I'm still here, Sparky!

by Vanyiah

[REVISING] "We're still young, Zuko. We'll have a thousand children and they'll be boys and girls." Toph said brokenly, she prayed that he wouldn't snuff out their newly found love. They had sacrificed a lot to be in this state but it seemed that it wasn't enough.

26. Gone With The Wind

Zuko. Why must you show yourself like this to them? To me?

Was finding out that your bed warmer had left... such a bad thing? I see you there, my love, standing as you hold onto a hair pin. It makes my heart clench that you still have her on your mind. On your priority list.

But I have suffered just as much, you fool! No—YOU IDIOT! I've suffered for our children! Look at me, Zuko!

LOOK AT ME!

Do you see what you've made me? I did all that you wanted, I bore you children... and yet... you can't even look at me..? Why am I being punished for your selfish desires..? Haven't I sacrificed more than enough..? Or do you need me to disappear—just like her?

"She left a letter," I say as I unfold the parchment. My fingers work without my consent, my lips spill words that I wish I did not understand.

"I am free." You flinch at the simple words.

She left.

And yet... I'm still here.