Title: Never Far From My Heart

Prompts: None

Words: 202

Notes: Written randomly a month or so ago. The only ship in Avatar that, considering its spontaneity so far, will last. :)

He prepares for a long, silent night with his love, setting the table with precision, down to the last trivial feature. Shadows from the setting sun fall like thin blades across the wooden planks. The china clinks musically together as Iroh takes care not toknock anything over with his portly frame.

He smiles in anticipation. Moments like these are so rare; so little time can be taken to spend with his dearest, now that he and Zuko are on the run. He can hear Zuko's grunts of irritation from outside the shack as he practices, redirecting nonexistent blue lightning with a stony gaze on his scarred face.

Iroh tunes out his nephew's vocal frustration. He can't be bothered, now that he has some quality time to enjoy.

A low, soft sound from the kitchen. The toothy smile on the old man's face widens. Ah, yes. That is his cue. This affair has lasted longer than any relationship, even surpassed the length of Fire Lord Ozai's terrible reign.

Iroh's coarse fingers press against the kitchen door, and he peeks inside.

The teapot gleams invitingly back at him.

He swings open the door, pure joy etched across his craggy features.

"Hello, my friend!"