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drangeax · 11 months

Text

To know you like the back of my hand

Pairing: Terra/Aqua

Rating: M

Word Count: 15,278

Chapter 3: Corazón ♥️

Summary: "You never stopped lighting my way back."

Read on AO3

"You never stopped lighting my way back."

Those were his first words to her in over a decade. Her tears were relief, a confirmation that she missed him as much as he missed her. That she still yearned for him, that after their world turned upside down, he could set things right.

However, upon their return to the Land of Departure, it was a different story.

They tried gathering the pieces of their fragmented lives, yet nothing was like before. Their friendship barely survived the test of time, fragile and terminal. Those years robbed them of happiness, stole moments, and tried to erase precious memories. Aqua and Ventus were different, changed in a way he couldn't explain. Terra didn't feel like his old self either.

And no one dared to address the subject of Master Eraqus’ death.

The absence of their master was palpable throughout the castle. Every room was strangely empty, even if full of furniture, and the land seemed to have lost its magic. Their home was hollow, and they couldn't make sense of it. Safety was an absurd notion, and it was obvious that they each had problems to work on. Terra kept his issues to himself, while Ventus pretended he had none. Aqua was a different story altogether...

Aqua hurt in silence. Her pain ran deep, a haunting melancholic melody present in her voice. It was evident in how she stared at the door at the end of the residential wing in the morning and evening. Noticeable in the way she knocked on the office door awaiting an answer that would never come. Unmistakable in her changed routine.

She wandered the halls at dawn like a ghost, vacantly searching for a purpose. After lunch, she sat in the library (in her favorite corner), stared out the window, and stayed there until dusk. Then, like clockwork, she wandered until midnight. She rarely stopped. She rarely talked. She was lost. Her life had been on pause long enough that she didn’t know how to resume it. Most of all, she didn’t know how to heal.

What was she looking for? A piece to a puzzle? The answer to a riddle?

I want to help, Terra thought as his eyes followed her lonely form down the hall. Lost...scared...He wanted to snap her out of that trance, bring her back to the here and now. If only he dared to say something.

I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to. I didn’t—

But he couldn't. He never found his voice and walked away every time, pretending it was all an unpleasant memory.

The odd behavior lasted for some time. In the end, it was Ventus who stopped it. The blond crossed paths with her. “Aqua, please stop. You’re not lost anymore. Please stop,” he begged amidst tears and a tight hug. “Come back, please.”

His words barely reached her.

Aqua stood frozen, her gaze glassy and distant. She stared at Terra, and at the same time, she didn’t. He just stood there, an incorporeal prisoner again; a mere spectator as he’d been for the last decade.

***

He couldn’t sleep. It’d been a couple of weeks since their return, and he still wasn’t used to his body back. It itched, and it tickled. It was hot and cold. That hurt, or that should have hurt. He just couldn’t grasp feeling again. Overwhelmed by sensations, Terra left his room at midnight. He wandered down the hall in the dark, instincts guiding him and barely aware of his surroundings when he bumped into something.

It was Aqua.

Her gaze was firmly on his as she stood still. If it wasn’t for the movement of her chest with each breath, she would pass off for a statue.

“Aqua,” he whispered.

She tensed, a foot pointing away from him immediately. Her gaze was that of an animal stepping into a predator's domain by mistake. It was a look that reminded him of what he once was: a cruel and destructive monster that did more harm than good. Don’t look at me like that.

“Hey…" He stretched a hand cautiously.

Aqua flinched, every inch of her body indicating she would run. His heart sank. "I'm sorry…I’m sorry…" Terra turned on his heels, went straight to his room, and shut the door behind him. He rested his forehead against the sturdy wooden surface, listening to her steps fade in the distance. “I’m sorry…”

The next day he moved back into the west wing as he had during his punishment years ago. It was best if he stayed out of her way. There was no reason to torture her further by making her feel hunted.

He settled into isolation, but it didn't phase him this time. Spending a decade in a hellish void certainly put things into perspective, and he wasn't exactly secluded either. Ventus showed up when he least expected it. He made small talk and asked Terra for help with mundane things or hung out, as he called it. Little by little, he salvaged their friendship. Terra was grateful for the company. He'd missed the little guy far too much.

***

“Did we go through this one already?” Terra asked, pointing at the card box on the coffee table before him.

Ventus stopped checking his own box, a comic book in his hand. “I’m not sure. Maybe…?”

