Chapter 14: It's Complicated

Dear Sokka,

Enjoying the weather out there on Ember Island, I hope? I trust that your project is going well - I heard from King Keui and he's absolutely amazed by the lights that you installed in the palace.

Anyway, we all miss you here in the city. Katara is due any day now. And get this – she thinks our child is going to be an airbender! Can you believe that? She was right about Bumi and Kya, and I have a good feeling that she's right about this one too.

Not to put a damper on things, but no good news on the Yakone front. He keeps evading arrest. Toph was so close to catching him recently. She and her officers busted a compound outside the city where they think he might have been living for a while, but he was gone, and so was any potential evidence.

Speaking of Toph. She'd probably kill me if she knew I was telling you this, but she recently broke up with that guy she was seeing. I think Kanto was his name? I never met him, but I guess they must have been closer than I thought, as the breakup seems to have really affected her. I know Toph has always been somewhat private, but I've never seen her like this before. She's so distant and withdrawn these days. She keeps telling me and Katara that she's fine, but I can tell something's wrong. Between her breakup and everything going on with Yakone, I'm worried that she's slipping. You know her better than anyone - I think you might be the only person able to get through to her.

I hate to ask you to disrupt your work – but we all miss you and would love for you to visit for the birth of your new niece or nephew.

Plus, I think Toph needs you. Just don't tell her I said that. I'd like to keep my baby-making parts for now. Ha!

Your friend,

Aang

Sokka sits on the edge of his bed, his shoulders hunched as he wipes at the moisture on his forehead. He slips his hand down to his chin, itching at his stubble. The air is humid and sticky, as it always is on Ember Island, and sweat clings to his skin as he stares down at the letter.

His room on the island is right next to the beach, and up until now, the calming ocean waves and the rustling of palm trees in the background have helped him feel almost uncharacteristically relaxed. Akito had set the team up with suites in one of the nicest resorts on the island, and admittedly, Sokka has enjoyed the indulgence. It's been nice to wake up each morning surrounded by silky red sheets, clean towels and freshly squeezed juice.

Of course, he's experienced luxury before – heck, he's friends with the Firelord, the Earth King, and a Beifong. Plus, being a war hero has always come with its perks and the occasional special treatment. He's come a long way from sleeping on pelts and living in frozen blocks of ice. But, Ember Island is an especially sharp contrast to what he's used to. The residents here seem to be on permanent vacations, and Sokka has had no trouble embracing the islander lifestyle. It's calming, relaxing, and easygoing…all the things Republic City is not.

But right now, as he stares down at the letter, that bubble of relaxation has been effectively burst.

It's the same letter he's been staring at for the last week. The parchment is well worn at this stage - permanent creases mar the page from where Sokka keeps opening and refolding it, and the ink of the characters has smudged in places from his sweaty fingertips.

There's just a lot to digest… His sister is going to give birth any day now… to an airbender no less. Yakone is still at large. And, of course…

Toph and Kanto recently broke up.

Truth be told, he hadn't known much about Toph's relationship with Kanto until Aang's letter…Last he heard from Toph (which was before he left) she had only just met Kanto, and he was just someone she was 'having fun' with. Not exclusive…that's what she had said. And last he heard from Aang, he had just said that Toph was 'seeing' someone…Apparently that was his gentle way of letting Sokka know that Toph was no longer single.

But… now she is single?

He can't help but feel conflicted. He and Toph had left things on…. interesting terms. On one hand, they had never actually been in an 'official' relationship. On the other, they had finally told each other how they felt… But did that matter? For all intents and purposes, whether it was official or not, they 'broke up'. They had said goodbye - sharing an unspoken agreement to move on. And she had, apparently.

He can't really be angry with her…Sokka hasn't been in a 'relationship' over the past year, but he hasn't exactly been celibate either. They agreed to move on…and that's what they both did.

Still…he hadn't realized moving on meant not talking to each other. Sure, it's not like Toph is easily able to exchange letters exactly, but Sokka knows there's more to it than that. They had agreed to move on, and admittedly, it was easier to do that by cutting contact with each other for a while. At least, that was Sokka's reasoning (he suspects Toph had a similar thought process).

Part of his 'no-contact' strategy has included making a distinct effort not to think about her. Now, of course, that's impossible. Sokka can't just not think about his best friend …but he did try not to think about her relationship status. He had simply adopted an 'ignorance is bliss' policy, and it's worked, for the most part.

But now, he has it on paper, and there's no avoiding it. Toph is single….and so is he.

Does that mean anything, though? It's been a year since he's even spoken to her, and a lot can change in a year. If she had a boyfriend (not just a fling), that means she moved on – not just physically, but emotionally. Does she even still have feelings for Sokka? He has no idea where they stand…plus, he still has his lightbulb gig. As far as Toph is concerned, Sokka's not coming back anytime soon. Why shouldn't she try to move on? And likewise, does Sokka still have feelings for her? A year has given him plenty of time to think, and every time Sokka looks at Aang's letter, he can't help but feel conflicted. It's complicated….

So, rather than focus on that part of the letter…. he focuses on the one thing that's not very complicated at all.

Toph needs you.

His romantic feelings towards her may be all tangled around at the moment, but if there is one thing this letter has reminded him of, it's that damn…he really misses her. He's tried so hard to forget his feelings for her, he hates to think that he forgot her, forgot them, altogether. Plus, if there's one thing he's certain of, it's that no matter how complicated their feelings get, they're always there for each other in times of need.

"Sokka? Son?"

Sokka looks up from the letter, his eyes meeting the jolly figure standing in the doorway, "Oh, hey Akito."

"You know," the older man nods at the letter in Sokka's hands, "Staring at the letter won't make the words change."

"I know," he lets out a weighted sigh, placing the letter down at his side.

Akito walks into the room, plopping himself down on the edge of the mattress, sitting next to Sokka. Some may find it weird to have their boss come into their bedroom and invade their personal space, but Sokka has long since learned that Akito is just old enough not to worry about boundaries, and there's never any mal intentions behind it. "Would you like to talk about it, son?"

