I'll Be Seeing You

by CloverCreative

In which the timing is never quite right, until it is? Exploring a series of moments throughout the years as Toph and Sokka help each other navigate their complicated lives in Republic City, and perhaps figure out their feelings for each other along the way. Canon Universe. Other pairings included. Mature Themes.

22. So Spring Has Sprung

Chapter 22: So Spring Has Sprung

Sokka takes the steps up to Toph's apartment two at a time, despite the ache in his knees begging him not too. He's certainly not fifteen anymore (as his body so often likes to remind him) but there are moments when he feels so young, if only in spirit, and this feels like one of them. He mostly feels this way around Toph, who has a strange talent of making him feel fifteen and fifty all at once. He's not sure if it's due to their tendency to crack inappropriate jokes and get into mischief together, or if it's the fact that his heart beats like some lovesick teenager just from the sight of her smile.

Either way, perhaps it's why Sokka feels the need to clear the nerves from his throat, taking a moment to smooth out the wrinkles in his shirt (despite appearances not exactly mattering here) before tapping on Toph's front door. Butterflies in his stomach are not an uncommon occurrence for Sokka, especially around Toph, but today he's just a bit more excited than he usually is. In fact, he can't help but feel a bit giddy, in spite of himself.

Okay, so maybe he's a little old to be getting this excited about his own birthday, but in his defense, it's his first birthday back in the city in a long time, and he finally feels at homeagain. Frankly, his first birthday in a long time that he actually wants to celebrate.

Despite recently getting divorced… and Yakone still not behind bars… aaand the continuous stream of negative press that surrounds all that… for once, Sokka feels at peace with where he is in life and with the direction it's heading. Elections are getting closer, which (assuming he wins) means he'll finally be more equipped to take down Yakone. Not to mention, he finally got around to furnishing his apartment (thanks to the help of one stubborn, yet oddly generous earthbender). Plus, he finally has Toph back in his life.

Things are good.

Sure, would he be lying if he said that part of him wasn't anxious to finally take his friendship with Toph to the next level? Probably… Okay, definitely.

Truthfully, there are times when his desire for her is so strong that it physically hurts, when all he wants to do is say fuck it and just kiss her senseless till they're old and gray, withered away by years of joy and lust.

But things have been so good between them lately - better than good - and he's not exactly in a hurry to risk messing that up.

He finally has his best friend back, and for now, that's enough.

Ever since giving Lin her first "official" earthbending lesson, Toph's spirit has reawakened itself. She's becoming more and more like her old self with each passing day. Of course, Sokka thinks she'll probably never be entirely the same. For better or worse, trauma, stress, heartache, parenting, and just getting older are all things that change a person. Like some carefully carved, marble statue, Toph remains hardened like stone. Yet, like marble, she's softer, more refined to the touch than she used to be. Her pain and wisdom etched in place like a work of art.

It's a change that Sokka thinks might actually do them so good, so long as it means Toph learns to open up and let people in – let him in – for a change.

Besides a somewhat softer edge, Toph is still Toph. If you ask Sokka, she's still just as sassy as ever. And ever since they put out that kitchen fire – perhaps literally and figuratively – she's been putting in the effort to get out of her house more, to spend time with Lin and Sokka, and to actually have some fun. Slowly, but surely, she's addressing her trauma… as is Sokka with his own.

Their friendship feels stronger than ever. Sure, it continues to be a work in progress - much like themselves - but they're learning. Learning to salvage all the parts that made their friendship so perfect while leaving behind the parts that made it, admittedly, not-so-perfect. And while he hates to admit it, Sokka knows that this newly refurbished, back-and-better-than-ever-before bond is in part because they've taken romance off the table, at least for the time being.

It remains a sort of unspoken rule between them, a mutual understanding that they both need to work on their own, individual shit before they're ready tackle theirs together. Sokka appreciates their silent communication skills, but he's also come to realize that that's part of their problem.

Despite the growth in their friendship and the deeper feelings they both know are there, Sokka can't help but sense that there are still some things left unsaid, and until they're ready to take the unspoken and lay it all out on the table, perhaps right now they're exactly where they need to be.

For now, they're still in the process of healing, and healing takes time (at least according to the therapist Sokka started seeing once a week).

When Sokka first came back to Republic City, he'd been so ready to dive headfirst into a relationship with Toph and to commit to all that that would mean. It's only in hindsight that Sokka realizes how much baggage he was carrying with him (turns out getting cheated on by your wife, finding out the baby you thought was yours actually wasn't, and going through a divorce can leave you with a lot of it.)

And when the time does come that they're ready to lay everything out on the table, he wants to be sure that that baggage is left behind… or, at least that it's as light as it can realistically be.

He wants them to do it right this time, to not make the same mistakes they made before. Because once they do go there again, it's gotta be for good.

Aside from all the emotional constraints keeping them apart, Sokka also admits that they're not exactly in a place where they have a lot of free time. Toph is about to give birth, which means she'll have her hands full (as if they weren't full enough already). Sokka will be there for her as much as he can, and as much as she lets him, but changing diapers doesn't exactly lend itself to romance.

Not to mention, Sokka still has to make it through elections, and they both agreed it'd be better to wait until after he won to pursue any romance between them. No need to add fuel to an already raging fire of political gossip.

And then, of course, there is still the matter of Yakone.

In short, there's a whole laundry list of reasons why now is not the right time for them to get together. And for now, that's okay. Sokka feels like he's getting closer to being "ready" every day, and for now that's all he can do. He just hopes Toph feels the same.

Truthfully, a part of Sokka fears that until Yakone is put away, she'll never be ready.

But for now, the sky is blue, the sun is shining, and the birds are chirping outside. It's a beautiful day, and it's his gosh-darn birthday, so why not make the most of it!? He can feel it in his no-longer-fifteen-year-old bones! Something good is finally on the horizon.

He just wishes Toph would answer her door already so they could get the day started. It's late enough as it is. What's taking her so long?

Sokka taps on her door once again, a bit harder this time. For a split second, he starts to worry that something could be wrong. Jumping to the worst conclusions is a habit that's hard to break, and he's about to start fishing in his pockets for his spare key, but mercifully, he hears shuffling on the other side of the door before he gets the chance.

"Hey, T-" Sokka opens his mouth to greet Toph as she opens the door, but his words are cut short by her appearance.

She looks beautiful, as she always does (spirits, he has it bad, doesn't he?). She's wearing a casual, but flowy sundress, which isn't too surprising considering how far along in her pregnancy she is. Her arms are bare, exposing the precious meteorite bracelet that she wears on her bicep.

It shouldn't surprise him, as it must be a permanent fixture at this point (they don't talk about it, but Sokka thinks she wore it even when they weren't on speaking terms). It somehow surprises him anyway, and even after all these years, seeing Toph wear his gift still makes Sokka's heart flood with affection.

Despite her attractiveness, it's not Toph's beauty which stops Sokka in his tracks. Instead, it's the strange grimace on her face.

"Sokka." Toph grits through clenched teeth, her posture hunched, "I need you to take me to Katara."

Sokka, not catching on just yet, "Yeah, I know, silly. We're meeting her and Aang for dinner later with the kids, aren't we?"

"No, you dunderhead!" Toph reaches out and somehow finds a fistful of Sokka's shirt just as she doubles over in pain, her other hand gripping the dramatic swell of her belly, "I need Katara. Now."

"Oh, I see. The baby's coming?" Sokka says, still not quite registering the fact. Then, "Oh shit! The baby's coming! But you're not due for another week!"

Sokka stands in the doorway for a second too long, nodding to himself as he goes over his mental checklist. The checklist which Sokka had insisted on making with Toph, despite her insisting she could handle it herself. The checklist which listed exactly what to do in this exact scenario, every detail laid out, down to the fresh pair of underwear Toph would need to pack (she insisted on doing that part herself, this time he let her). The checklist which he made Toph go over with him at least ten times over the past two weeks. The checklist which, as of right now, is completely blank in his mind.

Sensing his sudden paralysis, Toph rolls her eyes (affectionally) before ducking down to pick up a bag of supplies left by the door. "Here." she says, quickly shoving the bag into Sokka's arms. "Why don't you carry this, and I'll walk us over to the docks while you try not to faint."

Sokka shakes away his daze as he slings the bag over his shoulder, taking a moment to compose himself as he picks up on Toph's friendly gibe. "No, no. I got this."

"You sure?" Toph says, teasingly, "I don't want to have to deal with two crying babies today."

"I'm sure." Sokka breathes out through a nervous smile, "Are you okay? You were in quite a lot of pain just a second ago. Are you sure I shouldn't get Katara to come here instead?"

"I'm sure." Toph says, oddly chipper, despite being doubled over in pain only moments ago, "The contraction passed. Let's just get to the island like we originally planned so I can get this baby out of me already, okay?"

More composed now, Sokka offers a mock salute, pleased by the resulting blush on Toph's cheeks as he says, "You got it, Chief."

