"He said WHAT!?"

"It's no big deal. Really, I'm sure he was just-" Toph's words were no longer heard by the furious waterbender as she stormed past their makeshift tents mumbling incoherently.

She marched through the woods and came across the clearing where Zuko was sitting cross-legged meditating. Katara knew better than to disturb him while he was in his most peaceful moment. It was all due to his meditating that he seemed to have his temper in check. No meditation equals a very angry firebender. But did she care?

"ZUKO!" She practically screeched in his ear.

Said firebender jumped at the horrendous sound and almost screamed. Almost.

"What?" He whispered. Knowing fully-well that it would tick the waterbender off. His eyes were still closed and he dared not open them. He knew perfectly well why Katara was here. And he was determind to drive her away without getting beat up. Well, he wished he would drive her away without getting beat up.

"Why are you such a jerk!?" She was hyperventilating. But Zuko just rolled his eyes. Atleast he thought he did. 'Is it possible to roll your eyes if they are closed? Have to ask Sokka.'

"-so stupid! You imbecile-"

'Doesn't this girl get tired of getting angry ? And they say I have problems'

"-would kill you if Aang didn't-"

'Does she even know how pitchy her voice is? Shut up Katara. Shut. Up. You probably don't realize I'm not listening. You pathetic peasant. Ha, Ha. You dont even know I called you pathetic in my mind' He smirked slightly. Then frowned at his own stupidity.

"-HATE YOU! I'll rip your heart-"

'Maybe I should apologize...

...Nah'

"-you listening? ARE YOU LISTENING?"

He felt slim hands grab his shoulder and shake him hastily, forcing him to open his eyes. He couldn't take it anymore.

"Are you retarded?" He barked at her.

Her eyes widened and the hold on his shouldered tightened.

"First you call me fat. And now you're calling me a retard!?" And before he knew it, he felt a hot , painful strike to his left cheek. 'Since when did water hurt so much?'

"Fuck you Zuko!" With that she turned around and started to stomp towards the woods.

"Be my guest." It was barely a whisper, but Katara heard it clearly. And Zuko ended up with a matching whip mark on his right cheek too.

'Worth it.'