"Nah, thank you though. It's nothing that serious…" Sokka shrugs as he lets out another long sigh, "It's just… My family in Republic City might need me. That's all."

"You know, son, you are allowed to go see them." Akito sounds an amused laugh as he rubs absent-minded circles on his beer belly, "There's such a thing as vacation, and you are Project Manager. You can schedule your own time off, you know."

"Yeah, I know. It's just…"

With a reassuring smile, "Just what, son?"

"I just worry that if I go for a visit…" Sokka takes a deep breath, sending Akito a cautious expression, "Then I won't come back."

"Ah," Akito nods, wearing his familiar, knowing smile, "I see."

With a tight, almost childlike expression, "You're not upset with me?"

"Upset? Of course not." He assures, kindly, "You've done great work, son, and you've proven a valuable asset to the Bulb Family. But family – real family – is more important."

"Well, I'm still not sure." Sokka bites his lip, chewing out his inner confliction, "I've loved every minute of this job. I love seeing the world. I love creating things. I love managing, being part of something so revolutionary. Truly, I don't have any right to complain…"

"But…?"

"But… I miss my family," he confesses. I miss Toph.

"I understand, son." Akito places a comforting, fatherly hand on Sokka's shoulder, "But could you not have those things you mentioned while living in Republic City?"

"How?" Sokka asks, feeling defeated, "I do like the city, but it has a way of tying you down. Plus, I'm not even sure I could get back my job on the council, even if I wanted it. I guess I just feel torn - between my job here and my family there. But hey, nobody can have their cake and eat it too."

Akito nods again, letting silence fill the air, as he seems to consider something. After a minute, he starts to speak slowly, as if formulating a plan, "You know, things have been going a lot smoother than we anticipated with the rollout. It might be time to start introducing our invention to Republic City, don't you think?"

Sokka looks up at his boss, surprised. He knows what he's implying, but it can't be that easy, can it? "Sir?"

"Of course," Akito strokes his chin, quickly working out the logistics in his own head, "We still would need a project manager running the expansion, so we'd have to find you a replacement, and your role wouldn't quite be the same. But I'm sure we could find you some work in the city, if that's what you wanted."

"Wow." Sokka responds, somewhat stunned by this man's kindness, despite having long learned that generosity was just a part of this man's nature. For an intelligent, successful businessman, Sokka is always surprised at just how easy-going Akito is. Still, Sokka is hesitant, "That's quite a generous offer, sir. But…"

"Don't worry, son. You don't have to make any decisions right now. Just know that you have options." Akito stands up from the edge of the mattress, his older joints cracking as he turns to face Sokka, "And, I'm sure whatever is in that letter will work itself out soon as well. For now, I was actually hoping you could do me a favor?"

"Of course, anything." Sokka rights his posture, cracking his own joints - stiff from being hunched over.

"An old friend's nephew is in town. He's an engineer himself - started his career at one of the first and most profitable refineries in all the four nations. He's interested in learning more about our work here."

"And what?" Sokka starts to joke, "You want me to take him for tea or something?"

"Oh, would you!?" Akito claps his hands, excitedly, "That would be great, Sokka, thank you!

He starts to laugh but quickly realizes, "Wait…seriously?"

"Yes, he could be a key partner for us moving forward. He has many contacts in the industry and he might even be interested in joining the team himself."

"Oh, well then… Sure thing, Akito!" Sokka relents, unable to refuse a request from his mentor and friend, "I'd be happy to."

"Splendid! Thank you, Sokka. He's around your age, so I figured he'd enjoy talking to you more than a stuffy old man like me."

"Ah, Akito," he smiles, tone filled with jest, "No one's younger at heart than you."

"Haha!" Akito sounds his household, jolly laugh, "Try telling that to my arthritis. Come on, son. I'll introduce you. He's just down in the lobby."

Sokka takes one last look at Aang's letter before folding it and sticking it into his pocket – it's home for the past week. In all honesty, he could probably use a distraction from his moping right now.

He stands up and follows Akito down the hallway of the hotel. He left his boomerang and sword behind in his room, of course (why would he need them for a business meeting), but Sokka can't help but feel antsy without them. The humidity sticks to his neck, and Sokka wipes at a stray bead of sweat as it rolls down his forehead, "So, what refinery does this guy work for?"

"Well, he's actually a consultant now at a few different firms," Akito explains, conversationally, "Most notably, Cabbage Corp. But he actually started his career off at the first joint refinery between the Earth Kingdom and the Fire Nation, believe it or not. Actually, I think your friend Toph Beifong and her family have a stake in the company."

Sokka ignores the pang in his chest at the mention of Toph, "Wait, are we talking about Earthen Fire Industries?"

"Yes, exactly! My friend helped start the venture all those years ago, and his nephew was the head engineer for a time."

"Akito…." Sokka pauses his step, just as they enter the lobby, "What did you say this guy's name is?"

"Hi, Sokka."

Sokka turns his head towards the voice, his eyes flaring in surprise at the man in front of him. He feels the blood rush from his head down to his throat, feeling uncomfortable for reasons he can't quite explain. It's like seeing a ghost. A ghost from the past – yet not even his own.

"Satoru?" He quickly tries to plaster on a friendly, professional smile, though he's sure it's not very convincing.

The two men stand across from each other, a palpable ball of awkward tension passing between them. Sokka hasn't seen Toph's ex since she broke up with him, years ago, and aside from a more professional wardrobe and a bit more bulk, he looks the same.

"Oh, you two know each other?" Akito smiles, not privy to the strange air between them, "Great, I'll let you catch up then. Satoru, it was nice to see you."

"Likewise, Akito." Satoru sends a tight smile in the older man's direction before Akito leaves the lobby, leaving the other two men to fill the silence.

