Chapter 18: Equidistant
Aang paces outside of the courthouse, snapping his fingers idly to match the beat of his racing mind, unable to keep himself still. The sun beats down, summer's relentless heat conjuring up thick beads of sweat from his shaved head, making it shine, a bit like an overly polished coin. Though, even if it weren't for the heat, he'd probably still be sweating from just how nervous he is. Hmmm, maybe 'nervous' isn't the right word? Anxious? Flustered? Aang gives his fingers a final, sharp snap... Antsy! Yeah, that's it… he's antsy.
It's not a foreign feeling for Aang by any means. He's always been a bit… restless. 'Hyper', is what his wife would sometimes call it (though he prefers to think of it as energetic, thank you very much). But, maybe that's not right either… He may be enthusiastic, but he does know how to remain calm (he is a monk after all). Even so, he can admit that he does tend to get distracted easily, and unlike his friend Zuko, or even Toph for that matter, diplomacy - and the composed stoicism that it often requires - doesn't come so naturally to him.
Still, he is an adult, and through time, meditation, and much practice (and a few too many impatient looks from dignitaries to encourage him) he's learned how to subdue his more 'excitable' nature when he needs to. He's certainly not the same flighty, naïve airbender that he once was, and his previously carefree nature has gotten slightly less 'free of care' as his Avatar duties have piled on. He's learned to separate Aang, the free-spirited, airbending monk, from Aang, the dignified and level-headed Avatar. It's a skill, really. One that he's fine tuned over the years, and one that's come in handy.
But… occasionally, his nerves still get the better of him.
This is one of those times.
He's not sure what he's more nervous about – finding out the results of Yakone's preliminary hearing or facing Toph's outrage (though if he's being honest, at the moment, he's definitely more concerned with the later.) He can already guess how Yakone's hearing is going to turn out, but Toph's mood has been so unpredictable lately, he's not sure what to expect. If he had to guess, he's inclined to predict that she's not going to be happy. Not only because Yakone is probably going to be let off the hook, but because Aang is here in the first place.
Toph has made it pretty clear that she wants him nowhere near Yakone or this case, so she probably won't be too happy that he went against her wishes. Of course, as her friend, Aang respects her authority and is happy to let her do her job without him budding in. But, as the Avatar, he has to consider the bigger picture here. If what people say about Yakone is true, he needs to at least keep his guard up and be aware of what's happening in the case.
Even so, that's not really why he's here today. Sure, he wants to know what's going on with Yakone, and duty compels him to at least show his face.
But really, he's here to support Toph.
She may not want the support, but she sure as hell needs it. And, as her friend, he's going to give it to her… whether she likes it or not. 's the right thing to do.
That doesn't make him any less antsy though.
Despite the blazing heat (Aang is feeling especially grateful for the firebender in him making it even slightly bearable), there's more activity outside the courthouse than usual. Aang does his best to remain inconspicuous, opting to wait on the other side of the street, away from the crowd. He's still a little surprised that no one seems to have noticed his presence, but it's nice not to be the center of attention. Once again, he counts his blessings.
There are quite a few reporters huddled by the entrance of the courthouse - notepads out and cameras set to flash - all eagerly awaiting to hear the outcome of the hearing… and the subsequent opportunity to sling questions (that are often way more personal than they should be) in the Chief's direction.
There's also a group of overexcited - for lack of a better word – fangirls huddled near the entrance, posters out and giggles on full blast. Not really in the mood for hero worship, Aang had kept his head down low when he first spotted the mob of young, squealing citizens. But… it didn't take him long to realize that they're not here for him.
No, they're here for Yakone.
Yakone - of all people - apparently has quite the loyal band of followers. For as many citizens who live in fear of the alleged bloodbender and notorious crime boss, there seems to be just as many citizens who practically worship the ground he walks on. And sure, some of his followers are definitely just frivolous fans who support him for the mere sake of rebellion. Some are only fans because they find Yakone's 'bad-guy' image attractive, finding some weird sort of sex appeal within his taboo. Essentially, he's morphed from a criminal to a celebrity.
But, while some of his followers are just crazy, sex-starved fangirls, some of his supporters are actually level-headed citizens, who have more genuine reasons for backing Yakone. He may be a criminal (allegedly), but Yakone does support a lot of business and enterprise. Whether legal or not, Yakone has his hand in many labor unions and local industries, and if he got convicted, the local economy would be facing its own repercussions.
Regardless of why people support him, Yakone's followers are quite vocal about their opinions, so it comes as no surprise that they'd make an appearance outside the courthouse today. Aang doubts that other, less high-profile criminals would get this much attention at just the preliminary hearing. But yes, between the reporters and Yakone's relentless band of disciples, there's quite the commotion outside of the courthouse today.
But that's not all. There are also the group of protesters in attendance. Bender Rights activists who don't necessarily support Yakone himself, but who see bloodbending as a fundamental right, and are angry it was outlawed in the first place. Ugh. Aang's all for bender equality, of course, but he doubts that if those activists ever experienced bloodbending themselves they would still be so quick to cry injustice! that it's been criminalized. Of course, there's the anti-bender protesters here too, to remind them.
All in all, it's - and Aang doesn't use this phrase often, but – a shit show. No doubt, Toph is going to be smothered by reporters once the trial is over, all the while being reminded of how many people are working against her as people cheer Yakone on.
So yeah. She's going to need a friend.
Admittedly, Aang wishes Sokka were here. Not because Aang doesn't want to put up with Toph's sure to be foul mood (which, to be fair, he doesn't), but because Sokka has always been able to get through to her in a way that most others, even Aang, cannot. Then again, he has to wonder whether or not Sokka's presence would actually be helpful right now. Toph has been more stressed out than usual (and that's saying something), and Aang suspects that Sokka may or may not have something to do with it.
He's not sure what exactly went down between them, but something definitely did. An argument of some sort? Sokka had seemed strangely tense when he left Republic City on his last visit. Not to mention, Toph has been especially recluse since then. That was right around the time Yakone got arrested, so one could blame it on that… but Aang isn't totally clueless. Something happened between them, that much he's sure of. He's just not sure what.
Just as Aang is finished mulling over his friends' drama, the clinical, heavy doors of the courthouse open, and the surrounding crowd starts to stir. Just as expected, cameras start to flash and shouts sound from the crowd – an imposing blend of questions and slurs that, thankfully, Aang is still too far away to hear.
Even though he's quite tall, Aang struggles to see over the rowdy huddle of reporters, fangirls, and protesters, but he can guess what – or more accurately, who - is causing the commotion. Yakone must be making his exist. The question is whether or not it's in handcuffs.
