Neteyam and y/n (fem)

Chapter 14: Our bond

The next day dawned beautifully, with the sun casting a warm, golden glow over the peaceful village. Everything felt serene well, it would have, if someone wasn't stalking you. As you strolled through the village, you couldn't help but notice Neteyam trailing behind, his eyes never leaving you. He had been trying to talk to you for days now, but the pain from the harsh words he said still lingered in your heart. So, in a way, he was like a lost puppy following you, but you didn't say anything. Deep down, you wanted his presence, even if you weren't ready to forgive him yet.

"Y/N, please wai-" Neteyam started, his voice filled with desperation, but was abruptly cut off by the sudden commotion nearby. Both of you turned your heads toward the source of the noise.

"Neteyam," I said softly, for the first time since the fight, my voice betraying the flood of emotions I'd been holding back. My eyes widened as I pointed to the horizon, where large creatures were approaching the reef.

"Everyone! Our brothers and sisters have returned!" Tsireya's voice rang out, filled with joy as the sound of horns echoed through the air. The entire village erupted in excitement, villagers diving into the water with shouts of celebration. The air was alive with laughter and joy.

Without thinking, I called for my ilu and quickly mounted it, eager to join in the celebration. But just as I was about to take off, I felt a sudden presence behind me. Startled, I turned my head.

"What are you doing?" I asked, my tone harsh, catching Neteyam's eyes as he settled behind me.

"Riding with you," he replied, his gaze fixed forward, avoiding my eyes.

"Get your own ilu," I complained, frustration bubbling up.

"I want to ride with you," he said softly, his voice carrying a vulnerability that tugged at my heart.

I sighed, feeling the weight of his words. "Ugh, fine. Whatever."

I urged my ilu forward, and in an instant, I felt Neteyam's arms wrap around my waist, his hands resting gently on my stomach. My face flushed, and my heart raced as warmth spread through my body .But I pushed those feelings down, trying to focus on the excitement around me.

As we moved through the water, I saw villagers greeting the arriving tulkun, children laughing as they jumped from the massive creatures, and families showing off their newborns. It was a scene of pure happiness. I spotted Kiri and Tuk on their ilu, and I swam over to them, the water parting smoothly around us.

When I dived beneath the surface, the world became a tranquil paradise. I saw Jake and Neytiri watching the reunion, their smiles radiant with pride and joy. They caught sight of me and Neteyam, and waved warmly. I smiled back, but I could feel Neteyam's presence behind me his gaze probably mirroring mine as we resurfaced.

Lo'ak was watching Tsireya through the water with her sister, his face full of awe. I couldn't help but smile at the sight. It was a moment of peace and happiness for everyone.

After a while, we all swam together, relishing in the return of the tulkun. I glanced at Neteyam, and for the first time in days, I saw him smile truly smile, the brightest I'd seen in a long time. My heart softened at the sight, and I smiled softly back at him.

Just as Neteyam swam closer to me, he opened his mouth to speak. "Y/N, I need to talk to-"

Before he could finish, Kiri swooped in, pulling me away. "Sorry, Neteyam, but we need to have some girl talk," she said, giving him a playful smirk before dragging me along with Tsireya in tow.

"Kiri, wait! This is important," Neteyam called after us, but his voice trailed off, filled with frustration and something unspoken.

The three of us walked along the beach, the soft sand beneath our feet, but I stayed unusually quiet, lost in my thoughts.