Qui-Gon was hardly aware that Governor Bibble was speaking. Most of his attention was one of Queen Amidala's handmaidens, Saria. She was about ten years his junior but still very capable... and very beautiful.
"Master Jinn!"
Qui-Gon nearly jumped out of his skin at Governor Bibble's voice loud, commanding, and a little angry right in front of him.
"Yes, governor?" he said, trying to slow his speeding heart.
"It would be greatly appreciated if you would pay less attention to Saria and more attention to the meeting at hand," the elderly Naboo governor said sternly.
Qui-Gon's face reddened some, and Obi-Wan and Anakin choked back their laughter, snickering a little, coughing to cover it up.
**********
"You like her, don't you?"
Qui-Gon looked at his Padawan.
"What?"
"Saria. You like her, don't you?"
Qui-Gon paused for a moment, considering the question.
"Yeah. You like her, too, don't you?" Qui-Gon answered as he picked up his cup of tea and took a drink.
Obi-Wan gave a slightly frustrated sigh.
"Yes, I like her, Master, but that's not what I meant. I mean you like her, as in like like."
Qui-Gon inhaled practically half his drink and started to choke, coughing violently.
Obi-Wan thumped him on the back until his coughs died.
"Obi-Wan, what makes you think I like her?"
Obi-Wan raised his brows at his Master in disbelief.
"For one, you were paying attention to her and not Governor Bibble in the meeting this morning. Two, you as much time as possible with her when you can. Three, every time someone suggests that you might like her as more than a friend, you blush and instantly deny it. Face it, Master, we can see right through you. Just admit it; you like her."
