childhood. The CEO couldn't resist teasing the tan woman, much to her delight. Asami saw that Korra didn’t mind. She was even happy to egg them on.

The hour passed by in a blur, and before the trio knew it, it was time for Senna to go to the airport. Asami offered to drive them, and they eagerly accepted. Korra opted to sit in the backseat and with her mom at the front, but Senna pushed her into the passenger’s seat.

“You should sit beside your girlfriend ,” Senna teased, emphasizing the last word, which earned a blush from both women, but neither corrected Senna on the term she used.

The car ride was as enjoyable as their time at the restaurant. Senna continued her stories from Korra’s childhood. There were so many of them that the ones she told Asami in the restaurant weren’t enough. All this time, Asami felt like she was part of a family. She had never had something like that ever since her dad died. She suddenly missed her parents. The CEO felt that if they were alive today, they would surely like Korra and Senna.

“You okay there, Asami?” Korra asked her worriedly.

Korra must’ve sensed the sudden change in her mood, so she gave the other woman a small smile to reassure Korra that she was alright. “I’m fine, sweetie.” She was shocked at her own words. Asami glanced to her right to see the teacher smiling slyly at her. The CEO blushed as she abruptly turned her gaze back on the road.

“As you say so, sweetie. ”

That dork! Asami looked in the rearview mirror to see Senna smiling slyly at her. Her cheeks flushed even more from slipping up. She couldn’t help it. Korra brought out the hopeless romantic in her!

They finally arrived at the airport after fifteen minutes. Senna hugged Asami tightly, then hugged her daughter just as tightly before whispering something in her ear. Asami saw Korra blush furiously while her face contorted in a grimace.

“Okay, ma. I know, I know! Geez!” the tan woman exclaimed as she rubbed the back of her neck.

Asami filed that away for later.

They said their goodbyes and then watched Senna go through the gates. As soon as she was out of sight, the two looked at each other and smiled. Korra held out her arm, and Asami took it without hesitation as they walked out of the airport.

As they walked hand in hand, she couldn’t help but glance at the other woman’s lips. Oh, how she wanted to kiss them since seeing Korra at the restaurant. She glanced to the side and saw the teacher smiling distractedly. Biting her lip, Asami took the opportunity to steal a kiss from the unsuspecting woman.

Asami laughed at Korra’s stunned expression. “What? Didn’t you think I’d waste this opportunity to kiss you while we were alone together?”

“Well, I…It’s a nice surprise. I liked it. No. I- I loved it.” Korra stuttered. She’s so cute!

“Oh, I know,” she teased.

The teacher laughed a boisterous laugh, and the people around them looked at them funny. The couple didn’t care, though. They were in their own bubble.

“So, do you have something to do? Or are you down to go somewhere?” Korra asked as they hopped inside her car.

Asami chuckled. “No, I don’t have any plans, but if you’re asking me to another date, then yes. I’d love to go on another date with you.”

“Really? Where do you wanna go?” Korra asked enthusiastically.

The CEO thought as she drove them around with no destination in mind. “Hmm. I’ll go anywhere you want to, but honestly…” She paused. Asami didn’t know if it would be too forward to ask Korra to just stay in her apartment and talk or watch movies or something.

Korra cocked her head, clearly waiting on Asami to finish her sentence. “What is it?”

“Um, I don’t know how to ask, to be honest,” the CEO sighed. Come on, Sato! Well, here goes. “Would it be too forward of me to ask you to just stay in my apartment? Like stay the night?” she asked while blushing furiously.

“That’s it?” Korra raised her eyebrow.

“What do you mean “that’s it”? Can’t you hear my heartbeat? It’s so loud, I thought my heart was going to beat out of my chest!” Asami exclaimed incredulously.

The teacher laughed heartily. “I’m sorry. You’re cute when you’re flustered. And no, it wouldn’t be too forward of you. I’d love to stay the night. Let’s stop by my apartment first, so I can get a change of clothes.” Korra said, and then her eyes lit up suddenly. “Oh, and you can get to meet Naga! She’s gonna love you!”

Oh. Asami was one lucky girl. She got to meet Senna, and now she was going to meet Naga, who was practically Korra’s daughter? The CEO’s heart was full to bursting. She hoped that luck would continue to shine for her all the way to her being part of Korra’s family. Asami smiled at that thought.

After a few minutes, they were at Korra’s apartment. She parked her car on the curb, and before she could open her door, Korra touched her arm and stopped her. “Let me,” she said. The other woman hopped out of the car and jogged toward her side. Korra opened the door for her and held out her hand. Asami took it immediately as she got out of the car.

“Oh, my. What a gentleman,” Asami teased.

Korra grinned at her. “Only for you.”

They went up toward Korra’s apartment on the 3rd floor. Before Korra could even open the door, Asami could hear frantic feet circling behind the door.

“Okay. Just a warning, Naga can be a bit much, but she’s a sweet ball of fluff. You’re gonna love her.” Korra informed her. “Ready?”

“Yeah. Let’s go.”

The tan woman opened the door, and out came a big ball of fluff. Korra was right. She was hyperactive, prancing and dancing around her mom’s legs, begging for pets. Then she turned her attention toward Asami, and Naga quickly ran to her.

“I told you she’s a bit much. But look at how sweet she is to you!” Korra grinned at the affection her dog was showing Asami.

The CEO smiled and laughed warmly at Naga. She kneeled and patted the dog’s head before cooing, “Hey, Naga. I’m Asami. Your mom’s girlfriend.” She smiled slyly as she glanced up at the other woman, who was now blushing a furious red and looking away. Asami laughed, but inside, she was nervous. She was thankful that the boldness and confidence that she had honed over the years while commanding the boardroom were being useful at that moment.

Naga was still begging for pets from her when Korra’s warm voice pulled her out of her thoughts. “Yeah. Hey, Naga, let’s go to Jinora’s. You love it there, too, right?” Naga barked once, stood up, and wagged her tail in excitement. She clearly knew who Jinora was. When Korra saw her confusion, she immediately clarified, “Jinora’s a family friend, and she takes care of Naga whenever I’m not around. She lives upstairs, directly above my apartment. You can go inside. Make yourself at home. I’ll be back shortly.”

“Wait!” Asami stood up and stopped them before they could even take one step. “I mean…you don’t have to do that. We can take Naga to my apartment, or we could stay here instead. I don’t want to disturb your friend if I can help it.”

The teacher smiled at her warmly. “Don’t worry. Jinora’s okay with this arrangement. But, I think staying here would be a better idea.” Then Korra glanced down at Naga, “What do you think, girl?”

Naga, once again, gave a single bark as if saying yes to her mom’s question.

“Then it’s settled! Let’s go inside.”

As they entered, they were greeted by the sight of a cozy living room with a large brown couch, and a 42” TV mounted on the wall. The room was illuminated by medium-sized windows that provided a beautiful soft light from the setting sun. The living room was connected to the kitchen, and the open layout gave the apartment an airy and spacious feel.

Asami glanced around, noticing the various picture frames hanging on the walls throughout the apartment. When Korratold her she would make hot cocoa and popcorn for them, she took the opportunity to take a look at some of the frames. There was one with a toddler Korra holding a large fish high above her head. Asami laughed at her girlfriend’s pudgy appearance. There was another one with a teenage Korra in her basketball jersey, holding a trophy.

But there was one which intrigued her the most was a frame that was turned upside down. It was the only one like that. She glanced behind her to see if Korra was looking, but the woman was busy stirring their hot cocoa, so she turned it over. She gasped to see Korra in her graduation gown, Senna, and a behemoth of a man Asami assumed was Korra’s father. Come to think of it, neither Korra nor Senna mentioned this man even once in their conversations. I wonder why?

Before she could ponder even more, Naga bumped her leg to get her attention. She jolted in shock and hastily put the frame where it belonged.

“Hey, girl.” Asami petted Naga’s head, her tongue lolling out of her mouth. “Let’s go sit on the couch and wait for your mom, okay?” Once again, Naga barked once as if agreeing with her.

Once Asami was settled on the couch (more like Naga was settled on her lap), Korra sat beside her with two mugs of hot cocoa and a bowl of popcorn in her hands.

“So, what are we watching?” Korra asked as she handed Asami her mug.

“I was thinking we could watch Everything Everywhere All at Once . I heard it’s a great movie.”

Korra smiled at her and said, “Yeah? Okay, let’s watch it then.”

—

The couple was crying buckets of tears when the movie ended. They didn’t get to talk much as they were so engrossed by the story, especially the part where Evelyn and Joy/Jobu Tupaki reconciled. Asami didn’t even enact her plan to cuddle and make out with Korra while they ignored the movie.

Naga worriedly licked their faces when she saw the tears streaming down their faces. The dog gave special attention to her mom, though. “It’s okay, Naga. I’m okay. Don’t worry, girl. It’s just the movie, okay?” Naga gave a small whimper and licked Korra’s face for the last time before jumping off the couch and sitting on their feet.

Asami got curious about Naga’s behavior, so she asked Korra, “Does she always worry like that when you cry?”

Suddenly, the tan woman froze. Her gaze dropped down to the floor, and Asami felt guilty.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you uncomfortable. You don't have to tell me anything you're not ready to share," the CEO said.

Korra sighed. "No. It's okay. You shared your heartaches the first time we met, and it’s only fair to share mine. Just…let's get comfy first? I know your attire isn't the most comfortable for sleeping," she said with a tight smile. Then her eyes widened, "Unless you don't want to stay the night. No pressure!" she added hastily.

"Korra, I offered for you to stay the night at my apartment, so obviously, I would gladly accept your invitation for me to stay, you know." Asami teased to lighten the mood.

“Okay. Stay here while I grab some clothes for you.”

—

After changing into Korra’s oversized shirt and sweatpants, she got out of the bathroom to see the other woman changing into her own sleepwear. Asami’s gaze trailed down Korra’s muscular back while the woman put a tank top on, and she drooled instantly. Then she noticed the white kite-shaped tattoo that covered her entire back. Fuck me! Asami took back what she had said earlier in the day. It wasn’t the woman’s smile that would be the end of her, it was the woman’s back.

Asami realized she was staring when Korra cleared her throat. She sported a cocky grin while she crossed her equally muscular arms over her chest.

“Like what you see?” the cocky woman asked.

The CEO’s cheeks flushed pink, but so what. She already declared that she was Korra’s girlfriend, so she would freely admit her fascination with her muscles. So she answered boldly, “Of course. I knew a fine meal when I saw one.” Her gaze challenged the other woman to refute her statement, but Korra was flustered and stuttering. Point goes to Sato!

Korra chuckled. “Well, I-, yeah. Okay, you got me there,” she said while rubbing the back of her neck. “Come on, let’s cuddle in bed!”

They got settled in bed, with Asami nuzzling her head on Korra’s neck. She put her arm over the tan woman’s sculpted stomach while Korra wrapped her arm around her. A comfortable silence washed over the couple. The CEO sighed happily, and she hoped to have more moments like this in the future.

“So,” Korra started, breaking the silence, as she stroked Asami’s arm with her hand. “Earlier, Naga was like that because something happened to me before.”

Asami pulled back slightly to look at the other woman, and her gaze was full of concern. “What happened?”

“Well, five years ago, I-”

Before Korra could even start, a knock on her door interrupted them. The teacher groaned, and Asami laughed sweetly.

“Get comfortable. I’ll deal with this quickly.”

“Okay,” was all Asami could say. When she was out of the room, she hugged Korra’s pillow and took a long sniff. It was covered in the tan woman’s smell: musky, with a hint of the ocean and pine. Asami loved it. She closed her eyes and waited for Korra to come back.

***

To say that Korra was annoyed would be an understatement. She was ready to tell Asami what happened, but someone had the gall to interrupt their time together. But one glance at the peephole and her irritation melted away to guilt.

“Hey, Bo!” she greeted the man on the other side after opening the door.

“Hey, to you, too,” Bolin answered with a glare. “Where have you been all day? I know you would drive Senna to the airport, but where the hell were you after that? You’re not answering my calls or texts.”

Korra laughed sheepishly as she rubbed the back of her neck. She totally forgot game night with Bolin and Mako. What could she do? Asami asked for more time, and Korra was only a woman with a captivated heart.

“Sorry, Bo. Remember Asami? The woman from last night?”

His eyes narrowed and then widened in an instant when he remembered the woman. “Oh, yeah, I remember her! The one you went on a date after the bar. What about her?”

“Well, I told ma about her, and she immediately wanted to meet Asami. So, we took an afternoon meal at Fan’s, and then when ma got to the airport, we agreed to go home. So we kinda stayed here. Watched a movie, and we’re now getting ready to sleep.” she rambled.

Bolin gasped at the information. “Well, well, well. Look who’s going out with somebody? You’re fast getting her into your bed,” he waggled his eyebrows.

“Oh, fuck you, Bo!”

They laughed at their banter, but Korra eventually had to go back to Asami. “I’m sorry I forgot about game night. Please tell Mako, Maia, and Opal my apologies.”

“No problem, Kor. You know I always got your back,” he winked. “But seriously, I hope she’s the one for you this time.”

“Thank you, Bo. I hope so, too.”

“Well, I’ll go now,” he waved goodbye but stopped halfway. “Just use protection!”

“Bolin! Geez, you’re as bad as my mom.” Korra was red as a tomato. It was a good thing her neighbors were old people and were already asleep at that time. She sighed as she closed the door and went back into her bedroom. She was thankful for Bo’s distraction but still miffed at the same time. Her momentum was gone, and so she had to build it back up again. Korra had to admit she wasn’t ready to open up about that part of her past yet, but for Asami, she would try.

When she opened the door to the bedroom, though, she released a breath she didn’t know she was holding. Asami was already asleep while hugging her pillow tightly. Korra couldn’t fault her, she must’ve been tired from all the activities they had done earlier. The tan woman grabbed a blanket from her cabinet, took her pillow, and got settled beside Asami. She placed the blanket over them and then wrapped her arms around the other woman. She breathed deeply, taking in her scent. Something floral mixed with motor oil. Korra loved it.

Sleep came easily for Korra that night for the first time in a long time.

Chapter Text

Korra woke up as the sunlight filtered through the curtains. Groaning, she rolled onto her back but found herself unable to do so. She blinked rapidly, trying to wake herself up, and when she did, Korra realized why she couldn’t move.

Asami was sleeping on top of her arm.

The teacher smiled at the sight. Asami was facing her and had the cutest sleeping face. Her black hair was a mess, and Korra couldn’t help but feel tempted to brush it all back into place. So she did. She combed her fingers through the soft black locks and tucked some of them back behind her ear. So beautiful.

The other woman stirred, and her wonderful green eyes opened slowly. Korra smiled softly and greeted her, “Good morning.”

