Mai's relationship with Zuko is a complex and evolving one. It starts with a childhood crush, which later blossoms into a romantic relationship when Zuko returns to the Fire Nation. They share strong feelings for each other, but their relationship isn't without its challenges. They temporarily break up during a rough patch on Ember Island due to Zuko's temper, but they soon reconcile after addressing their issues. Mai is deeply concerned about Zuko's internal conflict regarding his father and the war, and though she tries to make him feel more comfortable, she ultimately breaks up with him after he kept secrets rom her.