So'lek x fem!avatar driver reader inspired by Tsumuke written by @lvlypinkesworld
Waking up in her human body always felt wrong after days like that.
Grey. Muted. Like someone had stripped the life and warmth from the world while she slept.
(Y/n) opened her eyes slowly inside the link bed staring blankly up at the cold metal ceiling while the lingering warmth of Pandora still clung desperately to her thoughts.
The stream. So’lek’s hands against her skin. His voice low beside her ear telling her he could no longer fight his own heart.
Then reality settled back over her again.
The stiffness in her human body. The colder air. The dull ache of old exhaustion still buried in her muscles no matter how much sleep she got.
Every day it felt more and more like waking in her avatar had been the real life— And this was merely the strange hollow dream she unwillingly returned to afterward.
She sat up slowly inside the link bed rubbing tiredly at her face while emotion lingered stubbornly in her chest.
Because for the first time in years— The thought of returning to her human body hurt.
Not because she hated herself. But because Pandora felt more alive. More real.
And because So’lek existed there.
Her heart fluttered embarrassingly at the thought of him almost immediately.
Then she remembered something else.
If So’lek somehow found out she skipped eating he would probably physically carry her to the kitchen himself.
The thought made a soft helpless smile spread across her face before she could stop it.
She was hopelessly in love with him. And somehow the terrifying warrior who once glared at her from the edge of forests now worried whether she had eaten enough nutrients.
Warmth spread quietly through her chest at the thought.
She pulled herself carefully from the link bed stretching slightly as lingering soreness protested through her body.
That alone probably would have made Nalin emotional.
And truthfully— She should probably sleep properly afterward too.
Another thing So’lek would absolutely scowl at her about if she ignored.
The realization made her smile again while she tugged on fresh clothes and headed toward the kitchen, still carrying the lingering warmth of Pandora and the memory of So’lek’s arms around her like something precious tucked safely beneath her ribs.
The kitchen was mostly quiet when (Y/n) stepped inside.
Dim lighting. The low hum of machinery. The smell of reheated ration packs and salvaged ingredients drifting through the air.
Normally she barely touched food when she returned from linking.
Tonight she was starving.
She grabbed nearly double what she usually allowed herself and sat at one of the tables before immediately beginning to eat with alarming speed.
Honestly if So’lek saw her right now he would probably look unbearably smug about it.
The thought made warmth flicker softly through her chest again.
Priya and Anqa were the first to notice her.
Both women slowed slightly in visible surprise watching her demolish food like someone who had not eaten in days.
Anqa blinked once. “…Are you okay?”
(Y/n) barely looked up while eating. “Very hungry apparently.”
Priya sat across from her looking relieved more than anything. “You are actually eating.”
“That sounds accusatory.”
(Y/n) pointed vaguely with a utensil. “I resent this intervention.”
“You have looked half dead for three weeks,” Priya informed her bluntly.
“I normally look like that.”
“You fell asleep sitting upright a few days ago.”
“That narrows nothing down, I was up running tests on my avatar.”
Anqa laughed softly while stealing one of the untouched nutrient bars from her tray. “So?”
She leaned slightly closer. “How did things go with the Aranahe?”
(Y/n)’s expression softened immediately at the memory. Warmth returned to her face before she could stop it. “It went well.”
“Just well?” Priya asked suspiciously.
(Y/n) tried very hard to maintain neutrality while absolutely not thinking about So’lek kissing her beside a stream. “Yes.”
Anqa narrowed her eyes. “That expression says otherwise.”
“The one where you look suspiciously happy.”
(Y/n) immediately shoved more food into her mouth to avoid answering.
Priya exchanged a look with Anqa. “…Interesting.”
Before the conversation could go any further Alma entered the kitchen.
(Y/n)’s appetite dimmed slightly on instinct alone.
Alma glanced toward the half-finished tray in front of her first clearly surprised to actually see her eating properly before attention shifted toward the others. “I heard the meeting with the Aranahe went well.”
(Y/n) swallowed slowly before nodding. “The Kinglor Queen had a torn wing.”
She kept her explanation concise. Professional. Simple. “I repaired the membrane damage and supplied nutritional supplementation for the colonies.”
Alma crossed her arms. “And?”
“Ka’nat agreed to allow continued aid deliveries for the Kinglor.”
She deliberately left out every detail involving friendship. Tea. Hometree. The makeover. So’lek.
All of it suddenly felt strangely private.
Alma nodded slowly. “Well that is good at least.”
Then after a pause—“I just hope you are not getting in Tamtey’s way.”
The warmth inside (Y/n)’s chest dimmed instantly. “What?”
Alma leaned casually against the counter. “If the resistance wants any chance at bringing the Aranahe fully into alliance we cannot exactly afford you complicating things.”
The words were casual. But there was something beneath them.
(Y/n) stared at her tiredly for a moment.
“Alma,” she said quietly, “please.” Her exhaustion showed clearly now. “You are going to ruin your appetite.”
Alma’s eyes narrowed slightly. “If your health and appetite are becoming issues perhaps your link time should be reduced.”
(Y/n)’s stomach twisted immediately. There it was. Not concern. Control.
The threat sat quietly beneath the words even if Alma never directly voiced it.
Priya frowned slightly though her concern remained genuine. “She is not entirely wrong.”
(Y/n)’s chest tightened. “I am eating more.” Her voice remained calm though tension coiled beneath it now. “And resting more.”
“In another month or two this will barely even be a discussion.”
Priya sighed softly. “Maybe that is exactly why you need more time at base for a while.”
(Y/n)’s appetite vanished completely.
Anqa looked uncomfortable now sensing the shift in atmosphere.
Priya continued carefully. “Just enough to recover properly.”
“We all know you push yourself too hard.”
Alma nodded slowly beside her. “Yes. There is no shame in stepping back.”
The way she said it made it sound like weakness. Like failure.
(Y/n)’s fingers tightened slightly around the untouched utensil in her hand.
Suddenly the kitchen felt suffocating. Too small. Too cold.
She knew Priya meant well.
That was the worst part. Because concern from one side and control from the other still left her trapped in the middle feeling cornered all the same.
More time at base. Reduced link hours. Less sanctuary work.
The thought alone made panic curl quietly inside her chest.
Her sanctuary was not just work.
Pandora was not just work.
She could not explain that part aloud. Slowly she pushed the half-finished tray away.
“I am tired,” she said quietly.
No one stopped her as she stood. But she could feel their eyes following her all the way out of the kitchen.
And by the time she reached her quarters—
The warmth she carried home from Pandora felt painfully fragile again.
The kitchen remained quiet for several long seconds after (Y/n) disappeared down the hall toward her quarters.
