"Naga, be a good girl. I'll be home soon." A big, white Akita pranced happily around her owner. The, chocolate skinned, muscular woman patted the dog on the head before she stepped outside. She made her way to the sidewalk that ran in front of her small two bedroom, two bath house where she started to stretch her legs and arms. She tied her long, dark brown hair back in a ponytail, checked the straps of her backpack, and then placed her ear buds in before cranking her workout playlist. As soon as the steady beat of Work Bitch by Britney Spears started to pump into her ears the woman launched herself forward. She pumped her legs and arms working her way at a frantic pace uphill towards her destination.

Korra Southern lived two miles from her workplace, and she ran there every morning and home again every evening, weather permitting. Working as the Physical Education Coordinator at the local high school had its perks; she could get her daily workout in, shower and change before class started, plus she basically got paid for a three month vacation in the summer. She really enjoyed working for the school that she had once attended as a student. Though it had taken a little while to grow accustomed to having former teachers as colleagues, mainly just to stop cringing every time one of them would yell "Miss Southern" to get her attention. She constantly had to remind herself that she wasn't about to be sent to the principal's office like she had so many times in the past.

The other thing she really liked was that some of her best friends through school had also ended up with careers at United Republic High. Her friend, Mako Andesite, had been hired as a Resource Officer, being contracted out from the Republic City Police Department. He had a way with the troubled youth, Korra often wondered if it was because he himself had once been classified as a 'troubled youth.' Her best friend, Bolin, who also happened to be Mako's younger brother, had been hired as the new music teacher. He was beyond excited about that, though Korra suspected he was more excited to be able to work a few doors down from his girlfriend.

Opal Biefong and Korra had met in college as freshmen, Korra had introduced Opal to the then high school senior Bolin. They had hit it off from the get go, and when Opal, along with Korra, had been hired to teach at URH there was nowhere else Bolin wanted to be. Opal had been hired to teach Biology and Honors Biology, and in her first year the school had seen test scores rise twenty percent, which was very impressive.

Korra looked both ways before she ran across the intersection, she kept her breathing even and used a wrist band to wipe at her forehead. As she powered through the second half of her morning run she smiled and waved to the members of the cross country team as they met her headed the other way. She patted a couple of her students on the back as they ran by her, grinning to see their teacher out and about before school started. The new school year started in two days, so it was expected for teachers to get their rooms and offices in order the week ahead of time.

Korra hoped she'd get her office set up before the day ended, although it was doubtful. She was a horrible procrastinator, not to mention she had promised Bolin she'd help him today and then there was the dreaded school wide meeting at noon. She rolled her eyes at the thought of it as she saw the red brick building looming ahead. When she reached the start of the parking lot she slowed her pace, placed her hands on her head, and started her cool down. She walked across the black asphalt seeing that by the vehicles already in the lot Mako, and Bolin were already inside, along with a few others. She groaned when she saw a silver truck pull in, and picked up her pace to get to the backdoor of the school. The last thing she wanted was a run in with her ex-girlfriend, and newly appointed Principal, Kuvira.

Korra all but sprinted towards the metal door, she wrenched it open and threw herself inside. Grinning triumphantly at having avoided the green eyed woman as she headed towards her office. Korra started down the empty hallway, slinging her backpack from her shoulders, and stuffing her earbuds and iPod inside. She turned the corner and found herself thudding into the solid chest of Bolin, Korra reached up and grabbed his shoulders so she wouldn't fall.

"There you are!" Bolin exclaimed as he helped steady Korra before she took a step back. "We've been waiting for you."

Korra looked at her watch. "I'm only two minutes late." She stepped beside him and together they made their way down the hallway towards Bolin's room. "Bo, what did you mean by we?"

"Oh, I forgot to tell you, Jinora is joining us. She rode in with Tenzin and thought she'd get some work in before school actually started." Bolin grinned as he they stepped into the music room.

Korra spied the young woman he was talking about. Jinora Nomad, a senior at URH, her father Tenzin was the Superintendent, and her mother Pema was the Home Economics Instructor. Jinora was a member of the Honors Choir, and affiliated with several sports teams, but her real passion was singing. Korra walked forward and enveloped the doe eyed youth in a big, sweaty hug.

"Hey kid. How was summer vacation?" Korra asked as she stepped away.

"Gross!" Jinora yelled as she wiped Korra's sweat away from her arms. "And you should know since you went with us."

Korra's family had been long time friends of Jinora's family, her father, Tenzin had been the first to encourage Korra to pursue a teaching career after her tour with the United Republic Forces had ended. He had also recommended her for the position she currently held, not to mention Pema adored her. Pema loved when Korra came to visit and invited her over for dinner often. The Nomad children, Jinora, Ikki, Meelo, and Rohan, were all big fans of Korra's. They had watched many of her high school and college games growing up, and Meelo was her number one fan, though at fourteen, an entering freshman this year, he was a little more reserved about his admiration for the darker woman.

"Are you ready to get started?" Bolin asked eagerly as he swung a guitar strap over his head.

"I guess, though I'm not sure what I agreed to." Korra pulled a stool closer to him and sat down.

"I want to try a new song, but I want to listen to you first." Jinora pulled her stool closer to the two teachers.

"So you can improve upon my imperfect voice?" Korra smiled over at her as she dropped her backpack to the floor.

Jinora laughed and shook her head. "You have a lovely voice and you know it. I just want to hear the song this way before I try it. You know how my creative process works."

