Title: Broken Promises and New Beginnings
Rating: I wish I knew. I am putting it at PG-13 just because I don't know any better and would rather err on the safe side.
Genre: Drama/Mild Angst
Disclaimer: I own none of the characters in this story. They are, were and will always belong to Mr. George Lucas creator of an amazing universe. Not only does this story contain elements of the universe that Mr. Lucas created but also the Alternate Universe (AU) found in a wonderful story called An Untimely Frost by CYNICAL21. I thank Cynical21 for allowing me to reference her work. If you haven't read her story you are really missing out on a wonderful story.
Just to a little guide as to what things mean:
/-/ Bond thought //-// Private thought "-" Speaking aloud
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Obi-Wan made his way to the masters' level of the temple with lingering anticipation as to the purpose of his meeting with Master Gallia. He had spent most of the afternoon in meditation trying to find his center. He always felt better when he reached out to the Force and felt its calming embrace. He had emerged from his meditation with no clearer resolution as to the purpose of the meeting but had been relieved to discover that his anxiety concerning it had vanished.
Throughout the remainder of the day he had found his thoughts constantly returning to the lovely master. He lingered over memories of his adolescent crush on her as a padawan. All the padawans as far as he knew had at some point or the other fantasized about Adi. His feelings had passed with time. He had realized sadly that she was out of his league and reluctantly moved on. There were so many memories they shared. One memory stood out among the others for him though. He would never forget the moment she had cupped his face gently in her hands and tried to save him from the devastation of being cast out from the Temple. It had happened when he had been twenty and Qui-Gon had thrown him aside for another child prodigy. That memory still left him drowning in a deep sorrow that no amount of meditation ever seemed to erase. He could still see her lovely blue eyes brimming with tears mirroring his own anguish. He had felt it then. Her compassion had somehow made the loss of everything he had dreamed of more bearable. He would never be able to express to her the depth of his gratitude for that one moment.
He had felt a connection with her then, but had never really allowed himself to consider it further. So much had been going on around him. Then once he had returned to the Temple, he had thrown himself into rebuilding his relationship with Qui-Gon. He had been so focused on fixing the past that he had had no time to consider forming any new alliances. His jaw clenched involuntarily as he thought about Qui-Gon. The memories of his repeated betrayal filled Obi-Wan with hopeless confusion as well as a bitter taste in his mouth.
Sighing he cast these emotions into the Force and exited the lift. That was the past; Qui-Gon was no longer a part of his life. He was dead and gone. The past could never be fixed and tonight was about his future. He smiled inwardly as the thrill of the unknown washed over him. He would have no expectations about the evening. He would live in the moment and trust the Force. Having spent the early part of the afternoon fluctuating between a cooling acceptance that Adi's interest was professional and a growing desire that it would be personal, Obi-Wan had readied himself to enjoy this time with her no matter what its objective.
Finally finding himself in front of her door he released a calming breath and vowed once more to live in the moment. He chimed his arrival. The door immediately opened, but Adi was nowhere in sight. Cocking his head he hesitantly entered the quarters casting his force sense about searching for any sign of distress. Finding none he relaxed a bit.
"Adi?" He called moving further into the apartment. He was immediately struck by the vibrant colors filling the living area. He thought back for a moment to his own humble quarters and suppressed a slight twinge of envy. The masters' quarters were larger than he remembered. He knew that he didn't need the extra space but it didn't stop him from wanting it.
"Hey there you." She said as she made her way out of her bedroom. Her hair was slightly damp. She was wearing a deep crimson one piece that touched her slight body in all the right places. Obi-Wan smiled at her hoping he hadn't allowed his gaze to linger too long over those right places.
"I was just envying all of your space." He said glancing back around her quarters.
"Yeah I hated those cramped the knights' quarters when I lived there too, but then again the Council kept me so busy I was hardly there anyway. How about you? It seems like you have had more than your share of missions this year."
She made her way over to him and motioned for him to take a seat on the couch. She settled herself next to him curling one leg under her body. Obi-Wan immediately noticed how great she smelled. He couldn't quite remember where he had smelled the scent before but he knew he liked it. It was something from the past familiar but elusive.
"Obi?"
"Hm?" He replied still trying to place the fragrance.
"How many missions have you had this year?" She smiled and wondered what had him so distracted.