Anqa looked down at the abandoned half-finished tray uneasily.
The sight alone made guilt settle heavily in her chest. Because (Y/n) had been eating.
For the first time in weeks she had looked lighter somehow walking into the kitchen.
And now she had left looking small and exhausted again.
Alma meanwhile watched the hallway long after she vanished from sight.
Resentment sat bitterly beneath her ribs.
(Y/n) kept succeeding where she should not. The sanctuary. The Sarentu. Now the Aranahe.
And Alma hated the twisting feeling in her chest every time she watched another Na’vi clan warm toward her.
Because Alma was the xenoanthropologist. She was supposed to be the bridge between cultures. The one building relationships.
Not the quiet awkward zoologist who spent more time bottle feeding orphaned viperwolves than participating in diplomacy.
Yet somehow— The everyone kept gravitating toward (Y/n) anyway.
Not because she sought influence. That almost made it worse.
And people responded to it.
Alma crossed her arms tighter.
“Alma…” Priya’s voice broke the silence carefully. “What do you think?”
Anqa glanced uneasily toward the hallway again.
“We are not being too harsh on her… right?” She looked genuinely uncertain now. “Is her health really that bad?”
Anqa rubbed awkwardly at her arm. “We all know she loves being out in that sanctuary.”
Priya sighed quietly. “She does look exhausted.”
Concern lined her face. “Maybe for her own sake we should confine her to base for a few days.”
Alma’s stomach twisted sharply at the suggestion. Not with concern. With temptation.
Because yes—That would stop this.
Stop (Y/n) disappearing into Pandora every waking second. Stop her from getting further involved with the Aranahe. Stop whatever influence she was slowly building out there amongst the clans.
And some ugly bitter part of Alma wanted exactly that.
She kept her tone measured. Careful. “We may be letting her capabilities cloud the reality of how weak she actually is right now.”
Anqa frowned slightly. “She just saved Hajir’s life.”
“Yes,” Alma agreed immediately. “And nearly collapsed doing it.”
There was enough truth there to make the manipulation believable.
Priya’s concern deepened.
Alma pressed further. “And honestly…”
She hesitated just enough to sound reluctant. “I am also worried about Tamtey.”
Anqa blinked. “What do you mean?”
“We all know (Y/n) is not exactly…” Alma searched carefully for wording. “Social.”
That was generous. (Y/n) could be painfully blunt when exhausted or hyperfocused. Usually unintentionally.
“If the resistance wants the Aranahe alliance we cannot afford mistakes.”
Anqa looked uncertain now. “You think she would insult them?”
“Not intentionally,” Alma said smoothly. “But misunderstandings happen.”
“And the Aranahe are cautious.”
Alma leaned slightly against the counter. “We cannot afford her accidentally damaging Tamtey’s progress.”
The kitchen fell quiet again afterward. Because the logic sounded reasonable enough. Concern mixed with practicality.
Priya and Anqa exchanged uncertain glances. Neither entirely comfortable. But neither entirely dismissing it either.
Finally Priya exhaled softly. “I will speak to Nalin.”
Her eyes lowered toward the untouched food still sitting abandoned on the table. “Then we will make a decision.”
Alma nodded once. Calm outwardly. Though inwardly something cold and satisfied settled quietly in her chest.
Because if (Y/n) remained confined to base—
Then maybe things would finally stop slipping beyond Alma’s control.
Priya found Nalin still awake in one of the medical bays sorting supplies back into containers after the chaos of the last few days.
Nalin barely looked up. “What happened?”
Priya hesitated only briefly before getting straight to the point. “Should we confine (Y/n) to base?”
That finally made Nalin pause. Her expression flattened immediately. “Excuse me?”
“Reduce her link time,” Priya clarified carefully. “Just until she recovers properly.”
Nalin slowly set down the medical wraps in her hands before turning fully toward Priya. “No.”
The answer came immediately. Firm. Certain.
Priya blinked slightly at the lack of hesitation. “You don’t even need to think about it?”
Nalin sighed softly rubbing tiredly at her forehead. “(Y/n)’s condition is not the result of one bad week.”
Her voice softened slightly afterward becoming more clinical. “Years of chronic sleep deprivation.”
“Overworking herself to the point of collapse.”
Priya’s expression fell slightly. Because hearing it laid out so plainly made the reality feel far heavier.
Nalin continued. “She pushes through pain until her body forces her to stop.”
“She ignores exhaustion.”
“And she lives in a constant state of high stress.”
There was frustration in Nalin’s voice now. Not at (Y/n). At the fact she refused caring for herself with even half the dedication she gave others.
“But.” Nalin’s expression softened faintly afterward. “She is improving.”
Priya looked surprised. “She is?”
Nalin nodded once. “She is eating more.”
“She is sleeping at regular intervals.”
“She actually looked rested this morning.”
That last part alone sounded mildly miraculous.
Nalin leaned lightly back against the counter. “Her appetite returning is a very good sign.”
“And emotionally…” Nalin paused briefly thinking. “She seems lighter.”
Priya thought quietly on that for a moment. Because it was true. (Y/n) had looked happier tonight before the conversation turned sour.
“What should we do then?” Priya asked quietly.
Nalin huffed softly beneath her breath. “It’s (Y/n).”
That alone explained quite a bit. “She is not exactly the most vocal person.”
“If something hurts she says she is fine.”
“If she is overwhelmed she says she is fine.”
“If she is half dead she still says she is fine.”
Priya winced faintly because yes— That sounded painfully accurate.
Nalin’s expression softened further afterward though affection lingered beneath the exasperation.
“But I genuinely think she is getting better.”
Priya glanced downward thoughtfully. “And confining her to base?”
Nalin immediately shook her head. “It will not help.”
“If anything it will make her miserable.”
“She needs proper rest and nutrition.”
Priya fell silent hearing that.
Because suddenly the image of (Y/n) leaving the kitchen earlier looked different in hindsight. Not defensive. Cornered. Like they were threatening to take away something from her.
Finally Priya exhaled softly. “…Thanks Nalin.”
Nalin nodded once before returning to sorting supplies though her expression remained faintly troubled afterward.
And she knew if people pushed too hard—
(Y/n) would quietly endure it while slowly breaking apart inside.
(Y/n) was awake before dawn. Before anyone could even entertain the idea of reducing her link hours or confining her to base “for her own good.”
The second consciousness returned properly she was already moving toward the link room with quiet determination.
No one stopped her. Most of the resistance was still asleep.
Because after last night—
After the feeling of being cornered and spoken about like she was fragile—
She needed out. Needed air that did not smell like metal walls and recycled machinery.