Aang gets his answer soon enough. News has a way of travelling fast, and even keeping his distance, it doesn't take long for the whispers to reach his ears as a few stragglers disband from the crowd. Aang perks his ears, picking up on bits and pieces of conversation, as the sidewalk flurries with gossip.
Even having expected the outcome, it does little to soften the blow.
Yakone found… not guilty.
Aang lets out a long sigh, not at all surprised, but still thoroughly disappointed. A fresh wave of nerves floods down the pools of chi, and he swallows down a worried gulp. Yup. Toph is definitely going to be in a bad mood. Great.
Still keeping his distance, Aang stays patient as the obligatory press conference takes place outside the courthouse. It takes a while – longer than necessary, in his opinion - but eventually, enough of the crowd disperses for Aang to spot Toph by the entrance of the building. Yakone is already long gone – a free man – leaving Toph to deal with the fallout.
Aang approaches slowly, his ears picking up on the last bit of the press conference and subsequent speech that Toph seems to be giving. If she notices his presence amongst the remaining citizens, she gives no indication of it. If anything, her chin raises just that bit higher, unyielding of her authority, Avatar in presence or not.
"I understand that citizens are concerned," Toph's voice booms out, loud and assured against the shutters of cameras and the scribblings of pens as reporters take record.
"Fuck benders!" a protester shouts from somewhere to Aang's left. He shoots a glare in the direction of the voice, but quickly turns his attention back to Toph. Anti-bender slurs are annoying, but not uncommon, and if the comment bothers Toph, she doesn't show it.
"But, I promise you," Toph continues, ignoring the slur. Aang can't help but note that she looks remarkably tall for somewhat so short - her posture authoritative and her expression schooled by a careful mask of indifference, "My officers and I will continue to do everything in our power to keep the citizens of Republic City safe."
"Well you're doing a lousy job!" Another voice shouts, this time followed by a few murmurs of agreement amongst the crowd. Aang sends another glare, and again, he's impressed by Toph's ability to remain unaffected and carry on with grace. If only people knew just how hard Toph worked to keep them safe. Seriously, for every citizen that she might fail to protect, there are about a hundred that she saves. Why can't people focus on that? Aang can't help but empathize. He's no stranger to criticism – not everyone is a fan of the Avatar either, after all – so he knows how hard it can be not to let the backlash get to you, even for someone as self-assured as Toph.
"Today, Yakone walks free," Toph's eyebrows dip just an inch, a frown line forming between them, but her voice stands strong, "But rest assured, anyone - bender or not - who uses their power to disobey the law and cause harm to others will face justice." Somewhat ominously, she adds, "I'll make sure of it."
With that, Toph turns swiftly and re-enters the courthouse, ignoring the swarm of last-minute questions and comments as the reporters try to weasel their way in. A few officers and crew trail behind, but the doors shut with a resounding clang, locking everyone else out.
Aang guesses Toph only went back in so she can avoid the mob and make her escape out the back entrance, so he decides to follow her lead and try to meet her there. He starts to sneak away from the crowd, but the crowd is persistent and still quite dense, so he ends up pushing and shoving with far less grace than he'd like to admit. And, of course, he can't help but catch a few more whispers in the process.
I bet that Yakone is a beast in bed.
Yakone? Nah, too old…but I bet you Beifong likes it rough.
True. She's hot.
I heard her baby daddy was only with her for the money and bounced once she got pregnant.
Ouch. Makes sense.
Right? Why else would someone date a blind girl?
Do you think she and the Avatar ever hooked up?
Nah, he's been married to that Waterbender for like, ever, remember?
Oh yeah… though I did hear her and the Firelord had a thing.
I bet the Chief is just as much of a crook as Yakone.
You think?
Oh yeah. I bet they're even working together.
That would explain a lot.
I heard that the Chief and Master Sokka were having an affair, can you believe that?
I thought everyone knew that.
Isn't he married though?
Ugh… Aang does his best not to listen to the gossip, but he can't deny the flush on his cheeks, both from anger and a bit of embarrassment. It's all just frivolous chatter, most of it far from grounded in reality. Still, it's always troubling to hear such unflattering rumors and what people really think of them, and he's more than happy to get away from it.
By the time he makes his way out of the crowd and to the back entrance of the building, just as he expected, Toph is there. He finds her leaning against the wall of the alleyway, her previously indifferent guise unmasked and replaced by a withered expression, stress and exhaustion clearly waning on her.
Upon closer inspection, Aang can't help but think that this is the first time she actually looks her age. Of course, they've all picked up a wrinkle or two throughout the years. But - whether it was her bright skin, her inherent nobility, or just her flippant nature - Aang always thought Toph seemed younger than the rest of them, even though she and him are the same age (not counting iceberg years, of course). Now, however, the bags of grey under her eyes and the cheekbones that are perhaps a little sharper than they should be, give her age – and her stress levels – away.
He's caught her in a rare moment of vulnerability, it would seem. Approaching her feels like stepping up to a wild ostrich-horse – each step a cautious one, slow and steady, lest he startle her away. But, she stays perfectly still – stiff and rigid, something like a statue - and he almost wonders if she doesn't even notice he's there.
But, it's Toph. So of course, she does.
"Twinkletoes," she greets, her voice as weary as she looks, "Why am I not surprised that you're here?""
Aang doesn't respond, but he offers her his company as he joins her against the wall. The stone is slightly damp from the humidity, and the heat makes the alleyway smell a bit too much like the nearby dumpster, but he tries not to focus on the stench or the sweat dripping down his neck. Instead, he tilts his head down to look at Toph, focusing on her. Now that he's standing beside her and she's off duty, the previous illusion of height is gone. He forgets, sometimes, how small she really is.
"Let me guess," Toph turns her head in his direction, her tone razor sharp, "You're here to give me a pep talk, right? Or wait, don't tell me…" She taps her chin in false consideration, a hint of derision, "You're here to apologize?"
Aang choses to ignore her tone, and instead finds his face wrinkling, confused, "Apologize? What for?"
"Yeah. You owe me an apology, Airhead." Toph quips, not actually upset with him, "I seem to recall that it was you who thought I'd make a good Chief of Police, back in the day. Remember?" She huffs out a laugh, though it lacks any humor, "Well, jokes on you!"
If that was an attempt at levity, it falls flat. Her voice cracks, and her breath sounds just a little too shaky for Aang's liking. He frowns, a pang of sorrow hitting his chest as he insists, "You are a good Chief, Toph."
"Pfft," she rolls her eyes in response, and takes in another quivering breath, "Tell that to the reporters. Fuck, tell that to Republic City."
"Don't listen to the reporters." Aang assures, quickly, "You're doing the best you can. And hey, remember what you said to me on the Day of Black Sun? It just wasn't your day, Toph. That doesn't mean won't ever be."