"So…." Satoru starts, his face betraying how uncomfortable he feels.

The sentiment mirrors itself on Sokka's expression, "So…"

Why this is awkward, Sokka can't say for sure. It's not like this is his ex. He never considered Satoru to be a friend exactly…they were friendly, sure, but definitely not friends. There's always a strange dynamic between the 'boyfriend' and the 'best friend'…especially when said best friend is a potential threat to the relationship, which Sokka can now acknowledge that he probably was, just a bit. And, as it turns out, the dynamic is equally as strange for ex-boyfriend and best-friend/ex-friends-with-benefits. Huh…go figure.

"Um…" Sokka tries to fill the silence, focusing on business, "Why don't we sit down for some tea."

Satoru releases a sigh of relief, "Sure. Lead the way."

They stay in the lobby (safe, neutral territory), and all things considered, their discussion at tea turns out not to be too bad. Sokka explains the work they've done the past year and their vision for the future (his typical business schpiel), and Satoru explains what he's been doing as a consultant and makes some suggestions for the business that, admittedly, Sokka thinks are good. The conversation is stiff and formal. Still, Sokka can't help but feel a little on edge around Toph's ex, so he's relieved to be focusing solely on business, and Satoru seems glad to reciprocate.

That is, until they run out of 'business' things to talk about, and Satoru inevitably asks, "So, how's Toph doing?"

The question prickles at Sokka's spine, and he scratches the back of his neck, nervously. He was hoping the conversation wouldn't steer in this direction, but he's not exactly surprised that it has. "Um," according to Aang's letter, not too good, "I'm not sure. I haven't seen her in over a year. Not since I left Republic City."

Satoru's face twists with surprise, "Really?"

"Yeah, and you know…" Sokka sounds a noncommittal laugh, "She's not the best with letters."

"Yup. That's Toph for you." Satoru wears a fond expression, one that irks Sokka for some reason, "I'm surprised though. You guys used to be inseparable."

Sokka fidgets in his seat, becoming more uncomfortable with the direction this conversation is going. He reaches for his cup of tea, looking for a way to distract himself, but he's disappointed to find his cup empty. Awkwardly, he clears his throat, "Yeah, well, she'll always be a good friend," best friend, "We're just in different places right now. I mean, we can't hover over each other's lives forever, right?"

"That's fair." Satoru nods. His brows furrow, like he's unsure if he should say what he's about to say. But, he says it anyway, "Though, it would have been handy for me if you had that attitude back when Toph and I were dating."

Uh… what? Caught off guard, "…Pardon?"

"Oh, don't get me wrong, Sokka! There's absolutely no hard feelings," Satoru insists, too well-natured for his own good, "It's just, it was hard competing with you for Toph's attention, that's all."

"Pfft, that's crazy talk, Satoru. She was crazy about you!" Sokka contends, awkwardly. He continues fidgeting in his seat, unwelcome memories flashing in his head, "Trust me - gave me oogies at the time."

"Maybe she was at first." Satoru smiles, sadly, "I loved Toph – I always will - but that relationship was doomed from the start. She couldn't give her full heart to me when she had already given a piece of it to someone else."

Sokka's heart rate picks up, reflexively. He nods his head, slowly, understanding what the other man is implying. He feels the heat crawl up his neck, as more recent memories of him and Toph flash intimately across his mind. He's not sure what to say, but he tries, "Oh, I'm sorry you felt that way. But I promise, Toph and I were…and are…just friends."

With a pointed expression, "You don't sound so sure about that."

He lets out a long, withered sigh, wishing he could be anywhere else right now. He really doesn't want to talk about this, especially not with Toph's ex of all people, "Um, well. It's complicated."

This makes Satoru laugh, genuinely, "With Toph, it usually is."

"You think so?" Sokka raises a questioning brow, not sure if he approves of that assessment.

"Yeah, I mean – she's one of the most brazen, straightforward, no-nonsense people I've ever met." Satoru lets out another fond, nostalgic laugh for his first love. Then, thoughtfully, he adds, "Yet behind that, she's always been one of the most secretly complex, sensitive, and thoughtful people too. She's got a big heart, even if she doesn't always wear it on her sleeve. She's an enigma, that Toph."

Sokka finds himself huffing out a laugh in agreement. He can't deny that he's thought of Toph in a similar fashion before. He's always thought that there was more to Toph than meets the eye. Admittedly, a part of him feels a little irrationally annoyed that Satoru knows Toph like that, despite the fact it makes sense, considering they were a couple for six long years. Sokka's always prided himself on knowing Toph, the real Toph, better than anyone else, so it annoys him that Satoru is able to so neatly summarize the woman in a way that Sokka never felt able to. But he quickly dispels the thought, as his mind flashes to the image of a space bracelet, forever wrapped around Toph's toned, alabaster arm. She doesn't always wear her heart on her sleeve, but then again, sometimes she does.

Feeling more at ease, Sokka lands a friendly pat on Satoru's shoulder. Jokingly, he finds himself asking, "Ha! Why did you and Toph break up again?"

"Like I said," Satoru drawls, pointedly, "She had other interests."

One again, Sokka's expression falls…the implications of Satoru's words shooting a pang of regret to his chest. Was I really the reason they broke up? Of course, Sokka knows there's more to it than that. But to think that he played any part in the destruction of Toph's first serious relationship…well, Sokka's not sure how to feel about that. "Oh, uh…Sorry, buddy."

"Ah, don't be! It's in the past." Satoru assures him, throwing a nonchalant hand gesture his way, "In truth, we both just wanted different things in life. And Toph is many things, but she's never been a cheater. I know nothing actually happened between you two while we were dating. And I mean, sure, I may have thrown a few darts at a picture of your face after the breakup."

"Wait, what?"

"But I've gotten over it! I've moved on. I was lucky enough to call Toph my first love, and I want nothing more than for her to be happy."

Sokka nods, and for some reason, he feels a wave of calm wash over him in that moment, as realization dawns on him, "Yeah, me too."