“Mmm, good morning,” Asami answered.

“How’d you sleep?”

“Wonderful.” the CEO said with a sleepy smile. Suddenly, her eyes shot up, and she sat up in bed. “Spirits! What time is it? I’m going to be late!”

Korra laughed at the panicked woman as she scrambled out of bed. The teacher also got up and placed her hand on Asami’s shoulder to calm her down. “Relax, it’s just five past seven.” But that didn’t work. It only furthered the other woman’s panic.

“SEVEN! Spirits! I’m going to be late, and I’m never late.” Asami gathered her things and hastily put them in her purse. She grabbed her clothes from last night and made to run into the bathroom when once again, Korra stopped her.

“Hey, hey. Asami, look at me.” The other woman did. “You need to calm down. Maybe you can call your assistant or something that you’ll be getting in later than usual. Didn’t you tell me last Saturday night that you wanted to live your life again?” Korra smiled, trying to convince the CEO to relax. This time, it worked.

“You’re right.” Asami sighed and put down her things. “How about you? Don’t you have classes today?”

“Yeah. But it’ll start later at ten, so don’t you worry. Make yourself at home. I’ll cook breakfast.” Korra saw Asami look shocked at her statement, so she asked, “What? Why?”

“Oh, it’s just…I-I don’t think anyone ever made breakfast for me. Oh, Spirits. That sounded so self-centered.” The other woman hid her beautiful face in her hands, and Korra found that endearing. Here she was, the CEO of a powerful company, hiding behind her hands just because Korra offered to cook for her.

“No, that doesn’t sound self-centered at all. It’s understandable.” Korra tried to reassure her girlfriend. Her girlfriend! Spirits, are we going too fast? Yes, they were, but Korra didn’t care, and Asami didn’t seem to care, too.

The CEO smiled at her, “Okay, if you say so. I’ll take a shower if that’s okay?”

“Yeah. No worries. As I’ve said, make yourself at home.” Korra answered. Then she walked toward Asami, held her face delicately, and kissed her chastely. She meant to pull away when Asami gripped her tank top and pulled her closer. Their chaste kiss turned into a heated makeout session that lasted for what felt like hours. Korra could definitely kiss her for hours and never tire. If only they didn’t need to breathe.

“Wow.” They both said at the same time. After a slight pause, they laughed loudly, which echoed around the room.

Their laughter ceased when they heard Naga bark from the other side of the door. Oops! Time to feed the fluff master and themselves.

“That was amazing, but I really need to make that breakfast now. For us and for Naga.”

“Okay,” Asami answered her with a smile, making her eyes crinkle.

—

Asami emerged from the bathroom only in a towel covering her body from her breasts down to her thighs and returned to the bedroom. Korra was thanking the Spirits that the other woman she didn’t see her staring at her, red-faced and practically drooling. That was the most she’d seen of Asami’s body, and oh, boy, she wanted to see more.

Korra was pulled out of her thoughts at the smell of something burning. Oh, fuck! She lifted her wok and managed to salvage her fried rice. Phew, that was close! She scooped up the rice and put it on two plates, then put them on the table, where their meal was waiting.

“Smells good in here.” she heard Asami from behind her.

The teacher smiled when Asami got out of the bedroom, wearing the clothes she had worn the day before. “Great timing! Breakfast is ready.” she beamed at the other woman.

“What did you prepare?”

“Well, my lady, I prepared for you a hearty meal of fried eggs, fried rice, pan-seared arctic hen, and blanched greens! Oh, and there’s tea or coffee,” Korra said with a bow, but her enthusiasm fell when she saw the look of shock on her girlfriend’s face. Oh, shit. Did I fuck up? “Asami? What’s wrong?”

Asami blinked the surprise away from her face. “Oh. Nothing’s wrong. It’s just…I didn’t expect your breakfast to be this heavy. Usually, I just toast some bread and fry eggs, and I’m not used to this,” The CEO laughed shyly.

Oh, so that’s why. “Well, get used to this because I’m gonna feed you breakfast like this every day,” then her eyes widened, “Well, if you want to. No pressure!” Korra raised her hand and rubbed the back of her neck.

Her girlfriend laughed at her ramblings. “Oh, I could definitely get used to this.” Korra smiled widely at Asami’s answer.

“Don’t worry. Whatever we can’t finish, I’ll pack it up, so you can bring lunch. You said you usually skip it, but I won’t let you.” the teacher declared. She saw that Asami was about to protest, so she brought out her trump card: her pout. No one could resist her pout, and it worked.

Asami groaned. “Okay, okay. I will.”

“Yes!” Korra practically leaped from the chair. She felt like a winner, even though it was just a small thing. She remembered their first night together when Asami told her she only ate a small breakfast and sometimes lunch. The woman practically skipped her meals because of work. Well, Korra wouldn’t let her be like that. She decided that she would bring the other woman lunch every day.

The CEO laughed at her antics, and they continued eating in comfortable silence until it was time for Asami to go.

As promised, she packed their leftovers for Asami’s lunch. Korra was sad she was going to go, but it was inevitable. It was a Monday, and they had work to do. Asami stopped at her door and turned around to face her.

“I had a great weekend, Korra.”

“Me, too. I wasn’t kidding when I said that the time I spent with you was the best time I’d ever had.” the teacher smiled warmly and saw the other woman melt at her words. They leaned in at the same time for a ‘see you later’ kiss. It lasted not as long as Korra wanted, but it’ll do for now.

“I’ll see you soon, Korra. And you still owe me a story. That is if you’re still willing to tell me.”

“See ya soon. I will tell you when we see each other next. That’s a promise. Text me when you get to work?”

“I will!” Asami yelled, still smiling, and then she went down the building.

Korra was still smiling when she got to the school. She was usually in a happy mood every day, but that day she was ecstatic! Everyone noticed her good mood, even her students. Some even teased her, and she just laughed at them, not wanting to spill anything yet. She wanted to keep Asami to herself right now.

But all good things must come to an end.

Come lunchtime, Asami and she were texting about penguins, and she was laughing hard when it was interrupted by a call. Korra froze when she saw the number she knew by heart but hated with all her guts. I won’t let you ruin my day, she thought angrily. She instantly tapped the red button to end the call and breathed deeply to calm her anger down.

She went back to texting Asami but found herself unable to concentrate, so Korra made an excuse to stop texting—although she promised to text again when she got home. That fucking call rattled her more than she knew, and she hated it. She hated that just one call from that person could shake her like that.

Her hands were still trembling by the time lunch ended, and she went to her next class. Thankfully, no one pointed out her drastic change in mood. Her students and colleagues didn’t bother her for the rest of the day.

Finally, the final bell rang, and she packed her things as fast as possible. She usually ran to and from school so she could get her daily exercise in, but not this time. She hailed a cab and told the driver her address. Korra fidgeted the whole ride. She needed to tell someone about it, and there was only one person she could.

When the cab parked in front of her apartment building, Korra paid the driver and ran out of the cab and into her apartment. As soon as she was inside, Naga immediately jumped at her and slobbered her face. “Okay, okay, Naga. Let me up, please.” Her daughter must’ve sensed her agitated mood and obeyed immediately. “Thank you. Go play with your favorite toy,” Korra said, patting her head. Naga barked once and ran off to her bed.

Korra breathed deeply as she took her phone out of the pocket of her bag and placed her bag on the floor. She pressed 1 on her speed dial, and it only rang twice before the other person picked up.

“Korra? Are you okay? You usually only call on weekends.”

“Mom…” and then she broke down crying.

Chapter Text

The week passed by in a blur, and Asami was excited to stay over at Korra’s again. The past week was nothing but pure happiness for the CEO. Korra had been making her lunch and had it delivered by a person named Kai. When she asked why he was the one delivering the food, all he said was, “Korra’s a little bit busy, and she told me to tell you she’s sorry.”

She tapped her pen on the table repeatedly as impatience took over her. Her things were already packed, and her table was tidy. This was the first time she’d looked forward to leaving her office on time in a long time. Not having something to look forward to, made her a workaholic woman.

But as they said, “change starts with you,” so she started to step back, and the results were wonderful. She got to meet the most beautiful person in the world. Korra. She was not just physically beautiful, but everything about her was. They texted the whole week about everything and anything. They were still getting to know each other, but Asami felt like she already knew about the woman her whole life. Well, except for the fact she was still waiting for Korra’s story.

Finally, the clock struck five. She grabbed her purse and strutted out of her office. Her secretary furrowed her brows in suspicion. She knew what was coming, so she stopped in her tracks and said, “Ming, what are you still doing here? It’s five. Go home!”

“Ms. Sato, are you okay?” she asked skeptically.

“Yeah. Why wouldn’t I be okay?” Asami asked back.

Her secretary’s eyebrows furrowed even more at her, “Because you usually don’t leave your office until eight in the evening, Ms. Sato.” Ming said like it was a fact. Which was indeed a fact, but Asami wouldn’t give her secretary the satisfaction that she was right. “Come to think of it, you’ve been going home earlier than usual this past week. Are you really Miss Sato?”

“Ming, wouldn’t you want to start getting home early, too? Yes? Good. I’ll see you on Monday.” Asami said rapidly to deflect Ming’s questioning. She walked into the elevator, and when she turned around, she could see Ming’s eyes looking at her suspiciously still. Asami sighed. Looked like she wouldn’t be getting out her secretary’s scrutiny come Monday morning. Oh, well, might as well make her jealous that she got herself a girlfriend.

4:30 pm Korra: I’ll see you at home ;)

5:10 pm Asami: Just got out of the office. I’ll see you in a few.

—

The door opened to Korra’s apartment, and Asami was greeted by the most wonderful sight. Her girlfriend’s lopsided grin always was a delight to see. She missed this. “Hi.”

“Hey, to you, too! Come in. Naga is with Jinora right now until tomorrow, so we’re free to do whatever without the fluff master wanting to cuddle every minute.” Korra said, still smiling. But Asami noticed that her blue eyes didn’t shine like usual.

“Korra, what’s wro-”

“Are you hungry? Cos I made snacks!” Korra cut her off as she grabbed Asami’s things from her while taking her hand and pulling her inside. Okay, something was definitely wrong. Asami wasn’t sure what, and she wanted to know. Oh, gosh. She’s not about to break up with me, isn’t she? She invited me here for the weekend.

The CEO was a little nervous, and it must’ve shown on her face because her girlfriend smiled softly at her but did not say anything. Asami wanted to help, but she didn’t know how yet. All she knew was she wanted the woman to be comfortable sharing things with her. For now, she answered Korra’s question. “Yes, I’m a little bit hungry. What did you cook this time?”

“Just stir-fried seaweed noodles. It’s my favorite, so I wanted you to try it.” Korra answered while smiling. “Are you gonna change first, or you wanna eat now?”

“I’m going to change first.”

“Gotcha. I’ll ready the food.” Korra winked.

Asami went into the bathroom to change while formulating a plan on how to help her girlfriend open up about what was bothering her. But how? Oh, fuck it. I’m just going to wing this thing. At that, she finished removing her makeup and changed into more comfortable clothes.

A few minutes later, they started eating. They talked about their day and everything else they might think to talk about, but Asami still hadn’t come up with a plan for how to ask Korra what was bothering her. Damn it! She was about to ask her girlfriend directly when Korra spoke.

“What movie do you want to watch?”

“Oh, um. Anything. As long as we get to cuddle.”

“That sounds nice,” Korra smiled softly.

Korra opened her streaming service and picked a random movie as they sat on the couch. Korra opened her arms, and Asami didn’t hesitate to cuddle on her girlfriend’s side. Warmth filled her as Korra embraced her with her strong arms, and she sighed in contentment.

They watched the movie in comfortable silence up until the halfway point. Asami could feel her girlfriend's thumb circling her hips slowly, making her breath hitch. She looked up and saw Korra already looking at her lovingly, so she pushed up and swung her leg over Korra’s lap, effectively straddling her. Asami cupped the tan woman’s face and kissed her tenderly, conveying all her feelings at that moment.

The CEO felt Korra’s hand ghost above her hips, then swooped down to grab her ass. She let out a moan, feeling her core heat up at the sensation. Asami started rocking her hips as they continued to kiss passionately, their lips and tongues dancing with each other. But she wanted more, so she gripped Korra’s tank top and pulled her closer.

“Asami,” Korra said breathlessly. “Do you want to…”

“Yes,” she answered, her breathing ragged from kissing.

She yelped when Korra scooped and lifted her up in one swift motion. “Fuck,” she muttered as she nuzzled her girlfriend’s neck. Oh, that strength was such a turn-on. Asami kissed and nipped Korra’s neck as she carried her toward the bedroom, the movie, and her plans were already forgotten.

Asami will never forget their first time.

—

The CEO stirred awake when she heard mumbling behind her. She turned around and found Korra’s brows furrowed while she mumbled something in her sleep. All of a sudden, she screamed, “NO!” Oh, no.

“Korra, sweetie. Wake up. I think you’re having a nightmare.” Asami tapped her girlfriend's cheeks to wake her up. “Korra!”

Finally, her girlfriend’s blue eyes shot up as she gasped. Her eyes looked around the room frantically, so Asami held her face gently. “Korra, it’s okay.” Suddenly, the tan woman surged and kissed her hard, making her lay back on the bed. Korra pulled back, and her eyes were brimming with tears. “What’s wrong?” she asked worriedly.

Instead of answering, Korra broke down, slumped her head on Asami’s chest, hugged her tightly, and mumbled something the CEO couldn’t understand. “Korra, what is it? Please talk to me?” she said as she wrapped her arms around her girlfriend.

“Don’t leave.”

“What?”

“Please don’t leave me,” the teacher said while sobbing.

Asami continued to rub comforting circles on Korra’s back. “Korra, don’t worry. I’m not gonna leave. Please talk to me about what’s troubling you.”

“I’m sorry. Please, don’t leave,” Korra repeated like a mantra. Like if she said it enough times, Asami wasn’t going to leave.

“Sweetie, there’s nothing to be sorry for,” she said softly.

After a few minutes, Korra finally calmed down. Asami continued her ministrations until her girlfriend fell back to sleep. Korra, what’s happening? I can’t help you if you don’t open up. With a sigh, the CEO tried to go back to sleep.

***

Korra woke up cocooned in a soft and warm body. However, her eyes felt heavy. She was confused as to how’d that happen, but suddenly, the memory of last night came back to her. Fuck. She didn’t mean to break down after a nightmare, but she was afraid Asami would leave her if she let the other woman go. She groaned. Korra couldn’t stall this any longer. She knew Asami would surely ask for an explanation about what happened, so she sighed.

The teacher moved out of Asami’s embrace as she gathered her thoughts, and her sudden movement woke Asami up.

“Hey,” Asami said with worry evident in her eyes.

