Disclaimer--I own none of this. It all belongs to George. I am making no
money from this.
Dinner at Luke's
Chapter 4
by Maara
Luke hurried around his kitchen finishing the meal preparations. He ran his mental check list (salad-in the cooling unit, the Mako fish-in the steamer done in 5 minutes, seasoned noodles-in the warmer, ready to go, sautee'd vegetables-working now.) Luke finished cooking the vegetables and put them in the warmer with the noodles.
Luke rubbed his hands together and went to set his table for a romantic dinner for two. ((Easy Luke, this is supposed to be two friends having dinner, not a date. Besides, you don't even know how she feels about you.)) Luke shook the thought off and turned to his table.
The table was small and round with two place mats with matching linen napkins, rolled up with a thin ring around them, placed at the head of the setting. The wine goblets sat to the left of the plates, with the salad bowls on the plates themselves. Luke took a rose from one of the bouquets of flowers and put it in a bud vase and set it on the left side of the table, so he would be able to look at Mara without looking around it. A candle was placed next to the rose. Luke lit the candle and dimmed the lighting a bit. Finally, he stood back to survey his work.
Perfect.
Luke went over to the entertainment center and put the music discs into the player and programmed it for random play.
The music began to softly play, Luke looked around the room ((something is missing)) his eyes went to the rose. ((The flowers, I almost forgot to put them out.)) Back in the kitchen, he arranged the flowers into two vases and put them on the end tables on either side of the couch and set candles around the room. After a moment, a wonderful fragrance filled the air. Lastly, Luke lit a fire in the firepit. With the lights down low, it cast a romantic glow about the room. Now everything was ready.
Surveying the aprtment, Luke began to wonder if he wasn't going overboard. This was not the setting for just two friends. This was what he would do for a date. ((Let's face it Skywalker, you want this to be a date)) Luke did like Mara. The main reason he was afraid to call this a date was because he didn't want to risk their friendship if she didn't like him in the same way. Still, he hoped she too wanted something more between them.
Luke thought about Mara and what her reaction to all of this would be. He smiled when he pictured her surprised expression. He wanted to keep her off guard, and when it came to Mara Jade, that was no easy task. Luke had even abandoned his blacks for a more colorful outfit of blue slacks and a lighter blue shirt made of Calamarian silk. The material felt wonderful against his skin. As an after thought, Luke left a couple of buttons open on his shirt, wanting to convey a more relaxed atmosphere.
Luke was so preoccupied with making everything just right he almost missed Mara's presence approaching. He spun around and headed for the door, then stopped. He should at least wait for her to ring the chime.
Mara was walking down the corridor towards Luke's apartment, when she started to feel nervous. She, Mara Jade, was actually nervous. In an attempt to pull herself together,she slowed her walk down. How would it go tonight? Would it be awkward between them? What would they talk about? What would they eat? ((I guess the question is, can he cook?)) She'd just have to try and hide it from him if she didn't like it. Maybe fake being full. Mara smiled, ((I have a feeling I won't need to fake anything.))
Self-conciously, she ran her hands over her dress in a last minute check. How would Luke react to her choice of clothes? What if he doesn't react? Suddenly Mara found herself standing in front of Luke's apartment door and thoughts of doubt flashed through her mind. Maybe he's not really interested. Something in the Force rippled over her, and clearing her head, she took a deep breath. Well, only one way to find out. Mara raised a shaky hand to activate the door chime. Mara hesitated only a moment then pushed it. She only had her hand half way down to her side when the door slid open and there stood Luke Skywalker.
Luke paced in front of the door, wondering what was taking her so long. When the chime sounded, he kept himself from rushing too quickly to the door and smoothed down his shirt and slacks. Grabbing a rose, Luke reached out to open the door, and his jaw dropped. Mara was absolutely stunning, he couldn't take his eyes off of her.
Luke let his gaze wander over her. The green of her dress brought out her eyes, and her legs, oh her legs were perfect. She was so small, yet so strong. He had to calm himself before he reached out and swept her into his arms. Luke held out the rose to her.
Smiling, Mara took the rose from Luke, amused at his reaction, "You going to invite me in, or are we going to stand here for the rest of the evening?" Luke blushed slightly and Mara smiled, very pleased. Stepping past Luke into his apartment, Mara was aware that he was still watching her. She heard the door slide shut then turned to look at him again.