Sokka links his arm with Toph's as he leads her out the door and out her apartment building. He's careful to try and go slow as they make their way towards the city's port, but Toph seems determined to walk as quick as she can, which is surprisingly fast given her current state. She must really be eager to have this baby!

Sokka feels eager and excited too, though a part of him is having trouble fathoming just how quickly this is all happening. One minute he's meeting Toph for his birthday outing and now he's taking her to have a baby. Not exactly how he pictured the day going, but he's far from complaining.

He does take a moment to realize that Toph hasn't wished him a happy birthday yet, and his chest flickers with a twinge of disappointment, but he quickly shakes it off. All things considered, he can't exactly blame her if she forgot. Besides, if at the end of the day he has a new niece or nephew to show for it, well he'd say that's a pretty good birthday gift.

Sokka takes a deep breath once they're on the boat heading towards Air Temple Island. His heart is racing a mile a minute, and he's grateful that the boat ride will give him a few minutes of reprieve. So far everything is running smoothly, though Sokka's not sure whether that mollifies him or just makes him more anxious. Historically, things have never gone very smoothly for them, so forgive him if he's a bit on edge.

It had been surprisingly quick and easy to help Toph get from her apartment down to the docks, and she hasn't had a contraction since opening her door, so Sokka hopes that at least means they don't have to worry about her giving birth right here on this boat. Even so, Sokka takes a moment to appreciate his status as the Avatar's brother-in-law, and the private boat access it grants him.

Reassuring himself, Sokka takes another, deeper breath this time as he inhales the salty breeze from the bay. He notes that even Toph looks more relaxed now, despite apparently being in labor. Well, maybe "relaxed" isn't the right word. Toph isn't exactly the biggest fan of boats, and her discomfort is evident in the anxious bouncing of her leg, her foot tapping repeatedly against the deck. She's nervously biting her lips – in that way that Sokka secretly loves - though Sokka's a bit too distracted by his own nerves at the moment to fully appreciate the gesture.

Hoping to ease some her anxiety (and his), Sokka reaches out to touch her shoulder, giving it a firm, yet comforting squeeze. Despite the adrenaline and nerves, Sokka takes a moment to appreciate the gravity of this moment as he looks closely at the woman next to him.

Even after all these years, after all they've shared and all they've grown, he can still picture the two of them as the kids they once were, sharing the burden of shattered innocence as they navigated war. In some ways, it feels like a lifetime ago. In others, it feels like just yesterday.

If he knew then what his life would become, what she would become to him, would he have changed anything? Perhaps. But even with Toph about to give birth to another man's baby, Sokka can't find it in himself to regret his choices.

"This is it, Toph." Sokka says, his voice quiet against the hum of the boat. Quiet and gentle, yet weighted with meaning, "Are you ready to welcome the newest member of your family?"

"Uh…" Toph gives him a genuine, yet oddly guilty smile, "Yup. Sure."

Sokka gives her tone a questioning look, but he shrugs it off. He's never given birth before, so he can't really imagine all that's going through Toph's head. Maybe the best thing Sokka can do for her right now is give her some space to think, or whatever it is women do when they're about to have a baby.

But the more space he gives her, the more spaced out she looks. Granted, being blind, Toph's eyes are never exactly in focus, but Sokka knows the difference between when Toph is just listening and when she's just lost, and right now her expression tells Sokka it's the latter.

Knowing the look, Sokka chances, "Toph, don't tell me you're thinking about Yakone right now."

Toph tilts her head towards him, seemingly caught off guard by his call out. She takes a deep breath, then admits, "Truth be told, I'm always thinking about Yakone."

"You're about to give birth, Toph," Sokka rubs her shoulder again, encouragingly, "Remember what we talked about? Let's not let Yakone ruin this moment, okay?"

Toph bites her lips again, that same, oddly guilty expression from earlier, "I… I just want today to go smoothly."

"It will." Sokka smiles, "Yakone has been quite lately, right? I doubt he's going to show up in your delivery room, on the Avatar's home turf of all places. You don't need to worry, okay?"

"Wouldn't be his first time willing to hurt a pregnant lady," Toph says, a painful memory flashing in her eyes, one that Sokka isn't privy to.

"Toph," Sokka scoots closer to her, "I'm right here with you. You're safe."

Toph nods, a hint of mirth suddenly finding her cheeks, "Well, thank the spirits, Master Meathead to my rescue! My hero! Whatever would I do without you!?"

"Okay, okay. I get it." Sokka rolls his eyes, picking up on her gibe. Still, through a grin of his own, "I know you don't need me to keep you safe. Doesn't mean I can't try."

Still smirking, Toph gives his side a playful nudge, silently letting him know that even if she won't say it, his protectiveness doesn't go unappreciated. Sokka nudges her back, letting her know that he understands. Toph's insistence on being able to take care of herself is one of those things Sokka both loves and can't stand about her.

"Truthfully, Sokka…" Toph starts, a bit more serious, "I'm just anxious to have this baby already so I can get back to work and finally put Yakone away for good. That's what I was thinking about."

"Hey, we said we'd do it together, right?" Sokka says, understandingly, "I know it's been tough waiting to have the baby and for elections to be over.

"Believe me, I'm getting pretty impatient myself." Sokka pauses, swallowing the unintentional, yet undoubtable double meaning of his words, "But for now, there's nothing more we can do."

"I know." Toph says, frustration creeping up in her tone, matched by the frown lines deepening between her brows, "I know you're right, Sokka. I just... I hope that when we are finally back in action that there actually is still more that we can do."

Sokka nods, sharing in her frustration. They're both anxious to return to their respective positions of power, but truthfully, he's not sure how much good it will do. As much as he hates to admit it, they both know that as it currently stands, the only thing awaiting their return is one dead end after another.

Even so, Sokka holds onto hope. If anyone can take down Yakone, it'll be them. He's sure of it. After all, Yakone may be good at covering up his tracks, but Sokka is nothing if not an excellent problem solver. If only they had just a bit more evidence, then they'd have their case. That evidence has to be somewhere, they just have to look harder. Again, he's sure of it.

"Listen, I get it." Sokka says, after a beat, "I really do. Just… maybe try to enjoy the whole giving birth thing before you go busting heads again, okay?"

Toph, with another sly look, "You ever try pushing an eight lb. object out of your vagina? Gotta say, not exactly the most fun experience."

"Uhh…" Sokka says, dumbly. Scratching the back of his neck, "What I meant was-"

"I know what you meant," Toph says, warmly. She pats his leg, reassuringly, "And I'll try. I promise."

"Good." Sokka smiles, glad to drop the subject for now.

It's not long after that the boat docks at Air Temple Island. Sokka gives the captain an obligatory nod before grabbing Toph's bag and moving to help her out, taking her hand to help her stand up. She looks half-annoyed by the gesture but doesn't say anything as she begrudgingly accepts his help off the boat.

Once her feet touch the ground, Toph takes a deep breath, taking a moment to tap her toes on the stone of the dock, getting a feel for her surroundings. Sokka watches her expression carefully, looking for signs of labor pains or distress, but her face remains unreadable, even to him.

"You okay?" Sokka asks, placing his hands on her shoulders to get a closer inspection.

"Sokka, you're fussing." Toph says, a teasing smirk on her face as she swats his hands away. "I'm fine. Now, let's go!"

"Right, right." Sokka says, smiling a bit awkwardly, "Lead the way, Chief."

Once again, Toph is surprisingly quick as she walks the path up to Aang and Katara's house. Sokka follows closely behind, noting how eerily quiet the island is, no acolytes and very few animals in sight. Sokka can't help but to be reminded of the last time it was this quiet, back when Toph was injured.

He shakes away the unwelcome memory. This is not then. There are no sirens blaring in the distance, no cause for alarm. Toph is safe, right there in front of him.

Before he can think more of it, he and Toph turn the corner into the courtyard leading up to the entryway, and –

"SURPRISE!"

Sokka's eyes go wide, his hand flying up to his chest as he recovers from the startle. It takes him a moment, but he finally realizes what he's walked into.

All around him are familiar faces, ones dawned in party hats and wide smiles as they watch him stand there, baffled like an idiot. He recognizes a few people from work and his travels, his old boss and friend Akito, some of Toph's officers, even Suki and her husband, all the way from Kyoshi Island.

Zuko and Mai's presence surprises him too, but they look happy to be away from their palace as they stand next to Katara and Aang, right alongside all the kids. His nieces and nephews, the official and unofficial ones. Everyone – everyone he cares about is here, just for him.

The crowd is gathered amongst a backdrop of colorful streamers and party decorations, hung across the trees in a haphazard, yet festive way. A generous buffet table sits to the side, topped with all Sokka's favorite foods – including meat, which surprises Sokka given their location.

Just then, Momo flies up and lands on his shoulder. Poor little thing is getting old but remains so young at heart – much like Sokka himself - and he chirps his welcome into Sokka's ear before flying off, shaking him from his daze.

