Lin's eyes fluttered open. It took her a moment to remember what had happened. She was taken down. For the first time in her life, she was unable to battle, and if it wasn't for Tenzin, she would be at Amon's headquarters by now. She turned to look at Tenzin, who was sleeping quietly, and she nestled against his chest. She loved him so much. Yet, she couldn't be sure whether they actually shared the same feelings, but by the way he acted, it seemed he cared for her. Maybe more than a married man should care for his ex-lover.
A light brush to his cheek of her lips, made Tenzin wake. He looked at Lin. "How do you feel?" he asked. "I'll live." she replied and sat up, groaning lightly. He watched her, making sure he was ready to catch her if she lost her balance. "I'll cook something." she mumbled and got on her feet. The pain in her ribs was unbearable, and she felt herself weak. She was so frustrated. She hated that feeling.
As if Tenzin could read her thoughts, he rushed to her side and placed his arm around her waist, holding her to her feet. "I can manage." she snapped. He sighed and shook her head. Always strong, stubborn. She wanted to do things alone. "Let me help you." he insisted, and held her tighter when she struggled. "Lin, I'm worried for you. I can't let you do this to yourself." he sighed. "But, I can take care of myself." she frowned.
"I know." he nodded, brushing his fingers against her cheek. "But right now, you need my help…" She rolled her eyes. "Fine." He smiled lightly and kissed her forehead, before helping her walk down to the kitchen. She sat down on a chair and sighed. "I…feel so helpless…" she mumbled, looking down at her feet. Tenzin paused and looked at her. She looked so broken… It was breaking his heart. He got on his knees in front of her and looked up at her face. "You're not helpless Lin. You're the toughest and bravest woman I've ever known." he whispered, touching her cheek.
She leaned in to his touch and closer her eyes, allowing a tear to roll down her cheek. He wiped it away with his thumb. She opened her eyes to look at him, and within a moment, she was collapsed on the floor, sinking in his arms, her face buried in his chest. He held her as tight as he could, being careful to not hurt her. Quiet sobs were coming out of her mouth, and Tenzin could feel her sadness and disappointment. He rubbed her back soothingly and leaned down, brushing his mouth against her. She responded immediately, by brushing her own back against his. "I love you, Tenzin…" she half whimpered.
He locked gazes with her. "Believe me when I tell you this, I love you too. I love you more than anything in the entire universe."
"Really?"
"I swear…"