Late Bloomer by =siquia

“What if I’m not a bender?” Bolin whined miserably.

“Don’t be silly, of course you’re a bender,” Mako groaned, not for the first time.

“Bu-but what if I’m noooot?”

Mako was about to shush his little brother again but Bolin had started to cry. The younger boy sniffled and pouted, tears streaming down his cheeks steadily.

“Come on, Bolin, stop that,” Mako said, but all harshness was gone from his tone. He bent towards his brother and patted him on the head tenderly. “Your bending just hasn’t woken up yet. Remember that lady who told us that happens sometimes?” Bolin nodded, a tiny sob escaping him. “See, you don’t need to worry. Besides, a big and strong guy like you? Of course you’re a bender.”

“Do you think I’ll be a firebender like you?” Bolin hiccuped, wiping his tears away.

Mako grinned at him and shook his head. “Nah, I betcha you’d be even cooler.”