"What is all this?" Sokka asks the open air, genuinely surprised. "Is this all for me?"

Katara finally walks up, saving Sokka from his shock. She greets him with a hug, "Happy birthday, brother!"

Beyond touched, Sokka wipes a bead of moisture from his eyes as his sister pulls away. Collecting himself, he turns to addresses the party, "Thank you all so much for being here. I know some of you have traveled pretty far, and I can't tell you how much it means to me that you're all here today. Just, thank you."

His modesty earns a few endearing laughs, and the crowd gives a short, obligatory applause at Sokka's impromptu speech before dispersing to drink, mingle, and get the party started. Sokka will make the rounds later and thank everyone individually for coming, but right now he still hasn't quite recovered from his shock. Not to mention -

"Wait!" Sokka says, suddenly frantic, "Katara! You have to help Toph. She's in labor!"

Instead of helping, Sokka's concern is met with a set of giggles from both Katara and Toph.

"Sokka, I'm not actually in labor." Toph says, a cheeky grin on her face.

"What? But I thought-"

"Sokka," Katara says, amused by his daftness, "Whose idea do you think this party was?"

"Who-" Sokka opens his mouth to question, still confused by today's turn of events. But then his eyes fall on Toph, looking uncharacteristically bashful as she kicks at the dirt, and it finally clicks.

"Oh." Sokka says, his heart swelling, "Toph, you did this?"

Toph shrugs, clearly uncomfortable with the sudden attention, "It was nothing, really."

Despite his sister watching, Sokka chances a hug, pulling Toph into his chest (as much as her belly allows) and giving her a tight, grateful squeeze. Toph makes a show of looking annoyed, but she wraps her arms around him anyway as he whispers in her ear, "It's everything."

When he pulls away, Sokka deliberately ignores the knowing glance Katara casts his way. Instead, he focuses on his other friend, as Aang makes his way over to them.

"Happy birthday, Sokka!" Aang greets with a youthful grin, "So, were you really surprised?"

"Yeah, actually, I was." Sokka says, matching his grin, "Toph was pretty convincing."

Toph, recovered from her bashfulness and clearly very proud of herself, "Eh, piece of cake. Gave me a chance to relive my old The Runaway days. I scammed you good, didn't I?"

"You sure did." Sokka puts his arm around her shoulders and pulls her close to his side, unable to hide his affection as he kisses the top of her head, "You sure did. Thank you, Toph."

---

It's hours later that Toph stands off to the side and lets her feet take in the scenes of the party. She's feeling a little tapped out (turns out party-planning is a lot of work. Go figure.) and she nurses a glass of water to keep herself hydrated, though admittedly she wishes it were beer instead.

Spirits, she can't wait to have this baby already! Whoever said pregnancy is a miracle was full of shit. Babies, sure, Toph can get on board with believing they were mini miracles, or whatever. But pregnancy… definitely not for her.

Swallowing her silent woes, Toph shifts her focus back on the party. Most of the guests have left as evening creeps in, but the group of close friends and family that remain seem just as lively as they were at the start, despite a mostly casual setting.

Being a family-friendly party and all that, drinks are limited, and entertainment is confined mostly to eating, conversing and a few backyard games. Not the biggest rager Toph has ever been to, that's for sure, but Sokka seems to be enjoying himself, nonetheless. Toph can sense him engaged in an animated discussion with his former boss and Suki on the other side of the courtyard.

It's good to see him happy – well, okay, it's good to feel him happy. Sokka deserves to be happy more than anyone.

Briefly, Toph thinks back to the last time she was at a party for Sokka – his wedding, all those years ago, right here on the island. So much has changed since then, and while the memory elicits a sharp pang of regret, Toph also realizes how grateful she is that Sokka is back where he belongs. Here with his family again, with her. And he's happy.

And for once, she can actually take some credit for a shred of that happiness. He's been through so much in the past few years, and Toph doesn't overlook the fact that a lot of what he's been through is because of her, so she's glad she can at least give him this.

She feels a little guilty about her whole baby-delivery rouse, but Sokka did always appreciate theatrics. Faking the birth seemed like a good way to distract him from any suspicion, and hey, it worked.

Still, the strange tightness brewing in her lower abdomen and back feels like a slap on the wrist. Katara warned her during her first pregnancy that she might experience "false" contractions leading up to her delivery date. Surely that must be what this is, since she's not due for another week, but it's surprisingly realistic.

Before she can focus too much on the pain, she feels the oh-so-regal presence of Zuko walking over to her.

Even in a casual setting, his movements are precise and controlled, that of someone who's well-rehearsed in royalty. His steps are graceful and elegant, fitting for a Firelord, and Toph feels a brief flicker of envy. It's hard to believe there once was a time when he had relationship problems too. He's so sure of himself now - of his role as a leader, as a partner and father - and Toph can't help but feel a twinge of resentment at the fact that she no longer relates to him quite like she used to.

But that raises the question: does she have relationship problems?

She certainly did, not too long ago, but her relationship with Sokka is better than it has been in a long time…. or, err, her friendship with Sokka. They've been spending more and more time together lately, and Toph is grateful that things are starting to feel like old times between them, like back to before things got so complicated.

Of course, there's a part of Toph that wants nothing more than to take their friendship further again, but they both have an understanding that, for many reasons, now is not the right time. Even if it was, Toph likes this easy, uncomplicated version of them, and she's not quite sure she's ready to mess that up.

Perhaps her only real relationship problem is that she's just not ready to be in one.

"Never thought I'd see the day that Toph Beifong throws a surprise party." Zuko greets, breaking Toph from her reverie.

"Why not?" Toph shrugs, neutrally, "I like to party."

"Sure," Zuko mirrors Toph's shrug as he stands beside her, shoulder to shoulder. He holds a drink in hand, though it's kept discreetly hidden by his sleeve. That's another thing that's changed. Even among friends, appearances matter more than they once did. Zuko takes a graceful sip, then says, "But you're usually crashing them, not throwing them."

"Well, I just had the idea." Toph kicks at a pebble on the ground, distracting herself. She suddenly feels a bit embarrassed, though she's not sure why. "Katara took control of most of the details. You know how she is."

"Sure," Zuko takes another sip of his drink, clearly not buying into Toph's deflection. "Still. I was surprised."

"Well, it's for Sokka," again, Toph shrugs, "I'd do anything for him, even throw him this stupid surprise party."

A moment passes. Zuko nods his head. Another sip. Then, "Would you do anything?"

Toph narrows her eyes, her skin prickling with a familiar itch of defense. She somehow knew this was coming, and while Zuko's surrogate older brother routine doesn't exactly come as a surprise, it does sour her otherwise (relatively) good mood.

Even on the defense, Toph keeps her tone level. If Zuko can play coy, then so can she, "What's that supposed to mean? Of course, I would."

Zuko scoffs, dropping his pretense and suddenly sounding far less regal, "Come on, Toph. I know you're blind, but surely even you can see it."

"Spare me the clichés and cut to the chase, Zuko." Toph says, not bothering to hide her irritation now, "See what?"

"Sokka." Zuko says, his voice quieting down to a whisper, despite there being no one in earshot, "Do you really think he gives a fuck about surprise parties?"

"Wow, not very proper of you to swear now, is it, your grace?" Toph jabs, bitterly. With a sardonic scoff she adds, "So now I'm a bad person for throwing my friend a birthday party? I can't win, can I? Fuck off, Zuko."

"Toph, of course it was very thoughtful of you to do this for him." Zuko looks out at the scene in front of him, dimly lit past sunset. Kids play on Appa, adults are talk and laugh, and Sokka wears the biggest smile of all of them. On the surface, it's one of the nicest things Toph has done. But still, "You know that's not what I meant."

Toph doesn't respond, opting to pout in silence instead with her arms crossed petulantly above her chest. Perhaps it's a bit childish of her, and admittedly, she hopes that no one is looking over at them right now to see how immature she probably looks.

She and Zuko stew in silence for a moment, though Zuko seems annoyingly unbothered by it. Again, Toph can't help but envy her friend's ability to stay poised and calm, and she almost misses the days when he was a hot-headed, angry teenager hunting them down and not her older and wiser, world-leader of a friend. She's normally pretty good at appearing cool and collected herself. Though, based on her track record, not when it involves Sokka.

"You know, Aang mentioned that you offered to pay for all the furniture in Sokka's apartment." Zuko notes, seemingly switching the subject, "He also said that you gave a more than generous donation to Sokka's campaign too. Now you throw him this party?"

"Hey!" Toph half-whispers, defensively, "I told Aang that in confidence. That donation was made anonymously. Not even Sokka knows about it, so it shouldn't have any effect on public opinion or whatever - good or bad - so you can quit your worrying. Sokka is going to win."

"No, Toph. You're missing the point. It's not about politics or being a bad person or any of that crap." Zuko says, matter of fact, "Toph, I know you're not exactly worried about money, but since when did you become such a big spender?"