“Hey. Good morning. I’m sorry about last night.” Then she saw some bruises around Asami’s ribs that came from the tight embrace she put the woman through, and she winced. “I’m sorry for that, too,” she apologized while caressing her girlfriend’s smooth skin.

The CEO’s face softened, and then she sighed, “Korra, there’s nothing to be sorry for. I’m here. Please, talk to me.”

Korra closed her eyes and breathed deeply. She held Asami’s hand with her own and squeezed it before speaking. “Okay. I’ll tell you.” She paused, then took another breath. Her girlfriend didn’t say anything, and Korra was thankful for her patience.

“I thought I got over my issues, but I was wrong. My therapist said that why I was afraid of people leaving my life was because of my dad.” She saw Asami’s eyes widen. Korra thought it wasn’t what her girlfriend was expecting.

“Your dad?”

“Yeah. I saw you looking at the frame last week,” she glanced at Asami again and saw that she was blushing, probably a little embarrassed that she got caught.

“I’m sorry about that.”

Korra shook her head, “Don’t worry. That was not the trigger for my panic attack.” She sighed before continuing, “My dad called me last Monday. That was the trigger.

“When I was a kid, he always went on business trips that lasted for months. Mom and I trusted him explicitly because he showed nothing but love for us even though they were never married. I thought maybe that was because he was from the Northern Water Tribe and could not marry A Southern woman, but that was not the case at all. Suddenly, he left us right after my high school graduation. No texts, no calls, nothing. We were devastated.”

Asami gasped in shock at the turn of events. “What!? Why? How could he do that to his own family?” she said, her brows furrowed in anger.

The teacher scoffed at that. “We didn’t know at first. We thought he died or something, but I couldn’t take seeing my mom cry every night, so I borrowed money from my friends so I could travel to the Northern Water Tribe. I searched for him there. I asked the people. You know what I found?”

“What?”

“That mom and I were his fucking second family!” she exclaimed angrily. Korra would never forget the pain she felt at that time.

“Oh, my Spirits.” Asami was stunned. “Oh, fuck. That’s-I, I don’t know what to say.” she continued, her face full of worry. She then wrapped herself around Korra, clearly trying to comfort her.

“Of course, I didn’t believe it at first, but then an old lady told me where he lives, so I marched up there. I knocked on his door, and I confirmed it with my own eyes. His wife answered the door and instantly recognized me from the graduation photo I’d posted. I can still remember her seething at me, ‘What do you think you’re doing here? Don’t ever bother coming back here, or I’ll sue you and your mother!’ and then she shoved me to the ground,” Korra said with a bitter laugh. “My dad heard us and dragged his wife inside. He called out to me, but I cut him off and walked away. He yelled my name again, but I never looked back.

“I told my mom about what happened. We both cried for a week, then we decided to move on.” Korra said, ending one part of her story.

She heard Asami sniffling as the other woman hugged her more tightly. “I’m sorry you had to go through that. No one should ever go through that.”

Korra wrapped her arms around her girlfriend and rubbed her hands in circles over her smooth back. It was funny, really, to be the one comforting her girlfriend even if she was the one sharing a sob story about her life. Gosh, she’s too precious.

“Can I ask something?”

“What is it?” Korra answered.

“Um, why do still have that picture on your wall?”

Why indeed? Korra didn’t answer right away. She contemplated her answers but found she had none. “I really don’t know.”

The CEO hugged her again and nuzzled her head in the crook of Korra’s neck.

Suddenly, Asami pulled back a bit to look into her eyes, “Wait, that wasn’t the one you were about to tell me last week, wasn’t it? Because the timeline doesn’t match.” she then asked.

The teacher chuckled. Korra couldn’t believe her woman’s memory and intellect. “No. It wasn’t,” she said with a little mirth through the sadness in her voice.

“Well, five years ago, I met Hana, my ex. We met at a charity event at the school, she was one of the sponsors. We talked for a bit, then we hit it off. Fast forward two months later, she agreed to be my girlfriend.

“I really thought she was the one back then. But then, one day, I went home to surprise her. That was when I caught her sleeping with a man on my bed. And I thought it was all my fault again.” Korra simply said. “That was when I snapped, I think. After I kicked them out, I lay on the floor, hugging myself. And the next thing I knew, I woke up in the hospital from alcohol poisoning.”

“What!? How could she do that to you? How could anyone?” Asami said, clearly exasperated.

Korra tried to contain her laughter, but she couldn’t, so she burst into a boisterous laugh. Asami’s face turned from anger to confusion to irritation in a span of two seconds.

“What are you laughing about? That wasn’t funny, Korra!” Asami huffed as she crossed her arms on her chest.

“I know, I know. I’m sorry.” Korra finally said when her laughter died down. “It’s just…you should’ve seen your face.”

Asami wasn’t amused, though. She raised her eyebrow and rolled away from her. “Here I am, comforting you, and all you did was laugh at me!”

Korra wrapped her arms around her girlfriend’s waist and dragged her back to bed. “I’m sorry. I’m not laughing at you, just your reaction. But still, I’m sorry. And thank you for listening. I really need that.” She kissed the back of Asam’s neck to emphasize her point.

The teacher felt Asami melt at her touch. She then turned around to face Korra, her face softened before she sighed. “I know. I’m sorry, too, for reacting that way. And I know I already said this earlier, but I’m sorry you had to go through all that. You are so brave, Korra. Know that I am here for you no matter what. Okay? I’m not going to leave. I promise.”

This time, Korra was the one who melted at Asami’s comforting words. She smiled softly at her girlfriend and hugged her tightly, their foreheads touching. “Thank you, Asami. That means so much to me.” Korra then kissed her girlfriend. It was chaste at first, but it turned into a deep one quickly. “Asami,” she said breathlessly after a few minutes. “I think I’m falling for you.”

Asami’s green eyes bored into her blues, then she bit her lower lip and said, “I’m falling for you, too. Ever since I met you.”

Korra surged for Asami’s lips when she heard those words. “I like you, Asami, so much.” She didn’t give her girlfriend a chance to reply. Korra kissed Asami again with all her might, pushing the CEO on her back. Asami tangled her hands in the teacher’s hair. Korra’s hands wandered her girlfriend’s body, and within seconds, they were making love again.

Korra felt for the first time in a long time that this time maybe, she was finally ready to move on from her father’s grasp.

Chapter Text

The past five months were pure bliss. After Korra’s ‘bedtime story,’ as the couple dubbed it, everything felt lighter. Asami noticed that Korra was more open and dorky toward her. They had been spending more time together. Korra, despite her strict schedule, made efforts to bring lunch for Asami.

Asami, in turn, spent more and more time over at the teacher’s apartment, to the point where she even had her own dedicated space in Korra’s cabinet and a drawer for her clothes. Time in the tan woman’s home felt far warmer than in her own lonely, bare apartment.

The CEO lo-...wait, love?

Oh.

Oh, shit. The realization hit her hard. Asami was in love. She loved Korra—she was in love with Korra. She loved Korra more than anyone she’d ever had. Asami had never really believed in love, doubting her own capability of such emotions after being alone for so long. But here was Korra, proving her wrong every single day. 

She sighed happily, putting down the documents she was reading. Future Industries sales were on a steady incline,  yet even this promising news paled in comparison to the elation she felt from recognizing her own feelings.

“Ms. Sato? Ms. Korra is here to see you,” her secretary’s voice broke into her thoughts.

Jolting back to reality, Asami placed the document back on her desk and straightened up, her face lighting up as Korra stepped in. “Thanks, Ming,” she said, watching her secretary give a small bow before exiting. Asami approached Korra, greeting her with a soft kiss. “Hi.”

“Hi,” Korra replied, her eyes sparkling, placing her warm, tan hands on the CEO’s waist. 

Reacting instinctively, Asami’s arms encircled Korra’s neck. “What brings you here? It’s not yet lunchtime,” she said.

“What? Can’t I pay my girlfriend a surprise visit?” Korra teased, her cheeky grin giving away her playful intent.

Asami arched a perfectly manicured brow. “You’re usually strict about your schedules, so…” she trailed off, a smug smirk playing on her lips.

Laughing, Korra conceded, “Busted,” her girlfriend admitted. “I did have something for you.” Then Korra reached behind her, pulled something out of her pocket, and handed it to her.

“What is this?” Asami asked, accepting an envelope from Korra.

“It’s an invitation to the annual charity event at the school next month. I was hoping you’d be my date,” Korra explained, her eyes softening as she smiled tenderly.

“Oh,” Asami responded, shock and delight dancing in her eyes. “Korra, it’s…Yes. I would love to be your date,” she whispered, her heart fluttering in her chest. The simple invitation made her giddy and full of hope that Korra also felt the same as her.

“YES!” Korra exclaimed, lifting Asami up and twirling her around.

The CEO giggled, slapping Korra’s shoulder playfully. “Put me down, dork!” she said, laughing.

“Alright, alright,” Korra chuckled, gently setting Asami back on her feet but not before placing a quick peck on her cheek. “Sorry. I just couldn’t contain my excitement. That event is a bit of a big deal for the school, so having you by my side at the event means everything.” The warmth and sincerity in Korra’s eyes said more than words ever could.

Asami’s heart melted at those words—words she had once only dreamed of, now a reality. Glancing at the clock, an idea hit her. Her face shifted seamlessly from loving to sultry. Biting her lip enticingly, she murmured, “Mmm. Perhaps you can show me just how much…,” she trailed off once again, letting the implication hang in the air as her fingers teasingly played with Korra’s collar.

Korra’s eyes darkened with lust on the spot. “Be careful what you wish for, Ms. Sato, or you might just get it,” she growled, suddenly pulling Asami against her. The teacher kissed her passionately, pushing her toward the couch until they were both sitting on it.

Asami moaned, loving how her girlfriend flipped a switch—from a cute, adorable dork to an enigmatic, assertive lover. The electricity between them was palpable, every touch setting the CEO’s nerves aflame. Korra’s hands roamed Asami’s back, deepening their embrace. The world around them faded, leaving just the two of them in a cocoon of shared passion. As they broke apart for a breath, Asami remembered where they were. “Wait,” she said, breathless. She stood up and quickly walked to the door, locking it before strutting back toward Korra. Stradling her girlfriend, she asked, “Now…where were we?”

—

As the CEO put the finishing touches on her ensemble for the charity event, Korra stepped into the room. Their eyes met in the vanity mirror as her girlfriend let out an appreciative whistle. Asami turned to her with an amused smile. “What?”

"Do we have a moment? Because you look incredibly sexy in that outfit, and I'm tempted to rip it right off," Korra said, her eyes filled with a hungry intensity.

Asami’s jaw hit the floor at the brazen way her girlfriend was talking to her right now. She looked down at herself and saw nothing remotely sexy in it. She donned a simple red blouse paired with crisp white jeans and red-heeled shoes. Her makeup was light and understated, merely accentuating her natural beauty. Puzzled, she turned back to Korra. “This? It’s just a simple outfit.”

Korra stepped closer, the mischievous glint still evident in her eyes. “It’s not just the outfit, Asami. It’s how you carry yourself in it. Confidence is the sexiest attire one can wear,” she whispered, tucking a stray hair behind Asami’s ear.

Feeling a blush creep up her cheeks, Asami replied, “Well, then it’s a good thing I’m confident enough for the both of us tonight.” She took a playful step back, enjoying their flirtatious banter. “Now, shall we head to that charity event before you get any other ideas, love?”

They both froze at the sudden L-bomb Asami dropped, both recognizing the weight of the word she had just let slip. She didn’t mean to blurt it out, and now Korra knew her true feelings. A million thoughts rushed to her mind. How would Korra react? Would she run away? Why was she looking at her like that? Did she not feel the same?

Korra’s voice broke the thickening silence. “Are you serious?”

Jolted from her internal maelstrom, Asami took a deep breath. Oh, what the hell. There was no going back now, and she didn’t want to. “Yes. I’m serious. I…I think I love you—no. I know that I love you.”

Korra’s brow furrowed slightly, “Since when?”

“Last month.”

“Then why didn’t you tell me sooner?”

Fear and vulnerability evident in her eyes, Asami confessed, “I was worried you didn’t feel the same.”

Korra paused for a moment, letting the weight of the confession hang between them before softly inquiring, “Well, do you want to know something?”

“What is it?”

With gentle fingers, Korra tilted Asami’s chin up, ensuring their eyes met—those deep cerulean pools Asami adored. And in them, Asami found her answer. “I love you, too.”

Three words.

That was all it took for her walls to crumble entirely. With a rush of emotion, she surged forward, capturing Korra’s lips with fervent intensity, letting every ounce of her love and sentiment flow through the kiss. Pulling back, both were breathless. “Korra, I love you,” she whispered again, as if saying it out loud would solidify its truth.

Korra’s voice was soft and equally overwhelmed, “I love you too, Asami.”

The words rolled off Asami’s tongue repeatedly, as if a floodgate had been opened, releasing pent-up emotions she’d held back for too long.

Moments, or perhaps eons, passed before their cascade of confessions turned into shared laughter. Realizing the time, Asami exclaimed, “Come on, or we’ll be late!”

—

Half an hour later, they arrived at the school where the charity event was held. A soft murmur of voices greeted Asami as she and Korra walked into the venue, which had been decorated simply for the charity event. Everywhere she looked, there were beautifully draped curtains, glittering fairy lights, and elegantly dressed attendees.

Korra, with a proud smile, began introducing Asami to her fellow teachers she worked with, as well as the special needs students she taught. Each introduction was accompanied by a personal story or an anecdote, showcasing the depth of the bond Korra shared with them. Asami beamed at Korra, feeling so proud of her girlfriend.

The couple navigated their way through the event, and Asami’s gaze landed on the buffet table. It was laden with an array of dishes that reflected the diverse cultures of the Four Nations. There were steaming baskets of dumplings from the Earth Kingdom and platters of roast turtle-duck, whose aroma took Asami back to her trip to the Fire Nation.

On another table, she spotted rice cakes and seaweed soup, dishes typical of the Water Tribes, which Korra always raved about. There were also spicy noodles and skewers that resembled those from Republic City’s bustling streets.

“Korra, look at this spread!” Asami exclaimed, her mouth-watering. “Your school has outdone itself.”

Korra chuckled, “Right? These are all home-cooked by all the teachers and staff. I was the one who cooked the ones from the Southern Water Tribe! OH!” Korra slapped the side of her fist on her palm as she remembered something. “Try the moon peach pie. It’s a treat from the Air Nomads.”

As they filled their plates, Asami felt an even greater appreciation for the evening, not just because of the mouthwatering food but because of the blending of cultures and memories the dishes represented.