She nods in response, though her expression remains stern and far from mollified. A moment passes without any conversation – distant noise from the street filling the empty space. A pipe drips somewhere to his left, and flies buzz wildly around the dumpster, yet the sounds feel stagnant. A light thumping noise also catches his ears, and Aang's eyes shift from Toph's moody expression down to her hands, where her fingers tap rhythmically against the wall. It's a gesture that seems uncharacteristically outward for her. And uncharacteristically anxious.
His eyes shift back to Toph's face as she lets out a long, tired sigh, breaking the silence, "Why are you here, Aang?"
Admittedly, a pep-talk was something along the lines of what he was thinking, but he's not about to admit that to her. Quickly, he shifts gears, "Actually, I thought you could use a drink."
He tries not to be too offended by the surprised look on Toph's face, "You're offering to get a drink with me?"
"Hey," Aang defends, weakly, "I drink… sometimes."
She meets his defense with a skeptical brow, "A sip of beer on your birthday doesn't count, Twinkletoes."
A smile tugs at his lips, happy that she's at least in a good enough mood to poke fun at him. He tries to keep the humor from his voice, "I drink more than that, Toph."
"Yeah, right," She crosses her arms, another cynical look, "Face it, Aang. You haven't had a proper drink since before Bumi was born."
He shakes his head, unable to quell his amusement at their banter. Focus, Aang. He's not here to crack jokes, he's here for serious emotional support. He puffs out his chest, doing his best to sound tough, "Well, I want one now. You in or not?"
She bites her lips, contemplating his offer for another moment, then giving a shrug, "Fine, I guess it's five o'clock somewhere." Finally, she pushes herself off the wall and starts to brush past him, and Aang takes it as a victory that her expression is at least slightly less sullen than it was moments ago, "But you're buying."
He doesn't argue, and it's not long before he finds himself seated across from Toph in a booth at a bar that is just a little gruffer than he's used to. It smells like stale liquor and dried-up sweat, and Aang can almost feel the ghosts of one too many bar fights still lingering in the air. Aang hadn't really thought this through. It is a bit early in the day for drinking, and there are just enough patrons in the bar to give it that dingy, hole-in-the wall feel. Still, he's one to embrace all types of company, so he dismisses the yellow teeth and wrinkled sneers of the drinkers nearby with a smile of his own, and he tries his best to keep his focus on Toph. He watches carefully as she takes earnest sips from her glass of whiskey. Or, is it brandy? Rum? Aang's not well-versed in alcohol, but either way, Toph is on her second glass of whatever while Aang is still making a dent in his first.
He's also making a distinct effort not to bring up Yakone, hoping she'll bring it up herself… but she seems in no hurry to do so.
Instead, Toph's blind gaze stares blankly at the table - lost in thought. Her mind is clearly trained elsewhere, and Aang wonders what she's thinking about. He guesses it has something to do with the trial today, but it surprises Aang when instead, she remarks, "This place reminds me of a bar I used to go to with Sokka."
A moment passes. Aang takes a sip of his drink, unsure how he should respond. If he was surprised by her remark, she just looks just as surprised to have said it. To anyone else, her offhand comment would seem just that. Offhand - a causal reflection of a fond memory. But, Aang knows her well enough to pick up on the tightness of her voice, and the pain behind it.
Aang clears his throat, preparing himself for an uncomfortable moment. He tugs at the collar of his robe, trying his hardest to act casual, "So… I noticed that last time Sokka visited, you didn't come to say goodbye."
For a moment, Toph's expression seems unreadable, and Aang feels his own heart racing with nerves, afraid of how she will respond. He waits for an explosion, the inevitable backlash to his prodding. He may not know what happened between her and Sokka, but he gets the feeling it's a touchy subject.
But instead, she surprises him again by ignoring his comment all together. She takes a sip of her drink, then wipes her mouth with the back of her hand, brusquely, "You know, I knew…I knew Yakone would get off lickity-split, but it still fucking sucks. You know?"
Aang is smart enough not to comment on her not-so-subtle change of topic, "I'm sorry, Toph. But it's not your fault. You know that, right?"
"Isn't it, though?" she retorts. She sits back in her seat, arms crossed over her chest, "I'm the one who couldn't tell if that asshole was lying or not, remember? Think of all that evidence I missed."
Truthfully, he had been a bit surprised and discouraged when he first heard of the interrogation gone wrong, but he doesn't blame Toph for that, "Toph, the fact that you can tell when anyone is lying is extraordinary. You can't blame yourself for not being able to get a read on one person."
"Pfft," Toph shakes her head, unappeased, "It's not just one person, Aang. It's the person. I mean, he's as bad as it gets, right? People like him are the reason my job matters in the first place."
"I know, but-"
"You think I give a crap about petty theft and noise complaints?" Toph interrupts, gesturing wildly with her hands, "All I want is to put scumbags like Yakone in their place and to make this city safe. If I can't do that, then what good am I?"
"Hey, I understand how you feel," Aang takes another sip of his drink, warming up to its stingy taste, "Believe me, I do."
"Yeah," Toph grumbles her assent, her voice softening just a hair, "I know you do, Aang. Sorry, I'm just frustrated."
"I know," he repeats, "But you really have to stop blaming yourself."
Her tone sharpens again, "Fine, then can we talk about that good-for-nothing judge? You weren't in the room, but I swear - that judge had his mind made up about Yakone before he even walked in the room."
"You can't know that, Toph," Aang points out, reluctantly, "There was very little evidence, what could he have done?"
At this, Toph stalls, her blind eyes narrowing in warning, "Are you saying Yakone deserved to be let off, scot-free?"
"No, that's not what I'm saying at all," Aang argues, growing a bit frustrated himself now, "All I'm saying is that the judge could only work with what he had, just like you and everyone else in this case is doing. It's not his fault that the evidence was weak, just like it's not yours either."
"Whatever." Toph grumbles as she slumps in her seat, obviously seeing his point but not wanting to admit it. Then, offhand, "You know, if Sokka were here – if he were still on the council – I bet you Yakone would be behind bars right now."
Aang's eyebrows quirk up at another mention of Sokka. It's an odd comment for her to make. Not only because Aang thought she was trying to avoid the topic of their Water Tribe friend, but because Sokka hasn't been on the council in years. Besides, it would only matter who was on the council if this case actually made it there… which, evidently, it hasn't. It's not a very rational comment for her to make.
But then again, logic and love don't always mix, do they?
Aang's face twists with sympathy, and in that moment, he realizes that her troubles run much deeper than just Yakone. He takes one more sip of his drink, lets out a sigh, and asks, "Did something happen between you too?"
Toph gnaws at her fingernail, "Who?"