Korra nodded in understanding. "What will I be performing?"

"Halsey's Hold Me Down." Jinora stated confidently.

Korra grimaced. "Are you sure I can do that?"

Bolin smiled and reached over, patting her arm. "Korra, I wouldn't have asked for your help if I didn't think you could do it."

"Well then, here goes nothing." Korra smiled as Bolin started to strum out the chords.

::::::::::::::::

A black and red Ducati sped into the parking lot, stopping next to a green VW Beetle where a petite woman leaned against the door.

"The teenage boys will love you." The woman smirked as she shoved off the car and embraced the rider.

The rider unclasped the chin strap and removed the red helmet, letting midnight, wavy locks cascade down her shoulders. "Good thing I don't date boys then, and I seriously hope you didn't mean that the way it sounded." The woman said, scrunching her face is disgust, before turning to secure her helmet to her bike. She turned back to the shorter woman as she unzipped her leather racing jacket, letting it hang open as she removed her gloves and shoved them in her pockets.

"Let's think about this for a minute shall we." Opal started walking towards the building, tapping her index finger against her chin, the woman falling into step beside her. "Hot woman, rides a motorcycle, and will be the new Mechanics and Shop Instructor. Oh, yeah, I don't see how these poor boys will ever make it through class." Opal laughed as she pushed the metal door open, entering the empty hallway. "I'm just glad they hired you Asami. Lord knows we've been in need of a competent teacher to fill the position."

"So you mentioned. And where might my room be located?" Asami nudged her friend gently as they rounded a corner.

"You're down here, across the hall from Bolin. My room is here." Opal pointed to the right as they walked by her classroom. "Locker rooms and back entrance to the gym here." Opal pointed to her left, and stopped, cocking her head to the side. "Do you hear that?"

Asami stopped and listened, through the empty hallway she could hear the echo of a guitar and the sound of someone singing. "Is that Bolin?"

Opal smiled, her eyes lighting up at the mention of his name. "It's coming from his room, but that's certainly not him singing." Opal started forward again, resuming her tour. "His room is the one on the left, and yours is on the right. There's another door that leads to the attached shop area in the back."

Asami only half listened to her friend, instead she found the sweet sound of the voice drawing most of her attention. As they drew even with Bolin's classroom she paused in the hallway and gazed in. A teenage girl was nodding her head to the music that Bolin strummed from his guitar. The brown skinned woman perched on the bench though, she was what dominated Asami's attention. Melodic and breathy, a slight rasp here and there, the voice was entrancing, like a siren calling her forth. Asami found herself stepping into the doorway, the hairs on her arms standing on end, then Opal literally pulled her from the trance, breaking the siren's spell.

"Come on, I'll introduce you later at the meeting." Opal tugged at Asami's arm.

Reluctantly Asami let her friend lead her across the hallway to her classroom.

::::::::::

Korra ended the song and sat for a few minutes as Jinora and Bolin exchanged looks. "Well?"

"I think you need to enter the talent show this year with singing. You always do a martial arts routine, mix it up." Bolin answered, a smile playing at his lips.

"When pigs fly!" Korra snorted and slapped her knee. "I only sing for a few people, and this is only because it helps Jinora decide how she wants to change something for herself." She glanced at her watch and jumped to her feet. "I need to go shower and get my office in order before the meeting."

Bolin nodded and stood himself, walking with Korra towards the door. "I'll save you a seat."

Walking backwards, Korra grinned as she stepped into the hall. "Thanks bro!" She waved and turned to hurry down the hallway, catching a sweet scent with her nose. That's nice. The janitor must be using a new air freshener.

::::::::::

Korra strode into the cafeteria, hair hanging limply down her back, still wet from her shower. She spied Bolin and Mako waving towards her from the far corner table. She threaded her way through the maze of tables, smiling in greeting to the few teachers that acknowledged her.

"Where's Opal?" Korra asked as she swung her leg over the bench seat.

"She's showing the new Shop Instructor around." Bolin pushed a large paper cup of tea over towards her.

Korra nodded in thanks and looked at Mako as he spoke. "Is this the new friend she made at that weeklong conference in the Fire Nation last year?"

"Yeah! Opal was super excited that they got the job, apparently their credentials are amazing." Bolin smiled excitedly.

"As long as the guy doesn't lose a finger like the last one." Kora scoffed as she took a sip of her drink.

"I'll try to keep my fingers away from the saw table." A voice lilted from behind her, causing her to dribble tea down her chin.

"Shit!" Korra yelled as she jumped in her seat. "Sorry." She added as a few teachers turned towards her. Face burning she grabbed a handful of napkins and dabbed at the tea on her shirt, not bothering to look up.

Opal stifled a laugh as she looked at her friends. "This is Mako Andesite, Resource Officer, and my wonderful boyfriend Bolin." Opal gestured to the guys as she guided Asami around the table. "And this ever wonderful and graceful creature is Korra Southern, our Gym teacher."

"Physical Education Instructor." Korra corrected, finally looking up, her nose caught a whiff of that sweet scent again and her eyes flitted across Opal to the woman beside her. Her gaze traveled up the woman's torso, taking in the form fitting blouse under the open racing jacket. Her cheeks colored more as she skimmed over the ample bosom, careful not to stare. Finally she raked her gaze over supple, ruby red lips to sparkling emerald eyes. "Uh, hello." She croaked out as she extended a hand across the table.

