The halls of the high school were bustling with the usual clamor of students chatting, lockers slamming, and footsteps echoing. You walked through the corridor, keeping your head down, lost in thought. Memories of your previous school, the bullying, and the pain resurfaced with every step. You had tried to bury them, but they always found a way to resurface.

As you reached your locker, you glanced up and froze. There, a few feet away, stood Zuko. He looked different, older, and more solemn, but those familiar golden eyes were unmistakable. The last time you saw him, he was the source of your torment, the reason you had to transfer schools. The sight of him now filled you with a mix of anxiety and curiosity.

Zuko noticed you and his eyes widened in recognition. He hesitated, clearly unsure whether to approach or not. Gathering his courage, he walked over to you, his steps tentative.

"Hey," he began softly, his voice laced with genuine regret. "I... I didn't know you went here now."

You nodded slightly, avoiding direct eye contact, the memories of his bullying still too fresh.

Zuko took a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. "I've... I've changed. I know I hurt you a lot back then, and I can't take back what I did. But I want you to know that I'm really, truly sorry."

You glanced up at him, seeing the sincerity in his eyes. He looked tormented, as if the weight of his past actions still haunted him.

"I didn't expect to see you here," you finally said, your voice quiet but steady.

"I didn't expect to see you either," Zuko admitted. "But I'm glad I did. I’ve wanted to apologize for so long. I was horrible to you, and I’ve regretted it every day since you left."

There was a pause as you absorbed his words. The hurt he caused you couldn't be erased with a simple apology, but seeing the remorse in his eyes, you could tell he was being sincere.

"I hope one day you can forgive me," Zuko continued. "I know it won't be easy, but I want to make up for what I did. If you'll let me."