People say it's hard to be the older of two siblings.

Well people don't know what they're talking about.

It's hard to be the protector, not the elder. Often the two overlap as the same unit, so the terms are used interchangeably, but they are not always the same. At least I don't think they are. I love Sokka, of course… It's hard not to form close ties with your family in this day and age. They are necessary to survival. Allies are necessary, and who better than one's own brother?

But having a big brother is hard when I'm an aspiring Waterbender and he's…just a boy.

I know, I know, that sounds selfish. Arrogant, even. But it's true, and I can't help that. I might just be the last surviving Waterbender in all of the South, and Sokka can't appreciate that, just a little? He supports me, but it took someone like Aang to make him show that support in anything more than subtle hints and brotherly love.

And Aang… Oh, what am I to do with Aang…

He is the savior of the world, and my new best friend. How many people can say exactly that? Only me, I guess.

It's a great trick, though. He is more than my new best friend; I care for him in ways precariously balanced between friendship and love. He is my best friend, but I have known him for a very short time… Love cannot be denied, yet I am not one to judge what is and what is not…

I would sacrifice myself for him, but is that because I am selfless and willing to help the world? No, not really. I would like to think so, as we all would, but it isn't true.

I would give my own life so that Aang could live because I want him to have the chance. I've heard that the willingness is the ultimate sign of love, but still I'm not sure. I care for Aang, yet I don't care that much. I've no experience in the matter, so I can't be sure…but it feels so right, yet at the same time so forbidden…and I want it, but I don't, but I do, but I don't…

A never ending series of "yes" and "no."

Does Sokka really care?

Do I really love Aang?

Will I really become a Waterbender?

Are the answers really out there?

Maybe.

Who am I to say?

I'm…just a girl.