He looked fantastic. He had actually worn a color other than black. Mara's eyes traveled up and down his chest, loving the open shirt. He was sooo sexy.
"I must say, Skywalker, I like the outfit. " Mara looked him up and down again. Yes, he looked terrific, she was happy he decided to forgo his Jedi blacks. "Very nice."
Mara expected Luke to be embarrassed again, and was surprised when Luke openly appraised her, instead. "Well, Mara, I am equally stunned by you." Luke stepped closer to her, "you look absolutely beautiful."
Mara's smile widened, and she noticed a wonderful smell throughout Luke's apartment. She turned to see what it was exactly, then noticed how he had his apartment set up. He had gone to a lot of trouble, just for her. Mara looked up at Luke again, he had gotten even closer.
"Mara," Luke held out a hand to her, "do you want to have a drink in front of the firepit?"
"Yes, " Mara commented, "I don't know about you, but I need to unwind a bit." She placed her hand in his and let him lead her to the couch.
"I bought some Calamarian Red, how does that sound?" Luke asked as he went to the bar in his apartment and got down two glasses.
"That sounds great, actually." Mara kicked off her shoes and crossed her legs, getting comfortable. Watching Luke pour them their drinks.
Luke looked up and saw Mara watching him and smiled at her. He picked up the glasses and walked over to take a seat by her on the couch as he handed Mara her drink.
"You sure did go to a lot of trouble." Mara looked around again and listened to the soft music playing on the music system.
"Not so much trouble. I wanted to create a relaxing atmosphere. I figured we could both use that." Luke pointed out.
"As well as a, oh how should I put it?" Mara smiled teasingly, "a romantic setting, too?"
Luke couldn't help, but smile, "I wanted to make tonight peaceful and relaxing." Luke raised his glass to her and took a drink.
Mara sipped her own drink. "I like the firepit, it makes the place very cozy." Mara wiggled her toes in the warmth from the fire.
Luke smiled, "I always like sitting in front of the firepit to meditate. It's very relaxing to me." Luke drank again, "Sometimes I just sit here and think."
Mara stared at Luke, she suddenly realized just how lonely he was. It was easy to spot, she felt the same way sometimes.
There were plenty of times when Mara had wondered if she would always be alone. "Yeah, I know what you mean. I love sitting in front of the firepit, forgetting everything and just relaxing in the warmth of the fire."
Luke smiled, somehow he knew she would understand. "Thank you , Mara."
"For what, Luke?" Mara asked
"For understanding and being a friend." Luke placed his hand over hers.
Mara smiled, his hand seemed so big on hers, so warm. He was very charming when he wanted to be. "You're welcome." Mara paused a moment, "Luke," she inquired, "are you always this charming?"
Luke laughed, the mood lightening some between them, there was plenty of time. "I like to think so." Luke drained his wine glass. "Would you like more wine?"
"Yes," Mara drained her own glass, "yes I would."
"Why don't you take the glasses to the table, and I'll bring the bottle, and we can eat dinner." Luke looked at Mara hopefully, "You are willing to eat my cooking aren't you?" Luke tried to sound as if he was joking, but Mara knew he hoped she liked it.
"Yes, I am" Mara slipped her hand into his and Luke helped her up from the couch. Picking up the wine glasses, Mara headed to the table. Luke went to the bar and grabbed the ice bucket and bottle of wine and went to join her. He poured them both a new glass and Mara felt Luke's hand on her shoulder for a moment, "I'll be right back," before he disappeared into the kitchen. This was going to be a wonderful evening. An understanding came over her, and she knew then that he cared for her in the same way she did for him. Now they just needed to play it out and see what happened.
Luke came out of the kitchen carrying two plates and set one in front of Mara then set his own down. "I know you like fish, so I decided to go that route."
"Luke, this looks wonderful." Mara leaned down and inhaled, smelling the scent of the dinner before her. "mmmmm, well, now I am surprised. I really didn't think you could cook."
Luke let out a small laugh, "Yeah, I kind of got that impression. Try it." Luke watched her, he wanted to see her reaction.
Mara speared a piece of fish and slowly brought it to her lips. She looked up and kept her eyes locked with Luke's as she took the first bite. ((oh my stars, how wonderful)) Mara's face revealed to Luke how much she loved the dinner. Content in the knowledge that Mara was happy, Luke sat back and dug into his own dinner.