Even though she can't see it, Aang fixes her with a pointed look, "Sokka."
"What about Sokka?" Toph stops her gnawing to send him another warning look, "We're not talking about him right now, we're talking about Yakone."
Aang takes a deep breath, careful not to let it morph into another sigh. He can't help but feel frustrated by Toph's deflection. Honestly, how very airbender of her, trying to skate around the issue instead of facing it head on. It's not like her to avoid confrontation, but that just shows how much this is troubling her. She won't deal with whatever happened, because she doesn't know how to. But, if she wants to talk about Yakone, then fine.
"Listen, Toph, I know you're not in the mood for a pep-talk, but you really need to be more forgiving of yourself. The monks used to say that-"
"Save it, Twinkletoes." Toph interrupts again, "We had him, but we lost him…" her blind gaze blanks out again, her expression falling far away, her voice dipping just above a whisper, "That's on me."
This time, Aang does sigh, and even though she doesn't want to talk about it, he has to ask, "Are we still talking about Yakone here or someone else?"
Once again, there's a pause – teetering and tense. Aang keeps his eyes trained on Toph as she swirls the remaining liquid around in her glass. If Aang didn't know any better, he'd think she was staring at it - drowning her thoughts in the amber liquor, forgetting her troubles. But… she's blind, of course, so she stares into nothingness. Nothing but darkness, where's they're no room to forget.
Whatever he expected her response to be (more deflection, a harsh rebuttal, flat out denial), she surprises him yet again, when she tells him, "Sokka and I kissed. Before he left."
Aang blinks. "Oh," another blink, "I see."
Toph downs the rest of her drink, then slams the empty glass on the table, with more force than she probably intends, "Yup."
Aang doesn't say anything, and it takes him a few moments to remember to close his gaping mouth. Idly, he takes another sip of his own drink, surprising himself by following Toph's lead and downing the rest of it.
I heard that the Chief and Master Sokka were having an affair, can you believe that?
Apparently, not all rumors were lacking reality.
Aang's not sure what shocks him more… the fact that they kissed - even though Sokka is married - or the fact that it really doesn't shock him all that much. He knew they had a 'thing', years back. And, even though he knows that ended a long time ago, looking back, it's not hard to see that something lingered between them, all that time. At the very least, Aang suspected that Toph still harbored feelings. But what about Sokka, who's married? Aang is all for following one's heart, and they're both his close personal friends, so of course he'd be thrilled for them to work it out.
But… Sokka is married. Aang can't imagine ever cheating on Katara – or even being tempted to - so it's a bit hard for him to excuse that behavior in someone else, even two of his best friends. Spirits, this is complicated.
Apparently, Aang is silent for just a bit too long, as Toph feels the need to continue, "We didn't plan it, okay? We just got caught up in the moment and it just happened, Aang. And it was just a kiss."
She seems to be seeking some sort of reassurance, so Aang nods, sparingly, "I believe you. But, what does this mean? Is he…?"
His voice trails off, but Toph picks up on his meaning, "Is he what, going to leave his wife? Doubtful." Toph shakes her head, angry and desperate all at once, "Aang, I don't think he ever wants to see me again."
"What!" Aang reacts immediately, his eyes wide bulging, "Toph, you guys are best friends. Think of all you've been through together, of course he'll want to see you again. Don't be silly."
"I don't know, Aang," Toph wipes at her cheeks, and only then does he realize she's crying, "You weren't there. You didn't hear what he said."
Aang considers this for a moment. He can't imagine Sokka ever cutting Toph out of his life, but still, he knows that it doesn't soften the blow in the moment. Whatever transpired after they kissed must not have been pretty. Katara told him of a few times that Toph has cried, so he knows it happens, but he's not usually the one to be there when it does. Whatever happened must have been bad.
Tentatively, Aang starts, "Well, I don't know exactly what happened - and you don't need to tell me - but I do know that you both care about each other, a lot. Maybe you should reach out him - tell him how you feel? I'd be happy to help you write a letter."
Her head is already shaking before he can finish his sentence. Adamantly, "No. I can't do that."
"Why not?"
"Because, it was my mistake, Aang!" She bursts, her palms slamming on the table with a startling force, "It was me who kissed him. And it was me who let him walk out that door without fixing things. I'm the one who let him go… It's my fault."
Her shoulders start to shake, and Aang can tell she's trying hard not to let her few tears turn into something heavier. Wordlessly, Aang slides out of the booth, stands up, and moves to sit down next to her. He puts his arm around her shoulders, and for once, it doesn't surprise him in the slightest when she gives in, her body slumping against his for support.
She's a tough cookie, so her tears never quite morph into sobs. In fact, other than the wet tracks running down her face, softening her cheeks, her face is otherwise stoic and hard - unbreakable. But… her body feels heavy against his, weighed down by the stress, exhaustion and heartbreak of the past few weeks.
Aang keeps his voice gentle, encouraging, "Then, maybe it should be you who makes things right."
"That's the thing," she sniffles, "I missed my shot, Aang. It's too late."
"Toph, it's never too late to tell people how you feel."
"Pfft, that's a sweet sentiment, Twinkletoes," Toph sits up, wiping the snot from her nose, "But he's married, Aang. I'm not about to become the other woman and I'm not about to ruin his marriage, okay? I can live with not having him like that…" Her face twists once again, and she breaths in another shaky breath, "But… I think I may have lost him as a friend too. Howdo I live with that?"
Aang blinks, stunned by her emotionally open display. It's rare for her to be so vulnerable, at least around him, and he wishes he knew the right thing to say. But… he doesn't, so he offers his arms as solace, hoping they'll do. She meets his embrace, and her body slumps against his once more as Aang does his best to comfort her. Not one to let her tears stay too long, Toph quickly stops crying – yet the dejection remains.
Her voice sounds small – small enough that he almost misses it – when she asks, "What do I do, Aang?"
Aang chews the inside of his cheek. Truthfully, he doesn't know the answer. If it were up to him, he'd go back in time and lock Toph and Sokka in a room and force them to work out their feelings before things got so messy. But things are already a mess. Toph is right. Sokka is married, and there's not much she do about that.
Besides, what matters most right now is their friendship. And, if she's not willing to reach out to Sokka, whether her reasons are valid or not, he's not sure what to tell her. Not for the first time, he's reminded of how grateful he is to have Katara. Spirits help him if he had to figure out his love life again. It hurts to see his friend so distraught, and he has to wonder how Sokka is holding up? Why can't these two just work things out?
It occurs to him then, that they might need a little push.