After they filled their bellies, they started to walk toward the charity’s main event. Asami’s attention was drawn to a particular section designated for a showcase. It was filled with an array of artwork, models, and crafts, each piece crafted with undeniable care and creativity by Korra’s students.

“These are incredible,” Asami murmured, genuinely impressed. On impulse, she added, “I’d like to buy some of these and perhaps make a donation to the school.”

Korra hesitated, her brow furrowing. “Asami, you don’t have to do that, especially because of our relationship.”

“It’s not because we’re dating, Korra. It’s because these kids are talented, and I genuinely want to support them.” Asami's sincerity shone through, making it impossible for Korra to argue further.

Shaking her head in defeat, Korra smiled amusedly. “Okay. If you say so, babe. I love you so much.”

Suddenly, a soft tugging on Asami’s blouse caught her attention. She looked down to find a young girl with big hazel eyes and a bright sunflower pinned to her white dress. The child held up a piece of paper, her fingers smeared with vibrant shades of paint.

“This is for you,” the girl said in a soft voice, presenting a hand-painted drawing of what seemed to be two women surrounded by colorful flowers and a radiant sun.

Asami was taken aback by the unexpected gesture. She knelt down to Yuna’s eye level. “This is beautiful,” she whispered, tracing the outlines of the painted figures. “What’s your name, sweetie?”

“Yuna,” she replied shyly, playing with the hem of her dress.

“I’ve never received such a special painting before, Yuna. Thank you.” Asami said, her eyes glistening with unshed tears.

Yuna’s face brightened. “Miss Korra said everyone has their own kind of magic inside them. I think yours is making people smile.”

Asami chuckled, her heart swelling with warmth. “And yours, Yuna, is making beautiful art that touches people’s hearts.”

The two shared a tender moment, and Asami felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. This fleeting interaction with Yuna, in its simplicity and genuineness, was a touching reminder of the essential things in life. It was a memory she would cherish, reinforcing her admiration for Korra and the impact she had on these children’s lives.

After Yuna ran back to her parents, the couple continued to mingle with the teachers and students alike. Surprisingly, Asami was having a good time. The people here were genuine, unlike the businessmen and women she always encountered every “high-class” person at galas. If the CEO had a say in it, the teachers and students were more high-class than them.

However, there was one exception to this. Asami’s sharp eyes noticed a woman, elegantly dressed, continually glancing in their direction, her gaze particularly fixed on Korra. Who was she? Asami wondered, feeling a prickling unease. But she didn’t let it dampen her mood. She was here to support Korra, and that was what she continued to do.

As the night wore on, the mysterious woman finally made her move, approaching the couple with confident strides. “Korra,” she greeted smoothly, extending a hand, “it’s been a while.”

Korra’s face paled, her usually radiant eyes widening in genuine shock. "Hana?”

Asami was sure she had heard that name before. After a second, realization hit her. Hana, as in Korra’s ex!

Chapter Text

“Hana?”

Korra couldn’t believe her eyes. Hana was really standing in front of her for the first time in years. All the feelings of not being enough, all the progress she made moving on from her all threatened to collapse.

As her ex stepped closer, Korra froze, uncertain of how to respond. However, before she could think, Asami smoothly stepped between them, her back to Hana.

“Honey,” Asami began, dripping with saccharine sweetness, “Weren’t you going to show me around the school? Come on, let’s go.” Korra saw some feeling akin to jealousy crossed on her face.

Shaking off her initial shock, Korra nodded hesitantly. “Y-yeah. I haven’t shown you my table yet,” she stuttered, her heart still racing from seeing the ghost of her past. Asami looped their arms together, intending to lead her away, but was stopped when another hand gripped Korra’s shoulder. With a swift motion, Hana turned Korra to face her. Clearly, she wasn't ready to let go.

“Korra, can we talk, please?” Hana pleaded.

Korra’s brows furrowed, her anger threatening to rise out of her. “Talk about what? You made it crystal clear that day that I wasn’t enough for you.”

Hana exhaled deeply. “I’m sorry. I know our last meeting was disastrous, but I’ve changed, Korra. Don’t you see? After five years, fate brought us back together. We belong together!”

What? Was she being serious? However, before she could react or process any of this, Asami burst out laughing.

“I’m sorry,” Asami managed to say between laughs, “Did I hear that right? You belong to Korra?” Asami said in a mocking tone, pointing at Hana and then at Korra. “Are you being serious right now?”

Hana’s expression soured. “Yes, I am. And who are you, anyway? I’m talking to Korra, so if you’ll excuse us-”

Asami cut in, her voice biting, “I’m Korra’s girlfriend. The one who loves her very much and wouldn’t think of cheating on her in her own bed!” she spat out as if it was a bad taste in her mouth.

Hana’s face reddened with rage. “Uh! How dare you!”

“ENOUGH!” Korra screamed out, cutting through the escalating tension between the two women. “Hana, this isn’t the time and place. Were here for the charity—for the kids. Remember that. If you really wanna talk, we can meet another time.”

Hana, though seething, managed to ask, “Fine! When?”

“Tomorrow at the cafe near here. 10 AM. Don’t be late.” With that, she exhaled tiredly before turning to Asami. Her expression instantly softened when she saw guilt etched into her beautiful face. “I’m sorry about that, Asami. Let’s go home?”

“You have nothing to be sorry for, Korra. I’m here for you,” Asami responded tenderly.

***

The drive back to Korra’s house was filled with a silence that felt foreign to them both. They had never shared such an uncomfortable quiet since… well, ever. Asami couldn’t shake off the nagging feeling that she had played a role in ruining the day for them. Glancing to the side, she saw her girlfriend still lost in thought, staring out the window. 

So, that was Hana, Asami thought as she pulled into Korra’s driveway. It wasn’t hard to see why Korra had once fallen for her. Exiting the car, they made their way inside, Korra leading the way. All Asami wished for at that moment was to intertwine their fingers together, to convey her remorse and assure Korra that she would be there for her in whatever way she needed.

The silence weighed heavily between them as they changed into their sleeping attire. The tension that had built up during the drive lingered even as they lay down in bed. Worse, there was a noticeable distance separating the two. Asami was eager to bridge the gap, but she didn’t want to force Korra into a conversation she might not be ready for.

But, to her relief, she felt Korra tentatively reach out, drawing Asami close to her side. They nestled together, with Asami resting her head on Korra’s chest, comforted by the rhythmic sound of her heartbeat. She let out a sigh of relief.

Breaking the silence, Korra whispered, “I’m sorry,” her fingers tracing soothing patterns along Asami’s back.

The CEO shook her head against Korra’s chest. “You don’t have anything to be sorry for, love,” she responded. The room fell silent once more.

The warm sensation of Korra’s fingers tracing circles on her back stirred something deep within Asami. She shifted slightly, tilting her head upward to meet Korra’s gaze. The dim lighting painted their faces in soft shadows, but the vulnerability in Korra’s blue eyes was crystal clear.

“Korra,” Asami began, her voice barely above a whisper, “about Hana... are you sure you’ll be okay meeting her alone tomorrow?”

Korra sighed, her gaze drifting away momentarily before refocusing on Asami’s concerned eyes. “I won’t lie. Seeing her again after all this time brought back some old memories and feelings of inadequacy. But I think I can handle it. I’ve moved on and I have you.”

Asami’s fingers gently traced the outline of Korra’s jaw. “I just don’t want her to hurt you again.”

Korra smiled, capturing Asami’s hand and pressing a gentle kiss on her knuckles. “I appreciate your concern, love. But I promise, I can do this. It’s just a conversation.”

Asami’s expression softened, her concern turning into adoration. “So…” she trailed off.

“So?”

“Is that the official ‘ex meets awesome present girlfriend’?”

The tension from the day finally broke when Korra let out an indignant snort. “Yup!” she responded, popping the ‘p’ for emphasis. “I have a question, though.”

“What is it?”

“Were you jealous earlier?”

“What? I was not!”

Korra laughed. “Yes. You definitely were! I saw it in your eyes, how they turned into slits!”

The audacity! Asami was stunned, speechless. But, in all honesty, she did feel a twinge of jealousy knowing Hana was Korra’s first love. She wished she had been the one Korra met first. Then her girlfriend wouldn’t have been hurt like that. Finally, she admitted all of these to Korra.

“Thank you for telling me. But you don’t have anything to worry about,” the teacher said softly. When the CEO nodded, Korra asked, “But you wanna know the best part of the day?”

“What?” Asami responded, genuinely curious about it.

“The way her face looked when you said I’m your girlfriend. Chef’s kiss! Mwah!”

That elicited a laughing bout from the couple. Asami was relieved that they could laugh about the encounter now. Even though there was a bump in the road, the day was still good.

When their laughter died down, Korra pulled Asami closer, and kissed the top of her head. Asami felt Korra inhaling deeply and reveling in the scent of her hair. They lay there for a moment longer, wrapped up in the warmth of each other.

Finally, Korra whispered, “Let’s sleep. We have a big day ahead tomorrow.”

Asami nodded, feeling the weight of the evening’s events gradually fade as she drifted into sleep, safely ensconced in Korra’s embrace.

***

Blue eyes scanned the cafe, searching for any signs of her ex-girlfriend. After a moment, she spotted Hana seated at a booth, the furthest one from the door and by the window. Korra sighed, instantly understanding Hana’s choice of location. The secluded spot meant Hana didn’t want them to be seen or overheard. Muttering a curse under her breath, Korra approached the booth.

As she got closer, Hana looked up and beamed, rising from her seat, seemingly aiming to hug Korra. But the teacher deftly leaned away, resulting in a frown from Hana. “Hana,” Korra greeted with a hint of formality.

“Hi,” Hana replied, her tone dripping with sweetness, as if that alone could woo Korra back to her side.

“So, what did you want to say?” Korra inquired, eager to get the conversation over with.

Hana leaned in closer, her voice low and seductive. “Korra, can’t you remember the good times we had? The passion? Seeing you again yesterday made me remember everything.”

Korra’s face remained stoic. “Yes, and I also remember walking in on you with another man in my own bed.”

Unfazed, Hana reached out, tracing a finger along Korra’s hand. “That was a mistake. But we can move past it, can’t we?”

Korra jerked her hand away as if she was burned, her frustration mounting. “You think it’s that simple? That you can just apologize, and we can go back to how things were? Don’t you realize how long it took me to heal from the pain you caused? Don’t you know how long it took me to get over what you've done?”

Tears formed in Hana’s eyes as she registered the raw hurt in Korra’s voice. “I... I’m so sorry, Korra. I never wanted to hurt you.”

“Never wanted to hurt me?” Korra shook her head in disbelief, holding back her own tears. “Then maybe if you had realized that sooner, we wouldn’t be here.”

As the weight of the words settled between them, Hana broke down. “I truly am sorry, Korra.”

Korra took a deep breath, steadying herself. She looked into Hana’s eyes, seeing the regret and pain but knowing she needed to stand her ground. “Goodbye, Hana. May we never see each other again,” she said and stood up, leaving behind a chapter of her life she was determined to close for good.

***

Asami incessantly glanced at the clock while lounging in Korra’s apartment as she stoked Naga’s head, awaiting her girlfriend’s return from her talk with Hana. Deep down, she trusted Korra unconditionally, yet a nagging thought persisted, warning her that Hana might successfully woo Korra back.

“No!” Asami exclaimed aloud, giving her cheeks a playful slap to dismiss the thought. Naga yelped from her spot beside Asami before licking her hands. “I’m sorry, girl. I’m okay,” she assured the dog.

And that was how Korra found her. “Asami? Are you okay?” her girlfriend asked, concern etched on her face.

“Y-yeah. I’m okay,” she asked with a slight dusting of pink on her cheeks. “How are you? How’d it go?”

Korra slumped beside her and exhaled a deep, weary sigh. “It was... intense,” she began, recounting the entire episode at the cafe. Asami felt anger rising, particularly with Hana’s audacity. Noticing Asami’s rising fury, Korra gently cupped her face, leaning in to plant a soft kiss.

“Don’t worry about her anymore, okay? It’s over. You’re the only one that I want, Asami.”

This assurance melted away Asami’s concerns, making her realize she shouldn’t have been anxious to begin with. “I love you,” she whispered.

“I love you, too,” she whispered back before kissing Asami tenderly. When they broke for breath, Korra looked at her straight in the eye. “Let me show you how.”

With that, Korra lifted her up by the back of her thigh, Asami instinctively wrapping her legs and arms around her girlfriend as they headed to the bedroom, leaving the poor Naga behind in the living room.

—

Asami woke up when the first rays of the sun hit her eyes. Turning over, she found herself gazing at Korra, who was still deeply asleep. Her whole body was sore from the activities they did the whole day and night. Asami still couldn’t believe she could do something like that or that she could go on for that long. She then gently caressed the pronounced scars she left on Korra’s back, marveling at the sight.

After a while, Korra stirred from her sleep, slowly opening her eyes. With all the delicious muscles Korra had, her favorite part of her girlfriend was still her eyes. Those endless blue depths seemed to house an entire universe, and Asami felt that she could get lost in those pools forever. The teacher blinked the sleep away, smiling softly when she saw Asami.

“Good morning, beautiful,” Korra murmured tenderly.

Asami blushed, still not used to Korra’s compliments every morning. “Good morning, gorgeous,” she greeted softly in return.

“How’s your back?” her girlfriend asked as she wrapped her arms around Asami’s waist, her tone teasing.

Rolling her eyes, Asami playfully slapped Korra’s arm. “It’s a bit sore, but I’m not complaining,” she responded as she kissed Korra’s cute nose.

For a while, they remained in that position, reveling in the warmth of their shared emotions. Their eyes locked, green met blue, basking under the sun’s gentle embrace. Asami noticed a question forming in Korra’s eyes, but before she could probe, Korra spoke first.

“Move in with me?” Korra said, determination lacing her voice.

Caught off guard, Asami’s eyes widened. “What?”

This time, Korra hesitated, “M-move in with me. That is, if you want, of course! But if you’re not ready yet, I under-”

Asami interrupted her with a kiss. “Yes. I want to move in with you,” she said after pulling away from Korra’s lips.

Blinking rapidly, Korra finally processed Asami’s response, her face radiated sheer joy. “Really?! I can’t believe it!” she rejoiced.

“Well, you better believe it because you’ll be helping me move my things here the next weekend.”

“YES! Woohoo!” the teacher’s exuberant shout filled the room as she leaped from the bed. Asami chuckled, amused by her girlfriend’s child-like enthusiasm.

Even though they were only together for six months, that didn’t deter Asami from making this big decision because she knew it was the right one. Tears welled in her eyes as she rose to embrace Korra once again, sealing their commitment with a deep kiss.

A bark on the other side of the door jolted them out of their celebration, laughing at poor Naga, who wa probably feeling left out of the loop. Korra walked to the door and opened it, letting the dog in. They were immediately covered up in slobber by her equally enthusiastic greeting.