"Oh." He blushed and looked away momentarily. Rolling his eyes he turned back to her. "Sorry I was trying place where I know that scent from."
She looked a bit confused so he explained.
"The perfume you are wearing. I know it but-" He shook his head frustrated at his inability to find an answer. He turned his attention back to her question. "Around twenty, but to be honest I lost count a couple of months ago. I didn't mind it much though. It was for the best. It would have been hard to be at the Temple surrounded by memories what with all that happened between - " He stopped himself. Did he really want to bring all of that up tonight? He recovered quickly, "It was for the best."
He knew she understood. He looked into her face and found deep compassion once more. There was something else, but he couldn't put his finger on it. He was sure that it wasn't pity and that was all that mattered to him at the moment. Wanting to change the subject he glanced about the room.
"I love these colors. It really makes to room seem-"
"Bright?" She laughed. "So many of my friends hate it. They are shocked that a Jedi would opt for vibrant hues over the more traditional-"
"Sedate colors." He finished for her and she nodded.
"Well I for one like it. It makes the room seem alive." He decided.
"I didn't know rooms could be alive?" She teased.
"Then you haven't been in Yoda's quarters. With all the various plant species he has on hand, his rooms are very much alive." They both smiled to one another.
"Have you seen him since you got back?" She asked leaning back shifting into a more comfortable position. Obi-Wan matched her gesture as he leaned against the arm of the couch facing her now. She couldn't help but notice how great he looked in his emerald tunic. It managed to capture his beautiful eyes and show off his trim muscular body as well. She was suddenly grateful for years of Jedi training which enabled her to hide her inner thoughts behind a mask of serenity.
"No, but we are getting together tomorrow afternoon. I really can't wait. Other than council briefings and debriefings I haven't had any time with him for months. "
"Is he a good master?" She asked genuinely curious. She liked the old Master and would never doubt his connection with the Living Force but after seeing how defiant Qui-Gon had turned out she had wondered on more than one occasion if Yoda was effective in training padawans. Then again perhaps Qui-Gon was just a fluke.
"You know he wasn't really my Master for very long, but he certainly was a good Master to me during that time. He helped me through a very rough patch. I wouldn't be here if not for him." Obi-Wan's voice lowered remembering fondly all the Yoda had said and done for him during those dark days. Adi was silent for a moment not wanting to interrupt his thoughts.
"How do you like being a knight?" She lightened her tone moving on to less painful topics.
"I love it. It is more demanding than I thought it would be, but I love knowing I am making a difference. I love feeling the Force guide me and learning to trust it. I always thought I trusted it before but when I was a padawan I really only trusted it to a point."
"To a point?" She queried.
"Just to the point where it didn't contradict what my Master felt we should do." He paused remembering the times he and Qui-Gon had differed in beliefs and he had acquiesced to his Master's authority. "But now it is just me, well and the Council of course, but mostly on missions it is just me. I have to trust it so completely and it never lets me down." Adi's heart clinched slightly as she realized how many times his Master had let him down. No wonder he loved the consistency of the Force. She nodded her understanding.
They continued talking about old times and their latest adventures. Adi entertained him with stories of her many missteps when she had been a new knight and negotiator while Obi-Wan recounted a few humorous foul-ups of his own. It felt good to relive so many old memories shared with friends still with them and long past. As time past they seemed to relax into each others company. It was comforting but with brief moments of tension that kept it interesting. Finally Obi-Wan couldn't stand the suspense any longer. He cleared his throat and waited for her to look at him.
"Adi, do you mind if I ask you a question?" His voice softened.
"No go ahead." She leaned in a bit to encouraging him. He lowered his gaze to the cushion between them for a moment. Obi-Wan reached for the courage he needed to precede. Finally he took a deep breath and began speaking without looking up.
"Why am I here?" He raised his eyes once the question was out. His gaze met hers and she could see the hesitation in them.
"Why do you think?" She asked cocking her head to the side and pressing her lips together.
"I don't know. I thought it might be official but now I-" His words were inaudible as they trailed off.
"Well it is official." She said and noticed a quick nod of resignation on his part. His apparent disappointment gave her the courage she needed to continue.