It doesn't really feel right getting involved in his friend's love lives, especially since there is a marriage involved. Still, he'd hate to see their friendship not recover. Either way, the wounds are still quite fresh, so perhaps they just need a moment to heal? He'll give it a little time to work itself out before he buds in. At the end of the day, Sokka and Toph aren't just best friends, they're family. There's no way they won't make up. One of them is bound to make amends sooner or later. Right?
Still, he makes a mental note to reach out to Sokka, just to check in (and to perhaps encourage a visit, sooner rather than later.)
For now though, he's here to help Toph.
Gently, he pushes her off his shoulder and makes her sit up, "Hey, I can't tell you what to do, Toph."
She wrinkles her face, sourly, "Ugh, the one time I want you to boss me around and you can't even do that."
"But," Aang ignores her jest, not finished yet, "What I can tell you is that me and Katara will be here to support you. You're not alone, Toph. With Yakone, with Sokka, with Lin… with everything - you're not alone. You have us. We're your family."
Aang watches Toph's face soften, and he likes to think he sees a bit of hope somewhere in there. Finally, he thinks he's found the right words to say.
"And, I know it doesn't seem like it right now," Aang continues, "But Sokka is your family too. Families fight, but they always make up in the end."
Finally, that seems to be budge through Toph's mood. She composes herself with one last sniffle, and sensing that the pep-talk is over, Aang moves to give her one last hug. Buuuuut she meets him halfway instead with a swift punch to his arm, "Thanks, Twinkletoes." She says, dryly - sounding much more like herself, "What would I do without you?"
Aang rubs the sore spot on his arm, but he can't deny his smile. Things are going to be okay.
They have to be.
Not quite a year later
The change from the warm, muted tones of the Earth Kingdom down to the cool, yet bright colors of the Southern Water Tribe somehow always ends up being a jarring one. Thousands of miles of open water blend into the horizon as turquoise oceans morph into cerulean seas, a gradual transition as the ship sails South, the temperature dropping with every inch closer to the pole. Yet, somehow, seemingly in the blink of an eye, the tropics of Kyoshi manage to dip into icy tundra, and the seas of blue are frozen white.
It's been years – decades even - since her last visit to the Southern Tribe. Yet, there was a time in her life when Suki would make this trip every few months. And even though that feels like someone else's lifetime, the crisp air and the goosebumps on her skin feel just as familiar and welcoming as when she was a teen visiting with her first love.
And just as cold.
If there's one thing Suki does not miss about her ex-boyfriend, it's freezing her ass off on whenever they visited his hometown. There's a reason she was happy during her tenure in the Fire Nation.
But she does her best to brave the cold as the blue waters blend into whiteness, frozen icecaps offering a warm greeting as the ship pulls closer to the village…or, err, city. Drawing closer to the docks, it doesn't take much to notice how much the tribe has changed since her last visit, all those years ago. But then again, everything has changed.
The ship docks, and after departing, Suki quickly realizes she has no idea where she's going. Her plan had been to follow her memory, but nothing about the bustling icy streets and industrious scene in front of her reminds of her youth, so she's a bit lost. The tribe had grown fairly quickly after the war, so it's not unusual to find it so busy, but the size and scope of the Southern Tribe now rivals even Republic City, in her opinion. It's… overwhelming.
Wanting to drop off her pack and collect her thoughts, she wanders until she finds an inn downtown. She lets herself freshen up, but she's on a mission, so she doesn't stay idle for long. Thankfully, despite having grown in size, somehow, everyone still knows everyone here in the tribe (that, and the person she's looking for isn't exactly an inconspicuous figure). It takes some asking around, but eventually, she finds directions and starts to make her way through the snowy streets, her purpose renewed. She walks for a bit before eventually coming up her destination - a house, just outside of the city center, that she finds to be surprisingly modest.
Gathering her wits, she knocks gently on the front door, and waits. While she feels anxious to get out of the cold and get on with her mission, she can't help but feel a little nervous too, in spite of herself. It's a bit unusual for her missions to be so personal.
It takes a moment or two, but before she knows it, the door is opening and her eyes land on a familiar face. Sokka.
He stands there in the doorway, stunned in place, and the first thing Suki notices is the set of permanent frown lines between his brows that she doesn't remember being there before. His mouth hangs dumbly for a moment, before he blinks, "Suki?"
"Hi, Sokka," she greets, a warm smile on her lips, "It's good to see you."
"Uh…it's good to see you too." He smiles back, though something about strikes Suki as off. "But uh, what are you doing here?"
He stands to the side, gesturing for her to come in. Happy to get out of the cold, Suki steps through the front door, her eyes automatically scanning the room. It's clean and it's cozy, though again, there's something off. Maybe she's spent too much time with Ty Lee over the years, but the aura and energy just feel strange – cold, despite the fire crackling in the fireplace and the warm tones of the interior, pelts lining the wall. It dawns on her, as her eyes continue to scan the space, that nothing in here reminds her of Sokka. There's nothing - no photos, no keepsakes, no mementos - that seems to belong to him. Everything in here seems like it belongs to his wife. Huh.
She's about to answer Sokka's question, when suddenly, a voice startles both of them, and Suki tries not to flinch at how harsh it sounds, "Sokka!"
Sokka lets a long sigh slip through his lips, "One second, Suki." His face drops as he turns his head over his shoulder, his voice filled with a rehearsed amount of patience as he calls out, "Yes, Kahlia?"
"I thought I told you to get off your ass and-" just then, Kahlia appears from around a corner, her stern face quickly glazing over with a look of surprise, "Oh. Suki." Kahlia sends her husband a weighted look, obviously embarrassed, "Sorry, I didn't realize we had company."
"Um, that's okay," Suki shrugs off the awkward moment, forcing some warmth to her face, "I'm sorry to drop in unannounced. I'm here on business and I thought I'd stop by to say hello. This is a lovely home you have here."
"Thank you." Kahlia responds, though it lacks any graciousness, and Suki can't help but pick up on a slight edge to her voice. She waits to be offered some tea, or any hospitality for that matter, but she's met instead with a skeptical look, "Are you staying long?"
"Uh…" Suki opens her mouth, caught off guard by the woman's cold tone. Suki wouldn't say she knows Kahlia all that well, but from the few times she met her, she always seemed friendly enough. Nothing like the woman in front of her now.
"She's married, Kahlia. Remember?" Sokka says, pointedly, although Suki's not sure how that's relevant.
"Yeah, well so are you." Kahlia retorts, and Suki notices the look of compunction cross over Sokka's features. Huh. Interesting.
"Come on, Suki," Sokka starts, though his eyes stay trained on his wife, wearily, "Why don't we go catch up somewhere else? I'll know a place we can get some tea."
"Um, sure," Suki agrees, admittedly relieved. She wanted to speak with Sokka privately anyway.
