After their big battle with Amon and Korra having restored everyone's bending, it was time to relax. The general had been very thankful for everyone's help and offered to take everyone out for dinner. Bolin and Korra immediately shouted out a yes because, while Pema's cooking was amazing, some expensive, free food was always welcome in their stomachs. Mako and Asami followed along with a more refined enthusiasm.

Everyone slid into a booth at Kuang's Cuisine that night. Bolin had tried to get the end seat with Mako on his one side, but to his surprise Iroh sat down to his right. The man smiled at him and the earth-bender grew flustered.

They all ordered their food and happily began to chat.

"You know I'm getting a bit jealous," Korra spoke to the general, "You're getting a lot more attention than me."

Bolin interjected, "I'm sorry to inform you, Korra, but despite you being probably the most beautiful and talented Avatar yet, you can't beat a hot stud in a uniform."

Everyone at the table was shocked by Bolin's straightforwardness, except for Iroh, who blushed slightly, but overall just continued to look amused.

"You sure know how to compliment a guy."

Bolin grinned at the man, "I try."

If it would have ended there, Mako would have let it roll of his back, but then Iroh reached up to squeeze his brother's cheek.

"What exactly is going on here?"

"Mmm?" Bolin asked, his face still in Iroh's grasp.

Mako just stared. He had never seen his brother being so friendly with another male besides him. The general saw the look on the young man's face and let go of Bolin.

"I thought you knew…sorry," Iroh murmured.

Bolin looked at his brother sheepishly, but then worry overtook him when Mako frowned.

"When were you going to tell me?" he whispered harshly, trying to keep the conversation between them.

"Well, we've only been together for two days…" Bolin answered.

"Together? You're…gay?"

Mako was positively boiling with anger and his brother didn't understand why.

"But…"

"You can't be with him! He's a man and…! Bo, are you lashing out or something?"

"No," Bolin defended, "I like him, that's what. Is it your hobby to make my love life miserable? You want the general, too, for your little collection?" he finished with a gesture to the two women at the table.

Mako was left speechless and Iroh took the moment to get up from his seat.

"I think I should take my leave now."

"Wait," Bolin said, grabbing his arm, "I'll go with you."

The couple left the restaurant quickly. As soon as they were outside in the night air, Iroh held Bolin close to him. The teen instantly started to cry.

"I knew this would happen."

"Shh…hush, now," the general soothed, sliding his fingers through Bolin's hair, "I'll always be here for you, Bo."