Goodbye

He didn't understand and she knew at that moment that he never would. It was time to say goodbye and he knew it. He didn't want it to be goodbye, but it had to be. She was going home and would probably never see the light of day again, what with her parents being as they were.

"I'm sorry I can't be here for you any more..." she said touching his cheek, "but you can come and visit any time.

"I know," he said and smiled a sad smile. She turned away and sighed. She began to walk away and with each step she took, he felt a pang. She was taking his heart with her and she would always have it no matter what.

"Wait," he called out running after her and taking her hand.

"I have to go..." she said and he kissed her before she could say more. She pulled back in surprise and touched her lips where his had been so warm and firmly pressed only a minute ago. She felt his hand squeeze hers and his other touch her cheek.

"This isn't goodbye," he whispered and kissed her forehead. She hugged him and let her tears fall, She was always so strong, but the pain was too much this time.

"No, it won't," she whispered against his ear. Smiling through her tears, she gave his hand one last squeeze and walked away.

It felt better watching her walk away. It wasn't going to be goodbye after all. Smiling to himself, he turned to his old friend and patted his head.

The sky bison growled and he laughed.

"We'll see her again Appa, you'll see."

He climbed onto the animal's back and took hold of the reins and giving his young earth bending friend and ally another glance, whispered, "Take care Toph," and was off.

She watched him from the ground having heard the soft whisper. It filled her heart with so much gladness. At least one person in the world loved her. One person in the world understood her fears and hopes and would support her no matter what. One person in the world had seen the tears he made her cry. One person in the world made her heart soar as he frequently did...

She would see him again. That was a promise.

"You too Aang," she said and went back home to her waiting parents.