Terra sighed and pulled another comic out. “If you can’t remember, it defeats the purpose of cleaning up.” He flipped a couple of pages to see if it jogged his memory. It was pointless. He’d been mindlessly putting things away for Ventus. “Why are you getting rid of these anyway?”

“Sora saved us. Disappeared. Left me with a bunch of younger siblings...” Ventus said, his voice laden with sarcasm as he moved a box out of the way and looked through the next one. Terra did the same. “I’m supposed to share, teach them how to be normal people and that there’s more than one flavor of ice cream.” Ventus sprawled back on the sofa, frustrated. “I mean…why is that my problem?”

Terra shrugged, his eyes scanning over a comic he recognized as his from years ago when he was just a kid looking for adventure and excitement. “If I had to guess, I would say you made it your problem to prove something to Aqua.”

“She pretty much wants me to babysit them.”

“Did she ask you to?” Terra asked without looking.

“Well…no, but—

“Then you’re assuming that’s what she meant, Ven.”

As if summoned, Aqua walked into the living room, scroll in hand and looking distracted. It took her a couple of minutes, but as soon as she noticed Terra, she turned on her heels and left. They were still nowhere near to making up, and their friendship hung by a precarious thin thread.

Ventus turned his head to him, concerned. “Terra…you have to do something about that. You can’t ignore each other forever.”

He looked up from the comic in his hands. “I’m not ignoring her. She doesn’t want me around.”

“Did she tell you that?”

He shook his head. “No, but that ‘deer in the headlights’ look is more than enough for me.”

“So you assume that’s what she wants? I can talk to her if you want—

“Ven, let it go,” he warned him. “It’s best for her."

"What's best for who?" A small voice chimed in from behind the sofa.

Terra looked over the backrest and found Chirithy with its usual unassuming and curious expression. “Nothing. Just saying how some things are better left as they are.”

"Ah, is this about Master Aqua?" Chirithy asked, hopping onto Ventus’ lap.

He didn’t answer and stared at the Dream Eater. Would it leave if it found him unapproachable? Instead, Chirithy climbed atop the sofa backrest and crept close to his face. Great, just great…

“Listen up, Mister!” Chirithy said, pointing a stubby paw at him. “After what you've been through, one would think you’d be more appreciative of what you have. You should make an effort to connect with her again. The longer you wait, the harder it will be.”

This new addition tested his patience to the limit. He’d never been violent per se, but right now, he wanted to accidentally swing his arm, and knock it off the sofa.

“Isn't it true that you grew up together? Don’t you know her like the back of your hand?” It asked, raising its voice. “Her heart—

Ventus spun Chirithy to face him, interrupting its tirade. “Cheers, don’t waste your time with him,” Ventus said, patting its head. He then shot an unusual look at Terra, challenging and without a smile. Seriousness was not for him.

If Ventus didn’t smile, something was wrong, but everything was wrong nowadays. The boy was just figuring out how to cope with the new things life handed to him. Things he didn’t ask for.

None of us asked for it.

“Her heart is what?" Terra asked, defeated.

Chirithy huffed. “It is rather personal and not for me to say. All I can say is she needs you. Didn’t you notice she backed out this time?”

Terra glanced at the door. Cheers has a point. Maybe he hadn’t tried hard enough. Maybe he should go after her and begin his elimination process to get to the heart of the issue. “Alright,” he said, putting the comic down. “I’ll give it a try, but…I'll do it alone. Otherwise, I won’t be able to talk to her properly.”

Ventus and Chirithy smiled widely. The room seemed bright all of a sudden.

“You look like idiots right now,” he said, heading for the library, confident.

I can fix it. I have this. I…

The heavy double doors of the library greeted him sooner than expected. He hadn’t thought about how the actual conversation would unfold. What would he say? Where did he start? His confidence plummeted.

“Aqua, I know I’m your least favorite person now, but I want to make things right.” He shook his head. Definitely not the way he wanted to start. “Aqua, I know you hate me—no, that sounds stupid.” He pinched the bridge of his nose. “Aqua I…I…”

It was pointless to give it much thought. Words are often empty when premeditated, and proper apologies come from the heart. Terra took a deep breath and stepped into the library, wandering between the bookshelves silently. He knew exactly where she was; he was just delaying the inevitable. Then he turned left at the last shelf…

Aqua sat close to the window, curled up in an armchair watching the sunset. It’d been a while since she stopped her 'hauntings,' as he called them. Nevertheless, this part remained—a penitence of sorts. She turned her head slightly, their gazes meeting in silence. His heart skipped a beat, and he didn’t dare move, waiting for her approval to approach. She broke eye contact first and resumed her window watch. Terra sighed, relieved she stayed. A decade later, he still had to compete with boring glass panes for her attention.