"So now you're worried about my spending habits?" Toph says, unimpressed.

"It's not what you're spending," Zuko says, voicing what Toph already knows, "It's who you're spending it all on."

Before she can stop herself, Toph admits, "Well how else can I repay him?"

"Repay him for what?" Zuko asks, meaningfully.

Her anger deflating into quiet sorrow, without much thought, Toph's hand falls to her belly. "Where do I even begin?"

Zuko nods, considering for a moment, "Well, I can't pretend to know everything that's happened between you two, but I do know that Sokka doesn't need expensive furniture or surprise parties to be happy. You think he sticks around because he's obligated to? No, it's because he wants to."

"I know that." Toph grumbles, unconvincingly.

"Do you?"

Toph sounds a relenting sigh, "I've made so many mistakes, Zuko."

"And he's forgiven you, Toph." Zuko touches her shoulder, encouragingly, "But you need to forgive yourself."

"Ugh," Toph says, rolling her eyes to disguise the moisture in them, "Now you're starting to sound like Mr. and Mrs. Avatar."

"Don't change the subject." Zuko says, a hit of a smile in his voice.

"It's just… he deserves so much more, you know?" Toph says, unable to stop her word vomit, "Yet for every reason he has to leave, he sticks around anyway. He's just been there every step of the way, and I know buying him gifts and throwing him parties isn't enough to repay him for all he's sacrificed, but… I don't know what else I can offer him right now, and I want to give him at least something he deserves."

"Toph," Zuko says, incredulously, "You act like Sokka is just some guy, like Saturo, or Kanto even."

"Saturo and Kanto weren't just 'some guys' either," Toph tries to argue, feeling the need to defend her past relationships, though even she hears how hollow it sounds.

"Perhaps. But even if that's true, no guy has ever measured up to what Sokka is to you. Sokka's not just your friend, or even your ex. He's family.

"And if there's one thing I've learned about family, it's that true family stays by your side, even after you've put each other through hell," fondly, and a bit self-deprecatory, Zuko adds, "Just ask my uncle."

Toph offers her own small, sad laugh in response, "If only it were that simple."

"I don't get it." Zuko says, urgently, "What about you is so unworthy? The mistakes you've made? You and I both know that's bullshit, Toph. Sure, you've made mistakes, but we all have. You're the only one who's intent on holding on to them."

Toph takes a moment to consider this, finding it hard to argue. All of what he's saying makes sense, and all of it, deep down, she's already aware of. She knows Sokka has forgiven her, and she knows that despite their mutual agreement to keep romance of the table for now, it's really her who ultimately needs to give the greenlight.

"Look, you want to repay him?" Zuko says, after a minute of silence, "Fine. How about giving Sokka what he really wants?"

"And what's that?" Toph asks, resigned.

"Come on, Toph. You're a lot of things, but you've never been stupid."

"Gee, thanks."

Zuko continues, "All he wants is you, obviously. To be a part of your family. And I think you want that too."

"He has me." Toph says, puffing her chest, assuredly, "We are family. You said it yourself."

"You know what I meant, Toph." He says, not indulging her stubbornness, "What are you so afraid of?"

Perhaps if it were a year ago, she would have told Zuko to get lost. She's not afraid of anything. But… that was before Sokka came back. Before she was pregnant again and before she was attacked.

Now though, as her skin still itches with phantom pain, as her brain still mimics the shockwaves of lightening, and as Yakone's never-ending imminence hangs above her head, she's reminded of just how afraid she is.

Besides that, she's always been afraid of Sokka. Well, not of him, but of losing him. She's afraid of losing anyone in her family, of course. But aside from her daughter, she'd be lying if she said she wasn't more worried about losing Sokka.

From that moment on the back of airship – his grip on hers anchoring her not just to the ship but to life itself – she's been afraid of losing him. He was always important to her, but that moment cemented them in something deeper, and that fear transitioned from friendship into something else entirely. Something so intoxicatingly beautiful, yet innately delicate.

Well, fragility has never been Toph's specialty. She may be precise, but she's also blunt and brute. How could she not fear breaking something so delicate?

And she's already broken it once. She's made so many mistakes, and there are moments when she's still not sure she deserves Sokka. In fact, she's pretty sure she doesn't. He's given her so much. His time. His love. His forgiveness. It's clear he wants more, and fuck does Toph want more too. But how long will it be before the rug slips out from under her feet? What if she hurts him again? What if he hurts her? What if they get too close and he's taken from her?

These are all thoughts that scare her, but they're things she's been trying to work on ever since Sokka came back home. They're wounds she's working to lick, and she knows that in time, even if there are scars leftover, she'll be ready to face all those what-ifs that she's so damn afraid of.

But a thought that also scares her, more than she'd care to admit… what if it's perfect? What if it's everything she's wanted and more. What then?

Toph is silent for a long moment as she thinks over Zuko's question. What is she so afraid of? She closes her eyes, surprised by the emotion in her voice as she admits, "All of it."

Zuko nods, offering up an empathetic sigh. Then, after a pause, "I'm sorry. It's not my place to push. And look, it's okay if you're not ready. You've both been through so much, and I'm glad you're taking the time you need to heal. Just, do me a favor?"

"What?" Toph asks, hesitantly.

Zuko grasps her shoulder once more, urgently, "Don't feel like you have to compensate for something in the meantime, okay? To me, to Aang and Katara, to your daughter and to Sokka, to the people that count, you're already enough."

Toph is surprised by the intake of her own breath, Zuko's words a punch to the gut. She hadn't been able to put words to her feelings, or reasons to her actions, but "compensating" seems to fit well. She wants more than anything to make up for her mistakes, and to prove that she's worthy of the love she's been so unconditionally given.

Before Toph has the chance to respond – though, she's not even sure how to respond - she can sense a few pairs of familiar feet approaching. Sokka, Suki, Katara, and Aang make their way over to them, and thankfully Zuko has the good sense to keep his mouth shut as Toph composes herself, wiping swiftly at her eyes with the back of her wrist.

"Toph," Sokka says, as he notices the strange, watery look on her face, "Everything okay?"

"Yeah, yeah," Toph shrugs off his concern, searching for an excuse, "Just pregnancy hormones and all that."

As if on cue, that painful tightness in her lower abdomen – or maybe even lower – returns, taunting her. Not wanting to ruin the mood of Sokka's birthday, she masks the discomfort with an impressively convincing smile, hoping no one notices.

Despite her acting skills, Sokka doesn't seem too convinced as he stares at her from across the impromptu huddle of old friends. Toph gets the sense he has more to say, but perhaps he knows better than to say it with an audience.

"Great party, guys!" Suki slings her arm around Toph's shoulder, "It's so great to have everyone back together again, isn't it?"

There's a murmur of agreement amongst the six of them as the conversation flows into other topics, and Toph can't help but to join in. Despite all her internal woes, it is quite special to have all of them in one place again.

They're all a bit older and perhaps a bit wiser, but around each other it's easy to revert to how they once were. It's easy to feel young again. Being with this group takes Toph back – back to stupid jokes, crazy adventures, and innocent crushes. Back to simpler times. Ha! Mentally, she can't help but laugh at the irony. Is she really calling what they went through during the war simple compared to her love life? Maybe she is. Either way, Toph decides to indulge herself and allows a moment to feel like a kid again.

"Hey, Toph," Aang starts to ask, "Lin asked me earlier if she can sleep over one more night and I said I would check with you. Is that okay?"

Toph smirks, ignoring another wave of pain in her lower back and abdomen. Spirits, that one hurt. Clearing her throat, "You know, Lin is absolutely taken with you these days, Twinkletoes. Sounds like you've officially won the title of 'favorite uncle.'"

"Hey!" Both Sokka and Zuko say, clearly offended.

Toph hears the bashful sound of Aang scratching his head, not wanting to slight anyone, "Uh, I think it's more like she's taken with Tenzin, if I'm being honest."

"Tenzin!?" Sokka steps in, no less offended, "They're both only like, six years old! Little 'mini you' better not be getting any ideas."

The others laugh at his expense, and Toph also finds herself stifling a giggle, then a groan of pain as another tight feeling clenches below her belly. She hides her pain behind a tight smile, not wanting to worry the others.

But apparently, her mask doesn't fool everyone. Suki, ever so observant at her side, quietly asks, "Hey, you okay?"

"Yeah," Toph whispers back, "Just some cramps. Nothing to worry about."

"Easy there, brother," Katara says to Sokka, not catching on to Toph and Suki's side discussion, "We still have some years left before their hormones kick in."

"Well, there better be." Sokka says, clearly trying to sound tough as he crosses his arms over his chest. Despite sounding more petulant than macho, Toph can't help but find his protectives for Lin to be quite endearing.

"Anyway," Toph says, addressing Aang and Katara, "Are you sure it's cool for her to stay over again? I wouldn't want her to overstay-"

"Don't be silly, Toph," Katara interrupts, a familiar and warm hand finding Toph's arm, "Lin is family, just like you. Neither one of you could ever overstay."