The conversation trails off, as both men share a contemplative silence. Sokka's mind, unsurprisingly, slips to thoughts of Toph. Yes, his feelings are complicated. Their relationship is complicated. But, I miss her. And she needs me. And as you know, that's not really complicated at all.

"Hey, Satoru…" Sokka starts, "Akito mentioned that you we're thinking about joining the team?"

"Uh, yes. I find the work with the light bulb and electricity fascinating, and I like the vision you guys have for the future. What kind of positions do you have open?"

Sokka takes a deep breath, releasing a weight from his shoulders when he says, "How about Project Manager?"

"Wow, that's a big title." Satoru sits up in his seat, stunned. Then, he realizes, "But wait, isn't that your job?"

Sokka stands outside, across the street from the precinct. The crowded area makes it hard to catch more than a glimpse, but Sokka watches carefully from afar as Toph shouts commands at her officers, her confident voice sticking out amongst the busy, bustling crowds.

Even with her back facing him, he can tell her appearance hasn't changed much. The metal of her uniform glints in the afternoon sun, and her raven hair catches the light in a way that highlights its glossy texture. He wasn't sure how he'd feel seeing Toph again after a year apart…but if his racing heart and sweaty palms are any indication, his feelings are not quite as confusing as he thought.

The officers scurry off to do whatever it was that Toph told them to do, and finally she's left alone. Sokka braces himself to approach her, and butterflies flutter his gut at the anticipation of seeing her, face to face. But, before he can take the first step toward her, he sees Toph's figure stiffen.

She turns, almost comically fast, in his direction, and even from a distance, the first thing Sokka clocks is her eyes. They're the same beautiful, pearly celadon as always. But even unseeing, her irises convey a wild stream of emotions. Whereas others might mistake her often blank gaze as stoic or apathetic, Sokka prides himself on being able to read what's layered beneath. He's seen her sadness. Her love. Her mischief. He's seen everything…well, almost everything. He doesn't recall ever seeing her eyes quite like this before. He narrows his own eyes, trying to decipher the expression. She certainly looks surprised – her eyes wide and irises on full display beneath her bangs - but there's something else. Relief? Yes, but again… something else. She looks…nervous?

Before Sokka can question it further, Toph is running towards him, an almost childlike smile gracing her features, "Sokka!?"

She runs across the street, dodging carriages and pedestrians, and Sokka braces himself for the armful of earthbender that he receives, her arms flying around his shoulders and making him stumble back a few steps. He's brought back to all those months ago, when they were parting ways in the train station - but he quickly finds that hellos are so much better than goodbyes. Sokka lets out an airy laugh as he returns the embrace, wrapping his arms around her waist. Her metal uniform prevents him from getting as close to her as he'd like, but he squeezes her with affection anyway. He notices Toph standing on her tippy-toes – he'd almost forgotten how short she is – and it makes him laugh again as he presses his nose into the crook of her neck, breathing in her earthy, lavender scent. Spirits, I've missed her.

A minute or two passes, and Sokka notices a few bystanders giving them strange looks. He supposes that Toph has a reputation in the city for being that hard-ass Chief of Police, so people must find it weird to see her displaying affection so openly in public. Sokka doesn't care though, so he simply tightens his grip around her waist, and allows himself to indulge in the warmth of her arms and the feel of her cheek against his neck. Eventually, Toph (reluctantly) pulls away from the embrace, and Sokka is shocked to see her crying.

"Wow, Toph," he can't help his shit-eating grin, "Didn't realize you missed me that much."

"Shut up." Toph rectifies her emotions with a swift punch to Sokka's arm, but he just laughs it off, "You just surprised me is all."

At that, he quirks a brow, "Okay, two things: One - Since when am I able to surprise you? And two - since when does the great Toph Beifong cry from a little surprise, huh? Just admit it," he teases, "You missed me."

Toph bites her lips, and Sokka notes the sudden contemplative look on her face, like she's trying to decide what to say. Begrudgingly, she relents, "Yeah, whatever. I guess I might have missed you a little bit."

Sokka takes a closer look at her eyes, and again, she looks strangely nervous. There's something off about her that he can't but his finger on, and he can't quell the feeling that she's holding something back. Then again, they did leave things on strange terms. Maybe she's just experiencing the same bout of confusion and nerves that he is?

Whatever it is, he ignores the warning voice in his head. He's too excited to see her, and besides, "I missed you too, Chief."

A moment passes where neither of them speak, and Sokka feels a familiar pang shoot down to his navel at the sight of Toph biting her bottom lip. She's just as beautiful as he remembered – more so, and he can't help but feel like they're right back where they started. So many questions – so many feelings - hanging in the air, unspoken. But this is not the time nor the place to try an answer those questions.

Sokka places a hand on her shoulder, "What do you say we head down to Kuang's for lunch?"

"Oh, yes please!" Toph's face lights up, "I'm dying for a kimono chicken roll! Oh, and some pickled cabbage!"

"Really?" Sokka probes, amused, "I thought you hated pickled cabbage?"

Toph shrugs, inconspicuously, "Eh, my tastes have changed lately."

Sokka returns her shrug, not thinking much of her comment as he slings his arm over her shoulder and leads them towards lunch.

It's not long before Sokka and Toph are seated at their favorite takeaway joint, a generous portion of their favorite foods displayed in front of them. They sit by the window, and Sokka appreciates the lively atmosphere of the small, somewhat dingy restaurant, and the people passing by on the street outside. As much as he loved travelling, he's missed the energy and buzz that only the city can provide.

However, while the world around them seems painted by strokes of bold, bustling energy, Sokka can't help but notice that Toph, on the other hand, has been uncharacteristically quiet ever since their greeting.

He tries not to think too much of it as he does most of the talking, catching Toph up on the last year. "It was so cool, Toph! I spent a lot of time at the Earth King's palace." He takes a hearty bite of his kimono chicken, talking through his mouthful, "They sure know how to cook their meat in Ba Sing Se."