"I officially want to spend time with you and had hoped that perhaps you would like to spend some time with me." She reached for his hand. He smiled up at her with eyes full of relief. She sighed as well in relief. She had wondered if he would understand when she had asked him out, but knew that perhaps she had been purposely vague. Better to have a misunderstanding than an awkward situation. Such tactics were not her usual modus operandi. She would have to meditate on her actions.
"Yes." His voice was pure and touching. "I would like that very much." There was a moment of awkward silence as they both tried to understand what the admission meant.
Adi caught herself lost in the sight of him. She had watched him change so much over the years. She could still remember seeing him as a young initiate, awkward padawan, easily embarrassed adolescent and finally the beautiful young man sitting in front of her. She had feared that the few years between them would be too great an obstacle for them to overcome, but had known that she would never have forgiven herself if she hadn't at least tried to see if they could mean something to one another.
Over the last six years she had grown to care for him more than she had wanted to admit. It would have been wrong for her to have acted on her feelings while he was Qui-Gon's padawan. The code allows liaisons between masters and padawans as long as they are not in a training relationship, but somehow she had felt it would have been inappropriate. Maybe it had just felt like the wrong place and the wrong time. She had always planned to approach him once he had been knighted. Unfortunately, he had had so much to work out after his knighting, she hadn't wanted to burden him with any additional emotional baggage. It had been in his last briefing before the Council that she had decided that she would take her chance.
In the briefing, he had stood before the members confidently. There had been a serenity and acceptance that she had never seen in him before. It was as if somehow over the last year he had come to terms with his past and found the strength to move beyond it.
She always enjoyed his briefings more than any other knight's because of his occasion observations under girded with the flavor of his dry wit. She had seen the admiration of her fellow Council Members. He was truly an exceptional knight and from all of her encounters with him a kind and loving person. All day long she had been trying not to get her hopes up about tonight but now suddenly found herself full of hope.
"Adi, one more question?" He raised his eyebrow. She pulled herself reluctantly from her blissful thoughts. Moving closer to him she attempted to display a bit of mocked irritation.
"Yes."
"Your perfume? Where have I smelled it?" He asked breaking the tension.
Adi smiled playfully. "I could tell you, but what fun is there in that? Let's make a bet. I'll bet you that you can't guess where you first smelled my perfume before the night is out. You get three guesses. If you haven't guessed it by the time our date is over I will tell you. Fair enough?" She put out her hand and waited to see if he would accept her challenge.
"Fair enough." He took her hand. He was always up for a challenge and loved winning bets. It was a firm handshake but the skin was so soft. It surprised him. His own hand was calloused by countless hours of saber practice how was it that hers would feel so good to his touch. Catching himself he continued, "So what should we wager?" Enjoying the feel of her hand lingering in his he boldly gave the question an erotic charge raising his eyebrows suggestively.
Adi's smile went predatory at the sound of his voice and leaned in until their lips were a breath apart. Softly she whispered, "How about a kiss?"
Her gaze fell to his lips and then returned to meet his sea change eyes. They had always taken her breath away. She had only seen them this close up once before. It had been a moment so filled with emotion she hadn't been able to fully appreciate how truly beautiful that were. Now she found herself unable to look away.
Never one to be willfully intimidated he played along. Moving closer while turning his head ever so slightly he locked his eyes upon her slightly parted lips and whispered back "A kiss."
She felt her breath catch in her throat for a moment meeting his eyes once more. It suddenly felt very warm in her quarters. She was surprised and delighted at his response. She smiled and began to pull back.
Suddenly she felt his hands on her arms pulling her closer as he buried his face into her neck. She suppressed a surprised gasp and then a moan has she felt his lips press against her neck. His breath was warm as it tickled the sensitive skin behind her ear.
"Obi?" She asked feeling a little confused as well as a little out of breath. She had hoped he would be interested in her but now it seemed things were going a little too fast.
He released his hold on her and allowed her to pull back. A mischievous smile played upon his lips and there was a familiar glint in his eyes.
"Just had to get a good wiff of you. It's only fair. Oh and by the way didn't you ask me here for a drink?' His expression turned into one of complete confusion as he gestured to his empty hand.
"Did I?" She feigned ignorance using the time to regain a measure of control over her breathing.
"Yes you did." He nodded. He was amazed how relaxed he felt in her presence. He was slowly allowing the realization of her intentions to sink in. He found her presence intoxicating and wasn't at all sure that he needed a drink in his present state of mind.