Well, the sunset was beautiful and easier to look at than him right now. It probably makes her feel better too.

He stepped closer, his legs heavy like lead, dragging him down. What if she doesn't want to make up? What if she hates me? He paused, his mind swarming with questions. His heart hesitantly reached out to hers, trying to feel her light and figure out her state of mind. It wasn't a smart move as a choking feeling took hold of him. It was tormenting, like drowning in the dark abyss of the sea, panicking, unable to tell up from down. He stopped, and the next thing he knew, he’d kneel under her wary gaze.

“I’m sorry,” he said, trying to meet her gaze. Aqua remained silent. Her eyes filled with hidden tears. He humbled himself and lowered his head like when the Master demanded respect. “I’m sorry I hurt you…I’m sorry I hurt Ven…I'm sorry I couldn't protect you…”

Aqua tensed, her breathing carefully under control as if steadying herself.

“You’re my best friend…more than and I’d do anything for you. I would’ve traded places with you in a heartbeat.”

“Don’t humiliate yourself..." she said, her voice a cold yet soothing balm he needed for weeks. He shook his head and held his position. Aqua stood. “Terra…please stand.”

On impulse, he clung to her waist. “I’m sorry I let you fall,” he managed, his voice breaking up. She stroked his hair gingerly, and his defenses crumbled. The tears he should’ve shed long ago flowed as she held him close.

He wanted to never let go.

There was no kiss or “I love you” spoken. There was only forgiveness and acknowledgment. It was more than enough for him.

In a few days, things returned to normal. They talked like they used to, laughed like they used to, and slowly re-established trust. Aqua was back to her old self, which made Ventus happier. It was as if nothing happened. But Terra knew better.

Her smile wasn’t genuine, and her eyes were dark and unfocused at times, especially when The Fall—as they’d dubbed the unfortunate event—came up for discussion. She had reverted to hiding her feelings.

He fixed one thing and broke another...

***

Weeks later...

What if she decided to pick up where they left off all those years ago?

Terra read in his room late at night to distract his mind from the persistent question. He stared at the book. It was no use. He really wasn't up for it. No matter how hard he tried, his mind insisted on figuring out his 'relationship' with her.

She won't. Maybe in ten years or so. Maybe when Ven gets married and we have the castle to ourselves. Maybe never...

He sighed and lay on his back, book in one hand, absently staring at the ceiling. She flirted with him the other day. He was sure of it. Then there was that look when she—

“Terra, are you busy?” Aqua knocked on his door.

He jumped out of bed, startled by the knock. The knob moved slightly, and he frantically searched for his pants. Bad idea to be in the buff with the door unlocked. He found them at the foot of his bed and pulled them on immediately. Then he headed for the door but stopped midway, eyeing the book on his bed. What would she think if she saw it? Scratch that—What would she think he was doing if she caught him with it in this state of undress? He grabbed the book and glanced at his surroundings. The embarrassing thing had to be hidden.

Think, where wouldn’t she look?

“Terra, can I come in?” She knocked again. “I'll come back later if now isn't a good time.”

Shit.

He tossed the book back on the bed and pulled a sheet over it. A pillow followed for good measure. It would have to do. “No, come in.”

Aqua cracked the door and peeked in. “Are you decent?”

“Yeah…” He placed a hand behind his head. “I was just getting ready for bed.”

She gave him a suspicious look before letting herself in. He shut the door and turned to her, only to find her sitting on his bed. His eyes fell on the oversized white tank top she was wearing. Was that his shirt?

“So I was thinking that maybe…” She trailed off, her eyes roaming over his naked chest suddenly. Whatever she meant to say was forgotten by the looks of it.

Terra smiled internally. He thought the light flirting the other day was his imagination. “What’s wrong? Cat got your tongue?” he asked, crossing his arms.

“No,” Aqua said, flashing him a coy smile. “It’s just…I knew exactly what I wanted to say, and then it just poof—gone.” She flopped on her back, her hands covering her face.

Her shirt rode up, exposing her smooth waist. That bit of skin between the shirt and skin-tight shorts lured him in, tempting him to reach out, caress, and kiss it…

Spirits, don’t play with me.