"Is that alright with you, sweetheart?" Sokka asks his wife, his tone more forgiving.
But Kahlia's answer is far less forgiving, "Whatever. Do what you want. See if I care."
With that, not bothering to cast a second glance in Suki's direction, Kahlia turns and abruptly leaves the room, leaving the two exes standing by the entryway, awkwardly.
"Ready to go?" Sokka asks, before Suki can wonder what the heck all that was about. It's not really her business anyway. Then again, the whole reason she's here is to pry.
"Sure." Suki offers a sympathetic smile, which Sokka seems to make a point to ignore, "Lead the way."
Sokka quickly shrugs on a thick coat and grabs his things before leading them out the door and mercifully away from the tension. Well, away from whatever that tension was. Clearly, whatever mess Suki just walked into has been going on for a while, and she can't help but feel some of that tension linger as she walks side by side with her ex.
The warrior in her – trained to clock every move – notes the change in Sokka's posture from the last time she saw him. When she saw him last - at his wedding - he had been all smiles, standing tall and proud while looking young and bright. But the man she sees now, walks with his back hunched and his eyes anxious, looking back over his shoulder with every few steps, as if he's keeping his eyes out for trouble. He looks tired, worn-out and nothing like the man she used to know.
Aang was right to send her.
"So… a 'business trip', huh?" Sokka remarks as they continue to walk. He offers a skeptical brow raise, but Suki keeps her own expression carefully schooled.
"That's right," she nods, casually, "Aang sent me to conduct some important Avatar business on his behalf."
"Oh, he did, did he?" Another disbelieving look, though Suki catches a hint of a smile, "And what is this 'important avatar business', if I might ask?"
"Uh…" Suki hesitates, not sure how much she wants to give away just yet, "Sorry, I can't tell you. It's classified."
Sokka rolls his eyes, but quickly offers her a smile, more genuine than his previous ones, "Well, regardless of whatever this 'classified' business is – it's good to see you. Really."
"You too," Suki smiles back, finally feeling more at ease.
Sokka leads them to a humble looking tea shop – perfect, in her opinion, for the delicate conversation she wants to have with him. Sokka moves to push open the door to the shop, but before he gets the chance, someone – a man - pulls it open from the other side, blocking their way in.
"Sokka!" the man accosts, jovially. He's a tall man – taller than Sokka – and strong too. His hair is a little darker and his skin a little lighter, but if Suki didn't know any better, she'd think him and Sokka were related.
"Yutu, buddy. How's it going?" Sokka says, just as lively as he and the man clasp hands in a 'manly' greeting. Inwardly, Suki rolls her eyes. Ugh. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that Sokka had seemed so glum only moments ago, but Suki can't help but think there's something just a bit too chummy about the exchange. She does another quick once over of Yutu, and immediately, there's something about him she doesn't like. She can't place her finger on it, but again… there's just something off.
"All good here, Sport," Yutu responds. He leans against the doorway of the teashop, his posture dripping with arrogance, "Hey, how's Kahlia doing?
Ugh, can we just go inside already?
"Good, good. She's good." Sokka bids Yutu with a tight smile, and Suki can tell he wants this conversation to end just as much as she does.
Just then, Yutu's eyes land on her, as if just noticing her presence, "And who is this beautiful woman, Sport?"
Suki represses the physical shudder down her spine, his words and somewhat smarmy stare making her skin itch. She narrows her eyes at him, warningly, but he only bites his lips with interest. Blegh.
"This is Suki," Sokka says, his voice strangely unreadable, guarded almost, "An old friend of mine."
"Well, you should have your friends visit more often, if they're all as pretty as this one."
Suki shifts uncomfortably and sends a pointed glance in Sokka's direction, willing him to end the conversation.
"Right," thankfully, he seems to catch on. He keeps his tone light, though there's a clear warning in it, "Well, this old friend of mine is married, Yutu. And we have some catching up to do, sooo."
"Okay, okay!" Yutu puts his hands up, but there's something smug about the way he does it, "I can take a hint. I'll see ya around, Sokka. You two kids have fun."
Finally, Yutu steps out from the doorway and lets them pass. It's only when he's out of earshot and gone for good that Suki - not hiding the skepticism from her voice - remarks, "Friend of yours?"
Sokka shrugs, "I guess. He and Kahlia grew up together in the Northern tribe, so I know him mostly through her."
"Hmmm," Suki hums, unimpressed, "Seems like a nice guy."
Sokka doesn't comment on her sarcasm, and the two order some tea before finding a seat in a nook by the window. The tea shop is quiet, save for a few other patrons reading or talking with friends, and there's something undeniably cozy about it. Even though it's a public place, it seems a lot more 'Sokka' than even his own house did, and she can tell why he likes it. It smells like tea and old books, and the warmth of the interior offers a pleasant contrast from the cold tones outside, visible through the frosty glass of the window. Even on the cusp of summer, the tribe is freezing, and the tea feels warm and inviting in the palm of her hands. It's nostalgic and familiar in all the right ways - this is the welcoming she was missing.
"So, how's the hubby?" Sokka starts, a teasing smirk on his face.
"He's great, actually." Suki responds, automatically, "To be honest, it's been an adjustment settling back down in Kyoshi – at least for me. But Deshi has taken to it like a fish to water."
"Like the Unagi himself." Sokka jokes, lifting up his tea in mock salute.
"I suppose so." Suki laughs, unable to stop the smile tugging at her cheeks as she clangs her tea against his. She's lucky to have found a man like her husband – on the outside, he probably doesn't seem like much to others. But he's kind and virtuous, and he makes her feel special. And, at the end of the day, "We're very happy."
"Good," Sokka's eyes crinkle, a nostalgic expression, "I'm glad you're happy, Suki."
Suki's own face falls into a look of sympathy once more. She wishes she could return the sentiment. Truly, she wants nothing more than for Sokka to be joyful and thriving. But clearly… he isn't.
So, instead of offering false sentiments about his wife, she tries a different approach, "Aang says hi, by the way." Clearing her throat, she takes a long, inconspicuous sip of her tea. Then, carefully, "He was wondering how you were doing."
Her effort to remain casual apparently fails, as Sokka almost immediately rolls his eyes, unable to hold the spite from his tongue, "Ah. So that's your mission. Aang sent you to check up on me."
Suki shrugs, sheepishly, unable to deny it, "He would have come himself, but Kyoshi Island is a lot closer to the South than Republic City, so I'm afraid you're stuck with me."
"That doesn't matter." Sokka grumbles, "I'm a grown man – I don't need you or Aang or anyone else checking up on my like some fragile little charity case."
"You're not a charity case, Sokka." Suki insists, earnestly, "You're our friend. And Aang is just worried about you. We all are."