She watched the ruby lips turn up into a smile, as a warm, ivory hand slid into her darker one. "Asami Sato, new Mechanics and Shop Instructor." Asami squeezed the hand gently, feeling a buzz of energy pass between them, before retracting it and sliding onto the bench opposite the brown skinned woman. She tore her eyes away from the woman's face as she nodded to Bolin then reached over to shake Mako's hand.

Opal walked back around the table and squeezed her way between Korra and Bolin. "Move your big ass Korra."

"Ha! We both know my ass is not big, and you're just jealous it's nicer than yours." Korra laughed as she scooted down a little to allow Opal room to sit.

"Says who?" Opal stared at her, eyes narrowed in a challenge.

"I'd say Bolin, but I don't want him getting in trouble for checking out my ass, and I can't say Mako because then he'll get in trouble for checking out your ass. But we all know it's true, I mean I don't see you running, or doing squats." Korra grinned at her, nudging her friend's shoulder before she rolled her sleeve up and flexed her bicep. "Besides I have to maintain this temple."

"You're so full of yourself." Opal laughed. "Not worried about making a bad impression in front of the new colleague?"

"I figured if she's friends with you then her standards can't be too high." Korra fired back as she glanced across the table towards Asami.

"You're so mean." Opal said as she poked Korra in the side, before leaning into Bolin. "How'd Jinora do this morning?"

"She did really well. She changed a few things, and made the song her own." Bolin answered, sipping from his own cup of tea. "Korra really helped this morning."

"Wait, that was you singing?" Asami turned towards the woman across from her, she watched Korra nod. "You're voice is very lovely. You did a marvelous job." Asami admired and had the pleasure of watching Korra's tan cheeks redden. She watched her cerulean blue eyes dart towards the table.

Korra rubbed nervously at the back of her neck. "Thanks, I didn't, um, realize anyone else was listening."

"Korra gets nervous about singing in front of other people. I'm pretty sure the only people she has knowingly sang for, that didn't involve copious amounts of alcohol, is us three and Tenzin's family." Mako grinned in Korra's direction.

"You sing for the Superintendent?" Asami asked as she shrugged out of her racing jacket, laying it on the seat beside her.

"Our families have always been close. I babysat his kids when I was in high school." Korra explained as she took another sip from her tea.

"If I could have everyone's attention please!" A tall bald man with a pointed beard called from the center of the cafeteria. "I have a few announcements to make and then you can all return to your rooms, or join Pema and myself for lunch in the Home Ec. room."

"That's Tenzin." Opal whispered to Asami.

"His wife is over there." Korra pointed to the woman standing off to the side. "She teaches Home Economics. Tenzin's sister," Korra pointed to a woman of similar complexion to herself with white hair leaning against the wall, "Kya, is the school nurse. The man next to her is the World History teacher, Bumi, he's their brother."

Asami followed where Korra pointed. With a raised eyebrow she turned back towards Korra and leaned across the table to whisper. "That's kind of weird, I mean that so many people that are related work in the same place."

"Oh it gets better." Korra laughed as she leaned across the table too. "Opal's aunt, Lin Beifong, is the Alternative Education Instructor, she dated Tenzin when they were in High School. Opal's mother, Suyin, is the Counselor. Opal's brother, Baatar, teaches Economics, and is dating Kuvira, the Principal."

"Who is Korra's ex from forever ago." Opal added with a smirk.

"Why did you bring that up?" Korra hissed and glared at the woman beside her.

"I just thought I'd help her understand just how weird our school is." Opal winked as she fended off a swat from Korra.

Mako cleared his throat, getting the women's attention. "You guys are causing a scene."

Korra sat up straight and saw Tenzin looking at their table, a disapproving frown on his face.

"I'd like to introduce everyone to our new Mechanics and Shop Instructor. Miss Sato will you please stand?" Tenzin boomed.

Asami stood and waved at the other teachers. "Are we sure she's qualified?" A voice from the back rang out.

Tenzin bristled at the comment. "I assure you that Miss Sato graduated top of her class and has an extensive background in mechanics as well as in engineering."

"Sato? Like the Future Industries Sato?" Another voice called out.

Asami took a step forward. "Hiroshi is my father, so yes that Sato. For those of you that doubt my qualifications let me ease your mind by stating that anything and everything you've bought from Future Industries in the past ten years was more than likely designed by me or with my help." Asami realized her voice had taken on a defensive tone. She offered a bright smile before adding, "I look forward to working with all of you." She turned and sat back down at the table.

"Boom goes the dynamite." Korra chuckled as Asami turned back towards the table. "Glad we have someone that doesn't take shit."

"I'm used to people assuming that I'm just a pretty face and that I don't know anything since I don't have a penis." Asami smiled as the others laughed.

"I think you'll fit in well with us." Mako said chuckling.

Tenzin cleared his throat and had all eyes back on him. "Next I'd like for us to offer our congratulations to Baatar Jr and Kuvira on their wedding this summer." Lots of mumbles from the faculty and staff followed this announcement.

Korra started to clap and nudged Opal. The rest of her table joined in as the other teachers finally started to clap as well. "They never said a word." Opal murmured so only her table could hear.

"Oh man your mom looks pissed." Bolin whispered as he watched Suyin.

Opal found her mother whispering angrily to Lin. "I'm glad I'm not Baatar Jr right now."

Tenzin waited until the clapping died down before he continued his speech. "Our last announcement comes from Miss Southern."

"That's my cue." Korra called as she jumped from the table and jogged to the center of the room.

