Chapter Text
Her ice blue eyes reflected off the water's surface as it lapped lazily against the ancient wooden dock. The air around them was tranquil with crickets chirping and the slight breeze rustling the reeds that hugged the shores. Yue glanced over at her equally silent companion. There, with the full moon illuminating Zuko's back casting him in a cool, silver light. His ink-black hair juxtaposed against his pale skin, which seemed to glow with the light of the moon. Everything about this scene spoke of peace…
But why did her chest feel tight with dread? Why did those impossibly golden eyes hold a deep rooted anxiety within? Yue went to speak, but no sound came forth. Distantly, she noted that the crickets had stopped their symphony. Everything had become still.
Suddenly the silver glow that enveloped the two of them shifted, painting them in deep crimson. She couldn't move! All she could do was shift her gaze to the now blood coloured moon. She stared, transfixed.
What?
She didn't know how long she stared, but when she flicked her eyes back at Zuko, he was no longer there. Terror, sharp and vicious, shot through her spine, mixing with her steadily building anxiety. She shouted for him, but again, no sound.
Why couldn't she move?! Panic beset her and those ice blue eyes scanned everywhere they could reach, until they met wide, horrified eyes… below the still surface of the lake. Zuko mirrored her. Mouth agape in silent shock, chest heaving. Was he drowning?
He must be… Yue felt water fill her lungs, gurgling up her throat and dripping out of her mouth. She most certainly was…
A strangled gasp sounded throughout the room as her eyes snapped open. Yue shot up in bed, drenched in cold sweat, heart beating within her chest as she gulped in breath after breath. The red light caught her attention and her blood froze. It took a moment for her to realize it was the red of the alarm clock. The time read: 3:12 A.M. She stared at it for another minute before she moved to get out from under the covers, but a soft groan had her pausing.
"Yue…?" June's sleep-addled voice was like a soothing balm to her frazzled nerves and she found herself smiling at the woman beside her. She reached out and smoothed her knuckles along June's cheek tenderly.
"I'm fine. Just another weird dream…" she leaned over and placed a chaste kiss upon her fiancé's forehead. Before June could continue, Yue said "No… I don't want to talk about it. I promise, I'm fine."
June's dubious expression did not match her words as she acquiesced, "Okay, if you say so…" She yawned and plopped her head back onto her pillow and sleepily murmured "I love you." Which had Yue rolling her eyes affectionately at the now sleeping woman. Quietly, she removed herself from their bed and padded her way out of their room. The fear that gripped her within her dream had lessened, but remnants still clung to her mind, stubborn like dried burdock burrs to one's hair. The dreams had started a month ago and slowly became more and more ominously abstract. They made absolutely no sense, yet for some reason, they spoke to her. Whispered intimately.
She hadn't realized she was standing in the middle of the common room, lost in thought until Zuko cleared his throat, startling her from her thoughts.
There, on the corner of the couch with his knees pulled to his chest, he observed her. "Another one?" He asked. Yue nodded, noticing the two mugs that were on the coffee table, steam still curling into the air. Jasmine…
This was a testament to their relationship. How intuned the two were with each other. How they've always been. "Yeah…" she whispered into the dark, taking a seat at the opposite end of the couch, unconsciously mirroring Zuko. "We were at that lake again;" she began, eyes watching the steam waft from their mugs. Zuko stayed silent, listening intently. "this time, we couldn't move… We were drowning…" Her voice cracked as she recalled the helplessness she felt within her dream. The fear. Yue took a deep breath and reached over, grabbing both mugs and handed one to Zuko. Who took it gratefully. She chanced a look at him and saw his stiff posture, shoulders hunched in on themselves and brow furrowed with unease. She knew that he blamed himself for these dreams, even though she assured him time and again, that it was not his fault. Just coincidence. Stress induced coincidence.
"I'm sorry." He rasped and all she did was roll her eyes at his predictability.
"It's not your fault. You didn't cause them." She countered gently. Patiently.
"I saw the news… I was the one who told you."
Yue closed her eyes and sighed. Yes, he did tell her of the disappearances of their fellow survivors. Yes he began to remember their time at that Spirit forsaken home and was becoming obsessive in finding out more.
But Yue didn't blame him. How could she? His past was her past as well. She, as much as she tells herself she doesn't want to remember. Found herself anxiously awaiting for Zuko's recollections. "I would have found out on my own." Zuko looked as if he didn't buy it but she shook her head, quashing any retort that might have come up. "Let's just chalk it up as stress?" She tried.