And instantly— Her avatar’s eyes flew open slowly beneath the shelter of her sanctuary, in her hammock, while soft morning light filtered gently through the trees above.
The difference hit her immediately every single time.
The viperwolf pups remained curled sleepily around her body in a tangled pile of warmth and soft breathing while Ulrr lay sprawled directly atop her head.
(Y/n) smiled softly to herself.
Then she paused and began to count the breaths around her One breath. Two. Three. Four
The familiar rhythm of the pups.
Ulrr’s tiny chirping snores.
Then— Another. Larger. Steadier.
(Y/n) slowly lifted her head slightly and looked across the sanctuary.
And there he was. So’lek rested against one of the massive nearby trees partially shadowed beneath the early morning canopy.
Sleeping. Or as close to sleeping as someone like him ever probably managed.
Her heart warmed instantly at the sight.
Because somehow even after everything—
After finally admitting what they felt—
Part of her still expected to wake up and discover it had been imagined.
But no. He was here. Close. Near her sanctuary. Near her.
And suddenly the lingering heaviness left over from last night faded just a little.
Carefully—very carefully—(Y/n) slipped from the hammock without waking the pups curled around her.
Ulrr grumbled sleepily atop her head before eventually climbing down onto the the hammock to sleep with the pups.
She glanced toward So’lek again. Still asleep. Or resting at least.
And the sight softened her immediately. Because after their time beside the stream… After their confessions and stolen kisses and everything finally breaking open between them—
He had still spent the night patrolling. Yet somehow his thoughts must have remained with her anyway.
She smiled faintly to herself.
Perhaps he had simply wanted to check on something precious to him.
The realization made warmth bloom quietly through her chest again.
(Y/n) moved softly around the sanctuary beginning the familiar motions of preparing tea. Water over flame. Crushed leaves and herbs
The scent slowly drifted through the cool morning air rich and calming.
She glanced toward him again while stirring the pot gently. Still resting.
He must have had a busy night. And something deep inside her softened painfully seeing the exhaustion written subtly even into his sleeping posture.
Because for all his strength— So’lek carried so much alone. Quietly.
The tea continued simmering softly while dawn slowly began illuminating the sanctuary around them and for the first time in a very long while—(Y/n) felt peaceful again.
(Y/n) stood quietly stirring the tea while dawn slowly painted soft gold across the sanctuary.
The pups still slept tangled together inside the hammock behind her. Ulrr remained sprawled on top of them.
The peacefulness of it all settled warmly inside her chest.
Then suddenly— Strong arms wrapped around her from behind.
(Y/n) startled softly and for one horrifying second her heart genuinely threatened to burst straight from her chest before she realized exactly who it was.
Warmth flooded through her instantly.
His arms held her carefully but possessively around her waist.
She turned immediately within his hold wrapping her own arms around him in return while her heart still raced wildly.
Who had once barely tolerated physical closeness—Immediately tightened his arms around her like this had already become instinct.
His chin rested lightly atop her head. “You should be resting,” he murmured.
“I rested for as long as possible.” (Y/n) smiled faintly at his concern.
Which only lasted a moment before he noticed it. The slight strain beneath her voice. The heaviness hidden behind her warmth.
His expression shifted subtly. Protective concern immediately sharpening beneath the softness in his eyes. “What upset you?”
The question came low and gentle.
(Y/n) hesitated briefly before exhaling quietly against his chest. “Priya and Alma…”
That alone already made So’lek’s jaw tighten slightly.
“…were discussing confining me to base until my body recovers properly.”
The warmth around them dimmed instantly.
So’lek’s arms tightened fractionally around her. “What?”
“They think reducing my link hours will help.”
Her voice cracked faintly with frustration now. “I know they mean well— well Priya means well but—”
Emotion tightened quietly in her throat. “I cannot be trapped there.”
The words came out smaller than intended. “I cannot sit inside those metal walls listening to Alma criticize everything I do.”
Her fingers tightened against the front of his vest. “I just cannot sit on my hands.”
“And…” She swallowed. “I do not want to be away from you.”
So’lek felt something fierce and protective twist painfully inside his chest hearing the distress in her voice. Because this mattered deeply to her. Her sanctuary mattered.
And perhaps most dangerously— So did he.
She rarely voiced pain aloud. Usually she swallowed it quietly and carried on working until exhaustion consumed her completely.
So the fact she admitted this now meant it had hurt far more than she let others see.
“They looked at me like I was fragile,” she whispered softly. “Like I needed to be managed.”
Her eyes closed briefly. “I know my health has not been good but I am trying.”
Emotion tightened through So’lek’s chest. Because she was trying.
And despite that— People still tried taking choices away from her.
So’lek’s hand slowly rose brushing gently through her hair. “You are not weak.”
(Y/n) exhaled shakily against him. “They just worry.”
“And Alma?” His tone sharpened slightly there.
(Y/n) sighed softly. “She thinks I will ruin diplomacy efforts.”
That earned an immediate darkening of So’lek’s expression. “You healed a Kinglor Queen before the eyes of the Aranahe.”
His voice turned flatter now. “They welcomed you into Hometree.”
“You are already more trusted there than Alma realizes.”
(Y/n) looked up slightly at him. “You really think so?”
So’lek’s hand gently tilted her face upward fully toward him. “And if they attempt to confine you unnecessarily…”
Something dangerous flickered quietly behind his eyes. “…they will discover very quickly how difficult you are to separate from me.”
(Y/n) let out a soft startled laugh despite herself. “So serious.”
Her smile returned faintly afterward though sadness still lingered beneath it.
So’lek looked down at her quietly for a long moment before leaning forward and pressing a slow kiss against her forehead.
He did not like it. Did not like the thought of her trapped inside metal walls looking miserable while others decided what was best for her. “If they confine you to base,” he said finally, voice low and steady beside her ear, “then I will simply remain there with you.”
(Y/n) blinked up at him. “You would?”
The answer came so immediately it made her chest ache softly. “You would get bored.”
“I hate being away from you more.”
Her entire face warmed instantly. (Y/n) buried her face briefly against his chest trying very hard not to combust from affection.
He said things like that so casually now as though he had not spent weeks internally waging war against his own feelings.
Meanwhile So’lek’s attention remained fixed on something else now. Slowly his expression shifted more serious again. “Is your health truly that bad?”
(Y/n) immediately stiffened slightly in his arms. “…Sort of.”
So’lek raised an eyebrow instantly. That was not an answer.
(Y/n) immediately became deeply interested in the tea pot.
Which only made his suspicion worse. “(Y/n).”
She sighed softly. “It is not bad bad.”
His eyebrow lifted further. “That sounded worse somehow.”
She winced faintly. “Okay look—”
Her hands lifted slightly in surrender. “I have spent the better part of ten years treating sleep and food like something mildly optional.”