Toph nods her head as she reaches for a spring roll. "Cool."

"Yeah, and I met his daughter while I was there." Sokka leans forward, his tone filled with conspiracy, "Between you and me, little Miss Future-Earth-Queen is a bit of a spoiled B-R-A-T."

Toph lets out a short, noncommittal laugh, not making an effort to comment as she crunches on her food.

"It was nice too - I didn't have to do too much grunt work. I got to help out with the prototype and then I just drafted up the plans and managed the installation process." Playfully, Sokka adds, "I can see why you like bossing people around so much, Chief."

"Nice."

"And of course, I saw Iroh a bunch while I was in Ba Sing Se, which was nice. He's getting old, but his tea is still the best."

"Of course."

"Though, it turned out I only had to stay in Ba Sing Se for a couple months. The installation process went a lot quicker than expected, and they didn't need me there to finish."

"Great."

"Afterwards, I spent a couple nights in the desert, but it was a lot less perilous this time around." Sokka recounts, with a laugh, "It was great, actually – sleeping under a blanket of stars, listening to sandbenders tell folktales around the campfire, indulging in some cactus juice – distilled, though. So it was safe."

"Sounds nice."

"Yeah, and afterwards I travelled through some of the smaller villages across the Earth Kingdom, before heading to the Fire Nation. Didn't see Zuko while I was there, but I got to spend a lot of time on Ember Island. Our clients there were mostly private residences and resorts, so it was almost like a vacation."

"Oh?"

"Yeah, and it was just like old times, Toph," he lets out a sigh, though it's a grateful, nostalgic one, "Well – minus you and the 'gaang', of course. And without the threat of impending doom. Ha!"

"Fun."

"I guess, it was just sweet to be out on the road again, you know?" Chuckling, he adds, "And with better pay too."

"Sweet."

Sokka finishes off his tale with a laugh, but it dies off when he realizes that Toph isn't laughing with him. In fact, she seems oddly…civilized? Not that Toph is typically rude or uncivilized (debatable, depending who you ask), but she normally matches his humorous energy and adds in her own playful quips and comments. But she's not really saying much of anything right now. She seems neither upset or happy that he's here. Just…blank? Absent, maybe? Whatever she is, she certainly doesn't seem like herself.

Trying to break through her strange demeanor, carefully, Sokka adds, "I…I wish you could have been there."

Swallowing a dumpling, Toph nods her head in response, indulging him with only a short, noncommittal, "Yeah."

Sokka narrows his eyes, questioningly, "Toph, are you okay?"

"I'm fine." Toph dabs at her face with a napkin, which again, Sokka finds oddly polite for her, "Why do you ask?"

"It's just…" he tries to pinpoint what's off about her, "You're not saying much. I feel like I've been doing all the talking here."

"Well, I'm fine." Toph snaps, letting a glimpse of her normal impatience peek through. But then, almost deliberately, she quickly softens her tone, "I'm just listening, Sokka."

"Oh," Sokka nods, not really sure what else to say. He knows enough about women to know that when they say they're 'fine', they typically don't mean it. He's just not used to that from Toph…passive aggressive is not usually her style.

Before he has the chance to further question her strange attitude, Toph adds, in a more pleasant, genuine tone, "Yeah, I like hearing about your adventures. It sounds like you've had a good year. I'm happy for you."

Sokka pauses, surprised at how sincere she sounds, "Uh, thanks, Toph. You know, it has been a good year."

"Good," she says, back to her one-worded-responses.

"So…" Sokka prompts, making an effort to smile at her, even if she can't see it, "How are you doing?"

"Fine." Toph says again, back to being unreadable. There is a gap in the conversation, and Sokka waits for her to fill it, but she just moves to grab some pickled cabbage and remains annoyingly silent.

Sokka takes a deep breath, his chest prickling with a bout of both nerves and irritation. Okay, that's it. Enough of this. Bracing himself, "So…I know we haven't really spoken - at all - for the past year. Is there still…hard feelings?"

"What?" Toph stops in surprise, her chopsticks stilling at her mouth. The look she sends him is an incredulous one, "Of course not! I thought we parted on good terms, didn't we?" She points her chopsticks at him, clicking them together for effect, "Why, do you have hard feelings?"

"No, of course not!" Sokka assures, clearly confused, "I thought we left on good terms too…I mean, it's just, we said some stuff before I left," stuff like I love you, "And now I feel like you're acting all distant."

"Well, you're wrong!" Toph barks, making Sokka flinch. Then, he watches as she takes a deep, meditative breath, one that seems well-rehearsed. Still, her tone is somewhat sharp when she grits out, "I mean, no. There are no hard feelings. I'm happy that you're back."

"Well, good then." Sokka twists his mouth in confusion, perplexed by the mixed signals she's giving him, "Me too."

Toph releases a few more calming breaths as she reaches for a spring roll, finding one on the table with remarkable precision before stuffing it unceremoniously into her mouth. Even her chewing is moody, and Sokka tries not to laugh at how cute she looks when she's grumpy. Something tells him that his humor wouldn't be well received right now.

Instead, he lets the mood radiate off Toph, and he feels his own sourness escalating as a result. They both chew their food in terse silence for a few minutes, before hesitantly, Toph asks, "So, how long are you staying for?"

Trying to lighten the mood a bit, he teases, "Why, do you want me to go?"

He's rewarded with a grin, threatening to tug at her lips and betraying her unamused tone, "Sokka."

"Um, actually…" Sokka reaches his chopsticks across the table to grab a dumpling, casually, "I'm back for good."

Toph's hand stills again, spring roll an inch from her mouth, "What?"

"Yeah, funny story. I actually ran into your ex while I was away. I was itching to come back for a while anyway, and he seemed like the perfect replacement for me, so…" he trails off, deciding not to delve into the full details of the story.