“Tired…?”

Aqua lowered her hands and stared at the ceiling with a glazed expression. “Not really…I just forgot.”

Was she lost among the moon and the stars, or was it something darker?

“I bet it was a lie for sure…” he teased, climbing next to her in bed. Awkward silence reigned over them as expected. He stared at the ceiling for a few minutes. “So, what brings you to this side of the castle? Did I forget to clean up after myself or did you need something...?"

She bit her lip; he noticed frustration had set in. Aqua shifted to face him. “Why do you assume I need something? Maybe I just want to hang out for a bit.” She flicked him on the forehead like when they were kids, and he said something idiotic.

“Oi,” he protested, rubbing his forehead. Terra turned to face her and grabbed her hand. “I should crack a knuckle or two. See how you like it.”

“You wouldn’t. You know I hate that sound.” She met his gaze briefly, a flicker of annoyance present. “Now, back to my lie, ” she said, making air quotes with her free hand. “Which, by the way…wouldn’t my nose get longer if I lied? I remember Master Eraqus saying he could tell if we lied by how long our noses were…”

Of course, she didn’t believe that. It was all part of their mental chess conversation. What did she really want?

“Master Eraqus said a lot of things that didn’t make sense, Aqua. And that only applies to puppets,” he said, while feeling her hand; small and feminine…perfect.

“Mmm, maybe I am, and someone’s pulling my strings and trying to deceive you.”

Terra released her hand. That was something he experienced firsthand. Controlled like a puppet, a will imposed on him…a fate he wouldn’t wish on anyone. The subject kept rearing its head in conversations the last couple of days. If that was the reason for her visit, she would leave disappointed. His issues were under control and not up for discussion.

He sighed. “So what were you thinking…?” he asked, redirecting the conversation.

Aqua looked at him in disbelief. “Are you kicking me out?"

No…but he was close to it. His mood soured quickly.

Terra shrugged. “You’re the master of the castle. Nothing’s off-limits to you…” he said. “You could stay here if you wanted, and I can’t stop you.”

"Except, I couldn't stay. There wouldn’t be a place for me to sleep,” she said, running a hand over the covers between them.

The action evoked thoughts of them between the sheets, talking less and acting more. If only she was direct about what she needed instead of playing the long game. He took a deep breath, deciding to humor her for now.

“Yeah, that's a bit of a problem. Unless...” He mimicked her pose and stared at her intently. “No, it wouldn’t be right. You’ll be unmarriageable. I think you already are since I can see your ankles. Shame on you!"

A slight blush decorated her face as she blinked slowly, then burst out laughing. His heart warmed at the sight, a smile tugging at his lips. He was socially rusty but still had that gift for making her laugh and dispelling tension.

“It should be fine if you sleep over the covers like a gentleman."

Shit. His eyes widened. Was she seriously considering spending the night with him, or was it part of the joke? He hoped she was joking, but the rest of him wanted her to stay.

"Aqua…why did—”

“What do you think I came for?” she asked before he could finish the sentence as if she read his mind.

“You can’t answer a question with another question.”

“I’m curious. Answer me,” she insisted, leaning on her arm.

Terra sighed and met her gaze, trying to read her. However, all he sensed was a mess of tangled thoughts and feelings, like a scribble. He couldn’t even feel her light.

She shifted closer to him. “Well…?”

“Shh, I’m thinking…”

Quiet or not, it didn’t matter. Not with her breath on him, or the scent of her body wash playing with his senses. His eyes wandered to her shirt—his shirt. It was big on her, and yet it covered her poorly. Dusky pink circles peeked through the fabric, two tantalizing small pearls resting on each.

“Terra?”

“Yes…” he answered in a trance. He completely forgot he was supposed to say something.

Stupid brain.

Aqua chuckled softly and touched his cheek, provoking goosebumps. Her hand left his cheek for his back, fingers running down his spine. His mind filled with vivid, wild possibilities, and she was naked and screaming his name in all of them. Her lips hovered over his, tempting him. Was she waiting for him to close the gap?

She withdrew her hand suddenly; she had a book. The book he’d hidden.

“What’s this?” she asked with a curious look. “Doing some light reading before bed?” She flipped through the book.

He snatched it off her hands and hurried to his desk, where he abandoned the book. She stood behind him, her hands slipping around his waist.