So’lek stared at her flatly. “Mildly optional.”
“In my defense there were usually more pressing concerns.”
His expression did not change.
She sighed dramatically. “Fine. My body is exhausted.”
“There are nutrient deficiencies.”
She waved vaguely. “The usual.”
“That does not sound usual.”
That answer alone made something protective tighten sharply in his chest.
Because Eywa— She said it so casually. Like overwork had simply become normal.
So’lek’s hands settled more firmly at her waist while he studied her carefully. “You overwork yourself.”
(Y/n) looked mildly offended. “Only occasionally.”
“I remembered yesterday.”
So’lek stared at her in silence.
(Y/n) eventually wilted slightly beneath the look. “…I am improving?”
His expression softened despite himself.
The thought of how close she had pushed herself to breaking for years unsettled him deeply. “Why do you care for yourself so little?” he asked quietly.
(Y/n)’s expression faltered. Because the truth was uncomfortable.
She looked away slightly toward the softly simmering tea.
“I guess…” Her voice softened. “I just never paid attention to myself.”
So’lek’s chest ached painfully hearing that. He gently cupped her face turning her attention back toward him. “You are worth caring for too.”
(Y/n)’s eyes softened instantly at the sincerity in his voice. No one really said things like that to her. Not like he did.
So’lek brushed his thumb softly beneath one of her eyes. “And whether you like it or not…”
A faint warmth touched his expression. “…you now have someone ensuring you survive your own terrible decisions.”
That finally made her laugh softly again. “Have you looked in the mirror, dog tag warrior?”
(Y/n) looked up at him with soft disbelief while leaning instinctively further into the warmth of his hand against her face. “You literally run into bullets.”
So’lek’s mouth twitched faintly. “That is different.”
“It absolutely is not different.”
“And I overwork myself to protect.”
That actually made him pause. Because annoyingly— There was logic there.
(Y/n) immediately looked far too pleased with herself for winning even a fraction of the argument.
So’lek’s expression softened again afterward while his thumb brushed slowly across her cheek. “I mean it, (Y/n).”
The quiet seriousness in his voice settled warmly through her chest. “I will do anything necessary to ensure you are well.”
Her heart fluttered painfully at the sincerity behind those words. Because he meant them completely.
“If you must take things slowly for your own health…” His gaze searched hers carefully. “Then you must do so.”
(Y/n)’s expression softened sadly. “It is not that simple.”
“Something always needs me.” The words came tired now. “There are orphaned animals.”
She looked toward the sanctuary around them. “And if I stop…”
Emotion tightened quietly in her throat. “What if something goes wrong?”
So’lek’s chest ached hearing the genuine guilt behind those fears.
Because Eywa— She carried the weight of every life around her like it personally belonged to her.
And perhaps worse— No one had ever really told her she did not have to shoulder everything alone… or never offered help shoulder her burdens.
So he gently rested his forehead against hers again. “Then tell me what you need.”
His voice lowered softly. “And I shall provide it for you.”
(Y/n)’s heart melted completely at that. Because he said it like a promise. Like he truly would move mountains for her if she asked.
And maybe— Maybe he would.
She looked at him quietly for a few moments afterward while warmth spread slowly through her chest again. Then finally she smiled softly. “What I need right now…”
Her fingers curled gently against the front of his vest. “…is to sit down.”
A faint amused warmth touched So’lek’s expression.
Her smile gentled further while she looked up at him with so much affection it nearly unraveled him entirely.
“…and a morning with you.”
Something deep inside his chest softened so completely it almost hurt.Because after years of war and grief and loneliness— This quiet simple moment beside her somehow felt more precious than anything else in the world.
So’lek pressed a slow kiss against her forehead before finally guiding her gently toward the nearby seating beside the fire.
“Then that,” he murmured softly, “is exactly what you shall have.”
(Y/n) instinctively moved to pour to tea before they sat down.
So’lek immediately caught her wrist gently before she could get very far. “No.”
“I was just going to pour the tea.”
“You made it.” His tone left very little room for argument. “You may sit.”
(Y/n) stared at him for a second in mild disbelief. “Are you ordering me to relax?”
She huffed softly beneath her breath though the warmth blooming in her chest ruined any attempt at sounding genuinely annoyed.
So’lek released her wrist, finding the bowls and the ladle with surprising ease despite clearly not being the one who usually organized the sanctuary.
(Y/n) watched him quietly while he carefully poured tea first into her bowl before filling his own.
Something about the sight alone made her heart ache softly. This massive intimidating warrior sitting in the middle of her sanctuary pouring tea like it was the most natural thing in the world.
So’lek returned beside her afterward settling down close enough their sides immediately brushed together.
(Y/n) melted against him almost instantly without thinking, leaning softly into his side while cradling the warm bowl between her hands.
Who once kept careful distance between them— Now instinctively wrapped an arm around her shoulders the second she leaned against him.
He looked down slightly at the top of her head resting against him while early morning light filtered softly through the sanctuary.
Warm tea. The quiet breathing of sleeping pups. The woman he loved tucked safely against his side.
And suddenly one thought echoed quietly through his mind.
How did he resist this for so long?
How had he spent weeks forcing distance between them when simply holding her like this made something deep inside him feel calmer than it had in years?
He remembered every argument with himself.
Every cold look. Every attempt to convince himself she was merely a dreamwalker wearing borrowed skin.
Now she sat tucked against him drinking tea while warmth spread through his chest so completely it almost frightened him. Because none of the hatred remained when it came to her.
Only affection. Only this aching need to keep her close and safe and smiling.
(Y/n) glanced up at him slightly noticing the quiet look on his face.“What?”
So’lek shook his head faintly. “Nothing.”
That immediately made her suspicious. “You are thinking.”
“Yes that’s why I’m worried.”
His chest rumbled softly beneath her cheek with quiet amusement before he finally admitted— “I was wondering how I ever convinced myself staying away from you was possible.”
(Y/n)’s entire face warmed instantly. “Well.” She took another sip of tea trying very hard to look composed. “You did a terrible job.”
Wrapped together in the peaceful warmth of the sanctuary—Everything finally felt simple.
Alma had been waiting outside (Y/n)’s quarters since early morning.
Impatient. Arms crossed tightly. Because the more she thought about yesterday the more frustrated she became.
This situation with the Aranahe was important. Potentially critical.
And she could not allow it to become jeopardized because of some zoologist who barely understood diplomacy.
She needed reassurance. Needed to know things with the Aranahe were progressing properly. Needed to confirm (Y/n) had not somehow complicated matters further.
The line crackled briefly before Tamtey answered.
