Don't Leave Me (Zuko x OC)

Chapter 11

It was so relaxing. The workers kneading the knots in my back while the cherry blossoms fluttered down around us. It was unfortunate it had to come to an end. Pulling on the robes the spa lent us, I wandered back to where I knew Zuko and Iroh were. 

He sighed out of satisfaction, "This is what I've been missing. Who knew floating on a piece of driftwood for 3 weeks with no food or water and sea vultures waiting to pluck out your liver could make one so tense."

I went and sat down beside Zuko, grumpily staring at the floor. Iroh soon joined us, thankfully dressed. 

"I see. It's the anniversary, isn't it?"

"3 years ago today I was banished. I lost it all. I want it back. I want the Avatar, I want my honour, my throne. I want my father, not to think I'm worthless." He looked away sadly. 

"I'm sure he doesn't!" Iroh pipped, "Why would he banish you if he didn't care?" 

I jabbed him with my elbow as Zuko got up and walked off.

"That came out wrong, didn't it?"

I followed after the prince, grabbing his arm gently, "My Prince. You will get your throne and honour back some day, I am certain, but are you sure capturing the Avatar is how you achieve it."

He rounded on me, "Of course it is! Capturing the Avatar is my destiny!"

I looked at him sadly, "Who says?"

His eyes widened before storming off. 

*****

Iroh dumped a load of shells he had found on the beach onto the table. 

"Look at all these magnificent shells! I'll enjoy these keepsakes for years to come." He picked up a conch to admire it. 

I picked a shell up myself, "Oh it's so pretty! May I have this one?"

I saw Zuko glance over at me. 

Iroh smiled, "Of course, my dear."

"We don't need any more useless things! You forget we have to carry everything ourselves now."

I showed Zuko the shell, "But it's pretty. Don't you think?"

He looked at me funny, "Do girls really like this kind of thing?"

"I do." I giggled. 

"Hello brother." A sharp voice immediately cut off my laughs. "Uncle."

Azula was sat there, staring at us calculatingly. 

Zuko stepped in front of me, "What're you doing here?" 

"In my country, we exchange a pleasant hello before asking questions." She mocked, picking up a shell. "Have you become uncivilised so soon Zuzu?"

"Don't call me that!"

Azula looked past him and pinpointed me stood there nervously. 

"I see your little puppy dog is still following you around." She sneered at me, "Mai thought she'd try and sneak her way in while you two were apart. I do hope you haven't let this gold digger come between you and your true love."

Tears welled up in my eyes at her words. I wanted to run off but didn't want to appear weak. But it was hard when Zuko didn't even try to defend me or deny her words. 

Iroh broke the tension by bowing, "To what do we owe this honour."

"Hmm, must be a family trait. Both of you are so quick to get to the point."