"Thanks, Sweetness." Toph says, touched by her friend's sincerity. Her fondness is quickly overridden by another onset of cramps. It's a quick one, but Toph doesn't want to stand around waiting for the next one, "Actually, I'm getting pretty tired. I think I might head home soon."

"No problem," Katara says, and Toph grows wary of the sudden mischief in her tone, "But I don't want you going home alone while you're this pregnant. Sokka can take you!"

"What?" Toph says, willing the blush to stay off her cheeks, "Katara, you know that whole getting Sokka to walk me here thing was just a rouse for the surprise, right? I don't actually need an escort."

"Nonsense," Suki interrupts, and even her voice holds a twinge of scheme. "Even tough ladies like you shouldn't be walking that far by yourself while you're this pregnant."

"I agree," Zuko says, matching their conspiracy. So much for not pushing. "I wouldn't let Mai go anywhere by herself when she was this far along. Sokka should take you home."

"Pfft, fine! Whatever." Toph relents, not having the patience to argue right now, "But it's Sokka's birthday. He should stay and enjoy the rest of his night, not babysit some pregnant lady."

"I don't mind, Toph. I'll walk you home. It's getting kind of late anyway." Sokka shrugs, clearly not understanding why it's such a big deal. Truthfully, Toph isn't quite sure either, other than the fact that the rest of "the gaang" are clearly intent on making it one.

"Appa and I can take her." Aang chimes in, cheerful and clueless, despite normally being pretty good at schemes. Katara give him a meaningful nudge. "Oh, right. Uhh. Actually, I just remembered, Appa can't fly right now. He's uh… sick from all…. the birthday cake?"

There's an awkward pause as Aang's not-so-subtle attempt at an excuse teeters out into silence, and Toph can practically sense the rest of them hold back their collective groans.

"Right." Toph deadpans. She can sense Sokka shift uncomfortably on his feet, finally catching on to the matchmaking game their friends are trying to play. Subtlety is clearly not their specialty.

"Well, since these four idiots clearly want us to leave together," Toph turns in Sokka's direction, keen on making her friends feel more embarrassed than she is, "Shall we?"

Sokka smiles as he loops his arm through hers, ignoring the self-satisfied expressions watching them, "We shall."

---

Sokka can't keep the smile from his face as he walks down the streets of Republic City, Toph alongside him. The springtime air is unusually warm for this time of year, even with the sun long gone, and Sokka welcomes the balmy breeze to his cheeks. It's not a far a walk from the docks to Toph's place, but they must have silently agreed to take the long way, as they somehow end up strolling through a street fair that's in the complete opposite direction.

Sokka can't help but notice that it's rather romantic. Lanterns strung across the aisles, live music in the background and various carnival games and boutique sellers strewn about. The rich, sweet smell of fried dough lingers in the air, and even though he's stuffed from all birthday cake he's already had today, Sokka licks his lips in delight.

"What is this? I didn't know there was a festival this time of year." Toph says, clearly enjoying it just as much as he is.

Sokka snags a pamphlet off a nearby stall as they pass by, "Apparently it's new as of this year," Sokka says, skimming the pamphlet and reading aloud, "'Suyin's First Annual Springtime Festival. Celebrating the fresh starts, second chances and rebirth that springtime brings.' Hmm, nice."

"Suyin, huh?" Toph purses her lips, impressed, "Well, I don't know who this Suyin lady is, but she sure knows how to throw a good festival, I'll give her that."

"I'll say!" Sokka agrees, grinning like a schoolboy as they pass by the various carnival games.

Toph's hand accidentally brushes against his as they stroll through the crowds, and Sokka wants nothing more than to reach out and take it in his. But, they're in public, and despite their best efforts, it's hard to keep a low profile here in the city. He doesn't miss the recognition in the faces of people passing them, and all it would take is someone seeing Toph's hand in his to spark more baby daddy rumors. He's sure just them being at the festival together will make the tabloids, but for now, he pushes the thought from his mind.

He's having such a good time, and after telling Toph not to let Yakone ruin her day, he'd be a bit of hypocrite if he let silly gossip columns ruin his.

"Hey, Toph," Sokka starts, "You know I really appreciate everything you did for me today, right?"

Sokka doesn't miss the blush on her cheeks, even as she ducks her head to try and hide it, "I know. I'm glad you enjoyed yourself. You did, right? Enjoy yourself, I mean."

"Are you kidding!?" Sokka claps his hands together, excitedly, "Toph, this is the best birthday I've had in years. Perhaps ever!"

"Really?" Toph says, her hesitation widening into a genuine smile.

"Absolutely," Sokka nudges her shoulder, feeling bold, "And it would have been nothing without you."

Toph nudges his side in return, not bothering to hide her blush this time as they continue down the festival aisles. A distant, cloudy memory of a festival they went to as teens flashes in Sokka's mind. They were so young and innocent then. Just friends and nothing more, yet he remembers winning her stuffed plushies and sharing sweets like young lovers often do. Oh, how sweet it was.

That's one of the mistakes they made the first time around. While they certainly blurred that line between friendship and romance, they never quite managed to cross it – at least not in a way that was explicitly stated. Who they were in the streets and who they were in the sheets were two separate entities, at least on paper, and Sokka doesn't want to make the same mistake twice.

The thought inspires him, and Sokka makes a mental note promising himself that when he and Toph are finally together, he's going to take her out on all the dates they should have had when they were young, twenty-somethings secretly in love.

It's only after they've left the festival a little while later and are away from the crowds that Sokka breaks their comfortable silence, remembering something from earlier, "Hey, before we left the party, you seemed a bit upset. Is everything okay?"

Toph looks momentarily surprised by his question, and Sokka can tell he's caught her lost in thought, just like earlier today, "Uh, yeah. Everything is fine."

Sokka, with a skeptical brow, "You sure? Zuko didn't say anything to you, did he? You know…" swallowing his nerves, "About us?"

"Uh…" Toph opens her mouth, clearly not sure how much she wants to share, "He might have, yeah."

Sokka nods, not at all surprised by their meddling friends. He appreciates that their friends care, and he can see where they're coming from, but for once, Sokka feels like they're on the right path. Whatever good intentions their friends have might do more harm to their progress than good.

"Well, it's none of his business," Sokka assures her, the itch to grab her hand suddenly unbearable. He resists, cracking his knuckles to keep his hand busy instead, "We're taking our time, right? We're on the same page?"

"Sokka, if I tell you something, do you promise not to freak out?" Toph asks, biting her lip.

"What?" Sokka asks, his heart leaping to his throat. Is she about to tell him that she's ready for more? Despite his owns words just a few seconds ago, he can't help the hope that wells in his chest. Is this finally their moment?

But instead, "Someone is following us."

"Huh?" Sokka blinks, caught off guard by the change in subject. Blinking again, Toph's words register, and Sokka heart beats fast again. He peers behind his shoulder, searching for the source of Toph's concern, but the street is dimly lit and it's hard to make out anyone on their tail, "Who? Following how?"

"I'm not sure, but they've been following us since we left the festival."

"Fuck, I don't have my weapons with me." Sokka says, trying not to drop into full panic mode. They're only a few blocks away from Toph's apartment, maybe they can make it there, "You think we can waddle away fast enough to lose them?"

She elbows his ribs, pouting, "I don't want to waddle, I want to find out what this person wants."

"What!?" Sokka rubs the sore spot on his ribs, "You want to confront them? No offense, Toph, but you're not exactly in tip-top fighting shape right now. Remember what happened the last time someone followed you?"

"Of course, I remember." Toph says, her stubbornness cast with a shadow of doubt, "But that's no excuse for being a wuss now. I'm sick of hiding."

"Hey, you don't hide. You've made a lot of progress in the past few months," Sokka points out, trying not to coddle too much, "Come on, Toph. You're about to have a baby. Maybe now's not the time to be brave."

"Sounds like the perfect time to be brave if you ask me." Abruptly, Toph stops walking and turns in his direction, "For all we know, it could be nothing. Maybe someone just wants our autographs, which is stupid of course, but not a crime."

"And if it is something? If it's another one of Yakone's 'messengers'? Then what?" Sokka takes another involuntary glance over his shoulder, but again, he doesn't see anything out of the ordinary, "What if someone wants to harm you… or the baby?"

"Maybe you're afraid they want to harm you." Toph smirks, teasingly.

"Toph, be serious," Sokka says, suddenly not in the mood to feel amused, "I just want to keep you guys safe."

"I know." Toph says, offering a small, apologetic smile in response, "And listen, if is something … well, I may be too pregnant to fight as good as I normally do… but I have you by my side."

"I don't have my weapons, though," Sokka says again, still not comfortable with the risk she's suggesting, "You really trust that it'll be okay?"

"I trust you." Toph offers another smirk, though it's more bashful than teasing, "Haven't let me down yet. Do you trust me?"

