Toph nodded silently, his energy seemingly drained, as he followed Zuko.
The two brothers drove to the outskirts.
The sky was already getting dark. The colors of sunset gradually faded, leaving behind a deep indigo evening sky.
Zuko set up the camping tent and called Toph over for dinner.
The outskirts were calm, and soon, the night sky sparkled with countless stars.
Toph paused, realizing it was just the two of them. It felt like they were back in their childhood.
In their youth, they would enjoy carefree moments together in a private garden within Irwin Manor, often camping there. Back then, the night sky had been filled with stars and abundant fireflies.
Toph's mood gradually improved, and he appeared to be smiling.
Zuko said gently, "Toph, it's just us now. I want to ask you something honestly."
"Yeah?"
"Can you and Renee still make it work?"
Toph hesitated, his expression changing once more. His voice quivered as he replied, "Zuko, I..."
Seeing him like this, Zuko understood everything. "If it's not working out, it's best to cut your losses. Even though there's an investment already made, it's better than continually trying to fill a never-ending hole."
Toph understood the logic but couldn't bring himself to act on it. "If it were Pammy, would you find it as easy to say the same thing?"
"That 'if' doesn't exist in the first place," Zuko stated firmly, looking at him. "Because Pammy hasn't changed!"
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