Asami observed the scene with heartfelt adoration. This was her future unfolding right in front of her. And she was absolutely in love with it.

Chapter Text

It was a stroke of luck that Asami arrived home first this time. Normally, Korra would have beaten her to it, but today, she had to complete some paperwork for her students’ graduation.

It had been a month since Asami had moved in with Korra, and it was undoubtedly one of the best decisions she had ever made. She had never been happier, and her every step exuded a newfound confidence. Even her employees had noticed a significant change in Asami’s demeanor from seven months ago until now. Although it had taken some getting used to, the benefits clearly outweighed the drawbacks.

As Asami exited her car and reached for her keys, she quickly strode towards Korra's door, unaware of another person’s presence waiting for her.

“Hello. Are waiting for…” Asami’s voice trailed off upon realizing who the person was. “Hana?”

The said woman rolled her eyes at her and muttered something like, “Oh, great. It’s the bitch .”

Choosing to rise above the provocation, Asami remained polite. “What are you doing here? Last I heard, Korra wanted nothing to do with you.”

Hana scoffed, “Her emotions were just running high that time.” She then gave Asami a once-over, assessing her intently. “What do Korra see in you anyway? And why are you here?” she challenged.

“For your information, I live here.” Then Asami’s hard expression softened a touch. “Honestly, I don’t know what Korra saw in me either. I’m just lucky she wanted to be with me,” she mused warmly. “She’s something special. I hope you know that.”

“I know that!”

“Then you shouldn’t have cheated on her in the first place!”

Their shouting match was interrupted by Naga’s barks from behind the door. Quickly, Asami fetched her keys and let the protective dog out. True to her instincts, Naga immediately growled and bared her teeth to Hana. Good, girl, Asami internally cheered.

Korra’s ex yelped, stepping backward with her hands up in surrender. “H-hey, Naga. Remember me?” she asked, her voice wavering from fear.

“Just leave, Hana. Do yourself a favor and move on,” Asami advised, her voice softening with a hint of sympathy.

“How dare y- EEK!”

Naga lunged at her, cutting off whatever retort she was planning to say. “Fine. I’ll go. For now. But this isn’t over!” she declared, shooting Asami a warning glance.

When she’d left, the CEO heaved a sigh of relief, glad that was over. I hope she won’t come back gain. A gentle nudge on her leg broke her introspection. Smiling at Naga, she petted her head for doing a good job at shooing that snake away. “Thank you, girl,” she praised. Naga=1, Snake=0.

“Come on. You've earned a treat for being such a good girl,” she cooed, her tone affectionate.

With an agreeing bark, Naga eagerly trotted back inside, heading straight for her bowl.

Asami chuckled in amusement. Could she really understand what I was saying?

—

“What? She did that?” Korra asked, her voice rising in anger. “I told her to leave us alone, and she did that?!” In her fury, she abruptly stood, causing her chair to topple backward with a clatter. She began to pace, her steps agitated and swift.

“Korra, please, just breathe. It’s going to be okay,” Asami implored with a soothing tone, but her words seemed to fall on deaf ears.

Whirling around, Korra fixed Asami with an intense glare. “How can I be calm when she’s pulling stunts like this?!” she retorted, gesturing wildly, her frustration evident.

It had been a month since Asami had confronted Hana. But instead of backing off, Hana took her antics up a notch. Earlier that day, she’d stormed into the main office of Future Industries, causing a scene as she vehemently demanded to see Asami. When her demands were denied, she lashed out, berating the receptionist. And that was just one episode in a string of disturbances.

Hana’s persistent interruptions at the school were disrupting Korra's lessons and unsettling her students. And every evening, like clockwork, she would be found loitering at their doorstep, an unwelcome presence that refused to fade. Asami couldn’t help but wonder if Hana had any semblance of a life outside of her vendetta against them.

“So, what are we going to do? You don’t want to file for a restraining order. You refused to move to a new apartment. And you won’t even consider the possibility of involving the police!” Asami’s voice raised, her frustration evident. “I get it, Korra. I get that you don’t want to escalate things, but Hana’s behavior is escalating whether we like it or not!”

Korra’s hands clenched, her eyes avoiding Asami’s piercing gaze. “Look, Asami, it’s... complicated. I just thought that, with time, she’d move on. I never imagined she’d go this far.”

From her spot by the doorway, Naga let out a low whimper, sensing the rising tension between the two. Her ears drooped, and she sidled over to Korra, nudging her gently with her head.

Asami’s arms folded across her chest. “So, you want to keep waiting and hoping? Waiting for what, exactly? For her to barge in here? For her to hurt someone? Korra, she went to my office today! My employees were scared!"

Korra glanced down at Naga, her loyal companion always sensing when she was upset. “I... I thought if we stayed low, didn’t react, she’d lose interest.”

Asami let out a bitter laugh. “That’s a childish way of thinking, Korra. Ignoring problems doesn’t make them disappear.”

A heavy silence fell between them. The tension in the room was palpable.

Finally, Korra whispered, “I just... I hate confrontation. Especially with her. There’s so much history, and...”

“And what about our history? What about our future?” Asami’s voice was soft but filled with emotion. “We can’t keep letting her dictate our lives.”

Korra’s eyes welled up with tears. “You’re right...” she choked out. “I’m sorry, Asami. I’m so sorry. I’ll talk to Mako tomorrow before I pick up Mom from the airport, I promise.”

Asami’s expression softened. She stood up and moved closer, wrapping her arms around Korra in a comforting embrace. “I know you will. And I’ll be right here with you every step of the way.”

Naga, sensing the resolution, wagged her tail and gave a short, joyous bark, lightening the mood. She moved closer, nuzzling against both their legs in an attempt to share the love.

“I’m sorry for snapping at you,” Korra whispered softly into Asami’s hair.

“Apology accepted,” Asami replied with a gentle smile. “Now, please. Let’s eat. I’m starving, and so is Naga, I bet.” She cast a playful glance down at their loyal dog, who barked in agreement.

***

“Hi, Mako. How are you doing?” Korra greeted, taking a seat across from his desk, her blue eyes taking in his tired demeanor.

Mako raised his gaze and offered a weak smile. “Long night,” he replied with a chuckle, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “Stakeout in the triad territory. But enough about me. What brings you here?”

Korra hesitated for a moment, exhaling deeply. “I need to file a restraining order, Mako. Against Hana.”

Mako’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Hana? As in your ex Hana?”

“Yup! Who else?”

Sighing, Mako muttered a curse under his breath. “She came back to cause you that much trouble, huh?” he said with a sad look in his eyes, likely remembering what Korra went through because of her. “Alright. Do you have any documentation of the incidents?”

Korra bit her lip, guilt evident in her eyes. “I… I didn’t think to document everything. But she’s been at our door, at my work, and even at the school. There are witnesses.”

Mako tapped his fingers on his desk thoughtfully. “Okay, it’s always better to have documentation, but we can start the process based on your statement and gather witness accounts. We’ll also look into any security footage available. But I need you to start noting down any further incidents, alright?”

She nodded gratefully. “Thank you, Mako.”

“We’ll process it once we have the documents. It might take a few days, but she’ll be served with it once it’s ready.”

“Thank you, Mako,” Korra replied, relief evident in her voice. She stood up, ready to leave, wanting to put the stressful situation behind her. But just as she reached the door, Mako’s voice halted her.

“Korra,” he began, hesitation clear in his voice. “There’s something else.”

She turned around, a puzzled expression on her face. “What is it?”

Mako exhaled heavily, searching for the right words. “Tonraq... he’s here. In Republic City. He’s been asking around for you.”

Korra’s heart seemed to skip a beat. The warmth and casualness of the room seemed to vanish, replaced with a sudden cold dread. She felt the weight of the revelation hit her hard, her mind racing. Why was her father here? After all these years?

“Are you sure?” she whispered, disbelief evident in her eyes.

Mako nodded slowly, sympathy in his gaze. “Yes. But don’t worry. I didn’t tell him where you live or work. I thought you should know.”

Korra’s thoughts swirled with memories of the past, fears of confrontations looming in her mind. Taking a deep breath, she managed a nod. “Thanks, Mako,” she whispered and stepped out into the bustling streets of Republic City, her heart heavy with mixed emotions.

Korra could feel her breath quicken as she walked back to her car. Just when she thought that she could finally push forward, life decided to throw her another curveball. Once she was inside her car, she let out a long, loud scream.

Then she broke down.

Tears streamed down her face, her body shaking with a mix of anger, confusion, and grief. The steering wheel became her anchor as she gripped it tightly, her knuckles white. Memories of her past, moments with Tonraq, flooded her mind. Laughter, love, and then the bitter memory of the revelation that she and her mother were merely Tonraq’s secret, second family.

She buried her head in her hands, trying to block out the onslaught of emotions, but they came, wave after wave. Naga, sensing her distress from the backseat, nudged her gently, whimpering softly in an effort to comfort her.

After what felt like an eternity, her sobs began to subside, replaced by hiccupped breaths. The weight in her chest pressed down unrelentingly, and even Naga’s comforting presence couldn’t fully alleviate it. Taking a deep breath, she wiped her face with the back of her hand and turned to look at Naga, her blue eyes meeting the canine’s concerned gaze. The silent understanding between them was palpable, but the shadows of the past continued to haunt Korra.

“It’s going to be okay, Naga,” she whispered, even if she wasn’t entirely sure of it herself. Drawing in a deep breath, Korra started the car, her mind gravitating to the only thing she knew how to drown her sorrows.

***

Asami glanced at her watch as she bounded up the stairs toward their apartment. She had planned to prepare dinner before both Korra and Senna arrived. However, an emergency at the factory—and she was grateful it wasn’t Hana-related this time—had detained her. Now, the clock displayed a concerning fifteen minutes past five. Korra and Senna should have already been inside.

But they weren’t. More specifically, Senna wasn’t.

Asami approached her future mother-in-law, wrapping her in a comforting embrace. “Senna, why are you out here? I thought Korra was picking you up?” There was confusion lacing her tone, trying to grasp the unexpected situation.

Senna’s face was etched with concern. “I thought so too, but she hasn’t answered my texts or calls. I came straight here, thinking she might be with you.”

A surge of anxiety coursed through Asami as she hastily retrieved her phone from her purse. She silently prayed for a message, any sign from Korra assuring her of her safety. Yet, the blank screen only heightened her fears. Where could she be? Could it be Hana...?

Asami hesitated, biting the inside of her cheek. Sharing the escalating incidents with Hana might only increase Senna’s worries, but keeping her in the dark wouldn’t be right either. “Senna,” she began cautiously, “there’s been an issue with someone from Korra’s past over the past month. We were hoping it wouldn't escalate, but it has. She was supposed to file a restraining order against her today before picking you up.”

Senna’s eyebrows knit in concern. “Who is this person?” Asami could see that Senna had a faint idea of who it was, so the CEO continued on.

“Hana. She’s been, well, persistent,” Asami admitted, trying to choose her words carefully.

Senna’s expression darkened immediately, her eyes filled with a fiery rage. “Hana? That woman almost destroyed my daughter once. I thought we’d left all that behind!”

Asami flinched at the uncharacteristic rage coming from her. “I know, Senna. We thought we had, too. But she came back, and she’s been causing trouble. We’ve been trying to handle it, and that’s why Korra wanted to get that restraining order.”

Suddenly, an idea struck her. “Wait! Mako would know. Korra was to meet him to file the complaint.”

She quickly dialed Mako’s number. After a few rings, he picked up, sounding slightly winded. “Asami?”

“Mako, did Korra come by the precinct today?”

He paused as if considering his words. “Yeah, she did. Filed the complaint and then... left. She seemed off, though.”

Before Asami could delve further, a distinct whining sound emanated from behind the apartment door. “Naga,” she murmured.

Senna, catching on, moved to open the door. The large polar bear dog immediately bounded out, restless urgency in her eyes. She tugged at Asami’s coat, clearly indicating they should follow her.

Understanding dawned on both women, and they quickly followed Naga’s lead. The canine led them through the streets, eventually stopping in front of a dimly lit bar.

“Not again,” Senna muttered, panic evident in her eyes as memories of Korra’s hospitalization likely flashed in her mind. Despite the trepidation, they pressed on into the bar.

Inside, they found Korra. She was seated on a stool, her posture slack, and two empty bottles of fire whiskey beside her. Her face was flushed, and her eyes were glassy.

“H-hey,” she slurred, trying to focus on the concerned faces before her. “You...you wouldn’t believe it. Tonraq’s here, in the city. Looking...for me,” she hiccupped. Asami felt a pang in her heart, seeing the combined burden of Hana’s harassment and the news of her father’s unexpected arrival weighing Korra down.

Senna’s face paled at the mention of her former lover, but she immediately went into mother mode, wrapping an arm around her daughter. “Let’s get you home, Korra.”

Asami helped from the other side, guiding the stumbling teacher out of the bar and back to the safety of their apartment, Naga walking worriedly beside them. The worries of the day were far from over, but for now, they had Korra back and that was all that mattered.

Chapter Text

Korra was in a disheveled state when Asami and Senna led her into the bedroom. The strong scent of alcohol clung to her, and her usually radiant blue eyes appeared dull and unfocused. Asami and Senna exchanged a concerned glance, worry evident in their eyes. Naga, meanwhile, let out a low whine, resting her massive head on the foot of the bed, keeping a close eye on her master.

Gently guiding Korra to sit on the edge of the bed, Senna began to carefully remove her shoes, setting them aside. Asami, meanwhile, fetched a damp washcloth from the bathroom, gently dabbing at Korra’s face to clean away the residue of the day and the telltale signs of her intoxication.

Senna ran her fingers soothingly through Korra’s tangled hair, humming a soft tune that seemed to be from Korra’s childhood, perhaps a lullaby she once sang to little Korra to sleep. It was clear she was trying to provide not only physical but also emotional comfort despite obviously being rattled herself.

Korra let out a slurred mumble, her eyes fluttering as she leaned into the touch, clearly finding solace in the familiar care from both her girlfriend and her mother.

Asami helped Korra change into her tank top, ensuring she’d be comfortable for the night. Once changed, they gently eased her down onto the bed, tucking the blankets around her to keep her warm.

“Here, love,” Asami murmured, tilting a glass of water to Korra’s lips, encouraging her to drink and rehydrate before surrendering to sleep.

In her mind, amidst the tender moments of caring for Korra, Asami tried piecing everything together. So, it wasn’t Hana causing the turmoil this time but the sudden appearance of her father. Asami released a sigh, stealing a glance at Senna, trying to gauge what Korra’s mother might be feeling.