"Of course, I do." Sokka says, not even having to think.

"Good." Toph smiles at him. A simple, yet meaningful reassurance.

Sokka's touched by Toph's affection, but truthfully, he remains a little hesitant to confront whoever this person is that's following them. It's probably nothing, but it could be something, and the older Sokka gets – despite feeling young at heart - the less he likes to gamble, especially with Toph's life.

Still, he does – somewhat begrudgingly, in this case – trust Toph, and it's a testament to how much progress she's made regarding her PTSD that she's willing to take a risk, so maybe he should be willing to take one too.

"Okay. So, what's the plan? Lure them into an alleyway for an ambush? Sneak attack? I've gotten better at it." Sokka starts to raise his arm for a demonstration of his skills, but Toph beats him to it.

"No need," she says, calmly, "She's approaching us now."

"She?" Sokka asks, just as the woman in question comes into view.

The woman turns the street corner, and she hesitates only for a moment as she notices them waiting for her. She slows her steps, but she continues her gait towards them while taking nervous glances at their surroundings.

Sokka takes quick note of her appearance. She looks pretty harmless, though Sokka knows that looks can be deceiving. She's dressed in a simple tunic and pants set, and has a small, though bulky tote bag slung over her shoulder. She looks to be around their age, maybe a little bit older, with a few grey hairs, and wrinkles at her eyes. Aside from the fact that she was following them, she looks utterly normal to Sokka.

Still, that doesn't stop him from stepping between her and Toph as she gets closer. Protectively, "What do want?"

"Please," the woman halts her steps as she notices Sokka's defensive stance, "I don't mean any harm."

"Then why are you following us?" Sokka asks, still not convinced.

"I just want to talk." The woman says, taking a hesitant step forward. "Please, it's important."

She seems genuine, but Sokka turns his head to look back at Toph, wondering if she's picking up on any deceit that he can't see. But the look on her face is one he's rarely seen – a strange mix of confusion and… recognition?

"Wait," Toph says, stepping around Sokka and closer to the woman, "I know you."

"You do?" Sokka asks, not dropping his defensive stance just yet.

"Yes." Toph takes another step closer, a hint of awe in her voice.

"I didn't think you'd remember." the woman says, and Sokka can't tell whether she sounds relieved or nervous.

"I never forget a voice." Toph says. Another step forward.

"It's been over ten years."

"Doesn't matter." Toph says, adamantly, "I've never forgotten that day."

"Me neither." The woman says, her smirk a strange contrast to her somber tone.

"The baby?" Toph asks, hesitantly. "Is it…?"

"Safe? Yes. A boy." The woman answers, the crow's feet at her eyes wrinkling with a smile, "His name is Sang. He's ten now, almost eleven. He's my joy."

"Wait, what are you doing here?" Toph asks in a rush, her voice morphing from awe to panic, "You and your husband were supposed to get out of the city, remember?"

"Wait, wait, wait." Sokka shakes his head, confused as he interrupts, "Who is this woman? How do you know her? What baby? What's going on?"

Toph opens her mouth to answer, but the woman beats her too it, "Chief Beifong saved my baby's life. Not to mention the lives of me and husband."

"Oh. I see." says Sokka, still more than a little perplexed.

"This is Ainu." Toph explains, picking up on Sokka's confusion, "She and her husband were once held captive by one of Yakone's men. The guy was about to hurt them… and their unborn baby," Toph pauses, and Sokka notes the pain in her expression as a memory flashes across her eyes. Somberly, she adds, "I stopped him."

Sokka nods his head, the story jogging his memory and the details of that day slowly coming back to him. He remembers now, vaguely at least. It was the first time Toph had had to kill someone with her bending. He also remembers what transpired afterwards, with Toph marching into his office and kissing him like her life depended on it, then crying on his shoulder afterwards, mourning what felt like the loss of her morality. How could he forget.

"She's also the one who first told me about Yakone." Toph adds before turning back to Ainu, "I suppose you've heard about everything that's happened since?"

"Yes." Ainu says, "That's actually why I'm here."

"Really? Why?" Toph asks, urgent once more, "Did something happen? Is your family okay?"

"Yes, yes!" Ainu smiles as she pacifies Toph, clearly amused by her intensity. "They're fine, they're safe. At least, they are for now."

Another beat passes before Sokka breaks it, slightly impatient, "Okay, so why are you here?"

Ainu takes a conscious inhale, bracing herself, "After what happened that day… For a long time, I lived in fear that Yakone would come find me and my family and," she pauses, her voice breaking, "I lived so much of my life hiding away in fear. I became a coward while Yakone continued to torment the place I had thought of as home for so long.

"And in that fear, I needed to keep an eye on him, so I kept up with the news." Ainu takes another pause, this time with a slight smile, "Do you want to know what I saw?"

"What?" Toph says, hard and tentative all at once.

"I saw you, Chief. Behind every gruesome, horrific, and despicable thing that Yakone did, I saw you there working to figure it out."

Toph's face falls, inwardly, "And you saw how many times I failed."

"No." Ainu says, firmly, "I saw how you never gave up. No matter what was thrown at you, no matter how impossible it seemed, you never stopped fighting."

Toph's head perks up, though she remains hesitant, "I was just doing my job."

Ainu offers a short, fond laugh, "You said that on the day you saved us too. I'll never forget.

"But I think it's more than that. Other people would have thrown in the towel by now, but you keep going. And whatever it is that keeps you fighting, you inspired me to want to fight too."

Sokka allows a small, prideful smile grace his lips as he watches the scene play out in front of him. Whoever this woman is, she's voicing exactly what Sokka's been trying to tell Toph all these years. He supposes sometimes it takes hearing something from an unbiased source for the words to click. Either way, Sokka is glad she's getting the recognition she deserves.

A moment passes, and it's clear that Toph is too stunned by the praise to speak, so Sokka takes over, "What do you mean? Fight how?"

Ainu shifts her gaze towards him, "I think I have some information that might help."

Sokka feels an involuntary twinge of hope rise to chest, but he quickly swallows it down. Better to err on the side of caution, "What kind of information?"

"The kind of information that can help put Yakone away behind bars, for good."

Sokka's eyes widen on instinct, and that seed of hope in his chest threatens to sprout even higher. Once again, he does his best to weed it away. He knows better than to let himself get his hopes up, and a quick glance at Toph tells him she's trying to do the same.

A pause looms in the air, neither Toph nor Sokka knowing what to say. As much as they're both trying to keep their hope at bay, it's clear that they're also not quite ready to let it go.

Ainu continues, now addressing Toph, "I told you that day that Yakone is a bloodbender."

"Yes, he told me that himself." Toph clears her throat, that tentative ounce of hope slipping away. "But that's not enough."

But then, "What if I told you he doesn't need a full moon to do it."

Another pause, and Sokka's acutely aware of his heartbeat, loudly drumming in his ears.

"What? That's insane." Toph shakes her head, back to sounding skeptical.

Sokka intervenes, "I think what Toph is trying to say is that we have considered it, but it's impossible."

"Why?" Ainu counters, "Because it's never been done before?"

"Exactly." Toph says, failing to hide her frustration.

"Chief Beifong," Ainu takes a step forward, "Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't metalbending considered impossible too? You should know better than anyone that nothing is impossible."

Toph's eyes are thoughtful as she appears to consider Ainu's point. Sokka can tell from her rigid stance and careful expression that Toph is trying to come up with a counterargument - again, not wanting to let herself hope – but Sokka can also see that she's struggling to find one.

"I don't know, Toph. It would explain a lot." Sokka says, before he can stop himself. "And hey, remember Combustion Man? If someone can cause explosions with their mind, what's so crazy about the possibility that Yakone can bloodbend at will?"

"I understand, and it's not like I haven't thought of it before," Toph says, frustrated and desperate all at once, "But that still doesn't help us. Even if it is possible, the problem is we don't have enough evidence to back it up, remember? It doesn't matter if he bloodbends with a full moon or without one, or if he somehow conjures up some magical, fire-breathing platypus-bear with giant wings to carry out all his crimes. If there's no proof, there's no proof!"

Sokka sighs before turning back to Ainu, "Toph's right. Like I said, we've considered the possibility of Yakone bloodbending without a full moon before, but without proof, your confirmation gives us zilch. Thank you for trying, though."

"Well," Ainu says, undeterred, "What about witness testimony?"

"Well, yes, that would definitely help," Sokka says, considering, "But not enough witnesses are willing to come forward. You know yourself that Yakone's threats are a pretty strong incentive for silence."

Without any further response, Ainu makes a move to dig through her bag. Sokka watches curiously and Toph remains silent as Ainu pulls out a thick folder of some sort before wordlessly extending it out to Sokka.

Tentatively, Sokka takes the folder, inspecting the outside. It's rather plain looking and somewhat worn, the edges frayed and the outline of a coffee mug staining one side. There's no writing on either side to indicate the folder's contents, so Sokka asks, skeptically, "What is this?"