~°~°~°~°~°~
Yue woke to the endearingly bad sing along of June, who busied herself within the kitchen. The sun shone bright through the drapes, bathing the living area in warm light. She blinked away the sleep as she looked over at the other side and saw that it was vacant. She must have fallen asleep sometime at the end of their conversation. Yue sat up and felt fabric fall away from her, recognizing it as Zuko's robe, she smiled. Her smile widened as she heard Zuko's door creak open and the rough groan he let out upon hearing June's horrendous singing.
She watched as he stumbled back over to his side of the couch, bags under his eyes and skin paler than usual. Another sleepless night she presumed, worriedly.
"It's too early for this!" He bemoaned, scrubbing at his face. Yue giggled when June purposely sang louder, pans clanging along the ill timed beat.
"What? Pretty boy doesn't like my singing?" June finally rounded the corner, carrying with her two mugs topped with whipped cream and…. Rainbow sprinkles? She handed them both a mug with a wide smile as she sat down between them. June leaned in for a kiss which Yue happily obliged, feeling June's lips smirk against her own before pulling away. "I know… I know." She began, draping an arm on both of their shoulders and pulled them just a bit closer. "I couldn't help myself! Happy Birthday!" June's smile was bright and ripe with mischief as she looked between her fiancé and Zuko. Only for said smile to falter when both looked at her with confusion etched clearly upon their faces. She waited patiently until recollection caught up with them.
Zuko winced, fingers gently touching the ragged edges of his scar, his eyes distant and downcast.
Yue on the other hand, gave June a small smile before letting her head fall against the older woman's shoulder. "Thank you! Honestly, I had forgotten what day it was." Yue chuckled awkwardly while Zuko proffered his thanks, barely audible. Their birthday, even though years have passed, had always been a bit complicated. As time went on, those memories and the debilitating dread that they felt, bled way into happier times.
Yue watched as her fiancé huffed a quiet laugh, while pulling Zuko in close and kissed him on the temple. "C'mon, Princess Gloom, I even added an extra shot of espresso to your's!" Zuko rolled his eyes and hid the startings of a smirk behind his mug, taking a long drink. June finally satisfied, turned her attention back to her and winked. Certainly looking very proud of herself.
"Hey June…" Zuko's smoky voice caught both of their attention, Yue watched as June turned around… only for her face to be smeared in whipped cream. "Figured you'd want some!" She was impressed what with how Zuko deadpanned, face impassive as he quickly hopped off the couch. She watched as her brother eyed her fiancé, face splitting into a wide smile.
June on the other hand growled and jumped to her feet which caused Zuko to bolt down the hall, cackling as June swore and ran after him. The door to Zuko's room slammed shut with June pounding on the surface, demanding entry. "You lil shit! Is this the thanks I get?!" Yue heard the mirth that masqueraded as anger, through June's words.
As those two continued their ridiculous banter, Yue couldn't help but feel so… Thankful? Yes, that was the perfect word for what she felt. She met June five years ago, lived with her for three years, and became engaged a year ago. During their time together, June never once shyed away from Yue's past and subsequently, Zuko's. She even went as far as opening her doors to Zuko for almost three years now, becoming something of an older sister to him. She absolutely adored him and Yue knew that Zuko felt just as fiercely.
She also knew that neither would admit to it. Prideful, stubborn fools that they are. Her fools.
Yue was broken out of her reverie as June walked back in, face cleaned and makeup applied. She absolutely looked ravishing and Yue felt her cheeks warm. Of course June would take notice as the older woman smirked and slowly stalked her way over to her, much like a cat on the prowl. Sharp, green eyes focused and full of mischief. Yue took a shallow breath, nerves alight in anticipation when June crowded her, painted lips to her ear.
"Think we can squeeze in part of your gift, now…?" June whispered lowly, hot breath ghosted Yue's ear. Heat began to pool low within her gut, she bit her lower lip and met June's eyes with an intense look and nodded. The older woman's smoldering gaze raked over her face, while she pulled away offering a hand. "Shall we, M'lady?"
Even though Yue grabbed her hand and was pulled to her feet, she gave June a bemused look. "My, aren't you cheeky this morning." To which June clicked her tongue and winked, guiding them back to their room.