“It has been awhile,” Alma said smoothly. “How are things progressing with the Aranahe?”
Tamtey sounded noticeably brighter than usual. “Good actually.” There was genuine excitement in his voice now. “Nefika really took me in to show me how the clan works.”
Tamtey continued happily unaware of the growing tension on Alma’s side of the call. “And I learned hunting from Itu.”
“That is promising,” Alma admitted carefully.
Then casually— “And (Y/n) is not causing you any trouble, I hope?”
Alma kept her tone light. “She can be… socially awkward.”
“I just wanted to make sure she is not interfering with diplomacy.”
Tamtey barked a surprised laugh immediately. “No.”
“If anything it is the exact opposite.”
Alma’s fingers tightened slightly around the comm.
Tamtey continued completely oblivious. “Healing the Kinglor Queen’s wing helped a lot.” Warmth lingered in his voice now. “Ka’nat and Etuwa were seriously impressed.”
Alma stared silently at the wall ahead of her.
“She has already been invited back to Hometree as a friend.”
Something bitter twisted quietly inside Alma’s chest hearing that. Friend. Not tolerated. Not merely accepted.
Meanwhile Tamtey laughed softly to himself. “I honestly thought poor (Y/n) was about to die from the amount of eyes on her though.”
Despite herself Alma could easily picture it.
(Y/n) quietly trying to disappear while an entire clan stared at her. The image should have amused her. Instead irritation simmered sharper.
The Aranahe had warmed to her immediately. No formal introductions. No years of cultural study. No careful diplomatic groundwork.
And suddenly the Aranahae likedher.
Tamtey kept talking warmly. “Nefika and Etuwa are practically trying to adopt her into the clan.”
That sentence nearly made Alma physically ill with frustration. Because Alma had worked for years to build trust among Na’vi communities. Years.
And yet (Y/n) walked into Hometree once and left with friendship and invitations to return.
It felt unfair. Unbalanced.
Infuriatingly effortless.
Alma kept her voice perfectly composed. “That is good.” The words tasted bitter. “I am glad things are going well.”
Tamtey smiled audibly through the comm.
But before Alma could press further he continued cheerfully.
“Anyway things are fine over here. Better than fine honestly, I catch up with everyone back at base soon”
The call ended shortly afterward.
And Alma remained sitting there in silence afterward staring blankly at the inactive comm.
Because now the situation felt worse somehow. Not better.
(Y/n) was not damaging diplomacy. She was succeeding at it. Effortlessly.
And deep down Alma hated how threatened that made her feel. Because that was what bothered Alma most. (Y/n) did not even try to integrate properly.
Not the way Alma had. Alma had spent years studying Na’vi culture. Language. Customs. Social structures. Beliefs.
She asked Tsahìks about medicinal plants.
Spent her time with wounded animals. And somehow despite all of that— The Aranahae still warmed to her.
She had never once seen (Y/n) show deep interest in Na’vi customs beyond healing practices and yet somehow the Aranahe welcomed her into Hometree after one visit.
Meanwhile Alma still fought for scraps of trust half the time despite dedicating years to anthropology work.
She could not let emotion cloud practicality.
Tamtey needed every possible chance at securing alliance support.
And if that meant temporarily confining (Y/n) to base—Then so be it.
Alma finally lost patience and opened the door to (Y/n)’s quarters.
Empty. Immediately irritation flared sharply through her chest. Of course. Of course she had already disappeared.
Alma turned immediately toward the link rooms already suspecting exactly where she would find her.
And there it was. (Y/n)’s link pod already active.
The familiar low hum filled the room softly while status lights glowed steadily along the machine.
Frustration twisted tighter inside her chest. Because even after the conversation last night—
Even after concern had been voiced—
Alma’s eyes slowly drifted toward the red interruption switch beside the pod.
Emergency disconnect. Her hand twitched slightly.
It would be easy. One press. Link interrupted.
(Y/n) brought back whether she liked it or not.
Alma stared at the button longer than she should have.
Part of her justified it immediately. For health reasons. For diplomacy reasons. For the resistance. For Tamtey.
Yet another quieter uglier voice beneath it whispered something far more honest.
That she hated how effortlessly (Y/n) seemed to belong everywhere Alma struggled to.
That she hated watching clans warm toward her.
Hated watching the Sarentu smile around her.
Alma’s fingers flexed slightly near the button.
“Hey Alma.” Priya’s voice echoed down the hall.
Alma immediately stepped back from the pod.
Priya approached holding a datapad completely unaware of what Alma had been contemplating moments earlier. “Can you check over this patrol route for me?”
Alma glanced once more toward the active link pod. Then finally looked away. “…Yes.”
And with one last lingering look toward the machine humming softly in the dim room—
Alma followed Priya down the hall.
Tea still steamed gently from the bowls in their hands while (Y/n) remained tucked warmly against So’lek’s side, one of his arms loosely around her shoulders.
The pups were finally awake. Which mostly meant chaos.
One viperwolf pup had attached itself to Ulrr’s arm while Ulrr wailed dramatically about the injustice of it all from atop the hammock.
(Y/n) watched them over the rim of her tea bowl with sleepy amusement while So’lek quietly enjoyed the simple warmth of her leaning against him.
He understood now why he kept returning to this place.
Meanwhile deeper within the trees—Tamtey froze.
Then very slowly his face split into the most delighted grin imaginable. “Well well well…”
Behind him Etuwa blinked in surprise while Nefika’s eyes immediately lit up with vindication.
Through the trees they could clearly see the pair sitting together beside the fire.
(Y/n) curled comfortably against So’lek. So’lek entirely allowing it.
The scent of freshly made tea drifted through the sanctuary air around them.
Tamtey immediately lifted a finger dramatically to his lips motioning for silence while gesturing wildly toward the scene before them.
“I knew it,” Tamtey whispered excitedly. “I knew there was something happening between those two.”
Nefika looked unbearably pleased with herself. “What can I say?” She adjusted her shawl smugly. “Sometimes good fashion is all it takes to make a man realize what he wants.”
Tamtey nearly burst from excitement.
Etuwa tried very hard to maintain dignity. “We should not intrude like this.”
Though admittedly— Even she was curious.
Tamtey meanwhile was already fully invested. “Oh come on.” His grin widened mischievously. “It will be fun watching them jump like startled hexepedes.”
Etuwa sighed softly already knowing this was going poorly.
Nefika looked entirely supportive of chaos.
Unfortunately for them—So’lek remained So’lek.
A twig snapped lightly beneath Tamtey’s foot.
Instantly So’lek’s head snapped toward the trees. Every trace of softness vanished into immediate alertness before recognition settled in a second later.