"Well, I'm sorry to disappoint you," Sokka retorts, clearly anything but sorry, "But your trip is a waste of time, because I'm fine."
Suki sends another doubtful look his way, "Hm, sure you are. Is that why you haven't reached out to your friends and family in the city for months? Because you're fine?"
"I've been in touch." Sokka argues, though not even he sounds like he believes it.
"Aang said that your letters have gotten shorter and shorter," her face falls, sympathetically, "He said that he's invited you to visit, multiple times, but you haven't been back to the city in almost a year. He said he's always the one to reach out, and that you never actually say how you're doing anymore."
"It would seem that Aang says a lot of things, doesn't he?" Sokka sighs, clearly having expected this conversation, but annoyed anyway, "Look, I don't have time to sit around trading love letters with my brother-in-law, okay? I'm busy."
"Uh-huh," Suki retorts, still unconvinced, "Too busy for your family?"
"My family is here." Sokka rebuts, his tone harsher than he probably intends.
"Last I checked, you have a few nieces and nephews in Republic City that would disagree." Suki crosses her arms, another pointed expression on her face, "And don't be like that - I know how much you care about your sister, at the very least. Katara's pretty upset that you haven't bothered to reach out, you know."
At that, a regretful look crosses over Sokka's face, but he still insists, "My duty is to my wife."
"I understand that, Sokka," Suki says, firmly but not unkind, "But you have family in Republic City that needs you too. I know you must miss your sister as much as she misses you. Not to mention Aang." Suki swallows, hesitantly, before adding, "And… Toph."
At this, she sees Sokka flinch - just as she expected him to. He squirms in his seat, turning his head to look out through the frosty window. If Suki didn't know better, she'd think he was merely people watching - peering out at the bustling streets outside. But Suki knows him, and she knows that his gaze looks further away – further than it can see. Slowly, he turns his head back to her, and she can tell he's trying to act casual, when he asks, "How is she doing?"
Suki shrugs, ignoring the weight behind his query, "I haven't actually seen her since your wedding, but Aang mentioned that she's doing okay. He said she's a bit…stressed." Yeah, let's go with that, "But she's managing. Lin is doing well, too, in case you were wondering."
Sokka nods, but he makes no further comment as he returns his gaze to peer out the window - lost in thought.
A moment passes, and Suki takes another sip of her tea. She already knows half the answer, but Suki finally asks, "Did something happen between you two?"
He lifts a cautious brow in her direction, "What did Aang tell you?"
"Nothing," she answers, honestly, "He just said that both you and Toph haven't been acting like yourselves lately, and he thinks it has something to do with why you've been so distant."
Sokka nods, still hesitant. But, finally…
"Toph and I…." Sokka sighs, filled with remorse, "Last time I visited the city, Toph and I kissed."
Suki's eyes flare with a brief twinge of surprise, but she quickly schools her expression. Aang had told her that something happened between Toph and Sokka that formed a rift between them, but he didn't tell her the specifics.
She never knew the details (talking with your ex about your respective love lives is never that comfortable), but she was vaguely aware that Sokka and Toph had some sort of romantic history. She remembers the time Zuko had accidently let it slip, and how awkward it had been for a moment afterward. But, she also remembers how quickly that awkward feeling went away, and how happy she ultimately was for them. She still giggles to herself from time to time when she remembers Toph's little crush on Sokka back in the day, and her little kissing mishap in the Serpent's Pass.
So, when she learned that Toph and Sokka had something going on – whatever that something was – she was genuinely happy and hoped the best for them. They made sense, and Suki figured they'd ultimately end up together. So, she was subsequently confused when she'd learned that Sokka was dating and later engaged to some other woman.
"So, you….?" Suki lets her question trail off, but Sokka finishes for her.
"Cheated on my wife with my best friend?" he answers, sardonically, "Yeah. I did."
"I see," Suki nods, remembering Kahlia's sour attitude from before. Slowly, she puts the pieces together, "So, I assume Kahlia knows?"
"Yeah. She knows." Sokka lets out another sigh, "I told her right after it happened, as soon as I got back."
Suki raises another skeptical brow, "But, you're still together?"
This time, Sokka shrugs, seemingly just as confused as she is, "When I told her, of course she was furious. Believe me, there was plenty of yelling and crying and all that fun stuff." He huffs out a humorless, dry laugh, "And, as you could probably tell from earlier, she hasn't let me forget it."
Suki hums her understanding, but she still has to wonder, "Well, what did you expect to happen?"
Sokka offers only another shrug in response. He takes a sip of his tea as they slip into a moment of silence, neither knowing what to say. Suki takes another moment to look at her ex love, reading his body language. She doesn't need her warrior instincts or the art of stealth to pick up on his dejected posture, and the shame weighing down on his spine.
"Let me guess…" Suki starts, breaking the silence, "You thought you would come here, confess to Kahlia, and she would want a divorce, basically making the decision for you, so you wouldn't have to make it for yourself."
Sokka blinks, "Wow. Do I really lack that much of a backbone?"
"No." Suki shakes her head, adamantly, "You're just that honorable of a man."
"Honorable?" Sokka scoffs, then sends her a self-deprecating smile, "I'm the one who cheated, remember?"
"I know. And that was a mistake," Suki reaches across her seat to put a hand on his shoulder, urging him to know, "We all make them."
She thinks back to when she was still dating Sokka, and when her feelings for Zuko had crept up on her, tempting her. Sure, she never cheated on Sokka…but she thought about it. And, she's sure that if the circumstances had shifted even by just an inch, she might have.
"But, Sokka," Suki continues, "You're only human, and you do have honor. So much honor that you stay with your wife, even if it makes you unhappy, because you think it's the right thing to do."
"Well," Sokka sounds unsure, desperate for the answer, "Isn't it?".
But, instead of answering, "Sokka, can I ask you something?"
Sokka nods, hesitantly, "Sure."
"Why did you marry Kahlia in the first place?"
Eyebrows lifting on autopilot, Sokka jerks his head back, surprised by the question, "Why does anyone marry anyone? I loved her." A second passes. Suki waits, and Sokka blinks before remembering to correct himself, "I mean. I love her."
A tight expression finds her, as Suki presses, "But why?"
Sokka furrows his brow for a moment, clearly deciding whether or not to air on the side of confused or defensive, "What do you mean 'why'?"
Gently, "It's not a trick question, Sokka. I'm asking: What is it about Kahlia that made you want to marry her?"
"Uh," Sokka scratches the back of her neck, his face giving away how uncomfortable he feels, "Well…"
Sokka pauses, his face scrunching into a contemplative one as he considers Suki's question. Suki sips her tea, patiently. Finally, after a long moment of thought, Sokka starts, "The thing is, when I met Kahlia, it was at a… confusing time in my life."