Asami watched the athletic woman make her way across the floor, she couldn't help but let her eyes fixate on the firm backside that confirmed Korra's earlier boast.

"Okay so I'll make this short and sweet because you guys are probably as hungry as I am." Korra started and was rewarded with a brief moment of laughter. Her appetite was legendary at the school. "With Mr. Wong's accident and early retirement that leaves the senior class short a sponsor." The other teachers groaned as they realized where this was going. "I know, I know, trust me I know! But I still need someone to volunteer to help."

Asami turned to Opal. "What does a sponsor do?"

"You'd help with prom, senior trip, coordinating fund raisers, stuff like that. There would be lots of long hours where Korra and probably a handful of students would be your only company." Opal added as she scanned the teachers.

Bolin snorted. "With that class it'd just be long hours with Korra."

Asami turned in her seat again. "Come on guys. It's just one year. Besides if they don't have another sponsor then there is no prom or senior trip. Don't let a few bad apples ruin the whole year for the others." Korra pleaded as she scanned the room.

Opal grinned mischievously, as she eased herself forward to lean across the table, reached out, and flicked Asami in the ear. Asami raised her hand and swatted at Opal's retreating hand.

"Miss Sato? Would you like to volunteer?" Tenzin called, his attention drawn by her movements.

Asami froze, her eyes widening at the turn Opal's antics had taken. She glanced at Korra, taking in the pout the other woman wore, her bottom lip sticking out a little. I'd like to bite that. Asami's face blushed at her sudden inappropriate thought. Taking a deep breath she gave Tenzin an answer. "Yes."

Korra beamed as she jogged back to the table. "Thanks Sato. I was afraid you'd leave me hanging there for a minute."

"She just needed a little encouragement." Opal giggled when Asami turned and stared at her.

"That concludes our meeting. You may return to your rooms or join Pema and myself for lunch in her room, I assure you there is plenty of food." Tenzin smiled as faculty and staff started shuffling out.

Korra and the others stood from their table. "You guys eating?"

Bolin, Opal, and Mako nodded. Asami shook her head. "I brought lunch so I could eat while I worked."

"You sure?" Opal asked as they started out into the hallway, giving her friend a sidelong look.

"Yeah, I have things I need to finish." Asami headed towards her room as the others started in the opposite direction. "It was nice meeting you guys!" She called over her shoulder.

"You too!" The others called. Korra stood for a moment and watched the other woman's retreating figure. Her body heating up at the sight of the other woman's swaying hips.

"Korra, would you care to take Asami some lunch?" Opal asked as Korra fell into step beside her.

"She just said she brought her own." Korra jerked her thumb behind her.

"I know what she said but I also know that Asami's definition of lunch is more than likely an apple." Opal smiled knowingly at the woman beside her.

"Sure, I mean I guess I can, but why me?" Korra shrugged as they entered Pema's room, taking a place in line to get lunch.

"Because you're more likely to bully her into eating." Opal smirked as Mako and Bolin chortled behind them.

Korra loaded two plates with food, Opal helping her fill one of those for Asami. Carefully she walked down the hallway towards the shop, plates and cups of tea balanced expertly in her hands. She could hear the mixed sounds of Marian Hill's Whisky and angry cursing as she entered the classroom. Korra took in the setup of Asami's classroom, nodding at the few changes the woman had made, as she headed towards the door that led into the shop.

The shop area smelled musty and stale, from being shut up during the summer months, with a mixture of oil and something charred. Oil stains marred the concrete floor and an assortment of tools adorned the walls. Korra followed the sound of cursing till she found the source.

Asami was bent over peering at the electrical components of an old welder. "This is a complete waste. I don't know that I can even fix this." Asami spoke to herself as she concentrated on the mess in front of her. "I doubt I'll be able to buy a new one."

Korra smirked at the woman's one sided conversation. "Do you often talk to yourself when you work?"

Asami jumped and spun around, smiling when she saw who had snuck in on her. "Usually." She tucked a stray piece of her now tied up hair behind her ear. "They say it's a mark of genius."

Korra grinned as she sat the plates and cups down on the nearby workbench before picking the untouched apple up. "Opal said this was your idea of lunch."

Asami shrugged as she crossed to the workbench and eyed the food Korra had brought. "Did she talk you into doing this?"

"That she did. As an expert in health I have to warn you against the side effects of not eating properly." Korra smiled as she carried two stools over to the workbench.

"Yes mother." Asami chuckled as she took a stool from Korra. "Thank you. You don't have to stay though." Asami glanced over at the woman. "I mean unless of course you want to."

Korra sat and pulled a plate over towards her. "What so when I leave you can go back to talking to yourself and not eating? Not going to happen Sato, sit and eat."

Giggling Asami sat and looked at her plate that had normal sized portions and then over to Korra's that was heaped over. "Opal mentioned your appetite was vast."

Korra rolled her eyes as she swallowed her food. "I'm a little surprised that Opal would talk about me. What else did she say?"

"She's told me a lot about you actually, and she's told me some stories from High School." Asami smiled as she scooped up some food. "And she mentioned a streaking episode in college."

Korra threw her head back and laughed as she recalled the event. "Easiest $200 I ever made."

"She said that too." Asami laughed and ate a few more bites. "You were in the military?"