Tamtey stepped proudly from the trees absolutely incapable of pretending innocence. “Hey you two.”
(Y/n) nearly choked on her tea. Heat rushed violently into her face while realization dawned instantly.
Because judging by Tamtey’s expression— They had absolutely been seen.
And unfortunately—So’lek still had one arm around her.
Which he had apparently not noticed yet.
Tamtey’s grin somehow widened further.
Nefika looked moments away from unbearable smugness.
Etuwa at least had the decency to look mildly apologetic.
(Y/n) immediately buried part of her face in her hands. “I am going to throw myself into the river.”
Tamtey laughed loudly. “Oh no no no, now you must stay.”
Meanwhile So’lek— still did not remove his arm from around (Y/n).
“So’lek,” (Y/n) hissed quietly beneath her breath while desperately trying not to combust from embarrassment. “Move your arm.” Her face was still burning violently.
So’lek glanced down at her calmly. “It is too late.”
That absolutely was not the response she wanted.
“They have already seen.”
Before she could recover from that he leaned down slightly and pressed a soft kiss against her forehead.
Directly in front of all three of them.
(Y/n)’s soul physically attempted to leave her body.
Tamtey made a completely unhelpful strangled noise of triumph.
Nefika looked one second away from declaring herself the greatest matchmaker in Aranahe history.
Even Etuwa had to hide a small smile behind her hand.
(Y/n) immediately grabbed the nearest defense mechanism available. “Tea?”
Her voice came out far too fast. “Would anyone like tea?”
Anything. Anything to redirect this conversation.
Tamtey grinned knowingly. “Yes please.”
Nefika nodded far too innocently. “I would love some.”
So’lek meanwhile looked entirely unbothered by the situation. Which honestly somehow made it worse. Because he was calm. Completely calm.
As though he had not just kissed her forehead in front of an audience.
He rose smoothly to his feet before she could try hiding inside the firepit and began pouring tea for the others with that same quiet steadiness he approached everything with.
That was not helping either. Watching him calmly serve tea inside her sanctuary made her heart flutter all over again.
Tamtey accepted the bowl with a grin. “Thank you So’lek.”
Nefika accepted hers next. “And thank you, (Y/n).”
They settled themselves across from the pair while So’lek returned to sit directly beside (Y/n) again.
Closely beside her. Close enough their shoulders brushed immediately.
He did not seem remotely interested in pretending otherwise anymore.
(Y/n) stared into her tea bowl like it personally betrayed her.
Then Nefika smiled sweetly. “See, (Y/n)?”
(Y/n) immediately looked horrified. “I have absolutely no idea what you are talking about.” The denial came weakly. Very weakly.
Especially considering So’lek remained beside her looking entirely comfortable.
Tamtey raised an eyebrow dramatically. “Really?”
His grin widened. “Because So’lek does not seem to have a problem with this.”
All eyes immediately shifted toward him.
(Y/n) wanted the ground to swallow her whole.
Meanwhile So’lek simply took another calm sip of tea. Expression completely unreadable, composure fully intact.
Tamtey leaned forward slightly. “Well?”
So’lek lowered the bowl slowly.
Then without even glancing toward Tamtey his hand settled naturally against (Y/n)’s waist. Possessive. Certain. Completely unashamed.
(Y/n) made the softest horrified noise imaginable while Tamtey immediately burst into laughter.
Nefika looked utterly vindicated.
Etuwa shook her head fondly.
And So’lek? So’lek simply took another sip of tea like he had not just confirmed absolutely everything without saying a single word.
Tamtey was laughing so hard he nearly spilled his tea. “Oh this is excellent.”
(Y/n) buried her burning face briefly in her hands while So’lek sat beside her looking entirely calm despite the chaos currently unfolding around them.
“No,” Nefika corrected immediately. “We are right.”
Etuwa smiled softly over the rim of her tea bowl. “I admit… I did not expect this.”
Tamtey looked deeply offended. “I absolutely expected this.”
“You are insufferable,” (Y/n) muttered.
Meanwhile So’lek remained infuriatingly composed beside her, one arm still resting securely around her waist as though he genuinely did not understand why she was embarrassed.
More likely—He simply no longer cared who knew.
That realization sent warmth flooding through her chest all over again.
Nefika took another thoughtful sip of tea before looking directly at So’lek. “So.” Dangerous tone. “When exactly did you realize?”
(Y/n) immediately looked toward him in alarm. “Oh absolutely not—”
“I have always known,” So’lek interrupted calmly.
Tamtey barked a laugh. “That is somehow the least surprising answer possible.”
Nefika tilted her head slightly while studying the two of them together. “You know,” she mused, “he looks calmer beside you.”
That immediately quieted the teasing slightly. Because it was true. So’lek normally carried tension like another layer of armor. Constant vigilance. Constant readiness.
Yet here beside (Y/n)— He looked peaceful.
The realization visibly struck even Tamtey for a moment. “And she looks happier.”
(Y/n)’s chest tightened unexpectedly hearing that. Because maybe she was. Maybe happier than she had been in years.
So’lek’s thumb brushed absentmindedly against her side while his gaze lowered briefly toward her. Warm. Protective. Entirely softened in ways only she ever seemed to witness.
Tamtey suddenly pointed accusingly. “Wait.”
“Does this mean So’lek has been lurking around your sanctuary all this time because he was in love with you?”
(Y/n) immediately turned toward him with vindication. “I knew he was lurking.”
“I was ensuring your safety.”
“You were staring at me from trees.”
“You have no concern about your own safety.”
Nefika laughed softly. “It seems he just wanted to be around you.”
So’lek looked entirely unrepentant.
And somehow that only made (Y/n)’s heart ache even more affectionately. Because beneath all the stoicism and terrifying warrior reputation— He really had been quietly caring for her long before either of them admitted it aloud.
“So…” Etuwa’s eyes shimmered softly with amusement over the rim of her tea bowl while she looked between the two of them sitting side by side. “How exactly did you manage to crack the heart of Pandora’s coldest warrior?”
(Y/n) nearly inhaled her tea.
Tamtey immediately lost composure again laughing into his own bowl while Nefika looked deeply invested in hearing the answer.
“So’lek,” (Y/n) whispered desperately, “save me.”
“You are beyond saving,” Tamtey informed her helpfully.
(Y/n) immediately attempted the only remaining survival strategy available.
She hid behind her tea cup.
Etuwa smiled softly watching the disaster unfold. “I admit…”
Her gaze shifted briefly toward So’lek. “I was hesitant after Tamtey hinted something was happening between you two.”
Tamtey looked extremely pleased with himself. “I notice things.”
“You gossip,” Nefika corrected.