~°~°~°~°~°~
They held a small get together at the Jasmine Dragon with their friends, friends' kids, and his uncle. It was a private event, with his uncle having closed the cafe early to host. Really, it was nice, but Zuko couldn't help but feel on edge. He was jittery and he knew it wasn't because of all the coffee and tea he had consumed. He watched as little Bumi followed Yue wherever she went, like a lovesick little puppy. His uncle gave a full belly laugh, elbowing June in her side. Sokka argued with Katara while her husband balanced their daughter upon his hip. Zuko turned away, he couldn't quite stay in the present. He felt… he felt far away, where everything was too much, his thoughts muddy and sluggish and the normally calm light of the cafe was abrasive. Yep… it was time for a smoke… Zuko dipped out back and into the little alley behind the cafe. The late afternoon sun began its descent behind the building, casting shadows deep into the alley. Zuko took a deep, steadying breath and fished out the pack of smokes and lighter from his pockets and then promptly shook out a cigarette. He brought it up to his mouth and cupped his hands in front as he flicked the lighter to life and lit up. Pocketing both the pack and lighter, he took a deep and long inhale. The acrid smoke filled his lungs and he closed his eyes in relief, smoke escaping him on the exhale.
The sound of boots scuffing the pavement had his eyes snapping open, horripilation befell him, the hair on the back of his neck standing on end. He kept still. It wasn't the first time he felt watched… neither would it be the last. Zuko finally surveyed the dim alley just as another scrape sounded, further down by the next building's loading bay. He was about to start walking in that direction, when the back door of the cafe opened to reveal pale hair and Yue's icy blue eyes looking at him, concern knitting her brows together.
"Hey… are you;" She gently began, stepping out and over toward him. "Are you going to be okay?"
All he could do was nod, his eyes narrowing as he flicked his gaze to stare at the loading bay once more. A tall silhouette of a man stood in the shadows.
"Who is that?" He vaguely heard her whisper. She must have noticed his staring and turned to follow his gaze and saw the man as well.
That was a relief. At least he wasn't losing his mind entirely these days…
"I don't know." He went to take another drag of his forgotten smoke, only to realize it had gone out. Fuck.
Yue kept her eyes on the shadowy figure, though she reached over and clasped Zuko's forearm with her hand and squeezed.
He could understand what that signified. He felt just as uneasily as she. "Ah, want to know something funny?" When he saw her nod slowly within his periphery, continued almost casually, save for the quiet crack in his words. "This has been going on for a couple weeks now… I just chalked it up to being;" he cut himself off.
"That is not funny." She murmured and gave his arm another squeeze. They both now faced the loading bay fully. "You're still terrible at telling jokes."
He knew she knew that he wasn't joking and he was grateful to her for that. "You know, I've been thinking…" a pregnant pause and then a flash of a tall oak tree with a tire swing flit within his mind's eye. "Remember, at the orphanage when I dislocated my shoulder;"
"Yes! You thought it was a great idea to try and backflip off the swing!" Yue cut him off, turning to face him finally. Confusion knit her brow together, but Zuko still had his focus on the shrouded figure. "You ended up getting into trouble. Wound up in that;"
"Panopticon…" he felt the hand on his arm squeeze just a bit tighter.
"I think I hated that place more than the orphanage." The disquiet tone of her words hung in the air between them, cloaking them like the dark shadows that surrounded the person before them. Who was still there, waiting, watching…
He couldn't help but agree. At times, in the late night, he swore he'd hear the very sound of the dripping water from those ancient, rusted pipes. However, these memories and the like, have been cropping up more and more the last few weeks. Since the first time he watched the news reporting on a missing person's case, really. It was someone they knew. Well, in a sense… they were at the same orphanage, after all. When Zuko watched that segment, a pit in his stomach had formed. He chalked it off as being uncomfortable about the reminder of that horrid house, but… Then another had gone missing, and another. Paranoia, so poignant and cold, had begun to settle deep within him. He began feeling as though he was being watched, catching him off guard and pushing him closer and closer to the edge. So much so, that he now began sleeping (barely, really) with the lights on, again. Something he hadn't done since he was eight years old. The only consolation he had to all of this, was he now had his confirmation that he was being followed.
He chanced a look at Yue, who's troubled expression was so very far from this alley in which they occupied. Zuko knew the expression well…
They both jolted at the sound of the cafe door opening. The metal of the hinges whined in protest while Zuko's pulse quickened. June stepped out, relief clear on her face as she briskly walked right up to them, his uncle followed suit, barely masking his concern. "Told you they were out here, old man." June's tone was good natured, coming to stop right next to her fiancé. Zuko watched as the older woman wrapped her arm around Yue's waist, who blushed softly when she received a chaste kiss to her cheek. When June pulled away, Zuko spied a dark red print of her lips on Yue's pinkened cheek.