Korra nodded and took sip of her tea. "Joined the United Republic Forces right out of High School. Served five years." Korra rolled her sleeve up to display a tattoo on her right bicep. It was decorated with a baseball sized, gold, irregular hendecagon, a shape with eleven sides, with a circle in the middle and a leg on the left and right side. She rolled her sleeve back down. "Got lucky and came out not too terribly fucked up." She grinned sheepishly at Asami before she continued. "Because of my military training I help Mako and Lin with the school's Emergency Task Force."

Asami nodded as she listened, letting Korra's warm voice wash over her. "Why Physical Education though? I mean why not History, or Music?" Asami leaned forward, her chin resting on her hand, anxious to learn more about the woman in front of her.

"I had a PE instructor that was all about promoting health and healthy eating tips, but not so much on the healthy self-body image. I know firsthand how crucial having someone that helps you see yourself in a positive light can be." Korra looked up from her near empty plate and met the intense expression on Asami's face. "I had my fair share of unhealthy thoughts because of my body when I was younger. That changed when my parents enrolled me in martial arts. Tenzin's mother, Katara, was my instructor."

"She helped you?" Asami took a sip of the tea Korra had brought her.

"Yeah. A lot, and when I got older I realized I wanted to have the same impact on others." Korra grinned as she pushed her empty plate to the side.

"That's noble, and very lucky for those kids you're helping."

"What about you?" Korra fiddled with her plastic fork, her eyes settling on Asami's flawless face.

"I wanted to do something on my own. I was tired of feeling like everything that happened to me in my life was because of who my father was, and not because of my hard work. So I stepped away from the company to pursue my degree. It was hard, when I stepped away from the company I was cut off, I found a garage not far from campus that was hiring, and the owner let me sleep in the loft area over it. I'm not sure which pissed my father off more, that I was able to do something without his influence, or that I didn't come crawling back." Asami smiled at the thought of her father's pettiness.

"Sadly it's usually family that hurts each other the most." Korra gave Asami an understanding nod as she drained her glass. "You and Opal seem pretty close."

"We attended a conference together in the Fire Nation a year ago. It was over integrating new technology into the classroom. We ended up in the back row making fun of the speaker, and just hit it off. We've kept in touch with text, and Skype. I was putting in applications all over when she told me about this opening. Sent my application in and received a call a few days later." Asami stacked her empty plate on top of Korra's.

"And your thoughts on your wonderful workspace?" Korra laughed, spreading her arms out to encompass the room around them, as she took in the disarray of the shop.

"It needs some work, lots of TLC. I take it the previous instructor wasn't into organization or upkeep?" Asami indicated the pile of rusted tools beside the workbench.

"Nope, nor safety." Korra added as she bent her ring finger down then held it up to show the missing finger. "Heard him scream all the way in the gym, turns out he had been drinking, luckily it was on his prep hour and no kids saw him."

"That sounds awful." Asami shook her head, feeling pity for the man she was replacing.

"He was burned out, tired of the kids mouthing him." Korra rested her arms on the table and leaned forward.

Asami snuck a glance at the muscles of those chocolate arms. "How do you handle it, the mouthing?"

"I dish it back." Korra chuckled, after all it was the first thing they told you not to do in school. "I find that if you can joke around with them and work with them, show them you actually care, then you'll get some respect. At least that's how it works with me anyway. I don't like going about my day with a stick up my ass, so I just act like my normal self."

"Basically she's a complete goof ball and the kids love her." Opal chimed in as she came into the shop followed closely by Bolin.

"It's because I join whatever exercise or activity their doing." Korra grinned as the couple sauntered over towards the workbench. "What are you two doing?"

"Our rooms are all set up, and we came to offer our services." Bolin explained as he threw an arm around Korra's shoulders. Korra wrapped her arm around his waist and leaned into him.

"Awe, you guys are so sweet." Korra grinned as she gave Bolin a quick squeeze before he stepped away to slide an arm around Opal.

"Well I am for sure not getting this set up anytime soon." Asami glanced at the disaster around her.

"You could make this an activity for the kids during the first few weeks." Korra stood and walked over to the pile of rusty tools. "Cleaning the shop might make them appreciate it more. Just a thought." Korra shrugged as the others stared at her.

"It's brilliant! If I give them a responsibility then they would respect the shop more, theoretically, but worth a shot. It would feel more like it belonged to them and not the school." Asami grinned at the thought.

"Asami's room is officially taken care of then. Korra?" Opal turned towards the darker woman.

"Mine's good. Nothing much left other than assigning lockers and I can do that tomorrow." Korra shrugged and then grew suspicious of the matching glint in Opal and Bolin's eyes. "What do you two have planned?"

"Last free night before school starts on Wednesday. Let's hit up Shiro's." Opal did a little jig, dancing happily at the thought of all her friends hanging out.

"What's Shiro's?" Asami cast a look between the trio.

"Local bar." Korra grinned at Opal's excitement. "I'm in, I just need to run home to change and let Naga out. Well if I run home I'll need to shower too."

Asami gave her a confused look. "When Korra says run home she literally means run home." Bolin clarified, noticing the look on Asami's face.

"Hey it keeps the booty in shape." Korra winked as she turned around, lifted her shirt tail up and gave her butt a little shake.

Asami laughed at the sight, though she did enjoy it.

"Asami, what do you say? Little music, dancing, and unwind before the work week actually begins." Opal pleaded as Korra stepped over by them.

"Sounds like fun. What time and where is it?" Asami grabbed the trash from lunch and carried it to the trash can.

"Seven-ish? Oh and Korra can pick you up, she has to drive right by your place." Opal answered as she made her way back towards the classroom.

"I don't mind." Korra shrugged her shoulders.