"You ran into Satoru?" Her eyes widen as she lowers her spring roll back down to her plate, too surprised to eat, "Wow, I haven't thought about him in a while. How's he doing?"

"He's fine, I guess. But, how are you?" Sokka once again prods, "How has life been for my favorite earthbender this past year, huh?"

"Meh, alright I guess," she shrugs, then quickly changes the subject, "But I still don't understand. It sounds like you really loved your job and being back on the road. Why would you want to come back?"

Sokka takes note of her deflection, but decides to let it slide, for now. "Well, I did love my job," he pauses, a weight against his chest for a moment, before he admits, "But, I love you guys more." Yeah… 'you guys' is safe, right?

Whatever reaction he expected, her falling, sullen expression was not it. "Oh."

"Toph, are you sure you're okay?"

"Yeah, just tired," she bites her lip, in that way she always does, "So what are you going to do now? Going to run in the next election?"

Again, Sokka lets her suspicious demeanor slide, "Eh, I don't think so. I don't think the public would see me in a very favorable light right now, considering I left so suddenly. Doesn't look good to be to wishy-washy. You know, politics."

"Eh," Toph shrugs, unbothered, "Politics Schmolitics. You're a war hero, friend of the Avatar, uncle to his children, and apparently a genius now, Mr. Bulbs," she teases, and Sokka can't help but smile in return, "I'm sure you'll have no trouble getting reelected."

"Maybe, maybe not." He nods, happy that Toph seems to be more at ease, "But I think I'll take some time off before I run for office again. I gave Satoru my manager position, but Akito decided things were running smoothly enough that we could start doing work here in the city, so I'll still have a job - just a bit more freedom to take time off."

"Well, that's good then," Toph says, again with an unreadable tone. Sokka's smile falls.

"Yup."

Sokka narrows his eyes as the conversation once again comes to a halt. Ugh…He hates this. He and Toph have been through a lot, but one thing they've never been together is awkward. Tense, sure…but nails-on-chalkboard, squirming in his seat, anxiety inducing, down-right awkward…never. Maybe it wouldn't be so bad if Sokka didn't get the sense that Toph was keeping something from him. It's not like her to be so evasive. She says there's no hard feelings between them…but does that mean there's no feelings at all?

As the silence grows, Sokka tries to think of ways to break the ice. Hmm, maybe if I complimented her? Clearing his throat, "You look good, Toph. Your skin's all glowy and stuff…" Sokka resists the urge to slap his forehead. Really, Sokka? Glowy? … Smooth.

"Glowy? Never heard that one before," she teases, a little confused, "Glowy like when Aang goes into the Avatar State?"

"No, not exactly, though that would be cool." Sokka laughs, nervously, "I just mean, you look… healthy, I guess."

"Hmm." Toph quirks a brow, "Thanks, I guess."

Cautiously, Sokka asks, "Does this mean that maybe you're not as stressed out lately?"

Toph's expression coils in contemplation once more, and again, Sokka gets the nagging sense that she's keeping something from him. Maybe she doesn't want him to know about her breakup with Kanto for some reason?

Her voice stiff, "Not exactly."

Sokka furrows his brows, concerned, "Oh?"

But she doesn't answer his prodding, and instead opts for chowing on her spring roll – the crunching sound of her bites echoing off the awkward wall of tension between them.

Sokka pushes his food around with his chopsticks - a rare moment that he finds himself no longer with an appetite. The awkwardness is growing, but so is the frustration. Why is this so hard? There's too much left unsaid between them, and so much he wants to catch up on.

If she's not going to be direct, then he'll just have to. Bluntly, without any preamble, "So, Aang told me that you and Kanto broke up?"

Toph stalls her chewing, her brow quirking in surprise. Speaking through a mouthful of food, sardonically, "Wow, I always thought it was Sugar Queen who spreads the gossip, not Twinkletoes," she swallows her bite, "But yeah, that's over."

Sokka treads carefully, "What happened?"

Toph pauses, considering what to say, and Sokka prepares himself for the emotional outpour that's sure to come. Not that she is typically one to let her emotions overwhelm her, but why else would Toph seem so bottled up right now? What happened to make her so closed off? Aang's letter had suggested that she was quite upset over the breakup, and Sokka is fully prepared to sweep in here let her cry on his shoulder. He's anxious to finally get through this cold, aloof barrier that Toph has built.

So, he's a bit surprised when Toph just shrugs, indifferently, "Eh, it was only ever a casual thing anyway."

Not really an answer.

Unsatisfied, Sokka prods, "Well, you dated for almost a year, didn't you?" Then again…I guess so did we…kind of? Hmmm. You know, she has an interesting definition of 'casual'.

Toph only shrugs again as she picks up her chopsticks, using them to grab a dumpling. She keeps her mask of cool indifference, but Sokka notes her posture stiffening, just slightly.

I'm almost through to her, "And, Aang said-"

Finally, Toph slams down her chopsticks, the dishes on the table clattering from the force and startling a few neighboring diners. "Look, I don't care what Aang said. Kanto was a nice guy and everything…I guess," she grumbles, not sounding very convinced of her own words, "But it just didn't work out. I told you, we were never anything serious to begin with. I mean, he's a travelling merchant, remember? Frankly, I'm surprised he stuck around for as long as he did."

"Okay, but-"

"Just trust me, Sokka. Kanto is the least of my concerns right now," Toph grabs another spring roll with her hands, then bites into it with a harsh sounding crunch. She speaks through her mouthful – a typical display of her apathy - but her tone is noticeably bitter, "I'm too good for that son of a bitch anyway."

Again, Sokka can't help but still feel confused by Toph's conflicting signals. Is Kanto a 'nice guy' or is he a 'son of a bitch'? Of course, Sokka's inclined to lean towards the son-of-a-bitch side of the coin. But what's really bothering him is that he can't quite get a read on Toph's emotions, and it's frustrating.

