Ursa sighed as she walked into the small apartment. She still had to pick up Zuko and Azula from their uncle's, but she wanted some comfort in solitude before she had to tend to them. She was certain it sounded selfish, but right now she just wasn't in the mood. She slipped off her worn heels and neatly placed them in the corner.
It was Valentine's Day; Ozai won't be home until late.
She wasn't sure why that surprised her; he missed Christmas for god's sake. Still, it hurt a little. Since the kids they never had a day they were able to put aside for themselves. He always had a busy work schedule; she was always doing an odd job or caring for Zuko and Azula. She hopped on one foot as she pulled her nylons off on her way to the bathroom. She always hated them, so uncomfortable and clingy.
She started the water and watched the steam emit from the top of the shower. Letting her skirt fall and her blouse hit the floor beside it, she reached behind to unhook her bra. She kicked her panties off in a childish way and didn't bother taking her hair down until she was in the shower.
It's just a stupid day.
But still, she found herself crying. She missed the way things once were; when Ozai would go out of his way to come home early. Just to see her, to talk with her, to hold her; just for her. Of course now he had to work harder, he had to impress his father if he wanted to steal Iroh's promotion, after all.
A part of her expected him to sneak in the bathroom, slip in the shower and wrap his arms around her. There was a point where he would surprise her like that, when they'd moved in together. He used to be spontaneous and romantic; now he was cold and determined. She didn't see what the big deal was. If Iroh got the job he'd make sure Ozai was taken care of.
His job is more important than his family.
She let the hot water wash away her tears and finished washing her long brown hair. The knob squeaked as she turned the water off and reached out for the towel she thought she left on the sink. She'd been too upset; how pathetic. She stepped out and crossed her arms over her bare chest, pacing for her robe she left on the door and tying at the waist. Oh, how upset Ozai would be at the drenched bathroom floor. She dropped a towel and ran it along the puddles with her foot.
Maybe the floor should have stayed wet; he deserved to get upset over something.
She felt bad for the thought. Maybe he was resetting his priorities, but she knew despite it all, he loved her. He was working to provide for her and their children. He didn't know how to go about it, but he was trying. After all, it was him to call her every morning when he was already at work, just to say good morning and he loved her. And it was him that no matter how late he came home kissed her forehead and whispered his sweet words in her ear.
She walked out of the bathroom, her skin laced with droplets of water. She would just throw on something quick. Maybe Iroh could hold onto them a little longer. No, she wouldn't ask; she was sure he wanted time to himself.
She forgave Ozai before she opened the door and saw him sitting on her bed, a bouquet of red roses in his arms.
'Just for you.' He mouthed.
A little corny, maybe predictable; but isn't that what Valentine's Day is about? I wanted to write a little something for them, it's been a while. Hope you liked it ^^
Disclaimer: I do not own Avatar: The Last Airbender.