Etuwa continued more gently afterward. “But seeing you together now…” Warmth touched her expression. “It makes sense.”
(Y/n)’s face somehow became even warmer.
Nefika meanwhile looked utterly delighted. “You know,” she mused while sipping tea, “I came here simply to see where the dreamwalker healer kept her sanctuary.”
Her eyes drifted dramatically between the pair. “This is far more entertaining.”
(Y/n) made a soft sound of defeat behind her tea bowl.
Words were no longer functioning properly.
Because So’lek— The terrifying stoic warrior who usually intimidated entire rooms into silence— was sitting beside her completely calm while she internally died from embarrassment.
And somehow that only made it worse.
“I truly do not understand how this happened so quickly,” she mumbled weakly.
Tamtey immediately pointed. “Oh no, it was absolutely not quick.”
“You two have been staring at each other for weeks.”
(Y/n) contemplated throwing herself directly into the stream again.
Then suddenly—Warmth pressed softly against the side of her head.
She blinked slightly and glanced sideways.
So’lek had rested his forehead gently against hers. Completely unconcerned by the audience.
And just like that every coherent thought vanished from her mind again. He was affectionate. Quietly affectionate.
And apparently had no intention whatsoever of hiding it anymore.
The others immediately fell quieter watching the subtle tenderness between them.
The way So’lek softened around her remained startling. Because everyone knew him. Cold. Guarded. Violent when necessary.
A man carved almost entirely from grief and survival.
Yet beside (Y/n)—He looked calm, peaceful.
His eyes closed briefly against her temple while one arm remained securely around her waist.
And (Y/n)? (Y/n) looked at him like he hung the stars above Pandora himself.
Tamtey’s grin slowly softened into something genuinely warm. “Well,” he said quietly, “I think Eywa got tired of you both being stubborn.”
That finally made (Y/n) laugh softly against her embarrassment.
And So’lek— Still resting his head lightly against hers— Allowed the smallest faintest smile to cross his face too.
Nefika looked unbearably pleased with herself. “I knew I was right.”
Tamtey immediately groaned. “Oh no.”
“Yes,” Etuwa sighed softly beside him. “Here we go.”
The weaver lifted her chin proudly. “Soon after you left Hometree yesterday I told them both that I had once again worked my magic.”
(Y/n) immediately covered part of her face with one hand.
“Please do not encourage her.” Tamtey said flatly.
“I have a gift,” Nefika informed them all dramatically. “A talent for bringing new couples together.”
Etuwa rolled her eyes fondly. “No. You are simply nosy.”
“Nosy and usually right about these things,” Nefika countered immediately.
Tamtey snorted into his tea. “That is unfortunately true.”
Nefika pointed triumphantly toward (Y/n). “And I had a very pretty dreamwalker to work with.”
(Y/n) made a soft horrified noise. “Please stop talking.”
Her face was burning so badly now she genuinely thought she might burst into flames.
Meanwhile So’lek remained beside her impossibly calm while her embarrassment escalated catastrophically.
Nefika only looked more delighted by the reaction. “But I was right.” She gestured between the two of them dramatically. “A simple change in clothing and look at you now.”
(Y/n) immediately shook her head. “He was like this before the clothes.”
Nefika gave her the most disbelieving look imaginable.
Tamtey leaned forward grinning mischievously. “Are you going to comment on this at all, So’lek?”
So’lek calmly took another sip of tea.
Tamtey gestured broadly toward the current situation. “You are looking very comfortable over there.”
Which— Unfortunately— Was true. Because So’lek remained seated closely beside (Y/n), one arm still loosely around her while she leaned fully against him now without hesitation.Like they had always fit together there.
So’lek lowered his tea bowl slowly. “I am comfortable.”
(Y/n) immediately hid her face again.
Tamtey nearly fell over laughing.
Nefika looked moments away from ascending directly into Eywa from vindication alone.
Etuwa at least tried maintaining composure though even she smiled softly watching them.
“You are all terrible,” (Y/n) muttered into her hands.
“This is the best morning I have had in weeks.” Tamtey replied immediately
Before anyone could continue tormenting her further— Chaos erupted.
The viperwolf pups suddenly came barreling through the sanctuary at terrifying speed chasing Ulrr while the poor young Prolemuris screeched, leaping onto (y/n)’s head.
One pup launched directly at (Y/n)’s lap.
Another attached itself enthusiastically to the edge of So’lek’s vest.
The third crashed into Tamtey hard enough to spill half his tea. “HEY—”
(Y/n) burst into laughter while trying to untangle a puppy from So’lek’s gear.
Nefika stared in amazement as another pup immediately began chewing enthusiastically on the woven edge of (Y/n)’s clothing.
Then slowly she looked back toward her. “…So you were not joking about your clothes needing to survive their teeth.”
(Y/n) grabbed the offending pup gently before it could consume expensive Kinglor silk. “Yep.”
The pup immediately tried eating her braid instead.
So’lek quietly rescued her hair from destruction with one hand while holding onto his tea with the other.
And somehow—Watching the terrifying warrior calmly sitting in the middle of absolute chaos with pups climbing over him while (Y/n) laughed—
The others realized they had never once seen So’lek look happier.
“They are hungry,” (Y/n) sighed fondly as another viperwolf pup attempted to consume the her clothing. She carefully untangled the little menace from herself before standing. (Y/n) laughed softly beneath her breath before heading toward the storage area near the back of the sanctuary.
The pups instantly followed her in a stampede.
The second she disappeared from immediate earshot—All three turned toward So’lek.
The warrior remained seated beside the fire entirely composed despite the obvious ambush unfolding around him.
Tamtey leaned forward first. “So.”
“We have not even asked anything yet.”
Nefika looked deeply pleased with herself. “I believe the point is that Pandora’s most emotionally unavailable warrior is suddenly sitting in a sanctuary looking softer than fresh moss.”
So’lek remained entirely unreadable.
Etuwa sipped her tea calmly though curiosity lingered in her eyes. “When exactly did this happen?”
“It developed gradually.”
Tamtey blinked. “That is the most So’lek answer possible.”
Nefika pointed accusingly. “You look at her y like a starving man finally being handed food.”
So’lek did not even react.
Tamtey groaned dramatically. “You are impossible to interrogate.”
“I am not being interrogated.”
The warrior took another slow sip of tea while chaos echoed faintly from deeper inside the sanctuary where (Y/n) was now apparently arguing with one of the pups about stealing extra food.
The sound softened him instantly before he could stop it.
Unfortunately—All three noticed.
So’lek’s eyes narrowed slightly.
Nefika looked delighted. “Oh Eywa this is wonderful.”
Etuwa tilted her head thoughtfully. “You truly care for her deeply.”