After ensuring Korra was comfortable and with Naga keeping a protective stance beside the bed, Senna quietly exited the room. Asami could just catch the sound of her sniffle as the door closed behind her. Taking a deep breath, Asami pressed a gentle kiss to Korra’s forehead, giving Naga a reassuring pat before leaving the room to follow Senna into the living room.

Upon entering, Asami saw Senna cradling the lone picture frame that was turned face down on the wall. Asami could see worry etched on the older woman’s face.

“Senna, are you okay?” Even as she asked, Asami realized the question might seem dumb, but she needed to know Senna’s state of mind.

Senna offered a weary smile and patted the space on the couch beside her. Asami moved to sit next to the older woman. With a soft touch, she watched as Senna carefully traced the outline of the photograph in the frame, clearly lost in the memories it held. Asami could still remember the day she saw that frame for the first time and how Korra and Senna looked so happy in it.

“I haven’t seen that face in so long,” Senna began, her voice barely above a whisper. She took a deep breath, her grip on the frame tightening slightly. “I thought I had forgotten about him…But just one mention of him… and it all comes flooding back.”

Asami reached out, placing a reassuring hand over Senna’s. “I’m sorry.”

Senna looked up, tears shimmering in her eyes. “It’s not you who should be apologizing, but thank you, Asami. Thank you for being there for my daughter.”

The room was steeped in silence for a few moments. Asami’s heart jumped slightly when Senna broke it with a hesitant voice. “Did Korra ever tell you... about her father?”

“Y-yes, she did,” Asami stuttered, taken aback by the question. “A while back. Korra told me her father called. And that was why she kind of acted weird around me. And later that night, she shared the story about…” she hesitated, not knowing how to bring it up. However, she pushed forward, knowing that Senna would appreciate honesty. “About how you two are his second family.”

Senna sighed heavily, and Asami could see the weight of the memories pressing down on her. She began, her voice soft, filled with both warmth and a distant sadness. “When I first met Tonraq, he was an ambassador from the Northern Water Tribe, stationed in the South. He was charming, respectful, and possessed a certain kindness that drew me in.”

Asami noticed the wistful smile on Senna’s lips and the far-off look in her eyes, clearly reminiscing about the days long past. She could almost see the young Senna, taken in by Tonraq’s charm and believing in the fairy tale love story that she thought she was part of.

Senna continued, “He courted me for a few months, and every gesture, every word seemed to say he was genuinely interested. He was everything I ever wanted in a man. So, when he finally asked me out, I said yes, thinking he was different, thinking he was the one.”

A shadow passed over Senna’s face, hinting at the pain of old wounds. “But then, after only a few months, I was pregnant with Korra. I kept waiting for him to ask me to marry him. Every time I'd drop hints about a wedding, about making our family official, he’d change the subject or claim he had pressing matters at work. He even claimed that the North was conservative and wouldn’t want him marrying a Southern woman. I was a fool to believe him.”

Asami’s heart ached as she watched the older woman’s posture slump with the weight of heartbreak and betrayal. She imagined Senna, young and in love, holding onto hope despite the warning signs.

“He would disappear for months on end,” Senna’s voice cracked slightly. “Always citing work, always promising to be back soon. And I believed him because he was a great partner when he was around and an even better father to Korra. We were never left for wanting anything.”

The CEO clenched her fists unconsciously, anger brewing for the man who caused so much pain to the two people she cared most about.

“And then, that fateful day when Korra returned from the Northern Water Tribe...” Senna paused, taking a deep breath to steady herself, “with the news about Tonraq’s true family... my heart didn’t just break, Asami. It shattered.”

Asami’s eyes welled up, watching Senna wrestle with her emotions - the raw pain of betrayal, the simmering anger of being lied to for years, the denial that such a thing could happen, the gut-wrenching grief of losing the love of her life, and finally, the quiet acceptance that came with time and healing.

“And now?” Asami whispered, hoping for a glimpse of that acceptance.

Senna looked up, tears streaking her face, “I’ve learned to live without him— we’ve learned to live without him. And I’ve learned to forgive – not for him, but for Korra and me. For our peace.”

Asami watched Senna carefully, noting the play of emotions across her face. The older woman’s eyes, previously clouded with the pain of the past, now held a hint of fear, a fear rooted in the present.

“What I don’t understand, after all these years without a single contact,” Senna began hesitantly, “is why he has come back now. What does he want with Korra?” The anguish in her voice was palpable, hinting at the dread of old wounds being reopened, of old pains resurfacing.

Asami’s protective instincts flared. The mention of Tonraq wanting something with Korra brought forth a surge of concern. “Has he tried contacting you since he arrived?”

Senna shook her head. “No, and I’m glad for that. But I fear for Korra. She’s been through so much, and I don’t want her to be hurt again. Not by him.”

Asami nodded, understanding the fierce maternal protection emanating from Senna. “Korra’s strong. And she has us. We’ll make sure she’s okay.”

Senna looked deep into Asami’s eyes, searching for reassurance, and found it. “Thank you, Asami.”

The two women shared a silent understanding: they would do anything to protect Korra.

***

“Uughh…” Korra woke up with a groan as she felt her head throb in pain. What happened? She tried piecing together the events of the previous day. Okay. First, I went to the police station and filed for a restraining order. Then, Mako mentioned Dad was looki- . Her train of thought derailed as a torrent of memories hit her.

She recalled dropping Naga off at the apartment and then aimlessly driving around the city, hoping to clear her head. But when that didn’t help, she ended up in a bar, with a bottle of fire whiskey as her company. The rest was a blur, but she remembered Asami, her mother, and Naga pulling her out of there.

Oh spirits... Ma!!

Korra bolted from the bed, only to stumble as her headache intensified from her sudden movement. In her turmoil, she had completely forgotten to pick her mom up from the airport. Korra held her head as she curled up on the floor. Fucking hangover!

Feeling a gentle hand on her shoulder brought her back. She looked up into Asami's concerned eyes, the pain momentarily easing.

“Korra, are you okay?” Asami asked.

The teacher nodded and, with Asami’s assistance, managed to get back onto her feet. Asami then fetched two pain relievers and a glass of water from the nightstand. “Here, this should help.”

Korra mumbled her gratitude, taking the medicine. She wanted to voice her appreciation again, but something in Asami’s expression shifted, hinting at a mix of worry and admonition. Sensing the change, Korra spoke up first, “I’m sorry. Please, don’t be mad.”

Asami sighed deeply and sat back on the bed. “I’m not mad, just…worried.”

Korra sat down next to Asami on the bed, taking her girlfriend’s hand and gently stroking the back of it with her thumb. “I’m sorry I made you worry,” she murmured, guilt evident in her voice.

Asami met her gaze steadily. “I accept your apology, but I’m not the only one you owe an explanation to,” she replied softly.

“I know,” Korra began, her voice shaky. “I just… When Mako mentioned Tonraq was looking for me, everything just became too much. I tried letting Naga distract me. I tried driving to clear my head, but nothing worked. So, I turned to alcohol,” she admitted, her eyes cast downward.

“And did it help? Drinking?” Asami questioned softly, her hand squeezing Korra’s.

Korra froze as Asami’s question hit her like a truck. “No,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. “It didn’t.” 

“Korra…” Asami cupped her face gently, making sure their eyes met. “I understand the temptation to seek solace in alcohol when everything feels overwhelming. Trust me. I’ve been there. It’s the easy way out. But in the end, it doesn’t truly help. Remember, I’m here for you. Your mother’s here for you. We want to help. You don’t have to face your demons alone anymore. I hoped you would’ve realized that by now.”

Tears welled up in Korra’s eyes, the truth of Asami’s words piercing her heart. As they spilled over, she buried her face into Asami’s chest, her sobs muffled against the soft fabric. Asami wrapped her arms tightly around her, offering silent comfort, her hand gently rubbing Korra's back as she let out her pent-up emotions.

“I’m sorry,” Korra whispered between sobs, repeating the apology like a mantra.

Asami held her tighter each time, murmuring in her soothing voice, “It’s okay. It's okay." Korra was grateful to have Asami hold her right now. Her girlfriend’s words were a lifeline in the midst of the emotional storm.

When Korra’s cries subsided, she lifted her head up to look Asami in the eye, seeing nothing but love and understanding in them. “Thank you,” Korra whispered.

“You don’t have to thank me, Korra. I love you.”

“I love you, too, so much,” she said. “But, um…”

Asami reached up, brushing a stray tear from Korra’s cheek. “What is it?”

“I should go talk to Ma.”

“Okay. Do you want me to be there?”

“N-no. I want to talk to her alone first.”

Asami nodded, gently pressing a kiss to Korra’s forehead. “Okay. I’ll be waiting.”

With one last squeeze of Asami’s hand, Korra left the room, the weight on her shoulders a bit lighter thanks to the love and understanding of her girlfriend.

***

Asami sipped her tea in the kitchen, browsing her emails on her phone, while Naga sat by the door to the guest room. Both waiting for Korra and Senna's emergence. Asami felt a touch of anxiety about the mother-daughter duo’s resolution to the Tonraq situation, yet she had faith in their judgment. Whatever their decision, Asami was ready to back them.

After going over the same email for the fourth time, the door gently opened. Both mother and daughter stepped into the living room. Asami could hear the excited barks and yelps from Naga as Korra was probably showering her with love. The CEO set her phone down and approached them. From the determined look on their faces, Asami assumed Korra and Senna had come up with a plan.

“Hey, are you both okay?” she asked, her gaze shifting between Korra and Senna.

Korra smiled weakly, her eyes slightly red from crying. “We had a long talk,” she began, glancing at her mother, who gave a reassuring nod. “And, uh, we’ve decided on what we’re going to do.”

Senna stepped forward, her posture exuding a calm confidence. “We appreciate your support, Asami. It means a lot to both of us, especially during such challenging times.”

The heiress couldn’t help but feel relieved, even if just a little, to hear those words. “Of course,” she replied. “You’re family to me. Whatever you need, I’m here.”

Korra intertwined her fingers with Asami’s, leaning into her side for a brief moment. “Thank you, love.” Then Korra let out a determined sigh. “We’ve realized that avoiding him isn’t the solution. We need to face this situation head-on.”

“That sounds brave,” Asami remarked, admiring their strength.

Senna gave a gentle smile. “Life has taught us that sometimes, facing our fears is the only way to move forward.”

Asami nodded, her respect for Senna growing even more. “Well, whenever you’re ready to share the plan, I’m all ears.”

Korra took a deep breath, her eyes wandering briefly before meeting Asami’s gaze. “I’m going to call Tonraq and set up a meeting for tomorrow.” As she spoke, Asami noticed a slight tremble in Korra’s voice, hinting at the underlying tension and uncertainty she felt.

After a brief pause, Korra hesitated, her fingers fidgeting at her side. “Asami, would... would you be there too? I mean, it might help to have some support, and…” She trailed off, not finishing her sentence, but the vulnerable look in her eyes conveyed the sentiment well enough.

Asami took a step closer, reaching out to gently grasp Korra’s other hand, intertwining their fingers. “Of course, Korra. I’m here for both you and Senna, for whatever you need.” She gave a reassuring squeeze, noting the relief that washed over Korra’s face.

Senna, with a faint smile, nodded appreciatively at Asami, a silent gesture of gratitude for her unwavering support. Asami couldn’t help but think how interconnected their lives had become and was determined to see them through whatever challenges lay ahead.

With a deep breath, Korra pulled out her phone, unblocked and then dialed Tonraq’s number. Every tick of the clock sounded louder, each second dragging on endlessly. Naga, sensing the anxious energy, paced uneasily at the edge of the room, occasionally letting out a low whine. Asami found herself wringing her hands together, her eyes darting between Senna and Korra. There was a shared understanding, an unspoken bond of solidarity, amongst the three of them.

Senna, her face etched with lines of worry, stood as a pillar of strength, though Asami could see the subtle nervousness in her posture, the way she slightly leaned towards Korra as if trying to shield her from any harm.

Korra’s grip on the phone was tight, her knuckles white, her eyes shut tight as if bracing for impact. The dial tone rang in their ears, one ring, then two, then three. The room seemed to close in with each ring, the anticipation mounting.

Suddenly, the ringing ceased, replaced by a familiar voice that they hadn’t heard in years. “Hello, Korra?”

The room seemed to freeze at that very moment.

Chapter Text

“Hello, Korra?”

Korra’s heart suddenly lurched at the sound of her father’s voice, one she hadn’t heard in so long. His father’s voice was still the same deep, booming voice albeit a sounding a little bit older. Beside her, Korra could feel her mother stiffen.

“H-hello, d- Tonraq,” Korra hesitated, her nerves getting the best of her.

“K-Korra, I didn’t think you’d call,” he replied, his own voice trembling slightly.

The teacher couldn’t answer. She stayed silent for a while, 

“Korra? Are you okay?” Tonraq’s voice echoed with genuine concern from the other end of the line. But before Korra could reply, a sudden rush of emotion overwhelmed her, making her chest tighten. The walls of the room seemed to close in on her.

Beside her, Senna quickly recognized the signs of her daughter hyperventilating and drew Korra into a firm embrace, whispering words of comfort into her ear. Asami too, reached out, taking one of Korra’s hands and squeezing it reassuringly.

Tonraq’s voice wavered from the phone, “Senna? Is that you? How are you—”

Korra took a deep, steadying breath, drawing strength from both the women at her side. Her voice, though still shaky, cut him off, “We can discuss all that when we meet. How about next weekend? Narook's Noodle Shack, 10 in the morning?”

There was a pause, a seemingly long one, before Tonraq answered, “Okay, Korra. Next weekend, at Narook’s, 10 am. I’ll be there.”

Korra took another deep breath, and with a silent nod of gratitude towards Asami and her mother, she responded, “Good. See you then.” She hung up, the weight she had felt lifted off her shoulders. A sigh of relief escaped her lips as she let herself collapse into the comforting embrace of her loved ones.

“Well…it could’ve been worse,” Korra attempted to quip, trying to dispel the tension. But then she noticed her mother’s distant look. “Ma? Are you okay?”

Senna nodded slowly, her eyes moist. “Yes, I’m fine. It’s just... hearing his voice again, it’s overwhelming. But I’m going to be okay. I’ll prepare for the day,” her mother said.

“Okay. If you say so,” Korra replied, still concerned for her mother. When Senna entered the guest room, she turned to Asami. “Thank you.”

“I’m here for you, Korra.”

—

The week passed by in a blur. Korra had been distracted her mind constantly replaying the upcoming meeting with her father. Even her students noticed her spacing out more than once during class. She released a deep sigh as she wrapped up grading papers for the day.

One good thing happened the past week, though. Hana had finally been served the restraining order. At long last, she wouldn’t be a constant thorn in their side. Hana was now barred from entering any Future Industries premises, and most importantly, she was forbidden from approaching Korra or Asami.