"Hm. No I don't believe I said anything about a drink. You are mistaken. It must be your youth. You know children just don't listen to their elders anymore." She sighed in resignation. He shook his head and laughed smirking devilishly at her.
"So this is the game we are going to play. Hm..well ok then. To be fair Master Gallia it isn't that the youth," He stopped to indicate himself humbly, "don't listen. It is that our elders," stopping once more he sympathetically pointed to her, "can't remember like they use to. Age related dementia." He whispered the final words as if they were a secret he wasn't suppose to share. She couldn't help but laugh and playfully slap at his arm. He dodged easily and rose to his feet.
"Missed me. Oops losing your reflexives as well I see." He observed reaching his hand out to her. "So old lady where are you taking me?"
"The crèche." She said with mocked bitterness then added " How about Barker's?" She allowed him to help her to her feet. She leaned into him and raised her head a bit exposing her neck in the process.
"Want to take a guess yet?" She asked.
"Not yet but I do have a new condition. I get unlimited wiffs." Standing behind her he wrapped his arms around her waist and drew his head back down into her hair. She decided she very much liked that condition and so made no protest.
They made their way out into the hallway.
"How did you get so good at dodging?" She asked as they arrived at the lifts.
Obi-Wan laid his hand upon the small of her back as he leaned across her to summon the car. Warmth raced through her as to her obvious delight he kept it there.
"What do you mean?" He asked absently.
"Dodging?" She threw another playful slap in his direction to illustrate her question which he easily avoided never removing his hand from her back. She realized then that the boy had skill.
Obi-Wan laughed heartily, "Adi you do remember who my Master is right? Little green guy with a HUGE stick. It was either learn to dodge or get new shins."
She joined in his laughter as they entered the lift. Feeling his arm slide around her waist she allowed herself the luxury of leaning slightly against his firm body. Never one to be overly optimistic she found though she had no choice but to admit that she had a very good feeling about this.
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"Your thoughts betray you." Anakin mocked sitting in a far corner of the palace library. "Much fear I sense in you." Anakin stuck out his tongue and shook his head.
"Give me a few more years to train and we'll see who has fear in them. It will be more than my thoughts betraying me or maybe I will just betray all of you." He spoke to no one in particular.
The hurt of the council's rejection had never truly healed within him but instead had grown and festered over the past year. That rejection had caused him to hate all of the Council members but especially Mace Windu and Yoda.
He had never revealed this to his Master. Qui-Gon was merely aware that he still had residual hurt over the rejection. Master Jinn had had him meditate on it until his knees were raw but he had never quite mastered releasing the pain into the force. Instead he had learned to shield his thoughts from his master. He had created a tiny lock box deep within his mind where he hid all of the anger and pain, along with the sorrow and longing he felt for his mother, and the resentment he felt towards his masters both on Tatooine and Lustar. He locked it all away until he was sure that Qui-Gon was deep in sleep. It was then that he would call upon the darkness within him. He would open the box and watch as the darkness consumed all of his emotions. He loved the darkness. It made all of his pain go away. It was only a temporary fix of course, but just as he knew his emotions would return; he also knew that the darkness would return. He could count on it. It was reliable and would never let him down.
He had known that Qui-Gon had freed him and for that he was grateful but hadn't he won his own freedom? What had the man done that was so extraordinary anyway. He had merely placed the bet. Wow big deal. It had been Anakin who had risked his life in that race. Anakin had saved Qui- Gon, not to mention Padme and perhaps her whole planet. What did it ever get him? Nothing. He never heard one word of thanks from that Queen. She hadn't even offered a reward. If it hadn't been for him she would still be sitting on Tatooine in a busted ship.
He wondered sometimes about Padme. She had seemed nice. He wondered how things had turned out on her planet. He had told her that he was going to be trained as a Jedi. He felt the sting of embarrassment wondering if Obi- Wan had told her how things had really turned out. He shook his head. He didn't like thinking about that time in his life.