“I was interested in that…” she said, resting her forehead on his back.

Terra hesitantly welcomed her touch, warm and gentle...soothing almost. Her hands slid down his abdomen, tracing his muscles teasingly. She continued to the edge of his pants, her attention now on the knot holding it in place. Fuck. He held his breath, his heart pounding in anticipation as she worked it loose.

One thing was certain…she wasn’t as shy as before.

He shut his eyes as she reached lower. Heat pooled low in his abdomen, encouraging forgotten fantasies. Terra...Terra was ready to surrender, but she stopped. His eyes fluttered open—the book was missing. He took a deep breath, adjusting his obvious erection before facing her. There she was again, lying on her stomach and gazing at the stupid book.

“Hand it over,” he said, stretching his hand.

Her eyes strayed between his legs briefly before settling on the book again. Was that his imagination just now? No, no it wasn't. Fine—if she looked, he looked. It was only fair. He crossed his arms and stared unashamedly at her shirt's low-hanging neckline. The top of her breasts graced his eyes. Bless that shirt. As a matter of fact, he will let her keep it. He stood at the foot of the bed, still looking at her as she ignored him. Much to his horror, she read aloud.

"He dropped his clothes and bared himself. She'd never seen anything like it. Her soon-to-be lover was well-endowed and thick like a—

“Haha, very funny. Bad taste in literature by the way,” he said, reaching for the book, but she avoided him. “You know this came from your pile of lewd books, right? Are they all as terrible?"

Aqua glanced at the book cover, eyes scanning its title before staring at him. There was no emotion on her face, or at least not one he could figure out. She pinched the bridge of her nose and shook her head before flashing him a practiced smile.

What the hell was that just now…?

"His thick fingers worked her into a mess of desire, a sweet moan escaping her lips," Aqua read, making a sound.

He blinked in disbelief. "Did you just moan the word ‘moan’ ?"

“What? Did you like that?” she asked, her gaze dark and unreadable. Equally attractive and terrifying. Her lips parted slightly. His eyes widened as he realized she was about to do it again.

Terra pounced, taking her down and covering her mouth. "Don’t," he warned her, retracting his hand. Her eyes searched his face, her expression troubled, confused even. It was as if she wanted to cry but smiled instead. They couldn't skirt around the subject anymore. “Whatever this whole act is, please put an end to it. I’m not in the mood for games.”

"We're adults, Terra. There's no shame in admitting—

He shook his head. “I’m serious. You can tell me anything, and I won’t judge you,” he said, caressing her face. “So please don't hide.”

She averted her gaze and shifted, sliding from under him and off the bed. “I’ll be back in a minute, alright?” she said before disappearing out the door.

Terra sighed and rolled on his back, covering his face. Shit. I shouldn’t have. She wasn’t coming back. He pressed for an answer she didn’t want to give and probably embarrassed her by calling her out. Several minutes later, he heard her light steps approaching. She proved him wrong and returned with another book in her hands.

“I’m not interested, Aqua.”

“It’s not what you think. Just…would you please listen?" she requested, her usual shyness returning.

He straightened and sat at the edge of the bed facing her. “You have my undivided attention.”

Aqua took a deep breath and opened the book, her eyes fluttering to one of the middle pages. She began her story, to which he listened intently. It was an oddly familiar tale, but he couldn’t pinpoint it.

“The princess questioned if she’d done right. Was saving her dearest knight worth the price she paid?" Her voice wavered. "She needed to know, so she spent an eternity searching for that answer, even losing half of herself for it..." She swallowed and turned a page. "Then, she discovered it didn’t benefit the kingdom. Her actions did more harm than well, and all because she couldn’t keep her feelings under control..." She paused, clearly distressed with a hint of bitterness in her voice.

It finally clicked. She was pouring her heart out. That edge in her words was meant for him.

"She made peace with it until they reunited after many years. The princess played knight for so long that her former self became a shell. Her heart was empty, and she couldn’t find forgiveness nor kindness to spare. She couldn’t forgive him.”

Terra stood, and Aqua gestured not to approach. Despite the warning, he still closed the distance between them, carefully taking the book out of her hands.

“Some days…she wishes she never met him. She wants to scream and claw at him until she tears him apart so he knows what it feels like.”

He pulled her into a tight hug. "I know what that feels like…”

Aqua shook her head, upset and trembling. He felt turmoil growing within her, a maelstrom dragging her down. The only time he'd seen her like this was during their childhood when Master Eraqus coldly informed her of her parent's death…

Aqua, it’s okay to cry, Terra told her, but she resisted.

