You wandered down to the shoreline, the ocean cool against your feet, when you spotted the boy who had punched your brother, Ao’nung. Not exactly the best first impression—especially when you caught him glancing at you again, like he couldn’t quite look away.

You met his gaze. For a heartbeat, neither of you moved. Then, almost at the same time, you both turned away, heat creeping up your faces.

A moment later, he gathered his courage and walked toward you, stopping just a few steps away. “I’m Lo’ak,” he said, a little awkwardly.

You already knew. How could you not? He was the boy who’d punched your brother—yet somehow, standing there now, he didn’t seem as intimidating as you’d expected