Sometimes he wondered why he ever said he wanted to be a Jedi. Why was he even bothering with all the stupid training? What was the point? Having always lived the poverty ridden existence of a slave he found the elegance of King Napal's palace most appealing. Yet Qui-Gon constantly reminded him that once his training was complete that they would leave the palace and that none of this worldly matter would have a place in their lives. Jedi place no value on physical possessions or wealth. 'We live to serve.' He could hear his Master's voice lecturing in his head. "Well if that is the case I could have served as a slave and still had my mother." Anakin said aloud to himself. //Once a slave always a slave.// He thought bitterly. //Isn't that right MASTER?//
The bond tingled in his mind alerting him to his Master's arrival. He quickly threw his thoughts into the lockbox and sealed it shut. He turned his attention back to the astronavigation book and began working on a new problem on his data pad.
He could feel Qui-Gon watching him long before the man actually spoke.
"Mace isn't with me. There is no need for the rouse." Anakin turned to see his Master smiling at him.
"Hello Master. Finally escaped?" He laughed as he said the words but a small amount of bitterness bleed through.
"It was a long afternoon, but one which served to prove your abilities beyond a doubt. I was very proud of you my Padawan." He placed an encouraging hand on he boy's shoulder. He had noticed the trace of bitterness but chalked it up to exhaustion.
"Thank you Master. Can I expect to have more of these exams in the future?" He turned his face back towards his data pad.
"That all depends." Qui-Gon began, "It appears that the Council has finally realized your importance and has offered to admit you to the Temple to complete your training." He watched Anakin for his reaction. //Finally.// The boy thought carefully maintaining his shields.
The boy turned to look up at Qui-Gon for a long moment. "What will become of you?" He asked softly.
"I will be readmitted to the order." Qui-Gon was sure that this had been a point which had been debated at long length in the Council Chambers. He could almost hear the voices of the Council members arguing that once declared dead a member cannot return. He felt certain he was being allowed back in as a necessary evil in securing Anakin's return.
"Sounds like a good deal. too good really, it makes me sorta nervous." Anakin turned off his data pad and stood up. "When do we have to let them know?"
"Tonight if possible but if not then whenever we finally discern what the will of the force is for our paths." Qui-Gon couldn't help but sound a bit surprised. He had expected that Anakin would have jumped at the chance to be trained formally at the Temple instead of like an outcast isolated on a distant planet.
"What do you think?" Anakin asked. Qui-Gon paused wishing he could hear Anakin's opinion before stating his own. He didn't want to overly influence the boy.
"I think that it is important that you are trained at the best possible facilities. These are hardly the best. I believe it will be an adjustment for you but you are strong, determined and quick. I think it would be good for us to be back among those who are like us. " Anakin nodded as if taking all of his Master's reasons into consideration.
"Even though they rejected us? You think we should return?" Anakin began walking towards an oversized window overlooking the gardens.
"Anakin the Jedi Order is like a family. We care for each other, support each other, try to guide one another, but at times as in any family we disagree and must go our separate ways. That is what happened, but now the force is showing the Council that they were wrong about you. They won't reject you. They are inviting you, welcoming you, wanting you to come and be a part of their community. They are adopting you into their family." Qui-Gon spoke softly as he stood behind the boy giving him space to think and consider.
//What if I reject them?// Anakin thought to himself. //Maybe I don't want them.//
"I already have a family." Anakin replied a wave of sadness washing through the bond.
"I realize that Anakin and I wish I could do something to help with that situation but I have neither the funds to free your mother nor feel the Force's leading to do so. If I did we would already be there."
"Do you think the council would have her released in exchange for my agreeing to come to their Temple and train?" His eyes were hopeful and bright.
"You can ask but I really would be surprised." Qui-Gon replied, "It has to be the will of the force. If neither you nor I feel that leading, I would be surprised if the Council would feel it either." He paused and squeezed the boy's shoulder reassuringly. "Now let's go spend some time meditating before supper." Together they made their way back to their quarters.
******************
They both stumbled slightly as they entered the main Temple doors. Carried along by their laughter they were enjoying the after glow of a wonderful evening of sharing stories and a few drinks.
Once inside the lift Adi rested her hands easily on his hips as she smiled up at him quirking her eyebrow silently asking if he wanted to take his last and final guess. He had been putting it off for quite a while now and she was ready to declare her victory. Obi-Wan furrowed his brow as if attempting deep contemplative thought. They both burst out laughing and then immediately resumed their previous facial expressions.