The Master said we should keep our emotions under control, she answered.

That evening, she sat on the stargazing hill quietly, staring into the distance. He didn't see her shed a single tear. Later that night, after the lights were out, there was a knock on his door. She came to his room—a devastated child that realized she had lost her parents forever. Terra didn't know how to console her or stop the never-ending tears, but he was there for her…

He knew what to do.

Gently, he let go. Her blue eyes stared curiously at his. There were gold glints in them. There was despair. There was misery. She’d been forced to accept a cold and cruel kiss from darkness, a violation of her being. One that would never go away and she might never come to terms with.

Terra sat on the bed and pulled a pillow into his lap. “Come here,” he said, motioning her to lie down. Aqua did as told, her body trembling and emotionally stunned. “Let it out. Let go of it.”

She shook her head and gripped the pillow, resisting.

“Trust me..." he said, brushing her blue hair softly. His fingers ran through some whites he hadn't noticed.

Remnants?

Aqua crumbled immediately, a whimper escaping her. Tears rolled down her cheeks, finally uncontained. She pressed her face against the pillow, a long-repressed scream leaving her.

She cried. She felt. She hurt.

And he couldn’t do anything except keep her company and wait. He passed through the same thing when he moved into the west wing. Let it all out, trashing an entire room until he felt sane again. The process had made him think the opposite.

Eventually, it wore her out, and she fell asleep. He didn’t want to move and disturb her, but his arms were numb from remaining in the same pose for too long. Not to mention his back ached. He moved her to the bed carefully. Her eyes fluttered open immediately, puffy and weary.

Terra smiled softly. “Hey…” He cupped her cheek. “How do you feel?”

“Exhausted…”

"And feelings-wise?" he asked, knowing he was pushing a bit.

She averted her gaze. “I don’t really want to talk about it. I’m sorry—

He placed a finger on her lips. “Listen,” he said, brushing a lock of hair off her face. “It’s not your fault or mine. It’s in the past.” He paused, thinking about how to approach the subject in a few words. The longer he talked, the less sense he would make. “We both paid the price, so…let’s not torture each other anymore.”

Aqua shifted to a sitting position. “You make everything sound so easy,” she said, hugging her legs to her chest.

“Well, gotta simplify things for this noggin.” He pointed at his head. “You know, breathing and walking is kind of important. Can’t spend much energy on anything else…”

She stared at him quietly. Terra faked a serious look, and she broke down laughing. Real laughter that had her shaking and clutching her sides. He felt a spark igniting deep within her heart, warm and pleasant.

“You did not just say that,” she said between laughs. Terra kept his gaze on her until she stopped, her eyes staring inquisitively. “What..?”

“Nothing. I just needed you to laugh,” he said.

Silence followed his words as they cautiously eyed each other. Impatience brewed in his chest as the last decade rushed through his head in a flash. Nothing was worth remembering except glimpses of her or those stolen moments before The Fall. There was a glint in her eyes, but she held on to her words as usual. Terra reached for her chin, gently raising it.

Did he lean in and kiss her, or did he ask first?

Her hand rested on his knee; an unspoken answer to the question he didn’t ask. She succumbed to the mysterious pull first, leaning forward. Terra met her halfway, lips against lips in a testing kiss. Her lips were as soft and sweet as he remembered. He brought a hand behind her head and the other to the small of her back, pulling her closer. Aqua hummed pleasantly, the soft noise enticing to his ears. She bit his lip, her impatience tangible. A familiar heat settled low in his abdomen, his instincts yelling to take it further. Then she pulled back, and Terra felt like an idiot.

You just made up with her. What were you thinking?

Aqua stood immediately and headed for the door. He heard a click, and they exchanged silent looks.

Stars, cover your eyes. Tonight we’ll commit that delicious sin we suffered for.

It happened fast. They were all over each other, lip-locked, and their hands awkwardly everywhere. Terra couldn’t decide what to do first. Aqua wasn't sure if she should lead or be led, judging from her playful struggle against him as they sank onto the plush mattress.

He pulled her onto his lap, she pushed him on his back. He tried getting her shirt, she tried his pants. Terra chuckled; a stalemate even in bed. She punished the offense with another bite to his bottom lip and a gentle roll of her hips—sweet friction and heat in return. His hands flew to her rear, a low growl escaping him as he rocked his hips against her. It was heavenly despite the fabric between them.