"Thank you." Asami smiled as she gave Korra her address.

"I better go if I'm going to make the run home in time to get ready. First round is on Mako!" Korra yelled as she jogged towards the door. "See ya!"

"I'm going to go put my guitar and stuff away." Bolin placed a kiss on Opal's cheek as he left.

Opal waited until she was sure Bolin was out of ear shot. "Whose is better?"

"Who's what?" Asami's brow was furrowed as she tried to figure out what Opal was talking about.

"Mine or Korra's?" Opal turned around and stuck her butt out. "And don't you even pretend like you didn't check her out."

Asami started laughing as she pulled her jacket on over her shoulders. "I'm not answering that."

"You don't have to. Your face did it for you." Opal grinned as she quickly made her way into the hallway laughing the whole way.

:::::::::::::

Korra pulled up outside of Asami's with just minutes to spare. She opened her door and hopped out of her blue Jeep. As she walked up to the door she wiped her sweaty palms onto her black jeans, and nervously ran her hands over the blue blouse to smooth invisible wrinkles. Chill, it's just drinks with friends. She didn't understand why she was so nervous. Korra rapped her knuckles on the front door and stepped back to wait.

Asami strode to the door and opened it to a smiling Korra. She smiled in return as she took in Korra's outfit, it fit her well, stylish and attractive. "You look nice." Asami said as she closed the door behind her.

"Have you seen yourself?" Korra asked, a bit too enthusiastically, as her eyes roamed over Asami. Asami's boots made her a couple inches taller than Korra, and her red button up matched her lips perfectly. Korra pondered how the woman had even managed to get her jeans on. Suddenly Korra realized she was checking Asami out, and quickly headed towards the rig. Without thinking Korra opened the passenger side door for Asami.

Asami smiled at the open door. "Thanks."

"Habit." Korra stammered as she shut the door, cheeks coloring, and quickly rounded the rig to her side.

"It's okay to have manners Korra." Asami smiled as the chocolate skinned woman climbed into the cab.

Korra nodded as she turned the ignition over and started towards Shiro's.

"Do you run to and from work every day?" Asami asked as they drove.

"Pretty much, as long as the weather is nice, and I don't have something right after school." Korra slowed for the approaching stop sign.

"How far?" Asami studied her with a sidelong look.

"Two miles, both ways." Korra pressed the gas and noticed Asami studying her. "What?"

"Let me get this straight. You run four miles every day, plus you're active for six almost seven hours to boot."

"Yeah. I have a lot of energy." Korra said in defense.

"I think I'm understanding how it's possible for you to eat the way you did at lunch and still look the way you do." Asami shook her head. "Most days I'm lucky if I have enough energy to go to the gym."

"It takes commitment to get guns like these." Korra raised her arm, pursed her lips, and flexed her bicep.

Asami reached over and poked the woman in the side. Korra flinched and started giggling, Asami found the sound to be infectious, and soon found herself laughing as well. Up ahead a sign with Shiro's on it came into view. Korra pulled into an empty spot out front and turned the Jeep off. Asami spied Opal and Bolin waiting out front as the two women climbed from the rig.

Korra walked next to Asami as they approached the couple. "Where's Mako?" Korra asked as Bolin opened the door.

"Getting a booth." Bolin stepped to the side as Opal walked inside.

Korra placed her hand gently on Asami's lower back to indicate she could go ahead. Asami blushed at the contact and did her best to hide it. Korra was too busy pestering Bolin for the two of them to notice anyway.

"He brought that girl he's been seeing." Bolin added as they spied Mako waving to them from a wraparound corner booth.

"Hey guys! This is Izumi, my girlfriend. Izumi this is, well everyone." Mako shuffled forward and grabbed his brother in a hug.

"What Mako means is I'm Opal." Opal smiled and waved. "Korra, and Asami."

The two women offered a small wave in turn. "Nice to meet you guys. Mako talks a lot about you." Izumi smiled, excited to finally meet Mako's friends.

"Who has first round?" Mako asked as he flipped through the menu.

"Unanimous vote decided on you big bro." Bolin grinned as he slid into the booth, scooting to the middle.

"Let's play Never Have I Ever." Opal grinned excitedly as she slid next to Bolin.

"So basically I need to get a bottle and shot glasses?" Mako laughed as he tossed the menu onto the table.

"I'll help you." Izumi smiled as she slipped her hand into Mako's and together they made their way to the bar.

"Awe, they're so cute." Bolin exclaimed as he watched the couple.

Asami slid in beside Opal, leaving room for Korra at the end. Korra dropped down onto the seat, her leg pressed firmly against Asami's. "What's Never Have I Ever?" Asami whispered to Korra when she sat down.

"Really?" Korra couldn't believe Asami had never played this game before. "You start with 'never have I ever' then add something you've never done before. Those that have done it take a drink. Sometimes you have to explain why you took a drink. It's one of those silly games to get to know people."

"Sounds insightful." Asami grinned as Mako set a bottle of Fire Nation Whiskey and a few glasses down on the table as he slid in next to his brother. Izumi set the rest of the glasses down and took the spot next to Mako.

"Everyone fill a glass." Opal ordered as she started filling her own.

"Asami goes first." Korra gave the taller woman a wink.

"Oh fine." Opal huffed out.

Asami thought for a minute and then understood why Korra said she could go first. "Never have I ever played Never Have I Ever before today."

Korra tossed her shot back and reached for the bottle to refill.