"You met her the day Lin was born, didn't you?" Suki remarks, offhand.
"Uh, yeah, I guess I did," Sokka scratches his head, as if he forgot that detail, "Anyway, everyone I knew was growing up and starting families, and I felt like I was falling behind. Like I was supposed to want what everyone else had.
"And then Kahlia showed up, and she was kind and beautiful and successful. She was everything a guy could ever ask for. Kind of like you." Sokka teases (though his smile is genuine). Suki rolls her eyes, affectionately, but she lets Sokka continue, "On paper, Kahlia was perfect. And not just that, but I never had to guess what she was thinking or what she wanted. She never hid her feelings from me, so I never felt the need to hide mine from her. I guess…. she was…"
Sokka's voice trails off, but Suki finishes for him, her brow quipped pointedly, "Safe?"
"Yeah." Sokka narrows his brows, as if finally coming to a realization, "Safe."
"So, in other words, she was everything you thought you were supposed to want." Suki takes a moment to clear her throat, "But maybe not what…or who... you really wanted?"
He looks at her then, and Suki knows him well enough to know that she's just said the thing that he's been thinking for a long time. Something he's been trying to avoid, but no longer can. Again, he doesn't response, so Suki continues…
"Sokka, do you remember before we broke up?" she starts, "I felt so guilty because I was living in the Fire Nation and not in the city with you."
Sokka nods, "I remember."
"I didn't want to move to the city, but I wanted to want that, because I thought I was supposed to want that."
Now Sokka looks confused, "Okay, you're starting to lose me now."
Suki can't help but smile, amused by his cluelessness, "Sokka, it was you who told me that it's okay to be selfish, remember? It was you that allowed me to take a step back and not just think about what I was supposed to want, but what I actually, truly desired. You gave me the freedom to follow my heart… Don't you think you deserve to follow yours too?"
Sokka sighs, a little desperately "But what does that mean? How can I follow my heart when I don't where it leads?"
Another pause, along with an incredulous look. Sokka really is clueless.
"You know, I have to admit," Suki says, changing the subject, "When I heard you were moving away from the city for good, I was a bit surprised." She takes another inconspicuous sip of her tea, her eyes peering over the rim of her cup, before she adds, "From what I remember, your heart was always in the city."
"I guess," Sokka shrugs, not catching on to her meaning, "I mean, I love the city, of course. But the Water Tribe is my home too. I'm not married to any place, really."
"Sokka," Suki offers another pointed expression, "I wasn't talking about the city itself."
"Then what were-" Sokka's voice trails off again, realization dawning on him, "Oh."
Suki offers a fond smile, glad that he's finally catching on. A moment passes, and Sokka turns his head to face the window once more.
"I'm still mad at her." Sokka admits, his voice as far away as his gaze.
Suki nods, empathetically, "I know."
"I loved her, Suki." He faces her again, "And she loved me too. But she pushed me away. She pushed me away and started a family. Without me."
"I know. But, Sokka… You and I both know that you could have been part of that. Family doesn't have to mean blood. Family can mean many different things." She leans forward, forcing his eyes to make contact with hers, "You are I are family, aren't we? Our little gaang, back in the war… that was family.
"And I know, even though things hurt between you two now, Toph is your family too. And so is Lin. You know just as well as I do that family is who you chose."
He nods, more firmly this time, but he still sounds unsure when he asks, "What should I do, Suki?"
"The same thing that you let me do all those years ago." Suki smiles again, fondly, "Follow your heart."
Sokka giggles his keys in his hands for a few moments longer the necessary, delaying the inevitable conversation he's about to have with – if all goes according to plan – his soon to be ex-wife. His heart races with nerves, yet also a strange mix of relief and excitement. It seems wrong, to be excited about divorce, but it also feels right. After his talk with Suki, he feels surer than ever that this is the right thing to do.
Taking a deep breath, Sokka puts the key in the lock and gives it a twist, ready to face this.
When he enters the house, the first thing that catches him off guard is the smell. It's not pleasant per say, but it's not entirely unpleasant either. It's smoky and strong, and Sokka tries hard not to wrinkle his nose. Incense, Sokka quickly realizes. The next thing he clocks is the candles – lots of them - purposefully littered across the room, flames dancing along to the jazzy soundtrack coming from the radio.
Huh…how oddly…romantic?
Finally, the last thing that catches him totally off guard, if his wife. She's standing in the center of the room, clearly having waited for him to come home. The glow from the candles bounces off her tanned skin, and she has a look on her face that is entirely unreadable.
Sokka's not sure if he should be grateful for or unnerved by this look – but he's leaning towards the later, considering most of the looks she's given him in the past ten or so months have been ones of contempt. He supposes, maybe 'unreadable' is a step up.
Sokka puts his keys down on a table, swallowing the nervous lump in his throat as he continues to take in the scene around him. He feels Kahlia's eyes on him, patient and soft, yet somehow that does little to quell his nerves. He approaches his wife, cautiously, "Hey. What's all this?"
Confused, he gestures around at the romantic atmosphere. Is she trying to seduce him? It would come as a bit of a surprise. Not that they haven't been intimate since he got back, but their encounters have definitely been sparse, and she's always the one to initiate. But never like this, with so much romance put in. Ever since his discrepancy with Toph, lovemaking with his wife has been sorely lacking on the actual love part, and is usually an act of sheer obligation (and sometimes, Sokka thinks…an act of spite).
"I wanted to do something special." Kahlia offers a sheepish smile, and Sokka is forced to intake a breath. It's the same smile that made Sokka fall in love with her back in the day, and he can't deny the pang of remorse he feels.
This has to end. He can't do this anymore…
Sokka takes another breath, a slow exhale through his lips, "Kahlia, I think we need to-"
"Sokka," his wife interrupts, her voice filled with a hope that had long become foreign, at least to his ears, "I'm pregnant."
AN
And the saga continues!
You know, one of these days I won't have to apologise for the long interval between updates, but alas, so sorry it took me so long to update.
As you may have noticed, I wanted to try something a little different with this chapter and tell it through Aang and Suki's perspectives. I really wanted to highlight both the physical and emotional distance between Sokka and Toph, and I also wanted to explore their relationship through an outsider's perspective. And, I felt that Aang and Suki were the perfect candidates, as those two seem the most confident in expressing their emotions (aside from Katara, but she can be a little pushy haha)
Anyway, thank you to everyone for reading and for your comments on the last chapter. I've been speaking with some of you in the Tokka discord server and on tumblr and ya'll are so lovely. Also, thank you to everyone who left kind words in regard to my surgery. Everything went well and I'm super excited to be writing again! Cheers!