"Atton."
It was a low whisper, barely carrying across the cockpit. He could read the intent by that one word. Whenever she used his name, it began to sound more right. He turned to look at her. She was standing near the galaxy map, probably checking on their status. Her slanted eyes were narrowed in concentration, watching him intently.
"Rhea."
She carried herself with a subdued elegance. Her stance was heavy, an invisible weight bringing her down. Her shoulders were slumped with dark circles under her eyes. She had not slept well, either.
"Could I stay up here for a while?"
"Sure."
He expected her to drop into the co-pilot seat but she slipped into his lap instead. Her warmth curled up onto him. He couldn't help but feel excited. Don't ruin it, Atton. He placed an arm around her slender form, holding her as close as could. They sat in silence, watching the nebulous blue of hyperspace pass them by.
"Atton, who am I to you?"
The question caught him off guard. What did she mean by that?
"Uh…you're our fearless leader who jumps through fire and saves the day." His humor was a way of masking his uncertainty. He really did not know how to answer her question.
"So that's it? That's all I am to you?" Her voice grew a touch incredulous.
"What? No…No…I, uh meant that you're more than that…to me specifically-"
"Truthfully, Atton. Am I the insufferable exile to you, too?"
That's what this was about. She was having doubts about herself again. That old witch Kreia must have been feeding her more of that philosophical garbage. Atton growled quietly under his breath.
"If you feel the same way, just let me know. I'll leave…"
"No…stay." He pulled her back gently, tightening his embrace. He understood it now. She wanted him to tell her how he felt, no holding back or hiding anything. He had been waiting for this moment since their first meeting and she was basically giving him permission. He made sure their eyes met.
"Rhea…you know I care about you-"
"The truth, Atton."
"Damnit, woman! What do you want from me?"
"Either three words or none!"
"Screw that." He locked lips with her, giving into the lust and desire that he had kept at bay for so long. Nothing else mattered now. All of the galaxy melted away. In his mind, only two existed, one lost Jedi and one true Jedi. Reluctantly, he drew away for a much-needed breath. Her eyes were so full of want, almost need. She needed him as much as he needed her.
"Satisfied?"
She shot him a predatory grin.
"For now."