The worried look on Sokka's face isn't going anywhere fast, and at Ai-Ling's response - Lu's words, Jet's charm - his arm tightens unconsciously around Steph's waist.

"...be very careful." It's an order that comes out as a request, or a plea, and as soon as he's realized it, Sokka turns to Steph to smile. "And you know your mother's permission doesn't carry any weight."