"Written accounts of just some the horrors Yakone has inflicted with his crimes, and a list of names of people willing to back them up in court." Ainu says, determinedly, "Including mine."

Both Sokka and Toph intake a sharp breath, the words taking more than a second to process. Could it really be? No, it's too good to be true, right?

Even as Sokka opens the folder and skims through its contents, finding exactly what Ainu described, he can scarce believe it. Still in shock, he says, "There's… there's dozens of names on here."

"It is enough?" asks Ainu, worriedly.

Sokka doesn't respond, too stunned to speak as he continues to flip through the folder. After a beat too long of silence, it's Toph who questions, her voice hesitant, yet hopeful, "Sokka?"

"It's…" Sokka releases a short, dumbfounded laugh, "It's more than enough. I… I don't understand. How did convince so many people? We could never-"

"With all due respect," Ainu interrupts, "These people aren't stupid. They know that the council and police are being carefully watched. No one was just going to walk all willy-nilly into the station and risk being seen, and still, no one would be willing to stand up in court and risk it if Yakone got acquitted.

"But like I said… Toph's persistence inspired me. It took a long time - years, even - and it took a lot of convincing. But the more names that were willing to come forward, the less afraid people were becoming, and after what Yakone did Chief Beifong… well, I didn't even have to look for people willing to come forward, they started coming to me."

"Why though?" Toph says, unable to mask her wonder, "People's lives were uprooted, their families destroyed. I'm… I'm just a cop. Why would anyone care what happens to me?"

Sokka frowns at Toph's disbelief that anyone would care about her, but Ainu speaks before he can chime in, "It's not just my respect that you have, Chief. And I'm not the only one who's seen the lengths you've gone to protect this city. People are fed up, Chief."

Toph nods her acceptance of Ainu's explanation, though she's still clearly amazed.

Sokka is amazed too, but more by the turn of events and less by people's devotion to Toph (after all, he can relate). He moves to carefully tuck the folder of evidence into Toph's baby bag which he happens to be carrying. Politely, Sokka checks with Ainu, "Can I take this?"

"Yes, please, take it. But what happens now?" Ainu says, "These people are willing to come forward, but it's still incredibly dangerous until Yakone and his men are put away. I promised they'd be safe if I gave this to you."

"Right," Toph nods her head, Ainu's concern sparking her into action, "Don't you worry, I won't let anything happen to you or to anyone else. I know you're probably anxious to get Yakone put away, and believe me, I am too, but we have to do this smartly. Yakone doesn't know we this information on him, and for now, I'd like to keep in that way."

"Seriously?" Sokka asks, incredulously, "Shouldn't we take this right to courthouse?"

"The courts? You mean the ones that keep letting Yakone go?" Toph says, resentfully, "I don't care that there hasn't been 'enough' evidence in previous trials. Everyone knows what Yakone is, including the judges that let Yakone walk free.

"I don't trust them." Toph crosses her arms, stubbornly, "And frankly, knowing Yakone's influence around her, there's not many people I do trust."

Sokka nods his agreement, admitting that Toph does have a point. Even so, it's Ainu who voices his next concern.

"So, if you're not going to take this to the courts, what are you going to do?" she asks, worried.

Toph takes a deep breath – one of fear, one of relief, and one of resolve, "I'm going to take it to the council."

Sokka blinks. He senses where she's going with this, but for now he stays silent.

"Really?" Ainu asks, "You can do that? That's great!"

"You didn't let me finish," Toph stops her, "I'm going to take it to the council, but only after Sokka wins his seat back."

"Toph," Sokka says, carefully, "That's withholding evidence. Plus, that's months away, and we don't even know if I'll win."

"You will." Toph says, firmly, "And I know it's not playing by the rules, but fuck it. I've played by the rules this whole time and where has it gotten us? Look, I know it's not ideal, but I'm sorry, there's no one else I trust to get this done."

Now it's Sokka who takes a deep, stunned breath. After all this time and all they've been through together, her unbreakable faith in him still astonishes him. Aside from that, again, Sokka can't help but agree with her. Her idea might not be strictly legal, but it is the best chance they have at getting the job done. The sooner they get it done, the sooner the city will be safe… and selfishly, the sooner Toph will be ready to be together.

Sokka turns to Ainu, trying not to push, "You're the one taking the chance here. Is this okay with you?"

Ainu doesn't hesitate, "Frankly, this is better than I could have hoped for. I have faith in the two of you."

"Good." Toph affirms, a smile finally finding her cheeks, "Then we're all in agreement. Until Sokka and I are back in the field, we'll keep this under wraps. For now, Ainu, make sure you stay safe."

"I will. My information is in the folder if you need to reach me." Ainu nods, her eyes shifting to Toph's belly, "And you stay safe too. Congratulations, by the way."

A blush finds its way onto Toph's cheeks, "Uh, thank you."

"You're the father?" Ainu asks, turning to Sokka.

Sokka blinks, caught off guard by the question. Despite the various tabloids speculating about his involvement in Toph's personal life, no one has actually asked him point blank if he was the father. And up to this point, he's been glad. Not that he wouldn't know what to say. Of course, he knows what he should say. For various reasons – to preserve Toph's privacy, to avoid political scandal, and really just to tell the truth – he should say no.

So, it surprises even himself, when he answers with a simple, "Yes."

"Good. Keep them safe." Ainu says, bidding one last farewell nod before turning to leave down the street, disappearing into the night.

"I will." Sokka whispers to himself once Ainu is already gone.

Smiling, as the events of the last few minutes hit him once more, Sokka turns to look back at his companion, "Toph, can you believe-"

But Toph is not smiling. Far from it.

"What the hell was that?" She says, her voice low and steady.

"What do you mean?" Sokka says, risking a step closer.

Toph opens her mouth, incredulously. She takes a step back, hands on her hips, and Sokka knows he's in trouble, "You… you just told her you were the father. Why would you say that?"

Sokka shrugs, not sure what to say, "I don't know. Why does it matter?"

"It matters," Toph says, her voice rising just a hair, harsher than she probably intends, "Because you're not the father."

Sokka winces, though his own voice grows in strength, "I know that, Toph. I know. I just… I know I'm not the kid's biological dad, but that doesn't mean I can't be… I don't know, a fatherly presence in its life."

"And who you gave you permission to do that!" Toph bursts, quite suddenly.

But Sokka doesn't back down. Instead, anger starts to creep up, and he has trouble containing his own outburst.

"Excuse me? Where have you been, Toph? Where have I been the last several months. Right there," Sokka takes a move out of Toph's book and gets up in her space, poking her right in the chest, "Right by yours and Lin's side. Where have I always been!?

"I know we have a complicated history, but I thought we were moving past that." Less angry, but still earnest, "And I know I was gone for a while, but I'll damned if I make that same mistake again. I'm not leaving again, Toph. I'm just here to help you."

"And who says I need your help?" Toph swats his hand away from her chest as she takes a step back. Her voice is firm, but Sokka hears the emotion – the vulnerability – behind it.

"Toph," Sokka lowers his own voice as he closes the gap between them, gently grabbing the sides of her arms, "Don't you know by now that whether or not you need my help, I'm going to be there anyway."

Toph's own anger deflates, though her emotion doesn't. Beseechingly, "Why?"

Sokka takes a moment to smile, albeit a small, sad one. After all this time, Toph still doesn't get it. Sokka tucks a piece of Toph's fringe behind her ear, peering into her milky eyes. Simply, he tells her, "Because I want to be."

She releases an unsteady breath, clearly shaken by his words, but she still looks concerned.

After a moment of soothingly rubbing her arms, Sokka asks, "Toph, talk to me. I know I'm not the baby's father, okay. I know that. But why are you so upset?"

"Because!" Toph bursts again, though she doesn't sound angry, at least not at him. Instead, she sounds pleading, desperate, "I wish you were!"

Not for the first time today, Sokka blinks back his surprise, his mouth agape. Sokka drops his hands from her arms and takes a step back, her admission a physical blow to his chest. He's not sure if it's the good kind or the bad kind of shock, but a swirl of both joy and pain causes him to stumble, searching for something, anything to say.

"Uh, Sokka?" Toph says, her face equally agape.

"Yep?" Sokka chirps, the word coming out like some strange, high-pitched bird noise.

"I think my water just broke."

Another blink.

"What!? No, no…" Sokka says, shaking his head in disbelief, "This is another joke, right?"

Sokka frantically looks around, hoping for another surprise or gotcha! moment, but - unsurprisingly - the streets remain silent. Rather than answering right away, Toph suddenly doubles over in pain, one hand clutching her abdomen and the other grasping at Sokka's arm for support.

"Shit. Shit, Fuck." Sokka puts her hand on her lower back, not sure how else to comfort her through her contraction. "We need to get you to Katara."