"No way." Mako said in disbelief.

Asami nodded and watched as they all downed their drinks.

"Pick someone to go." Opal said as she filled her and Bolin's glasses.

"Korra."

Korra thought for a minute. "Never have I ever kissed a man in a romantic way."

Opal, Asami, and Izumi downed their drinks.

"Izumi." Korra nodded towards the amber eyed brunette.

"Never have I ever kissed a woman romantically." Izumi rose an eyebrow in interest as everyone at the table took a drink except herself and Opal.

"Okay so we all knew about Korra, but Asami?" Bolin looked at the woman curiously.

"How do I put this?" Asami tapped her chin in thought. "I swing both ways if you get my meaning and I don't care what others think, I like who I like."

"I like that answer." Izumi smiled at Asami. "Opal."

"Never have I ever gotten a tattoo." Opal smiled as Korra, Asami, and Izumi took a drink.

"I know Korra has the one on her bicep, Mako told me." Izumi said as she cut her eyes to Asami.

"I have others too." Korra said before Asami could explain her own.

"Where and what?" Izumi asked as she showed a small heart on her own wrist.

"I have one across my entire back." Korra rolled her sleeve up revealing a blue tribal design. "This one, and then on my right foot I have 'not all those who wander are lost.'"

Izumi nodded as she cut her eyes to Asami for her to share. "I have a white lotus flower on my hip, and 'for every dark night there's a brighter day' on my ribs, left side."

"I feel like I need a tattoo now." Opal pouted a little. "Mako."

Mako looked at everyone for a minute. "Never have I ever been in the military."

"Cheap shot bro!" Korra grumbled as she tossed her drink back.

"Tough shit cupcake. Bolin." Mako smiled at Korra and waited for his brother.

"I got this Korra." Bolin winked, cleared his throat and turned his attention to his brother. "Never have I ever made out with a woman who later turned out to be a man."

"What?" Opal yelled looking at everyone.

"Mako. Drink up." Bolin smirked as Mako's face turned red.

"Oh you better explain, and then do another shot for not taking one earlier!" Opal laughed as she slid the bottle to Mako.

Begrudgingly he tossed two shots back before he explained. "I was drunk and it was a costume party." He stated as everyone laughed. "Hey to be fair I wasn't the only one that thought he was a she."

"True, but bro, you were the only one to miss the Adam's apple." Bolin smirked at his brother. "Asami."

They played a few more rounds, laughing as the questions got sillier. "How is everyone getting home?" Asami asked before starting another round.

"Damn you and your adult responsibilities." Opal pouted for a second before she shrugged and tossed her drink back.

"We took a cab." Mako answered as he wrapped an arm around Izumi to pull her close.

"Share?" Bolin asked, hopeful about the cab.

"Sure bro." Mako smiled as his brother grinned.

"I'm done anyway." Korra pushed her drink away as she signaled for the waitress. "You guys want anything?"

"What are you getting?" Asami pushed her drink in front of Opal.

"Chili cheese fries and water." Korra looked at the woman next to her.

"That sounds good." Asami smiled and moved the bottle of whiskey away from Opal who was leaning heavily against Bolin.

"Two orders of chili cheese fries and two waters please." Korra order as she passed a few bills to the waitress. "Keep the change."

"You didn't have to do that." Asami said as she angled her body towards Korra's more.

"Consider it a 'Welcome to URH' gift." Korra smiled at Asami then quickly stood up. "Any requests for music?" She jerked her head toward the jukebox in the corner.

"Something to dance to." Opal sat forward and grabbed for the bottle of whiskey.

"Nope I think you're finished with this, light weight." Korra quickly jerked the bottle from the table and carried it with her as she crossed to the jukebox.

Asami laughed as Opal pouted, then her eyes widened at the plates of chili cheese fries that were sat on the table. "Looks like we got Korra and party portions."

Mako looked at the plates and then to Asami before he started laughing. "Yeah, sorry we should have said something. They serve everything in Korra or party size."

"Are you guys making fun of my eating habits again?" Korra called as she crossed the bar, a steady rhythm coming from the jukebox behind her.

"I pity whoever you end up kissing after eating those." Opal grinned and started dancing in her seat.

"That's why I carry gum and mints Opal. They work wonders." Korra sat and started digging into her fries, bottle of whiskey still clutched in her hand.

Suddenly Bolin stood and clamored over the back of the booth. "Bathroom break."

"Thanks for sharing bro." Mako laughed as he held his glass out to Korra, who gladly poured him another drink.

Mako and Izumi danced through a song, while Opal continued her seated gyrations. When Bolin arrived back at the table Izumi and Mako rejoined the group. Mako shared how he had met Izumi while Korra dug into her fries with gusto. Asami's order being shared with the rest of the table. Soon the two brothers started sharing stories about going to school with Korra, and the various shenanigans the trio had pulled.

"You were a hellion." Asami laughed as she turned to the other woman.

"What do you mean were? I still am!" Korra claimed as she laid a packet of gum on the table, popping a piece into her mouth.

Opal lunged for it and popped a piece into her own mouth before handing a piece to Asami. "Trust me." She slurred with a devious smirk.

Asami and the others laughed and she took the piece from Opal. She turned back around to watch as the waitress slid a martini in front of her.

"I didn't order this." Asami looked from the drink to the waitress.

"From the gentleman in the corner." The waitress smiled as she started to walk away.

"Wait." Asami called getting the waitress to turn back towards her. She pushed the drink across the table. "Tell him thank you for the gesture, but I'm not interested."