He couldn't help the sharp stab of jealousy that shot through him. Don't get him wrong, he was absolutely happy for them. They both deserved happiness, especially Yue… Sometimes… sometimes he just wished that he could have what they had.
"Zuko…?"
"Hm?" He blinked away his ruminations to see that his uncle was looking up at him expectantly.
"Is there something the matter, nephew?" His uncle asked, what he presumed, once more. To which he offered a small smile and a nod, hoping to assure the old man. "Very well then! Let us go back inside! We cannot keep our guests waiting." His uncle announced, glancing between him and Yue one last time with an unreadable look.
Following behind, Zuko flicked a glance down toward the loading bay, only to see whoever was there was now gone. He sighed, but not in relief. No, for he had the sinking feeling that whoever that was… was just going to continue on watching him. So, he continued back inside, his uncle holding the door for him.
"Are you sure you're quite alright, nephew?" It's as if he knew that his nephew was drawn taut like a compound bow. Hell, Zuko was convinced that the man already knew but just didn't want to overstep.
Another sigh and Zuko nodded his head "I'm fine." He stressed the last word, even though he didn't feel fine. He had already caused this kind old man so much trouble over the last eighteen years. So, he proffered another smile and went on ahead and into the café. There, little Bumi bounded right up to him and promptly grabbed his wrist and pulled.
"C'mon! Ya gotta open my gift first!" The over-eager child exclaimed, dragging Zuko over to where Yue and June sat. "You sit here."
"Okay, okay!" Who was he to argue with a five year old? Spirits knew, he'd tried that once with the kid and they both ended up in Katara's backyard, eating cookies under a blanket fort.
So, obviously it didn't go in Zuko's favour.
He sat down next to Yue who had Bumi's gift in her hands already. The spirited five year old then shoved his gift into Zuko's. Clearly very proud of himself. As Zuko looked over the very crumpled wrap-job, he vaguely heard Katara trying to calm Bumi down. To put the kid at ease, Zuko made a show of ripping open his gift. It…
Well, he didn't quite know what it was, exactly. It was… a sculpture, some sort? He chanced a glance at Yue's and her's was just as indecipherable as his. "This is really neat." He finally said, trying his best to sound amazed. However, the smile he wore was genuine; because, who wouldn't love a handmade gift from a small child? Katara and Aang could have easily picked something out and Bumi could've chosen the easy route. Nope, he went and made two unique gifts on his own and was very proud of them.
"I love it!" Yue exclaimed and giggled as Bumi shuffled in place, suddenly shy.
"Thank you." Zuko said, smirking as Bumi shuffled even more.
"He worked very hard on those…." Katara trailed off.
"Pencil holders, mom!" Bumi pouted up at his mom as if she offended him.
"Yeah 'tara, pencil holders!" Sokka snarked, which earned him a glare from his sister and a thwack to the back of his head by Suki. "Ow! What?! Are you seeing this?! Zuko? Yue?"
Both Yue and Zuko deadpanned "You deserved it." In unison. Sokka just pouted and mumbled something about taking his gifts back, only for Suki to elbow him in the side. They worked through the gifts upon the table, much in the same way, with Bumi and Sokka arguing on who gave the better gift. Obviously, Zuko and Yue agreed that Bumi gave the best gift. 'I thought it was your guys' birthday… not Gang up on Sokka-day!'
The gifts were thoughtful and Zuko was more than grateful that there were only two more. They were on the smaller side, Zuko's was wrapped in black matte paper tied with white ribbon. Yue's, wrapped in matte white paper and had a black ribbon. They both looked to see who it was from, but no tag or label on the outside. For some reason Zuko felt himself bristling as he carefully unwrapped the gift. He could hear Yue do the same, but at a slightly quicker pace. He heard a gasp and he turned in time to see her pull out a necklace. The chain was silver and the pendant was a bit on the medium side. A silver egg with a deep blue sapphire eyed, golden serpent that twined around the egg. He then pulled out his own necklace; golden chain and egg with a ruby eyed, silver serpent instead. It had a bit of heft to it.
"Who is it from?" His uncle asked, almost hesitantly.
"It…it doesn't say?" Yue answered for him.
"It's beautiful…" Was all Zuko supplied, staring intently at the serpent, hardly hearing the quiet murmurs around him. Or how his uncle slipped out into the back with a troubled expression. He did hear, however, Yue agreeing with his sentiment as he clasped the necklace around his neck, fingertips running over the intricate scaling of the snake with silent reverence.
