Basically the shortest oneshot ever, but I'm actually very proud of it.

I own nothing.

Her lips were the color of black cherries, her hair silky curls of ebony, her skin like rose petals.

Spirits, how he loved her. And they barely knew each other.

He watched her from across the street as she stood talking with one of her workers. He could charge fearlessly onto a battlefield with his fists flaming for a fight, but he didn't have the courage to walk up to a beautiful woman and ask her to dinner. Unfortunately, he had inherited from his mother's family the inability to function properly in certain social situations. It must skip a generation, though - his mother was quite easygoing and outspoken, while her father, Iroh's grandfather Zuko, had always been somewhat of an awkward turtle-duck.

Today, the lovely young businesswoman was working alongside her workers in the Satomobile factory, dressed in filthy coveralls and work boots. Her long, thick hair was tied back and stuffed beneath a hat. To Iroh, she was the most radiant creature in existence, no matter if she looked like this or if she was wearing her best dress. Furthermore, he admired her willingness to get her hands dirty, her determination to improve and expand Sato Industries for the benefit of the entire city.

Truly, Asami Sato was an extraordinary woman.

A loud, shrill whistle blew suddenly, startling Iroh and sending him crashing into a stack of crates. Damn his family curse! Damn his cowardice! Had he been a lesser man, he would have scrambled away as fast as he could, hoping she didn't recognize him. But he was General Iroh II, Prince of the Fire Nation, and he would simply have to get back on his feet and attempt to regain some of his lost dignity.

Never had he been so mortified as the moment he heard that angelic voice asking him if he was all right.

She was offering her hand to him, her jade green eyes wide with concern. Iroh met her gaze and for a moment became lost. But only for a moment. Shaking off his embarrassment, he thanked her and took her hand, allowing her to help him up. She had a very strong grip. Yet another thing to like about her.

Once he had righted himself, Iroh apologized for the disturbance, trying desperately in his mind to come up with an excuse for his presence that didn't have anything to do with his intense attraction to the young woman standing in front of him. Asami regarded him with mild amusement.

"You seem to be spending a lot of time in this part of the city, General. Are you that interested in my father's factories, or are you just enjoying the pleasant view and clean air?"

Spirits, she was teasing him!

"Actually…." Iroh gave her his most charming smile. "I was rather hoping you would do me the honor of joining me for dinner. At your convenience, naturally….I know you are a busy woman, and I would not wish to – "

"I'd love to. I'm free tomorrow night, if that's all right with you."

Never had Iroh been so thrilled and relieved all at once. His family curse had turned into a blessing. He was going out to dinner with Asami Sato, the most beautiful woman in the world. Lucky didn't even begin to describe how he felt right then.

He wanted to take her by the waist, spin her around and kiss her senseless, but that wasn't the least bit appropriate. Instead, he bowed and kissed her hand chastely.

"That's perfect, Miss Sato. Shall I come for you around seven?"

Asami's smile was radiant. "That's perfect, General."