Private Cloak of Deception

[Judah Dashiell]

"Surely you're not surprised?" She asked breathlessly.

"Actually I am." He had managed to choke out with a touch of laughter.

Judah supported her as she leaned back from him. To say it had been just a little expected would be the truth, he hadn't expected such an intensity. A relieved feeling of giving in and having a flood of emotions rush between them had been surprising.

For him, the kiss was like breathing deeply after years of struggling to draw air. It felt like living. Judah had convinced himself long ago it was a sensation he'd never experience again.

Hand slipped up to cup her neck, thumb sliding against the smooth blue skin. He studied her silently for a long moment, eyes searching hers.

Judah drew her close and their mouths joined together once again in a kiss. He was careful to not pull her too close, concerned about the still healing wound at her side.

 

[Azula Tindara]

"Oh," else went at his admission of surprise.

A fleeting moment allowed her to consider this. Was it too hard to believe that after her manipulation her act could have been rooted in real feelings? She supposed that was entirely fair and that she deserved at least a little surprise.

She tilted her head into the affectionate touch and sighed. It felt like dropping a weight off her shoulders. It had been a very, very long time since she had felt even a flicker of genuine connection to someone. Azula had been hurt and it had been easier to close herself off and manipulate everyone around her.

Her thinking was cut short by the gentle pull. Azula let her mind swim in the fog, determination cutting through to ignore his careful posture to pull him firmly against her.

It had been a long time since she had felt like this. Even worrying that the situation was one she was destined to ruin, she was feeling bold. A soft sound of acceptance and her hands began to roam.