"What is it, exactly?" June wondered aloud.
Iroh cleared his throat,having come back, finally and clasped both his hands on Zuko's and Yue's shoulders, giving them a squeeze. They both glanced up at him, he looked as though he was at ease. His smile was calm, his tone as he began to explain was light, but it was his eyes that belied a deep unease. "It is actually known as the Orphic Egg. Also known as the World Egg." A pause and then "It is symbolic of the union of opposites. Quite popular amongst alchemists of old." His uncle looked first, at Yue's then at Zuko's before he continued "It also symbolizes the creation and the beginning of the Universe in Greek mythology. A very powerful symbol…" he trailed off.
"It's so cool!" Bumi declared in childish wonder. Completely oblivious to the air of unease that befell the group.
~°~°~°~°~°~
They were back at the apartment by early evening. Zuko sat on the couch, looking down at the Orphic Egg nestled into his palm while Yue busied herself in the kitchen, fixing coffee for the both of them. June had already gone off to work. Truth be told, Zuko was glad she wasn't there… He'd been entertaining a single thought since they received their gift of unknown origin. He just didn't quite know how to broach the subject with Yue. The crease in his brow deepened further as she sat down next to him and handed him his mug, then she let her head rest against his shoulder and sighed deeply.
Better now than never, he supposed. With a deep breath and steeled resolve, he spoke. "I've been thinking…"
"Well, that's dangerous." She playfully interjected.
Zuko winced at that but continued "I think we should…" he felt his pulse pick up and he gripped his mug tighter. "We should go and visit the orphanage…" he felt Yue stiffen before she sat up, ramrod straight and stared at him. "I know I-"
"I agree." He watched her in disbelief as she began to fidget. "Zuko, I don't think it's a coincidence that I am having these nightmares and you are starting to remember our time there…" She gave a shaky exhale and then, "I think it's time we have our closure, don't you think?" All he could do was proffer a nod. Satisfied, Yue took a long drink of her coffee and stood up. "Get packing! We'll make a trip out of it!" She almost sounded excited. "It'll be my gift to you! We can make new memories there!"
"I suppose we can…yeah." He agreed. "I take it we're leaving tonight?" She nodded vigorously as she headed off to her room.
~°~°~°~°~°~
They spent the first hour of the drive in silence, save for the music playing and only talking when the need arose to convey direction. It wasn't awkward, not by a long shot. It was comfortable and par for the course with them. Both enjoying the scenery and the strange, almost eager atmosphere that was brewing between them. Zuko was leaning against the passenger door, head resting on the cool glass as he watched trees whizz by. The sky had darkened considerably, only a tiny smattering of deep pink-red peaked over the horizon. He toyed with the pendant, still unnerved by it in a way. Just who sent it? Better yet, how did they even get the gifts in the café?
Still… he couldn't help but admire the pendant. It looked very old and meticulously crafted. He was also secretly happy that Yue received one as well, pleased that it was the opposite of his. It was stupid, in a way… yet, she was his first friend. They had been through so much together and even through all of his more difficult years… She stuck by him. He was so angry and bitter for so long. Before June, she was the closest person he could call a sister. It hit him suddenly and without warning, like an ice pick to the back; just how thankful he was for her and how much he cared for her.
"Thank you…" he suddenly spoke out through the quiet drone of the tires on pavement and the music coming through the speakers, throat tight with his realization.
Yue startled at his abruptness before she smiled knowingly, reaching a hand out to him. "Stole the words right out of my mouth." Her hand landed on his and she squeezed. "Seriously, I was just thinking about how we've always been there for each other."
He squeezed back, allowing a small smile to etch its way across his face. According to Maps, they were coming up on Pleasant River, 73 County. "You're uh… You're going to want to turn left, soon."
"Roger that, Goose!"
"Really?" He groused, letting go of her hand, only to flick at her wrist. He smirked when she dramatically yelped and snatched her hand away.
~Heaven is a far place from here; Hell is around the corner, but not to fear.~
Yue snickered, ice blue eyes focused on the road before them. It wasn't long until they saw the large, green sign: Welcome to Silent Hill. He swallowed thickly, nerves alight. He slanted his eyes over toward Yue, who looked on ahead with just a small bit of trepidation and determination.
"We should be on Nathan Ave. We just need to follow it until we turn right on West Sanford St." Zuko murmured quietly, turning his attention back out the window, eyes catching the street sign for Vachss Rd.
