The battle had been a lot, but you and Zuko worked together without even thinking. No arguing, no snapping—just instinct.

At one point, you saw him move before anyone else did. He pulled Toph out of the way of an attack, taking the hit himself as they landed. It was quick, over in seconds, but it stuck with you.

You didn’t know why.

—

Later that night, after the mission was over and everyone had settled down, sleep just… wouldn’t come.

You quietly slid the wooden door open and stepped onto the porch. The night was calm, sky full of stars, air cool against your skin.

You stared ahead, trying to understand why something felt off.

“You’re different today.”

His voice made you pause.

You didn’t turn right away.

“I always am,” you replied.

A quiet step behind you.

“No. Not like today,” Zuko said. “You looked at me… differently.”