Once she got home, Naga showered her with slobbery kisses, making Korra chuckle in both amusement and slight revulsion. “Okay, okay! Naga, sit down.” Her trusty polar bear dog complied promptly, and Korra headed to the kitchen to fetch a well-deserved treat for Naga.

Then she went about the rest of her day cooking their dinner. Her mother would be home from the embassy at five, and her girlfriend at six. She busied herself with prepping the ingredients, the rhythmic chopping and sizzling providing a comforting backdrop to her thoughts. In a way, cooking was therapeutic for Korra, a chance to be in the present moment and focus on the simple joy of creating rather than the murky meeting with her father.

She decided on a hearty stew, knowing both her mother and Asami would appreciate something warm and filling after a long day. The savory aroma began to fill the house, a blend of spices and simmering vegetables.

By five, as predicted, Senna walked in, greeted by the welcoming scent. “Mmm, smells wonderful, Korra.”

“Thanks, Ma,” Korra replied with a smile, “I thought a nice stew would hit the spot tonight.”

And an hour later, the front door opened again, signaling Asami’s arrival. The engineer walked into the kitchen, her eyes lighting up as she spotted the steaming pot. “You’ve outdone yourself again,” she said, wrapping Korra in a hug from behind.

“Thanks, babe. You know cooking is one of my passions. I love seeing the smiles it brings, especially on you,” Korra replied, leaning back into the embrace.

Asami giggled at her words, playfully slapping her arms in response. “Charmer.” She then leaned closer, her lips brushing against Korra’s ear. “You just want to get in my pants.”

Korra lost her grip on the spatula, almost burning herself from chasing after it. But instead of letting herself get flustered, she teased back. With a sly smirk, she switched off the stove, spun around, and gently backed Asami against the counter. “So what if I want to? What are you gonna do, Ms. Sato?” she growled low in Asami’s ear, her muscular arms forming a cage around Asami.

The CEO swallowed thickly as the tension rose in the air. A visible shiver ran through Asami, her eyes filled with lust. “Then…I will let you-”

“Ahem.”

The couple jumped at Senna’s unexpected interruption, both sporting deep blushes at having been caught by Korra’s mother.

“Sorry to interrupt you ladies, but is dinner ready? Naga’s whining to me. She’s probably starving,” Senna said, a slight teasing smile on her face.

Flustered, Asami stuttered, “R-right. I’ll set the table.”

Korra followed Asami with her eyes. Her face must’ve looked dazed because her mother chuckled at her, pulling her out of her trance.

“Come on, lovebird. We have a meal to serve,” she teased, nudging Korra towards the dishes.

Dinner that night was a light affair. They talked about their day, sharing little anecdotes and updates from work. Asami spoke of a new prototype her team was working on, and Korra, in turn, shared some of the quirky things her students did during class.

The laughter and banter around the table eased the tension, but underneath it all was the subtle, lingering anticipation of the upcoming meeting with Tonraq. It hung in the air like a delicate thread, fragile yet binding them in shared understanding.

Once dinner was over, they cleared the table and settled in the living room for a while, sipping on tea and finalizing the plans for tomorrow.

As the night deepened, they each retired to their rooms, hoping to gather enough strength and clarity for the challenges the next day would bring.

Once the couple was settled in for the night, Korra turned off the lights and lay down on the bed. Asami followed suit, nestling into Korra’s side as she always did. The teacher wrapped her left arm around her girlfriend, and they remained in that close embrace for a while.

“How are you feeling?” Asami murmured after some time.

Korra sighed deeply. “Nervous, but as okay as I can be, considering everything,” she confessed.

Asami tilted her head, capturing Korra’s lips in a gentle kiss. “No matter what happens tomorrow, know that I'm right here with you.”

Korra’s eyes softened. “I know, and I love you for it.”

“I love you too.”

Suddenly, with a playful glint in her eyes, Asami rolled on top of Korra, straddling her. She leaned in, whispering into her ear, “Now, I might know just the thing to help you relax.”

—

Korra’s eyes darted around the familiar interior of Narook’s, a nostalgic pang hitting her despite the tension she felt. Korra, Asami, and Senna all occupied one side of the booth, waiting for Tonraq to arrive. Every nerve in Korra’s body seemed alight with anxiety, making her leg bounce unconsciously. She tried to distract herself with the aroma of fresh-cooked noodles, but her anxiety persisted. Asami, ever attentive, placed a gentle hand on Korra’s bouncing leg. The warm touch, paired with Asami's soothing presence, grounded Korra. For a moment, Korra let herself get lost in the sensation, appreciating how Asami had always been her rock in turbulent times.

The soft chime of the doorbell drew Korra’s attention back to the entrance. And there he was. Tonraq. A whirlwind of emotions threatened to swallow Korra whole as her heart seemed to drop to her stomach. Seeing him after all these years felt like a punch to the gut.

Tonraq was as she remembered – a towering figure with a strong, commanding presence. The years, however, had added streaks of gray to his once jet-black hair. His blue eyes, so much like her own, smiled when he saw Korra. However, they briefly betrayed his surprise upon laying eyes on his former lover. But just as quickly, he composed himself, striding forward with purpose.

As he got closer, the mix of anger, hurt, nostalgia, and longing was almost overwhelming, threatening to spill over. She noted the hesitation in his steps, the way he scanned both their faces, perhaps looking for signs of forgiveness or maybe just trying to come to terms with the moment.

Without uttering a word, Tonraq slid into the booth opposite them. The weight of their shared history hung heavily in the air, begging to be addressed.

“Korra,” he began, his voice wavering and eyes threatening to spill over with tears. “Look how you've grown.” The words held layers of emotion, a mixture of regret, longing, and unmistakable love. “And who is this?” he asked, gesturing to Asami.

“Asami Sato. Korra’s girlfriend.”

Korra could see that he was obviously shocked, but he recovered quickly. “Oh. It’s nice to meet you, Ms. Sato.” His gaze then shifted to Senna, and immediately, the atmosphere grew thick and palpable with tension. “Senna, how are y-”

Tonraq was cut off abruptly by Senna’s icy voice. “Tonraq, I’m here solely for Korra and to support her. Not you. Spare us the pleasantries, and let’s address the matter at hand,” she interjected sharply, a fire of anger in her tone.

“O-of course. My apologies.” Tonraq cleared his throat, shifting uncomfortably in his seat. His fingers fiddled with the napkin in front of him.

“Korra,” he began, voice full of emotion. “I know the last time we saw each other was far from ideal. I know Aluki had been cold toward you.”

Aluki. So, that’s her name, Korra thought. The mention of his wife from the Northern Water Tribe caused Korra’s heart to clench. The memories of the cold reception she had received at that household still haunted her.

“But I couldn’t do anything back then. If I forced her to accept you, then my family would break. And I didn’t want that.”

Korra’s blue eyes were icy, filled with suppressed anger and hurt. He didn’t want his family to break?! Then what did he call them? Leftovers? Beside her, Korra felt her mother and Asami stiffen. Their emotions were threatening to spill. She was about to burst out when Tonraq spoke again.

Taking a shaky breath, Tonraq continued, “These past years, I’ve been working my way up the council in the North. I’ve now been appointed as the new chief of the Northern Water Tribe.”

What? Korra blinked in surprise. Her father, a chief?

He rushed on, the words tumbling out, “With my new position, there have been changes. And there’s a mandate... a possibility…”

Korra’s patience waned. “Tonraq, just say it.”

Swallowing hard, Tonraq finally said, “I can legitimize you, Korra. I want you to come and live with me in the Northern Water Tribe.”

Korra felt the ground slip under her feet. What the fuck?

Chapter Text

“What the hell did you just say?” Korra seethed, suddenly standing up from the booth. Her mother and girlfriend quickly grabbed her arms, preventing her from lunging across the table.

Tonraq raised his hands in a placating gesture. “Korra, please. I... I want you there with me. I want our whole family together.”

“You still don’t get it, do you?” Korra spat, incredulity evident in her voice. “Whole family? You plan to bring mom along, too? What, to soothe your damaged pride?”

“No, it’s not like that-”

“Enough!” She was shouting now, drawing the attention of every patron in Narook’s. She saw, from the corner of her eyes, the owner reaching for his phone. But she didn’t care. “You think that by legitimizing me, your family up north won’t look down on us?” Her voice dripped with scorn. “How can you be so naive, Tonraq? You lied! After making us believe you love us, you left. You threw us in the trash when we didn’t have any use for you anymore! So just shove your legitimization down your throat! I’d rather be a bastard than be called your daughter.” By the end, she was nearly out of breath. “Besides, my life here,” she said, her tone softer, her eyes flitting to Asami who offered a reassuring smile.

Tonraq, for his part, looked crushed. He merely stared at the table, defeated.

“If that’s all, we’re leaving,” Korra declared, catching the affirmative nods of Asami and her mother. But just as they were about to leave, Tonraq called out again.

“Korra, please. I’ve missed you. I want to mend our relationship, to be a true father to you. But I can only do that if you come to the Northern Water Tribe. Don’t you want to try-”

His plea was cut off by a sharp slap. To Korra’s surprise, it wasn’t her hand that had struck him, but her mother’s. “Enough, Tonraq. You made your choice years ago, and we bore the pain. Korra has made hers now. If you truly care for her, you’ll respect that,” Senna’s voice was ice cold, addressing Tonraq for the first time since their cold greeting.

Tonraq’s desperation was evident. “Senna, I’m begging you.” And then he made his biggest mistake. As Senna turned away, he reached out, touching her shoulder.

Korra’s vision blurred with rage. Without thinking, her fist shot forward, connecting with Tonraq’s face. Standing over him, her voice was a low, dangerous growl. “Don’t you ever touch my mother again.”

The owner of Narook’s appeared beside her, his voice laced with concern and firmness. “Miss, if you and your family don’t leave immediately, I’ll have no choice but to call the authorities,” he warned, snapping Korra back to reality.

Taking a deep breath, Korra nodded apologetically. “I’m sorry for the disturbance,” she said, ensuring the owner they would cover any damages. After settling their bill, the trio made their way out. As they reached the exit, Korra cast one last lingering look at her estranged father. He sat unmoving, the very picture of defeat.

Goodbye, Dad.

***

“All right then, if there’s nothing else?”

Receiving no response, Asami dismissed the board members and began collecting her belongings. She mentally patted herself on the back for successfully navigating the numerous meetings of the day, especially given the distractions plaguing her mind.

It had been a week since their unsettling encounter with Tonraq. From the get-go, Asami’s instincts told her he wasn’t trustworthy. For all his imposing stature, he seemed to be nothing more than a self-centered individual. She couldn’t help but compare Tonraq to her own father.

Growing up, Hiroshi Sato had never been the super loving father that shows liked to portray, but Asami knew that he wouldn’t do something like what Tonraq did.

Throughout his monologue, Asami felt a growing anger. However, she restrained herself, believing it wasn’t her place to interfere; the decision lay with Korra.

In her heart, Asami was prepared to accept whatever choice Korra made, even if it meant letting her go with Tonraq. Such a decision would be painful, yet she’d understand. But knowing Korra as intimately as she did, Asami had faith in her girlfriend’s judgment.

Upon arriving home, only Naga greeted Asami, her whimpers echoing through the silent house as she led Asami toward the bedroom. Since that confrontational dinner with Tonraq, Korra had been retreating into herself, becoming a shadow confined to their room, particularly after Senna’s departure for the Southern Water Tribe three days prior.

“Are you sure you’re good to go home, Ma?” Korra asked, worry evident in her voice.

Senna reassured her with a nod. “Yes. I’ll be fine, Korra. I’m more worried about you.”

“I’m…going to be okay, Ma. Asami and Naga are with me, but you’re alone down there.”

Senna gave a slight chuckle. “I’m not alone. I have Katara and Kya, okay?”

Sighing, Korra conceded, “Alright, Ma. Just take care of yourself.”

“I will.”

Before entering the bedroom, Asami gave a soft knock, not wanting to startle Korra. “Korra, I’m coming in.” Pushing the door open, her heart instantly broke at the sight. Korra was lying so still on the bed, staring blankly at the ceiling. Taking a deep breath, Asami gingerly made her way over and settled next to her, placing a tender hand on Korra’s arm. “Hey.”

Korra blinked before looking at Asami. “Oh,” she started, sitting up from the bed. “Hey. You’re here early.”

A look of surprise washed over Korra. “Korra, it’s already six.”

“Oh. I didn’t…I didn’t realize…”

Asami gently stroked her arm. “It's alright, love. Do you want to talk about it?”

“Um, I guess.”

“No, either you want to, or you don’t. Which is it?”

Silence hung in the air before Korra whispered, “Yes. I want to talk about it.”

Asami exhaled deeply in relief. “Okay.” Her fingers gently caressed Korra’s arm, feeling the tension coiled just beneath the surface of her skin. With her other hand, she gently turned Korra’s face towards her, gazing deeply into those striking blue eyes. It was clear to Asami that a tumultuous storm of emotions was raging within Korra.

“I just don’t get it,” Korra began, her voice strained, “After all these years, how can he just waltz back in, suggest that ridiculous thing, and expect everything to be alright?” Her eyes welled up with tears of frustration. “I’m so angry at him, Asami, so incredibly disappointed. But when I looked at him, saw that crushed look in his eyes, I... I felt pity. Why? Why do I feel that?”

Asami gave a soft squeeze to Korra’s arm, trying to offer comfort. “Because, deep down, he’s still your father. No matter what he did or didn’t do, that connection will always be there. It’s okay to feel pity, to even still love him in some way. But it doesn't mean you have to let him back in if you’re not ready or if it’s not right for you.”

Korra exhaled deeply, taking in Asami’s words. “You’re right. I don’t want anything to do with him anymore. It’s just... difficult.”

“I know, sweetie,” Asami whispered, pulling Korra into a comforting embrace. They stayed like that for a while, taking solace in each other’s presence.

Drawing back slightly, Asami looked deep into Korra’s eyes. “Setting boundaries is hard, but it’s necessary for your own well-being. And you did the right thing today.”

Korra gave a weak smile, her eyes reflecting a mixture of gratitude and sadness. “Thank you, Asami. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“Probably rotting in a ditch somewhere.” They both chuckled at Asami’s slightly morbid joke. Despite the storm Korra was feeling, the CEO was glad that she was able to make her girlfriend laugh. 

The two women shared a gentle kiss, reaffirming their bond. “I love you,” Asami murmured.

“And I love you,” Korra replied, her voice filled with raw emotion.

They settled into bed, their arms wrapped around each other, seeking the comfort and solace that only they could provide to each other. As the night deepened, they drifted off to sleep, knowing that whatever the future held, they would face it together.