~I am far from nowhere; I am already here. I do not want to disappear.~
The song was coming to an end, the epic, almost medieval horns sounding through the speakers. Zuko watched the various shops fly by the window, closed for the night. The streets were near barren and the occasional person would be seen walking along. Pretty normal for a small resort town in Maine, after all. Rather unremarkable and for some reason, that thought put him at ease.
"You know;" Yue began as she turned the car on W. Sanford, "It was a good idea to get out of the city, anyhow… Maybe your stalker was going to…you know." She trailed off, trying to sound light, yet Zuko could hear the uneasiness within her words.
"Oh! We're here!" He blurted out, quick to change the subject, not wanting to dwell on that thought any further.
Here, was the: Lake View Hotel. They pulled up and into the designated parking area. Yue turned the car off and they both just stared ahead toward the stately hotel. It was almost imposing, in a way. Zuko unbuckled his seatbelt and twisted in his seat, grabbing both his and Yue's backpacks. Yue took and shouldered her's and they exited the car. The engine ticked away as it cooled, the air around them was a bit on the chilly side, peppering them with goosebumps. The sound of water lapping up against the shore reached their ears while they trekked toward the entrance. They ascended the steps up in silence and entered. What greeted them was a warmly lit reception area with deep walnut wooden furnishings. Overall, it was very tastefully decorated.
Yue went and spoke with the receptionist while Zuko wandered over toward the rack of brochures. There, he grabbed the map for the town and surrounding areas. He also picked up a couple of random, touristy ones; like Lakeside Amusement Park that had a very pink rabbit mascot plastered on the front. One for the historical society. Without warning, keys were dangling before his face, his eyes widened and he took a step back. After reigning in his hammering heart, he tossed a narrow eyed look over his shoulder at a grinning and very tired looking Yue.
"Let's head on up… I'm exhausted!" She dropped the keys in his waiting hand and they both crossed the lobby. Both too tired to fully appreciate the elegant and old world grandfather clock in the middle. They were just focused on trudging up the two flights of stairs and to their room. Arriving at their designated room, 312, Zuko unlocked it and pushed the door open with a creak. It was quaint, one bed, sofa and other such furnishings. With backpacks falling to the floor and Zuko locking the door behind them, they both dragged their feet to the bed and unceremoniously flopped atop.
"Should we make plans for tomorrow?" His words were somewhat muffled by the plush comforter.
"Nuh-uh." Yue sounded equally muffled.
"Sounds good to me…"
A half an hour must have gone by as Zuko was just on the cusp of sleep when Yue's phone went off. They both groaned in unison and shifted on the bed. He first heard, then watched as Yue blindly groped the nightstand beside her, for her phone, her face still buried within the pillows. When she rolled over to look at who was calling, she gasped and sat up so quickly that Zuko felt dizzy for her.
"Who'sit?" He mumbled sleepily, missing the way she winced in shame.
Instead of answering him, she brought the phone to her ear, "Hey June…." At that, Zuko sat up and just looked at Yue expectantly. He couldn't quite make out June's words on the other side of the phone, he most certainly could tell that she was none too happy. "June, I know…Yes, you are correct, but" June must have cut her off and Yue just looked lost and hunched in on herself. Her gaze flicked over toward him and she mouthed a silent 'Sorry'. He only arched a brow at her, questioningly. Last he knew, she had told June what the plan was. "Can I please say something, now?" Her tone was far more gentle and patient than anything he'd be able to muster. "We need to do this. It's hard to explain, but we need to, June. We're tired of being scared of our-" She sighed as she was interrupted again, but this time she seemed to perk up, a small smile playing at the edges of her mouth. "Of course! We're at the Lake View Hotel, room 312…We will keep our locations on and send pictures." Yue looked back over toward him and offered a thumbs up and then brought her hand up to wipe at her forehead and quietly sighed in an exaggerated manner. "June, again I am very sorry… it was an oversight on my part." A pause and then "Thank you though, for understanding. I love you too! Oh, of course!"
With that, she shoved the phone at him and grinned wickedly, to which he flipped her off and took the phone, hesitantly bringing it up to his ear. "Hey…"
"Don't 'hey' me, young man!" If he didn't know her, he'd say she was angry with him. She wasn't though. Annoyed? Yes. "Turn your location on, I want picture and text updates."
Fair enough, he thought as he hummed his agreement.
June clucked her tongue for a beat "Oh! If for any reason either of you need me to come get you, I will. No questions asked. Love ya kid." She finished quietly.
