( her faces struggles to maintain itself once he grabs her cheeks, but after the kiss it's a losing fight. it's the type of thing she was never responsive to before - she would've sooner punched mako's arm and reminded him that she isn't delicate, than crack herself open and peel back the premature petals of an unbloomed flower. but. a lot has changed. more than anything in the world, korra's just - wanted someone she could cry at, be vulnerable with. someone who could nod with her and say yes, what happened to you was terrible, and you didn't deserve it.

mako's always been here, but she's never let herself rely on him like this. it's just. a little step. four years in the making. )

I know! ( it's a little choked. her hands come up to cup his at her cheeks, nodding into them. ) We interrupted that city meeting just to tell them not to cancel the tournament. I wish — we could go back.

( it was easier, then. just to exist. they weren't worried about amon, they just wanted to play, and win, and enjoy the prizes. korra cranes into him, pulling him into a more traditional hug - arms around his waist, she bends her tears away so he don't stain his clothes. )

I never know what I'm doing, or what's right, or up or down. But I know I love you, forever, and you'll always be my best, first friend.

( other than naga. )