Investigatively, he narrows his expression, "Well, then why are you being so distant?" Toph opens her mouth to retort but Sokka continues before she can argue, "And don't tell me you're not. Aang said you were acting strange lately, and he was right.

"I know you, Toph. And I know something is wrong. If you're not upset about Kanto, and if there's no hard feelings between us, then tell me…Why do I feel like I'm not talking to my best friend here?"

Sokka finishes his speech, releasing a short huff of breath as he watches Toph slowly put down her spring roll. While often blank, her blind gaze now looks entirely spaced out, as another look of consideration crosses her features. She worries her bottom lip between her teeth, a frown line forming between her brows as she releases a deep, shaky sigh, "Sokka, I'm pregnant."

. . .

Oh.

. . .

Huh….

. . .

Well, that's something different.

. . .

Sokka sticks his finger in his ear, clearing away the wax, "I'm sorry…. what?"

"I said, I'm pregnant."

Sokka lets out a small, panicked huff of laugher, "No, no. I heard you the first time. What I meant to say is," finally, losing it, "WHAT!? YOU'RE PREGNANT!?"

Toph flinches as she senses the other diners in the restaurant turn at Sokka's outburst. "Yup. I'm pregnant."

"Pregnant?" Sokka mouths, as if he's never heard the word before.

"You know…" she lets out an irritated sigh, her tone oddly sardonic as she lists, "Expecting. Preggers. Bun in the oven. Knocked-up. Eating for two. Take your pick."

Sokka shakes his head, mouth parted in shock, "H- how?"

Toph narrows her expression, skeptically, "Really, Sokka? Aren't you a little old to be needing this conversation?"

Blushing, "No, no! I understand how….I just mean…WHAT!?" Sokka slumps in his seat, placing a hand over his chest, where his heart is beating rapidly, "Oh man, I think I need to sit down."

"Sokka, you are sitting down," Toph points out, her sass returning in full capacity.

With another wave of shock, "You're pregnant!?"

"Wow, you're taking it better than I thought you would," she deadpans.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry," Sokka looks at his friend, trying to quell his sudden dizziness, "It's just, I mean…this is huge!"

Harshly, she snaps, "You don't think I know that!?"

A silence washes over them as the news settles in. Thankfully, the other patrons in the restaurant have already lost interest in the conversation and have turned their attention back to their meals. Toph slumps in her seat, seemingly lost in thought. She crosses her arms over her chest as she makes little clicking sounds with her tongue on her teeth to fill the silence.

Sokka leans forward, placing his elbows on the table and his head in his hands as he processes this shocking revelation. Of all the ways he imagined returning to Republic City, this was certainly not it. He hadn't been sure how he felt about Toph before coming back…. after having his heart broken, then confessing their love, he was already confused as to where they stood. Then, the instant he saw her again, he knew his feelings hadn't just vanished. But, how does she feel about him? And even if he does have feelings for her still, is he ready to risk his heart again? Does he want to risk their friendship again, after almost destroying it the last time?

These questions were already on his mind. It was already complicated, and he knew a lot could change in a year…but this. Well, this just made things a whole lot more complicated. A baby changes everything.

Still in shock, he finds himself asking, "So, I'm guessing it's Kanto's?"

"Yup," she confirms, emphasizing the 'p'.

He looks back up at her, concerned when he remembers, "But you guys broke up."

Toph cleans the dirt out from under her fingernails, casually, "He didn't want children."

A pang of sympathy floods Sokka's chest, realizing what this means, "Toph, I'm sorry."

"Don't be," she insists, stoically, "It's not like I was in love with the guy."

Sokka feels a flare of anger well up for the injustice of it all, "But, how can he just abandon you like that!? How can he abandon his own child!?"

With a shrug, "Eh, some men are jerks, what can I tell ya."

Pounding his fists on the table, "Ugh, where is he now! I'll kill him!"

Toph doesn't even flinch, "Ha, funny."

"I'm serious."

"Oh." Toph quells a laugh, which Sokka chooses to ignore, "Well, as hilarious as that would be, don't bother. Trust me, I got a few punches in myself - I don't think his nose will ever recover," she smirks at the memory, then adds, "But like I said, he was a travelling merchant. I didn't really expect him to stick around anyway. And I don't want him to stick around. I'd rather my kid have no father, than have a father who doesn't want to be there."

Sokka nods, still feeling angry, but realizing there are more important things to focus on right now, "Who else knows?"

"Other than Kanto?" Pursing her lips, "Just you…. Well, you and probably everyone else in this restaurant."

"Sorry." He says, a little sheepish after his outburst.

"Eh, don't be," she throws a nonchalant hand gesture his way, "I won't be able to keep it a secret for much longer anyway."

"So… How far along are you?"

Toph looks a little sheepish herself when she says, "Uh…Three months? Give or take."

"Three months!?" Sokka's eyes involuntarily flick down to her belly, even though it's hidden underneath the table, "How come you haven't told anyone yet? You know Katara is like, obsessed with babies. She and Aang are going to be thrilled!"

"Because…" Toph blows out a nervous breath, tapping her foot on the floor, impatiently.

"Toph."

Once again, she bursts, "Because it's embarrassing!"

Sokka makes a confused face, "What do you mean? I don't know you to get embarrassed about anything. Why is this embarrassing?"

"Because, Sokka…" Toph shrinks in her seat, deliberately making herself smaller, her tone pained, "Look, it's just…people are going to take one look at me and know that it's so obviously a mistake." With a self-deprecating, mocking tone, "I mean, look at me! I'm just the greatest earthbender in the world who - oh, by the way - got herself knocked up! I don't make mistakes, Sokka. What are people going to think!?"

Sokka shakes his head at her outburst, feeling slightly disappointed by her attitude, "Toph, I wouldn't have pegged you for someone who cares what people think. What are you worried about? Is it because you're not married or something?"