Zuko couldn't help the small smile and the warmth that flooded through his chest at that. For all of her 'Bad Boss Bitch' (her words), she cared. "Will do, thanks June." A beat and then "Love ya too.." with that he hung up and tossed the phone into Yue's stomach. "I thought you told her?"
"I did!" She placed the phone back on the nightstand and settled back into the bed, this time reaching for the throw at the foot of the bed and dragged it over them both. "I wrote a note…" came the near inaudible confession. Which had Zuko roll his eyes as he too got comfortable.
~°~°~°~°~°~
Soft and warm, the early morning glow of the sun filtered through the drapes, stirring Zuko from his slumber. The night was surprisingly uneventful after June's phone call, which he very much appreciated. He carefully extracted himself from the throw whilst stretching his limbs out. Yue was still fast asleep, looking as peaceful as ever. She hadn't been getting a full night's rest and it was nice to see, for once. Actually, this was the first time in weeks that he had slept more than three hours a night… It felt…great. He felt great. With that, he swung out of bed, grabbed his pack, and went into the bathroom for a quick shower.
A quick shower it was, as he found Yue sitting up in the bed, yawning widely, and scratching at the back of her neck. "Morning." She half mumbled, half yawned.
"How'd you sleep?" He rasped then added awkwardly "Uh, good morning." While waiting for her reply, he busied himself with grabbing a map and a brochure.
A hum and then "Pretty good, actually?" She was just as surprised as he was. "You?" He nodded, not looking up from the brochure and she smiled at that. "Nerd…" She trailed off quietly, making her way to the bathroom to freshen up.
Subconsciously, he held onto the pendant, rubbing his thumb along the serpent while he scanned the brochure. It had to have been ten minutes when Yue emerged from the bathroom looking refreshed. Zuko spotted the pendant around her neck, displayed just as proudly as his and he grinned with an odd sort of satisfaction. "Do you want to go to;" he cut himself off, humming in thought before he spotted what he considered an ideal place for breakfast "Café Mist?"
Yue nodded vigorously "Let's go! I'm starving!" She grabbed her phone and keys off the nightstand and was already halfway toward the door.
Zuko scrambled back off the bed, slipped his boots on as quick as he could and followed her right out the door. He'd lace his boots up in the car. Bounding down the two flights of stairs, they were finally in the lobby. The tall, deep walnut grandfather clock still stood within the middle. Yue stood at its front and tapped at her phone. "Taking a picture for June." Was all she said and then a few clicks and she was off again, typing as she walked. Zuko admired the clock for just a couple more moments then continued on. The lobby held a few people, mostly staff from what he could tell while passing one by. As he passed, he felt the hairs on the back of his neck rise and a cold shiver run down his spine. Quickly turning to try and catch a glimpse of the person's face, but they had their back to him. They had long black hair that was tied up and broad shoulders. He stared at their back, almost willing them to turn around. They seemed familiar…
It could be a possibility…
"Zuko?" Yue's voice was soft and barely above a whisper, yet it caused him to jolt around to face her. He was met with ice blue eyes, soaked with concern. All Zuko could do was just shake his head to convey that it was nothing, not trusting himself to speak. So, what did Yue do? Grab his hand of course and gently lead him along. He felt her thumb rub soothingly along his scarred, bony knuckles. He squeezed her hand in thanks, keeping up pace with her this time. "Did you get the heebie-jeebies with that guy, as well?"
Zuko felt himself falter with the next step, voice cracking "Y-yeah… I feel like I know him."
"Thank you!" Yue exclaimed to the person holding the door for them. They finally were outside, the car parked just ahead. Yue began swinging their arms between them. "Same here." She hummed.
Their steps crunched along the gravel of the parking area, adding to the strange cacophony of birds singing, cars driving by, crackling of what sounded like a campfire, and Yue's humming. It was damn near overwhelming Zuko's senses. He even smelled woodsmoke, but when he performed a cursory glance around the area when they reached the car, he couldn't see a campfire anywhere. Could very well be that the breeze carried the smoke over from someplace else.
"It's unlocked" Yue was already climbing into the driver's side, having let go of his hand without him realizing it.
He really needed some coffee.
Opening the passenger side door, he climbed right in and buckled himself up. Yue turned the key into the ignition and the engine roared to life, she let it warm up. "Where exactly is this café? It better not be far, I'm so hungry and could use a nice mocha latte."
