"All right, bro," Mako said to his younger brother. "Suit up, we're going out."
The two were in their apartment at Republic City getting ready for tonight's events.
"Is this another blind date trick?" Bolin looked at Mako suspiciously.
Mako put on his most convincing face, trying to hide the real reason. "No, absolutely not."
Bolin has had trouble with first dates set up by either his own brother or other people that he knows, ever since Opal, his true love, died from a tragic fire accident while attempting to rescue many civilians in the city. The young earth and lavabender is well aware that he is scared to be open to romance again. Who could've guessed how many romantic encounters he experienced in his life? From the beginning, it was bad luck. First with his good friend Avatar Korra, which was unreciprocated from her side since they first met, then Eska, who didn't trust him with his female friends, then Ginger, who only liked him when he became a big movie star. Opal was, of course, the exception. She liked him just as he was and was a beautiful, caring, and strong airbender, ally, and girlfriend. She was loved by everyone.
Both brothers wore formal attire and were at a fancy restaurant. They took a seat and ordered non-alcoholic drinks.
"Oh, hey, guys."
"Hey, Halo. This is my brother, Bolin."
The young red-haired earthbender sat close to Bolin, smiling cheerfully. "Hello, Bolin. Nice to meet you," she extended her hand.
"Ditto," he smiled bravely. "Mako," he muttered quite softly to ensure Halo didn't hear that.
The older brother nudged him on the leg to ensure that Bolin would at least be gracious, like he normally is, in front of company.
"Sorry, I forgot something. I'll be right back," and he casually exited the restaurant, leaving Bolin and Halo alone. She then ordered a juice.
"So, Bolin. What's your story?"
"Oh, not much." He really wished to get out of this position and go straight home. "Me and Mako became probenders, later helped Avatar Korra to save the world from numerous threats, and…"
Halo looked surprised and intrigued.
"That's about it."
"Sounds exciting," she said.
Bolin's eyes widened as he remembered a flashback of him and Opal eating food together for the first time in Zaofu. "Wow, your life sounds so exciting," she smiled at him.
He immediately went back into reality and thought of an excuse to escape this discomfort. "Actually, Halo. I'm so sorry but-" he pretended to yawn. "I'm very tired and should get some sleep," he said as he got up from his seat.
"But-"
"Sorry, good night!" he almost ran to make it outside. He started to walk home and thought deeply. "I can't. I can't do this. Opal, I'm so sorry."