Terra flipped them to the side, facing each other, lips and tongues clashing, impatiently as they lost themselves in yet another fiery kiss. He gained access under her shirt, her hands swiftly leading him to her chest; soft, warm curves occupied his hands. He started slow, massaging gently and with hesitation. Her nipples hardened under his attention, and Terra brushed the enticing peaks with his thumbs in a mindless trance. She leaned into the touch, her breath hitching, a sound lodged in her throat. I want to hear you. He pinched one of her nipples, and a moan graced his lips, feeding his hunger for her. Terra pulled back, admiring her expression. A deep blush spread across her cheeks, and desire shined in her eyes.

Beautiful.

His eyes fell on the shirt gathered above her breasts. It had to go. He removed it, tossing it in an obscure corner of his room to be forgotten.

She moved her hips against him, urging him to continue. He leaned down and pressed his lips against hers briefly before trailing kisses down her jaw and neck, confidence directing him. No, not confidence…it was the ache between his legs. He dipped lower, his mouth enclosing one of her nipples, instinctively sucking on it. She gasped and brushed against him, a leg hooking over his hip. He grabbed her thigh and squeezed it.

“Mmm, you’re still greedy…”

“Can I?” he murmured against her breast, his hand tentatively slipping toward her inner thigh.

She nodded, and his hand crept under her shorts and underwear, fingers teasing between her legs. Her eyes fluttered shut. “Higher…” she whispered.

Terra complied, his fingers searching higher until he felt a small nub. He rubbed in slow, deliberate circles; her hips swayed, marking his success. Lovely. Enticed by the sight, he carefully inserted a finger, warmth, and wetness engulfing it. She moaned. A second finger joined immediately, and she threw her head back. He pumped his fingers, his movements slow and shallow. A bit of temptation for her. She moved her hips to his rhythm; he slowed down further, wanting to make it last and enjoying the control it gave him over her.

She said his name full of need, “Terra…”

“Mmm?”

Her mouth opened and closed, but she didn't speak. Instead, she angled her hips and moved vigorously against his hand, her flexibility coming into play as she searched for relief. He strained in his pants, the ache between his legs growing as she took herself on his fingers. Fuck. He wanted more, he needed more than his fingers pleasuring her.

“Slow down,” he said, withdrawing his fingers.

She was about to protest when he reached for her pants and stripped her of them along with her underwear. He stood before the bed, admiring her like an intrinsic work of art—her chest falling and rising with each breath, her curves shaped by time and training, the bit of hair proving blue was her natural color...

“What…?” she asked, brushing a lock behind her ear.

He shook his head. "It's just...you look...I don't know what to say without sounding like one of your books..."

Aqua smiled, her blush deepening. "I'll take that as a compliment then," she said, moving closer to him. Her eyes flickered to his pants and back to his face asking for permission. Terra placed a hand on her cheek, his thumb caressing her in confirmation.

Her hands grabbed onto his hips, her lips planting a burning kiss on his lower abdomen. Without hesitation, she lowered her hands and pulled his pants down, releasing his erection.

“No underwear?” she asked, sounding surprised.

He chuckled. “Not in my room.”

"Indecent," she teased.

"Inappropriate."

A mischievous smile bloomed on her lips. He'd sparked something within her. In a bold move, she went lower still and took him into her mouth.

He gasped, his knees buckling at the unexpected action. “Aqua…”

She stopped briefly, and both shifted into a comfortable position to make it work. He sat on the edge of the bed, and Aqua settled between his legs. She continued, her mouth wet and hot, busy with him. She pumped the rest with her hand in jerky movements. He corrected her, and she took over quickly, following the rhythm set by him. Terra gasped and looked down, his eyes focusing on the view. The sight of her on her knees with him in her mouth, pleasing him, tasting him…

He could melt right now.

His hand wandered to her hair as he fought the impulse to pull it. At his touch, her eyes flickered to his as she did something with her tongue. Fuck. He didn’t know what it was exactly, only that it was a pleasant overkill. He would make a mess if he didn't stop her.

"If you keep...going..." he warned her, gripping the sheets with his free hand. It was enough for her to understand.

“I want you,” she said, her eyes firmly on his.

Those words made him snap, switching positions swiftly, and somehow she still tops. Truth be told he preferred it that way. His nerves were on edge at the thought of messing up.