Surprised the waitress picked the drink up and carried it towards the man. Asami went back to joking with the others. After a couple minutes she felt Opal nudge her. "Martini man at two o'clock."

They all turned and watched as the man made his way towards them, glaring at Asami in the process. "Terrific." She mumbled.

Korra leaned over, wrapping an arm around Asami's shoulders. "Play along." She whispered under her breath.

Asami scooted down in her sit and leaned into Korra, melting into her embrace. She smiled at her through her long eyelashes. "Sweetie, this was such a good idea." Asami cooed loudly while the others tried to suppress their obvious humor at the act.

Korra's lips turned up at the corners as she tried to hold in her laughter. "I figured you needed a night out, babe. You work so much it was the least I could do." Korra watched from the corner of her eye as the man hesitated for a minute, then kept coming towards them. Korra reached up with her free hand and cupped Asami's cheek, stroking her thumb gently against the porcelain skin.

Asami smiled at the chocolate skinned woman, and placed her own hand over Korra's, hoping the intimate contact would send the message to the man, instead her stomach gave a flip at the connection. Unexpectedly she felt a shove from behind, and fell into Korra, their lips smashing together. Asami stiffened at the sudden contact and started to push away, then she felt a slight buzz pass between herself and Korra, and before she was aware of her actions she moved her lips against those beneath hers. Asami's heart quickened as she felt Korra's mouth move in tandem with her own, sparking to life an ember deep within herself. She smiled at the warmth and softness of Korra's lips, and felt the need to have them in other places.

"Dude is gone. Been gone for a while now." Opal all but sang out as she gave a toothy smile to the women.

Asami eased herself away from Korra, seeing a slight blush on her brown cheeks. "I'm glad he finally got the hint." Asami chuckled as she settled back against the booth's cushions.

"I'm pretty sure we all got the hint." Mako said over his glass, a smile on his face.

Korra rubbed at the back of her neck as she saw the man at his own seat nursing a beer. "Glad I could be of service." Nervously she stood and excused herself to the restroom.

"Am I wrong if I said that was a turn on?" A red faced Izumi asked as she turned to face Mako.

"Check!" Mako yelled as he and Izumi slid from the booth. "Bro get your own cab." He directed toward Bolin as he threw a handful of bills onto the table.

"But bro, you said we could we split one." Bolin whined, not catching on to what was happening.

Opal looked to the exiting couple and then Bolin. Sighing she leaned over and whispered in Bolin's ear. His eyes grew wide and his face red.

"Where'd those two go?" Korra pointed to where Mako and Izumi were sitting.

"Same place we are going, home." Bolin stood and pulled Opal with him.

Giggling Opal followed leaving Korra and Asami alone in the booth. "Well, bye then." Asami called as she too stood.

Korra shook her head as they made their way back outside to the Jeep. Again Korra opened Asami's door before walking around to climb into the driver's seat. As they started towards Asami's house Korra's phone buzzed. She glanced at it and handed it to Asami.

"It's Opal will you check it?"

"Sure." Asami reached out and took the phone, sliding the unlock button, Opal's message popped onto the screen. "Opal says to be safe and safe is in quotation marks."

Korra snorted, the dash lights illuminating her grin. "Tell her she needs to worry about herself."

Asami tapped the message out with quick thumbs, hitting send, but she didn't put Korra's phone down. Glancing sideways, making sure the other woman wasn't paying attention to her and was indeed concentrating on the road, she went into Contacts and added her number. Asami jumped when she felt her own phone buzz.

"Opal is texting me now." Asami unlocked her phone and read the message. You can thank me in the morning, after Korra leaves of course.

"Let me guess more innuendos?" Korra pulled over to the curb in front of Asami's house.

"Nope, not an innuendo, just Opal being Opal." Asami shoved her phone into her pocket.

"Always classy." Korra drummed her fingers against the steering wheel as they sat in the Jeep. "I'm glad you came out with us. Sorry about, um, the creepy guy."

Asami chuckled as she unbuckled her seat belt, then brushed her hair over her shoulder. "I'm just glad he got the hint. And you missed it, but apparently us kissing was a turn on for Izumi, which is why Mako practically drug her away."

Korra opened her door and walked around to the passenger side, opening Asami's door before the other woman had the chance. "That's a little odd."

Asami stepped down from the Jeep and fished her keys out of her pocket. "Would you want to come in for tea or coffee?" She didn't doubt that her face blushed at the question, Asami was just glad that the night helped hide it.

Korra hesitated before she answered. She wanted to say yes, but deep down she was fully aware that after their impromptu kiss earlier she wouldn't want to leave. That kiss had been so nice. Letting out a small sigh she offered Asami a kind smile. "Thank you but no. I should head home to let Naga out." Korra stepped forward to walk Asami to her front door.

"Rain check on the tea or coffee then. You don't have to walk me to my door Korra." Asami stopped and turned in front of the other woman. "Thank you for the ride though."

"Oh yeah, no problem. I'm gonna go, I'll see you at work tomorrow." Korra turned to head back to the car, but was quickly tugged back around by a hand grabbing her wrist.

If a brief moment of bravery Asami stepped forward and pressed a chaste kiss to Korra's cheek. "Night Korra." She dropped the woman's hand and walked to her door.

"Goodnight Sato." Korra called as she rounded her Jeep to climb back in, grinning like an idiot. Korra waited until Asami had her door unlocked before waving and pulling away from the curb.