Mara and Luke ate in silence for a bit, then Luke looked up to see Mara watching him. "What?"
Mara smiled, "Nothing." Mara emptied her glass and watched Luke automaticlly refill it for her. "I was just wondering, if you cook like this all the time or just when you have company?" A little teasing seemed to be in order.
Luke smiled, "I cook like this when I'm in the mood to." Luke chuckled, "If I waited to cook like this just for company, I don't think I'd eat very well." Luke drained his own glass and refilled it, emptying the first bottle.
Mara laughed lightly, picking up her own glass, she took a long swallow. "I know what you mean." Tilting her head back, Mara closed her eyes and felt the pleasant buzz of the wine drift through her mind. When she opened her eyes, she found Luke looking closely at her.
"Why did you decide to take a vacation now?" Luke was feeling very good himself and he sat there, his elbows leaning his elbows on the table, pearing into those beautiful green eyes of hers.
Mara leaned her own elbows on the table, "Well, it wasn't exactly my idea to take a vacation." She picked up her glass and downed it, "Karrde thought I was getting stressed out and needed to take a break."
"Now why would Talon think you were getting stressed out?" Luke drained his own glass and got up to pull the other bottle out of the cooling unit. Mara grabbed both glasses and followed him into the kitchen.
"I was in a sparring match, you know, for exercise." Mara held out the glasses as Luke filled them, "and I ended up putting my sparring partner in the medical bay."
Luke just looked open mouthed at Mara. She just giggled, putting down a glass, she reached a hand up and closed it for him. Luke laughed, "I think Talon was right, you do need a vaction."
"Oh and what about you, farmboy, why did you decide to take a vacation now?" Mara leaned back against the counter and sipped at her wine, waiting for his answer.
Luke leaned against the counter opposite Mara, "I was getting tired of being 'Master Skywalker'. I felt trapped somehow. Kam and Tionne took over my duties so I could get away for a bit and try to relax." Luke took a drink. "I wanted to see Han, Leia and the kids anyway. It's been a long time since I've had a chance to spend any real time with them."
"Well, I'm glad you decided to take one. You work too hard sometimes, it's good to take a break once in a while." Mara smiled at Luke, "Why don't we go sit by the fire for a bit. I need to warm my toes."
Luke smiled and looked down at her bare feet. "Well no wonder, why didn't you put your shoes back on?"
"The carpet felt wonderful on my feet." Mara remarked as she entered the living area once again. Making their way to the couch, the wine started to catch up with Mara. Suddenly feeling light headed, her step faltered and she fell over slightly.
Walking right behind Mara, Luke saw her sway and quickly reached out grab her around the waist. Both of them looked up to get their bearings and found Luke was holding her so they were nose to nose. Their eyes locked. Mara could feel her pulse begin to race. Luke in turn felt himsef break out into a cold sweat as his pulse also pounded.
"Are you alright, Mara?" Luke's voice was so low it was almost a whisper.
Mara's eyes were locked to Luke's. "Yes, I'm ok." A slow smile came to her face. "I guess I'm a little more drunk than I thought I was."
Luke chuckled. Turning Mara towards the couch, he let his arm stay around her waist. "I can definitely understand that."
Once seated on the couch, Mara began to wiggle her toes in the heat of the fire. "Are your toes that cold?" Luke asked her as he reached for her feet.
"Yes they are. Your kitchen floor is freezing." Wondering why Luke had taken hold of her feet. Mara watched as Luke placed them in his lap and began to massage them. Mara immediately began to feel the heat flooding into her feet. (Oh my stars does that feel good.) Just then Mara began to feel a tingling traveling up her legs.
"How's this?" Luke asked, looking at Mara.
"That feels great." Mara commented as she set aside her drink. "You know what,,Skywalker?" Mara stretched slightly and ran her fingers through her hair. "I think this vacation thing has merit after all."
Luke laughed out loud, "So I take it you are relaxed?"
"Oh yes,' Mara smiled back, "the dinner, the setting, the wine, the music and the foot massage. Mmmm...the Force is definitely with me."
"Good, that's what I want to hear." Luke smiled and sank back into the couch, the music playing softly in the background, with Mara's legs still in his lap.