“Relax,” she said, her hands resting on his chest.

"I am..."

"You're tense."

Her hands roamed his chest, her soft touch coaxing him to relax. She traced his muscles and scars with attention and finesse; her perfectionist side showing. He felt her shudder every time she came across a scar. Then there was the one over his heart. It earned a stare and a frown from her.

“Hey…” He gently moved, getting her attention.

"Sorry.”

Aqua then drew a pattern from his chest and down to his abdomen. A spell?

"What...what are you doing?” he asked, his voice breathy.

“Shh…it'll help.”

She lined up with him, her legs straddling his hips as she slowly lowered herself. Heat surrounded him as she took him in. Her eyes fluttered shut, and her mouth opened slightly as a whimper escaped her. Was it pleasure or pain? His hands rested on her hips in reassurance. She moved testingly in calm and slow motion.

Terra growled low, his grip tightening on her hips. "Easy...slow." He wouldn't last long if she didn't.

Aqua tried, but it was hard given they teased each other close to completion. She found a rhythm that worked for them, one that reminded him of the ocean's gentle movement on a calm day, waves slowly reaching the shore. He joined her shortly, his hips rocking lazily so he wouldn't mess with her beat. The air was laden with the scent of carnal and forbidden desire. Moans and pants filled the room as their bodies worked in harmony, with the same goal in mind.

He studied her beautiful form, mesmerized by her. The way she moved, the way she wore that expression of bliss, the way her breasts bounced enticingly...and the union of their bodies…

Stars.

A rough thrust pried a loud moan from her. She chased after her pleasure, her hips moving furiously as she squeezed around him. Fuck, fuck...He felt her body tensing in his arms. She tossed her head back, closed her eyes, and screamed his name as she came.

"Terra!"

It was music to his ears. He lost the last bit of control and switched positions. While pleasure swept over her, he grabbed her hips and took her fast and hard like he'd always wanted. It didn't take much, he'd been at his limit the whole time. Terra shuddered, spilling and making her his. His legs failed him, and he collapsed on the mattress, exhausted. Aqua lay by his side, still mentally far away and enjoying her own high. He pulled her close to his chest, a hand in her hair in a gentle absent-minded caress.

Intimate. Satisfying. That was the best thing he’d felt in the flesh in over a decade.

Her eyes shifted tiredly as she watched him.

He kissed the top of her head. "Lost you there for a minute, huh?"

"I didn't know I could feel this way," she said, snuggling up to him.

"Not everything has to be dread and darkness. It could be...this."

"This...?"

"It can be whatever you want it to be," he said, brushing her hair back.

"I'd love that..."

"But…if we’re going to do this, ” he said. “I need to hear what’s on your mind. I’ll back off when you want me to, but still…talk to me. I'll always listen.”

“Thank you..." she said, her fingers lazily gliding across his chest.

"By the way, did you put a spell on me?”

Her fingers stopped moving, a blush crept across her face again. "That...that's embarrassing."

"Now I need to know.”

Aqua nodded and buried her face in the crook of his neck. “It’s...protection.”

He raised an eyebrow. “As in preventing small versions of us from running around?”

“Y-Yes!”

“But if it’s for that then at the library and during that test…”

She shifted, trying to remain hidden. “I thought we would have sex…” she said, his skin muffling her words.

“Oh..." he said thoughtfully. "Then your mind was a step ahead of the game back then. How inappropriate..."

“Terra!”

He chuckled. Seeing her blush and embarrassed like before gave him some peace. It brought joy to his heart and life to his soul. “Just promise me one thing,” he said. “You won’t put your students through any of the old ways.”

“I promise…” she said tiredly.

Terra nodded, noting her promise. “Now, you want me to run some hot water or…” His answer came shortly, the sound of her fast asleep. He smiled softly and reached for the covers with his free hand. They could deal with a bit of mess tomorrow. "Sweet dreams," he whispered and kissed her temple before settling with her in his arms comfortably.

They had a long road ahead of them. He didn't doubt they would fight and disagree, that there would be ups and downs. He would have to throw away his old mental booklet on her behavior and start another one. It would take a lot of research and observation, trial and error, but he would love every minute of it. Finding new ways to make her smile, to make her happy.

He would once more know her like the back of his hand.

#kingdom hearts #kh #aqua #terra #terraqua #ao3 stuff #ao3 #writing #fanfic #kh3 #post kh3

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