Upon reaching her door she spoke the question aloud.
"Ok Obi-Wan do you want to take your last and final guess or do you just want to concede and declare me the victor?"
"Concede?" He asked feigning offense "You truly are drunk." They both laughed again leaning in on each other for support.
"Ok, let me think." He brought his hand up to his forehead as if he had the answer written on his wrist.
"Do you need another wiff?" Adi asked wincing as she heard her voice sounding a bit too hopeful. Having his lips pressed to her neck all night had felt glorious. On more than one occasion she had had to fight the urge to hold him there.
As his contemplation continued she began to arrogantly pat herself on the back.
"Just give up." She chided him. "You know you don't have a clue."
Her eyes met his. She realized that there was a knowing glint in them.
"Adi you are so right I don't have a clue-" He looked at her utterly hopeless.
"Ah Ha!" Adi interrupted. "I knew it!!!" But before she could go on, he placed a finger over her lips.
"Allow me to finish MASTER Gallia." She conceded with a gesture and leaned back smugly against her door.
"As I was saying I don't have a clue because I don't really need one. " He gave her a wicked smile. " I actually had it figured out from the first wiff though I must admit I did enjoy all the subsequent wiffs immensely." He winked.
She shook her head in disbelief. "No way. There is no way you would remember."
Obi-Wan let her finish her overly confident rant with an expression of utter Jedi patience and serenity painted upon his face.
"Are you finished yet?" He asked using her words from earlier in the day. She nodded. He seemed very confident and she was starting to feel a hint of defeat.
"I remember it clearly. It was a few years back. We were all attending The Festival Ball at the Senate's Reception Hall. I was fourteen going on twenty. You were wearing a black gown with a red shawl wrapped around your shoulders." He paused staring up to the ceiling reliving the vision. She felt a blush rise in her cheeks. He looked down at her once more. "You danced with first one master and then another never a free moment for a poor pathetic padawan." He pouted and sighed. "As the evening went on you laid her shawl aside. Between the dancing and toasting you managed to accidentally leave it behind when you left. I picked it up and brought it to you several days later. The shawl smelled wonderful just like you do tonight. That was the first time I smelled this fragrance." He ended opening his hands in a gesture as if to say "Ta Dah" and bowed to an imaginary crowd.
Her mouth dropped open as she stared at him in total denial. He had enjoyed watching her face transform from confidence to disbelief. His victory was evident in her posture.
"How could you possibly remember that?" She put her hands on her hips demanding and answer. "That was over ten years ago."
"Well if it is a confession you are seeking. I had a bit of a crush on you at the time and actually kept the shawl for several days before returning it to you. It just smelled so good and I was honestly a little nervous about seeing you. " He blushed slightly but maintained eye contact with the beautiful master standing opposite him.
"Well you did it. Very well done Knight Kenobi. I extend my deepest congratulations on your exceptional memory skills." She conceded with exaggerated formality giving him a pat on the back and playful punch in the shoulder. He bowed to her failing to appear humble in the least degree.
"I have a Council meeting in the morning." She suddenly announced. "This has been fun. We should do it again." She reached to activate her door but was suddenly halted. An arm was across her doorway blocking her path.
"Adi I believe you owe me something." His voice was meant to sound playful but there was something else overlaying it. Adi's knees went a bit weak as she turned to face him.
"And what might that be?" She asked trying to lighten the mood. She had put him in a bit of a spot and now wanted to give him the opportunity to back out if that was what he wished. From the heat in his gaze she knew it wasn't what he wished.
'This." The word barely preceded his actions as he leaned in gently cupping her face with his hands and lifting her mouth to his.
She felt his mouth brush against hers lightly. She felt his lips part slightly and caress hers ever so shyly with his tongue. She felt the modest embrace upon and then within her mouth and then he was pulling away. It had been a question and an answer all in one motion. She had felt both its innocence and heat overpower her reason. As he pulled back she was lost in his eyes and wanted to spend the rest of the night staring into them as the dawn broke through the darkness. She knew she needed to say something but the power of that kiss had robbed her of her ability to speak. He smiled at her with kind amusement. She realized she needed to breathe.
"You see Master Gallia there is more to me than just a nice butt."
He winked as he traced the line of her jaw with the back of his hand.