TBC...
Dinner at Luke's
Chapter 4
by Maara
Luke hurried around his kitchen finishing the meal preparations. He ran his mental check list (salad-in the cooling unit, the Mako fish-in the steamer done in 5 minutes, seasoned noodles-in the warmer, ready to go, sautee'd vegetables-working now.) Luke finished cooking the vegetables and put them in the warmer with the noodles.
Luke rubbed his hands together and went to set his table for a romantic dinner for two. ((Easy Luke, this is supposed to be two friends having dinner, not a date. Besides, you don't even know how she feels about you.)) Luke shook the thought off and turned to his table.
The table was small and round with two place mats with matching linen napkins, rolled up with a thin ring around them, placed at the head of the setting. The wine goblets sat to the left of the plates, with the salad bowls on the plates themselves. Luke took a rose from one of the bouquets of flowers and put it in a bud vase and set it on the left side of the table, so he would be able to look at Mara without looking around it. A candle was placed next to the rose. Luke lit the candle and dimmed the lighting a bit. Finally, he stood back to survey his work.
Perfect.
Luke went over to the entertainment center and put the music discs into the player and programmed it for random play.
The music began to softly play, Luke looked around the room ((something is missing)) his eyes went to the rose. ((The flowers, I almost forgot to put them out.)) Back in the kitchen, he arranged the flowers into two vases and put them on the end tables on either side of the couch and set candles around the room. After a moment, a wonderful fragrance filled the air. Lastly, Luke lit a fire in the firepit. With the lights down low, it cast a romantic glow about the room. Now everything was ready.
Surveying the aprtment, Luke began to wonder if he wasn't going overboard. This was not the setting for just two friends. This was what he would do for a date. ((Let's face it Skywalker, you want this to be a date)) Luke did like Mara. The main reason he was afraid to call this a date was because he didn't want to risk their friendship if she didn't like him in the same way. Still, he hoped she too wanted something more between them.
Luke thought about Mara and what her reaction to all of this would be. He smiled when he pictured her surprised expression. He wanted to keep her off guard, and when it came to Mara Jade, that was no easy task. Luke had even abandoned his blacks for a more colorful outfit of blue slacks and a lighter blue shirt made of Calamarian silk. The material felt wonderful against his skin. As an after thought, Luke left a couple of buttons open on his shirt, wanting to convey a more relaxed atmosphere.
Luke was so preoccupied with making everything just right he almost missed Mara's presence approaching. He spun around and headed for the door, then stopped. He should at least wait for her to ring the chime.
Mara was walking down the corridor towards Luke's apartment, when she started to feel nervous. She, Mara Jade, was actually nervous. In an attempt to pull herself together,she slowed her walk down. How would it go tonight? Would it be awkward between them? What would they talk about? What would they eat? ((I guess the question is, can he cook?)) She'd just have to try and hide it from him if she didn't like it. Maybe fake being full. Mara smiled, ((I have a feeling I won't need to fake anything.))
Self-conciously, she ran her hands over her dress in a last minute check. How would Luke react to her choice of clothes? What if he doesn't react? Suddenly Mara found herself standing in front of Luke's apartment door and thoughts of doubt flashed through her mind. Maybe he's not really interested. Something in the Force rippled over her, and clearing her head, she took a deep breath. Well, only one way to find out. Mara raised a shaky hand to activate the door chime. Mara hesitated only a moment then pushed it. She only had her hand half way down to her side when the door slid open and there stood Luke Skywalker.
Luke paced in front of the door, wondering what was taking her so long. When the chime sounded, he kept himself from rushing too quickly to the door and smoothed down his shirt and slacks. Grabbing a rose, Luke reached out to open the door, and his jaw dropped. Mara was absolutely stunning, he couldn't take his eyes off of her.
Luke let his gaze wander over her. The green of her dress brought out her eyes, and her legs, oh her legs were perfect. She was so small, yet so strong. He had to calm himself before he reached out and swept her into his arms. Luke held out the rose to her.
Smiling, Mara took the rose from Luke, amused at his reaction, "You going to invite me in, or are we going to stand here for the rest of the evening?" Luke blushed slightly and Mara smiled, very pleased. Stepping past Luke into his apartment, Mara was aware that he was still watching her. She heard the door slide shut then turned to look at him again.