That at least earned genuine honesty from him. “Yes.”
The answer came without hesitation. And somehow that quiet sincerity immediately silenced most of the teasing for a moment.
Because So’lek did not speak carelessly. If he admitted affection—It meant something profound.
Tamtey’s grin softened slightly afterward. “You know she adores you, right?”
So’lek’s gaze shifted briefly toward the back of the sanctuary where (Y/n) remained busy feeding her wards. “I know.” (y/n)’s expressions were as clear was sun shining across water
The simple certainty in his voice somehow made Nefika emotional. “Oh this is sickeningly sweet.”
Etuwa laughed softly. “I admit… I did not expect you to pursue anyone.”
So’lek’s expression remained calm. “You are making far too much fuss over this.”
Tamtey looked deeply offended. “So’lek.”
He gestured dramatically. “You glare at everyone who came within breathing distance of you.”
“You have a very intimidating resting face.”
Tamtey looked vindicated.
Nefika leaned forward slightly. “And now?”
So’lek finally looked properly confused by their confusion. “I am simply courting a woman.”
The way he said it— So straightforwardly. So seriously.
Like this was the most natural thing in the world—
Immediately broke Tamtey again. “You hear this?” he laughed. “He says it so casually now.”
Etuwa smiled warmly over her tea.
Meanwhile So’lek’s attention had already drifted back toward (Y/n).
Watching her carefully divide food portions between pups while Ulrr demanded attention from atop a crate.
The sight settled warmly in his chest. And though his composure never truly cracked— The softness in his eyes whenever he looked at her gave him away completely.
So’lek’s attention followed (Y/n) immediately the second she disappeared deeper into the sanctuary.
“What are you doing?” he called after her.
Her voice drifted back lightly through the trees. “I have to feed the hexepede and check its broken leg.”
So’lek was already standing before she even finished speaking.
“Enjoy your tea,” he told the others calmly. “And I will help her.”
Tamtey stared after him in disbelief.
Nefika looked utterly vindicated.
Because So’lek— The same warrior who barely tolerated most people in his space— was now voluntarily following a woman around helping care for injured.
“I would not have believed this if I had not seen it with my own eyes,” Etuwa admitted quietly.
Nefika looked smug enough to ascend directly into Eywa. “Please.” She waved dramatically. “A woman like (Y/n) and that grump were bound to happen eventually.”
Tamtey snorted loudly. “That grump has terrified half the resistance. And now look at him.”
The three watched quietly from the fire as So’lek crossed the sanctuary toward (Y/n).
The pups immediately swarmed him halfway there.
One attached itself directly to his ankle. Another climbed his leg.
So’lek ignored all of it with the exhausted patience of a man who had long since accepted his fate.
(Y/n) looked over her shoulder just in time to see him arrive beside her. “You did not have to help.”
Which somehow made her heart flutter embarrassingly hard again.
She handed him one of the food containers while kneeling beside the recovering hexepede resting near the edge of the sanctuary. The animal immediately leaned toward her familiar presence.
So’lek watched quietly while she carefully checked the plaster around its injured leg. He still did not fully understand how someone could carry so much kindness inside them without it breaking beneath the cruelty of the world.
“You are staring again,” she murmured softly without looking up.
“You are absolutely staring.”
A faint warmth touched the corner of his mouth.
Meanwhile back near the fire— Tamtey was fully invested. “Oh this is painful.”
Etuwa elbowed him lightly. “Quiet.”
“It is actually quite sweet,” Etuwa admitted softly.
Then all three abruptly froze. Because So’lek had gently caught (Y/n)’s wrist as she moved past him.
She looked up in surprise.
And he kissed her. Soft. Brief.
(Y/n) blinked afterward like her brain had temporarily stopped functioning. Then immediately glanced toward the others.
Tamtey nearly fell over laughing. “Oh they are gone.”
(Y/n) made a mortified noise while So’lek looked entirely unashamed.
If anything— He seemed calmer now than he had in years.
Meanwhile Tamtey suddenly groaned dramatically. “I feel bad.”
The others looked at him.
“We are witnessing two people so disgustingly in love that I may never emotionally recover.”
(Y/n) buried her burning face against So’lek’s shoulder while his chest rumbled softly with quiet laughter above her.
“We have guests,” (Y/n) whispered desperately after the second stolen kiss, her entire face still burning while she glanced toward the others watching from the fire with varying levels of amusement.
So’lek’s hand slid gently up her back calmingly. “That is nothing to be ashamed of.”
The quiet certainty in his voice made her chest ache softly again. Because he truly meant it. He was not embarrassed by her. “I am not ashamed.”
(Y/n) looked up at him helplessly.
And So’lek— Seeing every ounce of embarrassment written across her face— finally chuckled softly. Warm. Low. Dangerously affectionate.
That sound alone was becoming catastrophic for her heart.
“Are you ashamed of me?” he asked gently.
The question immediately erased her embarrassment.“No.”
The answer came instantly. “Never.”
So’lek’s expression softened beautifully hearing the sincerity in her voice. “Then you have nothing to fear.”
And before she could recover from that he leaned down once more stealing another soft kiss from her lips while Tamtey made an exaggerated choking noise in the background.
Etuwa simply laughed quietly into her tea.
(Y/n) pressed both hands against So’lek’s chest afterward trying very hard to remember how breathing worked.
“No,” Tamtey called from the fire immediately. “This is entertainment.”
So’lek ignored him entirely. “I must leave soon.”
(Y/n)’s expression softened slightly. “Patrol?”
“I am taking Ri’nela and Nor hunting.”
(Y/n) nodded gently before suddenly remembering something. “Could you bring back a small hexepede carcass?”
So’lek tilted his head slightly.
“For the trio of troublemakers.”
Right on cue one of the pups ran directly into a crate.
(Y/n) sighed fondly. “They need to start learning how to open prey properly.”
So’lek glanced toward the chaotic little creatures currently terrorizing the sanctuary. Then back toward her. “I can do that.”
The gentleness in his voice around her still made Tamtey look faintly disturbed every time it happened.
So’lek’s hand brushed once more against her waist before finally stepping back.
And though the separation was small—
(Y/n) already missed his warmth immediately.
Her heart fluttered softly. “Be safe.”
His eyes softened one final time. “Always.”
Then he disappeared back into the trees with that same quiet lethal grace he carried everywhere.
The sanctuary fell silent for exactly three seconds.
Tamtey slowly turned toward her with the widest grin imaginable.
(Y/n) closed her eyes immediately. “…No.”
Nefika leaned forward dramatically. “We have questions.”
Etuwa at least looked apologetic.
(Y/n) sighed deeply realizing with growing horror that she was now completely alone for the interrogation.
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