Huh… a mocha did sound good… He mused, rustling the map open to the South Vale/South Silent Hill section and pointed at Katz St. "Right there." He moved his finger from their destination, going right on Neely St. following it up until he moved it left on Nathan Ave. and followed it all the way to where they were now. Zuko glanced up with a very smug smirk and Yue just chuckled, shaking her head as she shifted into gear and drove out of the parking area. He swore he heard her mutter affectionately 'nerd' under her breath. The drive was certainly a bit different during daylight. There were other cars on the road, people jogging or just out and about, enjoying the nice weather, and shops open and bustling with business. "I was thinking…. No, don't even, that joke's old!" Yue outright cackled and it only got more boisterous when she spotted Zuko's pouting face, but he felt the corners of his lips twitch. "We should head to the uh… the orphanage on Friday."
"Why Friday?" She was hesitant.
He shrugged, fingers picking at his thumbnails. A nervous tic. "Just figured that we could, I don't know… 'Say goodbye' to it… Like, once and for all?" It made sense to him, in his head. Why taint the visit early on? They could go to the Wish House on the way out of the town, almost as if they were finally closing that door to their lives.
Yue hummed in thought, turning onto Neely St. "You know what? Sure!" As amiable as ever. "If there are any windows left in that place…"
"Yes. Say no more, yes!" Zuko nodded, pointing to the next street up ahead. Yue took the turn and after a moment, they finally arrived at the café. Parking the car and turning the ignition off, they exited. The breeze was cool, such was often the case of living near a body of water and the coming autumn. Zuko stretched his arms way over his head until he felt his middle back pop and sighed.
"That sounded luxurious, wish I could do that." Yue pouted, stretching as well but to no avail. "C'mon, I have a need."
"A mighty need?" He grinned.
"A mighty need, indeed! That mocha needs to be in my hands, like… five minutes ago!" Then she was off, opening the door to the café and holding it open for him. Her smile was cheeky as she gestured for him to enter, dramatically. "After you, princess."
Yup, way too early for this. He sighed again, rolled his eyes but played along. He brought his right hand over his chest in a parody of a swoon. "Why, thank you my fair prince." and walked right in, not before poking her in her side, which earned him a shocked yelp and a slap at his arm. Worth it. Café Mist was small, charming, and most importantly, not busy! He perused the offerings on the chalkboard hanging behind the counter. Unlike Yue, who knew what she wanted, therefore greeted the barista and began conveying her order. Which put him under a bit of pressure…
"And for you, Sir?"
Oh… shit. "Uh…just;" Zuko paused, brain rapidly trying to come to a decision. His eyes flicked from the barista's patiently waiting, cheerful face and to the menu above her head. "A uh… Iced Mocha, small please…and maybe… No, just that, please." He managed to get out and then added quickly, yet sincerely "Thank you…"
Zuko stepped back from the counter, Yue smirked knowingly and leaned over to whisper conspiratorially in his undamaged ear. "I ordered a muffin for you as well!"
"Thanks… Hey, I'm going to use the bathroom and uh…" He glanced down at his unlaced boots, the laces just tucked in. "and lace these up." Yue nodded and continued waiting for their order, Zuko on the other hand, found the bathroom and went in. Once the door shut, he leaned up against it and took in several deep breaths, feeling a bit embarrassed. Executive dysfunction was a god damned bitch and he was grateful to Yue for being used to it (and him). He continued to take in measured breaths for another minute or two, before he bent forward and began lacing up his boots. After all was said and done, he washed his hands and left the restroom. Back in the main area, he saw Yue sitting down by the window, chatting happily with a man… at the same table. Great. He took, yet another deep breath and let it out, before he confidently strode over to where they are supposed to sit.
"Zuko!" She perked up and patted the seat next to her, which he took. "This is Noatak!" She gestured toward the man across from them.
Zuko peered over at him and was met with eyes almost the same colour as Yue's. Though, the man's eyes were certainly more icy than her's. All Zuko could do was incline his head in greeting, while he pretty much ogled the man's features. Strong jaw, sleek and soft looking black hair. The man was handsome. He barely registered Yue sigh "His name is Zuko."
"Pleasure to meet you." Ah fuck….even his voice was...focus Zuko! "Yue, here was just telling me that you're both visiting from out of town."
"That is correct." Zuko replied and he internally winced at how… curt he sounded. He grabbed his drink, just to do something with his hands. He was getting a bit fidgety under those sharp eyes. He was relieved when Noatak shot a charming smile at him. Neither condescending nor forced.
"Noatak offered to take us around!" She sounded way too pleased with this situation. Of course…