He looked fantastic. He had actually worn a color other than black. Mara's eyes traveled up and down his chest, loving the open shirt. He was sooo sexy.
"I must say, Skywalker, I like the outfit. " Mara looked him up and down again. Yes, he looked terrific, she was happy he decided to forgo his Jedi blacks. "Very nice."
Mara expected Luke to be embarrassed again, and was surprised when Luke openly appraised her, instead. "Well, Mara, I am equally stunned by you." Luke stepped closer to her, "you look absolutely beautiful."
Mara's smile widened, and she noticed a wonderful smell throughout Luke's apartment. She turned to see what it was exactly, then noticed how he had his apartment set up. He had gone to a lot of trouble, just for her. Mara looked up at Luke again, he had gotten even closer.
"Mara," Luke held out a hand to her, "do you want to have a drink in front of the firepit?"
"Yes, " Mara commented, "I don't know about you, but I need to unwind a bit." She placed her hand in his and let him lead her to the couch.
"I bought some Calamarian Red, how does that sound?" Luke asked as he went to the bar in his apartment and got down two glasses.
"That sounds great, actually." Mara kicked off her shoes and crossed her legs, getting comfortable. Watching Luke pour them their drinks.
Luke looked up and saw Mara watching him and smiled at her. He picked up the glasses and walked over to take a seat by her on the couch as he handed Mara her drink.
"You sure did go to a lot of trouble." Mara looked around again and listened to the soft music playing on the music system.
"Not so much trouble. I wanted to create a relaxing atmosphere. I figured we could both use that." Luke pointed out.
"As well as a, oh how should I put it?" Mara smiled teasingly, "a romantic setting, too?"
Luke couldn't help, but smile, "I wanted to make tonight peaceful and relaxing." Luke raised his glass to her and took a drink.
Mara sipped her own drink. "I like the firepit, it makes the place very cozy." Mara wiggled her toes in the warmth from the fire.
Luke smiled, "I always like sitting in front of the firepit to meditate. It's very relaxing to me." Luke drank again, "Sometimes I just sit here and think."
Mara stared at Luke, she suddenly realized just how lonely he was. It was easy to spot, she felt the same way sometimes.
There were plenty of times when Mara had wondered if she would always be alone. "Yeah, I know what you mean. I love sitting in front of the firepit, forgetting everything and just relaxing in the warmth of the fire."
Luke smiled, somehow he knew she would understand. "Thank you , Mara."
"For what, Luke?" Mara asked
"For understanding and being a friend." Luke placed his hand over hers.
Mara smiled, his hand seemed so big on hers, so warm. He was very charming when he wanted to be. "You're welcome." Mara paused a moment, "Luke," she inquired, "are you always this charming?"
Luke laughed, the mood lightening some between them, there was plenty of time. "I like to think so." Luke drained his wine glass. "Would you like more wine?"
"Yes," Mara drained her own glass, "yes I would."
"Why don't you take the glasses to the table, and I'll bring the bottle, and we can eat dinner." Luke looked at Mara hopefully, "You are willing to eat my cooking aren't you?" Luke tried to sound as if he was joking, but Mara knew he hoped she liked it.
"Yes, I am" Mara slipped her hand into his and Luke helped her up from the couch. Picking up the wine glasses, Mara headed to the table. Luke went to the bar and grabbed the ice bucket and bottle of wine and went to join her. He poured them both a new glass and Mara felt Luke's hand on her shoulder for a moment, "I'll be right back," before he disappeared into the kitchen. This was going to be a wonderful evening. An understanding came over her, and she knew then that he cared for her in the same way she did for him. Now they just needed to play it out and see what happened.
Luke came out of the kitchen carrying two plates and set one in front of Mara then set his own down. "I know you like fish, so I decided to go that route."
"Luke, this looks wonderful." Mara leaned down and inhaled, smelling the scent of the dinner before her. "mmmmm, well, now I am surprised. I really didn't think you could cook."
Luke let out a small laugh, "Yeah, I kind of got that impression. Try it." Luke watched her, he wanted to see her reaction.
Mara speared a piece of fish and slowly brought it to her lips. She looked up and kept her eyes locked with Luke's as she took the first bite. ((oh my stars, how wonderful)) Mara's face revealed to Luke how much she loved the dinner. Content in the knowledge that Mara was happy, Luke sat back and dug into his own dinner.