"No, it's not that. Pfft, I could give a rat's ass about marriage or any of that crap. It's just…what are people going to think when they find out that I'm going to be a mother!" Toph shakes her head, the fear evident in her expression, "They're going to think…Toph Beifong? That bitch? Who let her be a mother? I'm not cut out for this, Sokka! Everyone knows I'm not meant to be a mom!"

Oh…

This isn't about Toph being worried what others will think. No…this is about what she thinks of herself.

Sokka lets her words settle. Selfishly, he'd been so focused on his own feelings, and how her pregnancy would affect their relationship. But, for the first time, he's struck with the realization. Toph is going to be a mother.

Admittedly, he's still conflicted and somewhat shocked by the information. It's a lot to process, and damn, it's complicated. But the more he lets go of those feelings, the more he feels the simplicity of joy warm his chest. They can work out the complicated bits later. For now, Sokka focuses on the beautiful realization that Toph is going to be a mother. She's going to have a baby. A beautiful, beautiful baby.

Softly, with a wide grin, "Now who said you're not cut out for motherhood, huh?"

"No one needs to say it, Sokka," Toph sighs, rubbing at her temples, "I'm no Sugar Queen - I don't have a motherly bone in my body! I know you all think it."

"That's not true, Toph," Sokka scoots his chair around the table, so he's seated next to Toph, "I seem to recall Zuko once saying he thought you'd make a good parent."

"He was just saying that to be nice." Toph's frown deepens as she rests her elbow on the table, propping her cheek against her fist in defeat, "You and I both know he was lying."

"Well, I think you'll be a good parent, Toph." He places a hand on her back, rubbing soothing circles there, "I'm not lying."

"Pfft, sure."

"Toph," gently, Sokka takes her hand, forcing her to sit up as he places her palm flat over the left side of his chest, "I think you'll be a great mom, and I couldn't be happier for you. Now tell me, am I lying?"

Toph flushes at the intimacy of the gesture, her eyes widening at the feeling of his heartbeat beneath her fingertips. It's not exactly how her earthbending lie-detector skills work (her feet need to be touching earth, and the floor in here is distinctly wood) but she appreciates the gesture. It doesn't matter anyway…she doesn't need her seismic sense to get a read on Sokka…And no, he's not lying.

Whether it's from the hormones or just from the pure thoughtfulness of the moment, Toph finds herself choking down a wave of emotions. She swallows a lump in her throat as she slowly peels her hand away from Sokka's chest, "But…but what about everything else?"

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, how can I be a mom, Sokka? Me…the Chief of Police, who works sixty-hour work weeks and still can't get the job done?" Toph laments, in a rare moment of fearful transparency, "I mean, I'm blind. And yeah, that's never really been a handicap before, but there's a difference between taking care of myself and taking care of a baby."

"Toph, don't worry about that right now," Sokka smiles, sympathetically, "I know it might seem like an impossible task…But, I think a lot of parents feel that way. And, Toph, if anyone can do it, it's you. Remember who you are."

Toph nods, and Sokka can tell he's starting to crack through her wall of fears. Still, she sounds aberrantly unsure of herself when she asks, "Who am I?"

"You're Toph Beifong," Sokka pats her back, assuring, "I know you don't need a reminder that not only are you the world's greatest earthbender, but you also invented a new form of bending that for all of history was considered impossible. It was you who proved that nothing is impossible. Heck, you specialize in the impossible. A baby?…Pfft," he says, his tone light-hearted as he tries to comfort her, "Piece of cake."

"Thank you, Sokka." Toph tries to make eye contact with Sokka, hoping she's not too far from her mark, "I appreciate the pep talk. But at the end of the day…nothing changes the fact that I'm a blind, single, not-very-nurturing, working woman who now has to raise a baby alone." Timidly, she adds, "I don't know if I can do this, Sokka."

Sokka nods his head in understanding, empathetic to her pain. Of course, he has all the faith in her, but he understands how this is a lot for her to deal with. "Tell me something, Toph…you obviously decided to keep this baby," very carefully, he points outs, "You could have gotten rid of it… but you didn't."

Her expression spaced out, Toph doesn't respond, so Sokka continues, "I know it's scary. But I also know that deep down, you want this baby. Otherwise, you wouldn't be sitting here telling me all this…Am I wrong?"

Toph thinks about it for a moment, and then with a sigh, she admits, "No, you're right. I mean, I'm freaking out, Sokka. And I can hardly believe it myself, but..." She turns her blind gaze again towards Sokka, her eyes welling up with emotion, "…I really want this baby."

Years from now, Sokka will look back on this moment and think how strangely big life decisions can play out. He certainly never expected reuniting with Toph like this – sitting in a dingy takeaway restaurant, the smell of greasy, fried food filling their noses as he sits with this big revelation. Things are so complicated between them…and he supposes, they'll continue to be that way for a while.

But, Toph needs me, and as always… There's nothing complicated about that.

"Toph," he starts, voice heavy with his own emotion, "I am so happy for you. And I know you're freaking out, and you feel like you'll have to do this all by yourself. But I promise you…I won't let do this alone."

The weight of his implication falls heavy between them, and finally, Toph wipes at a tear that has suddenly made its way down her cheek. She turns in her chair, leaning forward to wrap her arms around Sokka. He returns the hug, slightly cumbersome from their sitting positions, but comforting no less. He drowns out the sounds of the restaurant, and all he hears is Toph's voice in his ear, wet with emotion, "Sokka?"

He rubs her back, soothingly, "Yeah?"

"I'm really glad you're back."

AN

Hey all! This chapter was both very fun and very challenging to write. I think there are a bunch of different ways Sokka's reaction to Toph's pregnancy could go, so it was hard to pick which route I wanted to take, but I always imagined him being quite shocked (good opportunity for some classic, Sokka comedy) yet supportive, of course. Regardless of how it might have played out, I always imagined Toph's pregnancy to be the turning point in Tokka's friendship. I can imagine Sokka being there for her, but also his perception of her changing when he sees her as a mother. What do you guys think?