As he made his way back down the hall, she realized that she should go inside her apartment but seemed unable to move. She just stood in her doorway watching him walk away. She had come to her senses enough to realize that it was a wonderful view. He smirked at her over his shoulder and wiggled the object of her attention.
"How about we try food next time? Dinner tomorrow?" He called back over his shoulder. She nodded. He turned back when she made no audible response. "I'll come by at 8:00."
"Obi?" She asked.
"Yes Master Gallia?" His Jedi serenity returning as he regarded her.
"Want to make a bet?" She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively.
"Depends." He began, "What is the wager?" He asked innocently.
She laughed ducking her head then raising it to meet his eyes. "How about a kiss?" she asked.
He moaned playfully knowing the effect it would have on her then allowed a heated gaze to penetrate her. "A kiss. What is the bet?"
"Bet your late picking me up." She challenged him having regained her confidence.
"It's a bet. Goodnight Adi." With that he disappeared around the corner and was out of sight.
Once inside her apartment Adi slumped against the door taking a few deep breaths. Some time between Obi-Wan walking into her apartment and that incredible kiss at her door she had lost control of the situation. She had always found him attractive but she had never expected to be this affected by him.
/ /It must be the alcohol.// She thought as she pushed off of the door and headed for her bedroom. She caught herself humming as she made her way to the door. She stiffened slightly at a new discovery. //Did he mention something about his butt?// She cringed in mortification. //Definitely too much alcohol.//
Entering his apartment Obi-Wan was still amazed that he had felt so relax around Adi. It had been a wonderful night. She seemed to have enjoyed it as well. He wondered if he had come on a little too strong. He would apologize for that tomorrow. It had been the combination of the perfume, alcohol and repressed feelings he had held for her over the years. He could still feel her lips on his and felt a wave of joy rush over him at the thought of it.
He quickly undressed and double checked his com unit. Deleting the reminder from Yoda for tea the next day he headed for his sleep couch. He realized that he felt happy. It had been a long year that had started with heartbreak and had somehow evolved into happiness.
//Not bad Kenobi. Starting to look like you might have a life after all.// He thought to himself.
Tomorrow promised to be another good day. He had volunteered to work with the smallest initiates in the crèche in the morning, something that he dearly loved to do, would get to spend some long overdue time with his wise old Master in the afternoon and would be dining with a beautiful and exciting woman that evening.
As he began slowing giving in to sleep, he could feel his mind wanting to dredge up sad memories in order to balance the joy he was feeling, but he refused to give in to it. He would not focus on what he did not have but would focus on all that he did. He couldn't remember a time when he had had so much to be thankful for. He would allow his focus to determine his reality. Somewhere in the midst of these thoughts he drifted off into a dreamless sleep.
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Ok before you guys get out your torches please know that this was my first attempt at romantic interaction. There is more to come so we can only hope and pray that I get better at it. I can't say I am entirely pleased but sometimes I just have to chalk it up to needing more writing experience and move on. I really am getting a kick out the reviews. I love all the requests to kill Ani and beat up Qui-Gon. I also completely agree with Shannon that Obi must make Qui suffer but deep down can't help that he loves Qui-Gon. It is his tireless devotion and loyalty not to mention capacity to love and forgive that causes us all to love Obi-Wan. I hope this story meets and maybe even will exceed your expectations but only time and my typing will tell. It looks to be about halfway done unless I get some major inspiration and add more chapters. It could happen. Hope ya'll have a great weekend. I probably won't be posting until the first of next week. But at least I left you on a positive note right?
Rating: I wish I knew. I am putting it at PG-13 just because I don't know any better and would rather err on the safe side.
Genre: Drama/Mild Angst
Disclaimer: I own none of the characters in this story. They are, were and will always belong to Mr. George Lucas creator of an amazing universe. Not only does this story contain elements of the universe that Mr. Lucas created but also the Alternate Universe (AU) found in a wonderful story called An Untimely Frost by CYNICAL21. I thank Cynical21 for allowing me to reference her work. If you haven't read her story you are really missing out on a wonderful story.
Just to a little guide as to what things mean:
/-/ Bond thought //-// Private thought "-" Speaking aloud
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Obi-Wan made his way to the masters' level of the temple with lingering anticipation as to the purpose of his meeting with Master Gallia. He had spent most of the afternoon in meditation trying to find his center. He always felt better when he reached out to the Force and felt its calming embrace. He had emerged from his meditation with no clearer resolution as to the purpose of the meeting but had been relieved to discover that his anxiety concerning it had vanished.