Mara and Luke ate in silence for a bit, then Luke looked up to see Mara watching him. "What?"
Mara smiled, "Nothing." Mara emptied her glass and watched Luke automaticlly refill it for her. "I was just wondering, if you cook like this all the time or just when you have company?" A little teasing seemed to be in order.
Luke smiled, "I cook like this when I'm in the mood to." Luke chuckled, "If I waited to cook like this just for company, I don't think I'd eat very well." Luke drained his own glass and refilled it, emptying the first bottle.
Mara laughed lightly, picking up her own glass, she took a long swallow. "I know what you mean." Tilting her head back, Mara closed her eyes and felt the pleasant buzz of the wine drift through her mind. When she opened her eyes, she found Luke looking closely at her.
"Why did you decide to take a vacation now?" Luke was feeling very good himself and he sat there, his elbows leaning his elbows on the table, pearing into those beautiful green eyes of hers.
Mara leaned her own elbows on the table, "Well, it wasn't exactly my idea to take a vacation." She picked up her glass and downed it, "Karrde thought I was getting stressed out and needed to take a break."
"Now why would Talon think you were getting stressed out?" Luke drained his own glass and got up to pull the other bottle out of the cooling unit. Mara grabbed both glasses and followed him into the kitchen.
"I was in a sparring match, you know, for exercise." Mara held out the glasses as Luke filled them, "and I ended up putting my sparring partner in the medical bay."
Luke just looked open mouthed at Mara. She just giggled, putting down a glass, she reached a hand up and closed it for him. Luke laughed, "I think Talon was right, you do need a vaction."
"Oh and what about you, farmboy, why did you decide to take a vacation now?" Mara leaned back against the counter and sipped at her wine, waiting for his answer.
Luke leaned against the counter opposite Mara, "I was getting tired of being 'Master Skywalker'. I felt trapped somehow. Kam and Tionne took over my duties so I could get away for a bit and try to relax." Luke took a drink. "I wanted to see Han, Leia and the kids anyway. It's been a long time since I've had a chance to spend any real time with them."
"Well, I'm glad you decided to take one. You work too hard sometimes, it's good to take a break once in a while." Mara smiled at Luke, "Why don't we go sit by the fire for a bit. I need to warm my toes."
Luke smiled and looked down at her bare feet. "Well no wonder, why didn't you put your shoes back on?"
"The carpet felt wonderful on my feet." Mara remarked as she entered the living area once again. Making their way to the couch, the wine started to catch up with Mara. Suddenly feeling light headed, her step faltered and she fell over slightly.
Walking right behind Mara, Luke saw her sway and quickly reached out grab her around the waist. Both of them looked up to get their bearings and found Luke was holding her so they were nose to nose. Their eyes locked. Mara could feel her pulse begin to race. Luke in turn felt himsef break out into a cold sweat as his pulse also pounded.
"Are you alright, Mara?" Luke's voice was so low it was almost a whisper.
Mara's eyes were locked to Luke's. "Yes, I'm ok." A slow smile came to her face. "I guess I'm a little more drunk than I thought I was."
Luke chuckled. Turning Mara towards the couch, he let his arm stay around her waist. "I can definitely understand that."
Once seated on the couch, Mara began to wiggle her toes in the heat of the fire. "Are your toes that cold?" Luke asked her as he reached for her feet.
"Yes they are. Your kitchen floor is freezing." Wondering why Luke had taken hold of her feet. Mara watched as Luke placed them in his lap and began to massage them. Mara immediately began to feel the heat flooding into her feet. (Oh my stars does that feel good.) Just then Mara began to feel a tingling traveling up her legs.
"How's this?" Luke asked, looking at Mara.
"That feels great." Mara commented as she set aside her drink. "You know what,,Skywalker?" Mara stretched slightly and ran her fingers through her hair. "I think this vacation thing has merit after all."
Luke laughed out loud, "So I take it you are relaxed?"
"Oh yes,' Mara smiled back, "the dinner, the setting, the wine, the music and the foot massage. Mmmm...the Force is definitely with me."
"Good, that's what I want to hear." Luke smiled and sank back into the couch, the music playing softly in the background, with Mara's legs still in his lap.
TBC...