When Asami woke up the next day, a brief wave of panic swept over her when she didn’t feel Korra’s warm body next to her. She threw the blankets aside, quickly rising from bed. Her anxiety ebbed away almost instantly when the bedroom door creaked open, and a delightful aroma of freshly brewed tea filled the room.

Korra’s face lit up, a brightness Asami hadn’t seen since the confrontation with Tonraq. “Good morning, babe. I was hoping you’d still be asleep,” Korra remarked, setting a tray laden with two steaming cups and a delectable breakfast spread on the bedside table.

Asami looked at the offerings, touched by the gesture. “What brought this on?”

Korra shuffled slightly, her eyes earnest. “Well, I know I hadn’t been the best girlfriend in the world for the past week. You’ve been taking care of me and Naga, so I figured I need to make it up to you.”

“Korra, you don’t owe me anything. You know I’d do anything for you, right?”

Korra nodded, her voice soft but sure. “I know I don’t have to, but I want to. You’ve been a pillar of strength, enduring my moods and my past. You deserve the world.”

“Well, that’s because I love you,” Asami replied gently.

“I love you, too. And that’s why I want to start fresh. I want to put it all behind us.”

“What are you saying?” Asami was unsure where Korra was going with the conversation.

Taking a deep breath, Korra said, “ What I’m saying is that I will take up your suggestion that we get a new apartment. Or even a house. I’ll change my number, so they won’t be able to contact me ever again. And I promise I’ll go talk to my therapist about all of this in our next session.”

“If you’re ready, love. I’m with you every step of the way. I love you, and I will never leave your side, okay?”

“Okay,” Korra replied. “Now, can we eat? I’m starving.”

***

As promised, the first thing Korra did before going to school was to replace her number. After getting a new one, she immediately texted Asami and got a funny reply.

10:04 Babe: Who dis?
10:05 Korra: haha. very funny, babe XP
10:05 Babe: I’m just kidding. Enjoy the rest of your day. See you at home. Love you!
10:06 Korra: u too. see ya! luv ya!

Another month flew by, and Korra felt stronger each day. Going to therapy and having the love and support of her real family — her mother, Naga, and Asami — truly made the difference. Of course, her friends were there, too. Through good days and bad, she was grateful for them always being by her side.

Tonraq and Hana seemed to have backed off, and with their absence, Korra and Asami finally felt free. They started searching for a new apartment that would fit what both of them wanted. In just a few weeks, they found the perfect place.

On their ninth monthsary, Korra went to work with a smile on her face. How could she not when she got to ravish her girlfriend in the morning, leaving the woman lying dazed in their bed? By lunchtime, just as she was about to pack up for their routine lunch date at Asami’s office, she noticed her fellow teachers huddled in a corner. Driven by curiosity, Korra approached. “Hey. What’s happening?” she inquired.

“Jeng’s boyfriend just popped the question!” Mei Ling exclaimed, drawing Jeng's hand toward Korra to flaunt the ring.

“Oh, wow! Congrats, Jeng! About time, right? How long have you two been together?” Korra commented, her attention fixated on the ring.

Blushing, Jeng answered, “Thanks, Korra. Six years. We felt it's the right time now.”

“And how did he propose?” Zuma, the romantic in the group, jumped in, eager for details.

Korra tuned out the rest as she exited the room and made her way to her car. Six years. Would she and Asami be still together by that time? She certainly hoped so; she couldn’t imagine a future with anyone else. And would Asami want to wait that long for a proposal? But would Asami say yes?

Lost in her thoughts, she didn’t realize that she was already at Future Industries office. Mira, the receptionist, greeted her with a sly smile as she escorted Korra to the elevator. Korra raised her eyebrow at the woman, conveying a silent question: What?

Mira, the ever-observant receptionist, greeted her with a cheeky grin, guiding her to the elevator. Curious, Korra shot her a questioning look.

With a chuckle, Mira leaned in and whispered, “Well, Ms. Sato’s walking with a… limp this morning. And we all knew it was not because she tripped.” Korra’s face turned a deep shade of red as the elevator doors sealed her in. Oh, jeez.

“Hey, you.” Asami greeted her as soon as she stepped inside the office.

“Um, did you know your employees are... talking?”

Puzzled, Asami queried, “Talking about what?”

“Well, about us... from this morning.”

Realization dawning, Asami gasped, “Oh! How?”

“Apparently, you’re limping.”

“Oh my, Spirits!” Asami moaned, burying her face in her hands. “I might need to find a new place to work.” She melodramatically let her forehead hit the desk.

Korra chuckled at the display. Adorable. Each day, she found herself falling deeper and deeper for Asami. That’s when clarity struck her.

With that, she started thinking up a plan.

Chapter Text

Asami knew that the Southern Water Tribe was a cold place, but she never expected it to be this cold. Even inside Senna’s house, she kept shivering despite wearing five layers of clothing!

They had landed at the SWT International Airport that morning, arriving just in time for the Glacier Spirits Festival. A month prior, Korra had adorably asked her if she wanted to attend, stumbling over her words. Asami had found it endearing, but why was Korra acting so nervous?

Now that she thought about it, ever since they’d arrived, her girlfriend had been fidgety and restless. She was even more restless than Naga. Asami noticed she Korra kept fiddling with her fingers, taking them on her tan hands and looking at them. It was weird, but Asami decided to ignore it. Maybe Korra was just nervous about coming back home to the South.

The sudden sound of the door creaking open broke Asami from her thoughts. She looked up to see Korra, a broad grin on her face, as she held out a neatly wrapped package.

“What’s this?” Asami asked, her eyes flickering between the gift and Korra’s shining blue eyes, which sparkled with a mischievous glint.

“Open it,” Korra urged, her voice lilting with excitement, every word making it harder for Asami to resist her curiosity.

Carefully, Asami pulled apart the wrapping, revealing a stunning coat. It was clearly of Southern Water Tribe make: the exterior was adorned with intricate tribal patterns in shades of icy blue and white, while the inside boasted plush, thick lining, likely made of sea otter fur, known for its warmth. Subtle shimmering beads were sewn in, giving the coat an ethereal glow.

Asami’s mouth hung open, her fingers grazing over the beautiful craftsmanship. “Korra, this is…”

“I noticed your clothes, no matter how many layers you pile on, aren’t suited for our kind of cold," Korra explained, a warm blush tinting her cheeks. “This should help. It’s authentic Southern Water Tribe wear.”

Overwhelmed by the gesture, Asami swiftly got up and enveloped Korra in a tight hug. “Thank you,” she whispered, feeling the heat of Korra’s body against hers. Breaking the hug, Asami donned the coat, reveling in the immediate warmth it provided.

Korra’s eyes trailed over Asami, her lips curling into a satisfied smirk. “Looks good on you. Ready to go out?”

Feeling more confident against the biting cold, Asami nodded with a grin. “Absolutely.”

The moment they stepped into the Glacier Spirits Festival, Asami felt a sense of wonder enveloping her. The vast expanse of ice and snow was illuminated by countless lanterns, their soft glow casting a dreamy light on everything. Stalls were set up, each decorated with shimmering icicles and vibrant colors, displaying a variety of trinkets, foods, and games that told tales of the tribe’s rich heritage.

In the distance, performers danced to the rhythm of tribal drums, their moves a mesmerizing blend of grace and power. Children laughed and played, their faces painted with tribal marks, as their parents watched fondly.

Korra’s eyes were alive with excitement, a palpable eagerness that was infectious. “Come on!” she exclaimed, tugging Asami towards one of the gaming stalls. “I’m gonna win you the jackpot!” The CEO laughed at Korra’s childlike enthusiasm. Looked like her nervousness melted.

When they arrived at the stall, Asami took a look. The objective seemed simple enough: knock down a stack of cans with a ball. Korra’s face contorted in concentration, making several attempts and failing. Each miss was met with a frustrated grunt while Asami tried hard to stifle her giggles.

After the tenth try, with a triumphant whoop, Korra finally managed to knock down all the cans. The stall owner handed her a gigantic stuffed polar bear dog, which bore an uncanny resemblance to Naga. “For you,” Korra said, presenting the prize to Asami with a beaming smile, her cheeks slightly flushed from the effort and maybe, just maybe, a hint of embarrassment.

“Thank you,” Asami replied, hugging the soft toy, her heart swelling with affection for Korra’s persistence.

The couple continued their exploration, hand in hand, the sounds of laughter and music accompanying their every step. The world seemed to blur into a mix of lights, colors, and emotions, their bond deepening with every shared experience.

When they finally returned to Senna’s house, the warm aroma of stew greeted them. The dinner table was a lively affair, with Senna sharing stories of past festivals and Naga occasionally trying to snatch a bite from the table. As they ate, Asami felt a profound sense of belonging.

Later, as they lay in bed, nestled close, the events of the day replayed in Asami’s mind. She was about to drift into sleep when Korra spoke.

“Asami?”

“Still awake?”

The nervous tone in Korra’s voice alerted the CEO awake. She shifted and looked up at her girlfriend. Her eyes were shining with unshed tears, and it had Asami worried. “Hey. Are you okay?”

Korra took a deep breath, her fingers tracing patterns on the blanket as if searching for the right words. “Asami, I know that we’ve only known each other for less than a year, but for me, that’s enough. And I’m sorry if these past months, I’ve dragged you into my mess, but thank you for staying with me. Thank you for not leaving me. Every high and low, every joy and sorrow. Through it all, my love for you has only grown.”

Asami’s chest tightened, her heartbeat echoing loudly in her ears. She watched as Korra’s hand, slightly trembling, retrieved a rectangular box from beneath the pillow.

Without breaking eye contact, the teacher slowly opened the box, revealing a betrothal necklace. At its center was a striking blue-green stone nestled in a deep blue ribbon, and engraved on the stone were intricate patterns of a half gear intertwined with waves — a perfect blend of their two worlds.

“Korra…” Asami whispered, tears forming in her eyes.

But Korra wasn’t done. From behind her, she brought out a second, smaller box, unveiling a delicate ring. “I wasn’t sure which one you’d prefer,” Korra admitted, her voice choked with emotion. “So, I got both.”

A bubble of laughter burst from Asami, and she gently pulled Korra into a hug. “You always know how to surprise me.”

Drawing back, Korra took a shaky breath, her gaze earnest. “I had a plan, you know. I wanted to take you to my favorite spot in the tundra. Just us, the stars, and the quiet serenity of the night. I imagined proposing there. But lying here, with you, felt so right. And I... I just couldn’t wait.”

Asami gently wiped away a tear that had escaped Korra’s eye. “You always follow your heart, and that’s what I love about you.” Her voice softened even more, “Yes, Korra. I’ll marry you. I’ll wear both, and I’ll wear them proudly.”

Relief washed over Korra’s features. Her tense shoulders relaxed, and she let out a light-hearted laugh, clearly shaking off the weight of her anxiety. “I was so worried you’d say no because you might think we’re moving too fast...”

Before Korra could continue, Asami silenced her girlfriend’s rambling with a passionate kiss, pulling her close. The warmth of the moment enveloped them both. “Never to you. And if you think we’re going too fast, just wait until you hear what I dreamt of the night we first met.”

Korra blinked in surprise. “What? What did you dream?”

“Well, that night, I dreamt we were already married, preparing for our honeymoon,” Asami began, tracing slow circles on Korra’s chest. “We were on Ember Island, splashing seawater at each other. Then we were making sweet, sweet love under the setting sun. Your hands were wandering my body, making me shiver on the sand. Then your body was on top of me, and your hips rolling between my legs…” Asami allowed the words to linger, watching as desire darkened Korra’s gaze. Deliberately, her fingers teased the waistband of Korra’s pants.

When Asami’s fingers reached the hem of Korra’s pants, the teacher finally snapped and pounced on her. She positioned herself snugly between Asami’s thighs and rocked her hips, drawing a throaty moan from the CEO. “Why not turn that dream into reality tonight, Ms. Sato?”

Asami's breath caught in her throat, and she hooked her legs around Korra's waist, urging her on. “Please...”

And so, wrapped up in each other, they celebrated deep into the night.

10 Years Later

Asami’s heels clicked on the paved streets of Republic City as she made her way home. The city had changed, and so had she. At 40, she had chosen family over the helm of Future Industries. Though she still held a seat on the board, her heart was with the family that awaited her at home.

Two years into their wedded life, they had welcomed a young boy into their lives. They adopted him, showering him with all the love they had, and named him Takeshi. Every time she called out his name, Asami was reminded of the strength that bonded her and Korra.

Speaking of Korra, she was now the head of the school she had worked for all her life. Asami felt a swell of pride thinking about it, recalling the countless evenings Korra spent preparing lessons or supporting a struggling student.

But, of course, life wasn’t just about the good days. Three years into their marriage, a letter arrived, the handwriting unmistakably Tonraq's. Asami watched from across the room, noting the faint tremble in Korra’s hand as she held the envelope. The content wasn’t what they had expected: not demands, but regrets and apologies. That night, they sat on their couch, Korra’s head on Asami’s lap. “He says he’s sorry," she whispered, her voice carrying traces of old wounds.

Asami gently stroked her hair, "What do you want to do?"

Korra was silent for a long time before she finally spoke, “I can’t let him back into my life, Asami. Not after everything.”

Asami could feel the determination and pain mingled in Korra’s voice. “I don't want him in our lives anymore. It’s been better without him.” The finality in her voice left no room for doubt. Asami remembered holding Korra closer that night, enveloping her in an embrace that silently promised unity and understanding. They would face everything together, and nothing would come between them.

There was also that time when they had a disagreement over seemingly small things that piled up over weeks — from whose turn it was to do the dishes to who forgot to pay the water bill. It culminated one night when Asami felt unheard and Korra felt overwhelmed. For the first and only time, they chose separate rooms for the night. By morning, over cups of steaming jasmine tea, they opened up about their stresses and miscommunications. Apologies were shared, understanding was reached, and their bond, as always, grew even stronger.

However, nothing could have prepared Asami for the heartbreak that was watching Korra grieve for Naga. The house felt emptier, quieter. But life, with its twists, turned a corner when Korra came home one evening, a quivering puppy in her arms, bringing with it a gust of fresh joy.

They’ve come a long way, but Asami wouldn’t exchange it for anything.

Now, every evening as she approached their house, Asami would take a moment, pausing at the gate. There was Takeshi, spirited and energetic, playing catch in the yard under Korra's attentive gaze. The playful antics of their puppy added to the mirth. She’d inhale deeply, taking in the sounds of laughter and the ball being kicked about, feeling the day’s stresses melt away. Pushing open the door, she’d be engulfed in the familiar warmth of her family, a daily reminder of the love-filled journey they had embarked upon and the myriad of promises the future still held.

~The End~