Toph take a few deep, controlled breaths as her contraction finally ends. She's about to answer Sokka, when not even a minute later, another contraction rolls its way in. Toph continues to grip at Sokka's body, searching for something to ground her through the pain. Sokka remains rubbing at her back, wishing he could do more to help her. He hates seeing her in so much pain.

Once the contraction has passed, Toph states the obvious, "I don't think we have time for that."

"Fuck." Sokka grabs at his head, fully panicking now, "What do we do!? Do I… Do I need deliver this baby? Here?"

"Agh." Toph grits through her pain, gripping her stomach, "Sokka, no offense but I'd rather not give birth here on the sidewalk and risk you fainting. There's… there's a health clinic a few blocks away."

Concerned by how close together Toph's contractions are, Sokka forces himself to mentally slap away his panic. Now is not the time to lose his shit. He wants to be there for Toph and her kids? Well now is the time to prove that he can be.

Sokka takes a quick breath, collecting himself, "Okay, here's what we're going to do. I'm going to lift you and carry you to the clinic, okay?"

In too much pain to give an adequate response, Toph nods, teeth clenched, "Kay."

Needing no further instruction, Sokka dips down and hooks one arm under Toph's knees and the other behind her back before carefully hoisting her up, bridal style. Even at nine months pregnant, she's relatively light, and Sokka is glad of it as he starts to jog towards the clinic. He does his best to ignore Toph's cries of pain and focus solely on where he's going, even as he passes by some very confused and concerned pedestrians. Mercifully, the clinic is closer than he originally thought it was, and he thanks the spirits as he turns the corner and spots the entrance, just as Toph has another contraction in his arms.

"Pregnant lady in labor coming though!" Sokka shouts as he enters the clinic's doors, pushing them open with the force of his back.

Thankfully, the clinic is relatively quiet at this time of night, and the staff immediately jumps into gear, probably just excited to have a bit of action. Someone wheels over a wheelchair, and Sokka quickly, but gently, helps Toph sit down.

Another staff member starts wheeling the chair, shouting over her shoulder, and gesturing for him to follow, "Right this way!"

Sokka follows Toph and a small team of healers down a narrow hallway, gritting his teeth as Toph enters yet another contraction, unable to hold back her cries of pain anymore. One of the healers asks him a few questions about Toph's medical history, and Sokka is surprised at how many he's able to answer, despite his mind feeling like a bowl of mushy jook right about now.

"Okay, Ms...?" Another healer turns to Sokka in question.

"Beifong," Sokka answers as they're ushered into a private room, "Toph Beifong."

The healer's eyes light up with recognition, but she quickly schools her expression before turning back to Toph, "Alright, Ms. Beifong. We're going to get you checked out, but we have to get you up on the bed first. Is that okay?"

Toph nods her head, though she's still clearly in too much pain to give a proper response. Sokka, unsure what else to do, stands back as a few healers make quick work of helping Toph stand up, stripping her underwear but leaving her dress on before carefully helping her onto the small and sterile cot in the middle of the room.

Once Toph is on her back, Sokka takes it as his cue to stay up by her head as the lead healer gently spreads Toph's legs, her dress preserving most of her privacy, at least from Sokka's angle.

The healer gives Toph a quick exam, then cheerfully says, "Okay, Ms. Beifong. Looks like you're already ten centimeters dilated. This baby is waiting for no one! Get ready to push soon, okay?"

Toph gives the healer a hurried nod, and Sokka sees the fear in her gaze.

"Hey, you've got this, Toph," He takes her hand, giving the back of it a quick peck. Their boat ride from this afternoon feels like ages ago, and he gets a weird sense of déjà vu as he repeats his sentiment from earlier, "This is it, Toph. Are you ready to welcome the newest member of your family?"

Toph gives his hand a squeeze, prying herself away from her pain to tell him, "Of our family, you mean."

Sokka doesn't respond, suddenly too choked up to find words, but he returns Toph's gesture and gives her hand a squeeze. The healer clears her through, letting them know that it's time. Sokka is about to get up and leave, knowing that Toph probably wants some privacy for this part.

But she surprises him once more by asking, "Will you hold my hand while I push?"

"Really?" Sokka asks, unable to mask his surprise, "If I remember correctly, last time you gave birth you wouldn't let anyone else near you."

"Consider it your birthday gift." She says, wryly. "Besides, you've carried me this far… literally. You're crazy if you think I'm going to let you leave now."

Sokka can't help but give an equally wry smile, though he doesn't let go of Toph's hand as she grimaces through the start of yet another contraction.

Something tells him this is more for her benefit than his. When she gave birth to Lin she was in a familiar setting, grounded (literally) and in control. Now, she's confined to an elevated bed in an unfamiliar healing clinic, and as adaptable as she may be, Sokka knows she must be panicking, just a little.

That's okay. Sokka's always been happy to be her eyes – her tether to the earth when she needs it – and this is no exception.

"Don't worry, Toph. I'm not going anywhere," Sokka promises, his words filled with double meaning.

Toph nods her head, clearly still in pain from her contraction, but appreciative of his presence, nonetheless. Though strained, with her own double meaning, she says, "I know. Me too."

Before Sokka has time to fully process it, the room is flooded with even more healers as it's time for Toph to deliver her baby. Sokka holds to his promise, surrendering his hand to Toph's near death grip, her palms slick with sweat as she starts to push.

It's certainly not the first time he's found himself in this position, as flashes of Sozin's Comet and a raging inferno blaze across Sokka's vision. He shakes away the imagery, focusing instead on what's right in front of him. It's an out-of-body experience, and Sokka feels lightheaded in the best way as he marvels at the sweaty, beautiful mess of a woman giving birth right in front of him. He's never experienced something so raw, so visceral, so intimate, and it's the strangest, most euphoric, impossible-to-describe feeling when the healthy, robust cries of a newborn suddenly fill the room.

"It's a girl!" one of the healers announces, taking the necessary steps to clean off the newborn and mother before handing the baby over to Toph.

Toph gently, yet eagerly, takes a hold of the baby and cradles it to her chest. Sokka uses the moment to appreciate the rare view of Toph, who's crying so beautifully that Sokka doesn't have the words to describe it. Not that it would matter, since Sokka is too busy working through his own tears.

"You did it, Toph," Sokka says several minutes later, wiping at his eyes as he peers over Toph's shoulder to gaze at the newborn. Without much thought, Sokka sweeps a sweaty strand of hair away from Toph's forehead and kisses her there.

It's something he vaguely recalls doing after she gave birth to Lin, except this time, Toph turns her head, leans forward, and matches his kiss with a peck on the lips. It's not romantic, not exactly, but it's meaningful in its own way, and it takes Sokka a minute to recuperate before turning his attention back at the baby.

"She's absolutely stunning." Sokka says, cooing down.

"She looks just like her father," one of the healers pipes in from across the room. Sokka looks up, forgetting there were other people in the room. In quickly clicks what the healer met.

Sokka looks back down at the baby, and sure enough, she does look an awful lot like him. Of course, it's hard to tell with a newborn, but there's no mistaking the tan skin and the telltale facial features for anything other than Water Tribe. One would surely be forgiven for thinking it's Sokka's.

Even so, Toph doesn't know that, and he waits for her to awkwardly correct the healer, but instead, she turns her head towards him and says, "You should be the one to name her."

"What? Me?" Sokka shakes his head, stunned, "No, I couldn't. You're her mother, you should name her."

Toph, adamantly, "But I want you to do it."

Sokka gulps, calming his nerves and clearing the emotion from his throat. "Um. Okay. If that's what you want."

Sokka takes his time running names over his head, not taking the responsibility lightly. He briefly considers suggesting Yue, but he just as quickly vetoes it. This baby should have a name of her own, not something weighed down by legacy and grief. She should have something she can add her own meaning too, something special. Something to represent the fresh starts, the new hope, and all the second chances that Sokka is so grateful they get to have.

"How about…" Sokka taps his chin, deep in thought. His mind flashes back to the festival they were at only an hour ago. Was that only an hour ago? It's baffling, how in just in that hour, so much could change.

He thinks of how young, how alive he felt, surrounded by the lights and music of the festival, by springtime, by Toph, and by the realization that tomorrow brings more hope than all the days before it.

Finally, he says, "How about Suyin?"

---

Hi everyone. So, somehow almost a year has passed since my last update. I genuinely can't fathom how that much time has gone by (insert long list of personal excuses), but I'm glad to be back and I'm excited to finish this story. I want to thank you so much for reading, despite the long gap since my last update, and I especially want to thank everyone who has left supportive comments and messages over the past year. I couldn't have made it this far without you guys!

I'm not sure when my next update will be, as I'm moving back overseas tomorrow and starting a new job, so needless to say things will be busy – but rest assured that I'm definitely not abandoning this story.

Just a few notes about this chapter:

If anyone is wondering, the title came from Frank Sinatra's "You Make Me Feel So Young," which inspired some of the themes in this chapter. Also, that kiss at the end was 100% inspired by Friends 😂 I'm curious how many picked up on the reference.