Zutara Part 11 A Quick Good Bye

Blinking her eyes open, Katara wondered how long she had slept. Fidgeting and stretching Katara felt something behind her. She looked down and saw a tan arm around her waist. Turning slowly she discovered that Zuko was dozing quietly next to her. At first she was alarmed until she remembered before.

Katara felt shame wash over her again, she felt bad for hitting Zuko and lying to Toph. It was wrong. She clenched her eyes shut pushing the memories away. Looking back at Zuko, he looked peaceful. His face had a softness about it and some hair had come out of his top know falling into his eyes. Zuko looked almost like another person showing the left side of his face.

She gently placed her hand on his back. Zuko immediately sat up kneeling, his hands raised. A wide smile spread across Katara's face as she started to chuckle.

"That wasn't funny," Zuko muttered sleepily; sinking back onto the bed.

"Yes it was," Katara laughed.

He rolled over and shot her a look.

Katara suppressed a smile. Zuko got off the bed and stretched, his robes were wrinkled as he stretched his arms up.

"How long were we asleep?" Katara mindlessly asked. Zuko peeked out of the curtains.

"About an hour. You ready for this 'shindig?'" Zuko was back to his old self. Aloof with arrogant indifference.

"I guess." Katara was feeling those butterfly bees again. The good rush of attraction mixed with the dragging feeling of regret. "Well. I need to get ready. So."

"Yeah. Right. Okay." Zuko walking over to Katara.

"Alright," nodding her head. Zuko was so close she could feel his breath tickling the loose strands of hair.

Zuko leaned down and then stopped, looking Katara in the eye almost asking permission. Their lips met in the tense air for a quick smooch. It was awkward yet inviting. Katara parted her lips slightly. Zuko drew back.

"See you later."

Katara squeaked out, "Bye."