Throughout the remainder of the day he had found his thoughts constantly returning to the lovely master. He lingered over memories of his adolescent crush on her as a padawan. All the padawans as far as he knew had at some point or the other fantasized about Adi. His feelings had passed with time. He had realized sadly that she was out of his league and reluctantly moved on. There were so many memories they shared. One memory stood out among the others for him though. He would never forget the moment she had cupped his face gently in her hands and tried to save him from the devastation of being cast out from the Temple. It had happened when he had been twenty and Qui-Gon had thrown him aside for another child prodigy. That memory still left him drowning in a deep sorrow that no amount of meditation ever seemed to erase. He could still see her lovely blue eyes brimming with tears mirroring his own anguish. He had felt it then. Her compassion had somehow made the loss of everything he had dreamed of more bearable. He would never be able to express to her the depth of his gratitude for that one moment.
He had felt a connection with her then, but had never really allowed himself to consider it further. So much had been going on around him. Then once he had returned to the Temple, he had thrown himself into rebuilding his relationship with Qui-Gon. He had been so focused on fixing the past that he had had no time to consider forming any new alliances. His jaw clenched involuntarily as he thought about Qui-Gon. The memories of his repeated betrayal filled Obi-Wan with hopeless confusion as well as a bitter taste in his mouth.
Sighing he cast these emotions into the Force and exited the lift. That was the past; Qui-Gon was no longer a part of his life. He was dead and gone. The past could never be fixed and tonight was about his future. He smiled inwardly as the thrill of the unknown washed over him. He would have no expectations about the evening. He would live in the moment and trust the Force. Having spent the early part of the afternoon fluctuating between a cooling acceptance that Adi's interest was professional and a growing desire that it would be personal, Obi-Wan had readied himself to enjoy this time with her no matter what its objective.
Finally finding himself in front of her door he released a calming breath and vowed once more to live in the moment. He chimed his arrival. The door immediately opened, but Adi was nowhere in sight. Cocking his head he hesitantly entered the quarters casting his force sense about searching for any sign of distress. Finding none he relaxed a bit.
"Adi?" He called moving further into the apartment. He was immediately struck by the vibrant colors filling the living area. He thought back for a moment to his own humble quarters and suppressed a slight twinge of envy. The masters' quarters were larger than he remembered. He knew that he didn't need the extra space but it didn't stop him from wanting it.
"Hey there you." She said as she made her way out of her bedroom. Her hair was slightly damp. She was wearing a deep crimson one piece that touched her slight body in all the right places. Obi-Wan smiled at her hoping he hadn't allowed his gaze to linger too long over those right places.
"I was just envying all of your space." He said glancing back around her quarters.
"Yeah I hated those cramped the knights' quarters when I lived there too, but then again the Council kept me so busy I was hardly there anyway. How about you? It seems like you have had more than your share of missions this year."
She made her way over to him and motioned for him to take a seat on the couch. She settled herself next to him curling one leg under her body. Obi-Wan immediately noticed how great she smelled. He couldn't quite remember where he had smelled the scent before but he knew he liked it. It was something from the past familiar but elusive.
"Obi?"
"Hm?" He replied still trying to place the fragrance.
"How many missions have you had this year?" She smiled and wondered what had him so distracted.
"Oh." He blushed and looked away momentarily. Rolling his eyes he turned back to her. "Sorry I was trying place where I know that scent from."
She looked a bit confused so he explained.
"The perfume you are wearing. I know it but-" He shook his head frustrated at his inability to find an answer. He turned his attention back to her question. "Around twenty, but to be honest I lost count a couple of months ago. I didn't mind it much though. It was for the best. It would have been hard to be at the Temple surrounded by memories what with all that happened between - " He stopped himself. Did he really want to bring all of that up tonight? He recovered quickly, "It was for the best."
He knew she understood. He looked into her face and found deep compassion once more. There was something else, but he couldn't put his finger on it. He was sure that it wasn't pity and that was all that mattered to him at the moment. Wanting to change the subject he glanced about the room.
"I love these colors. It really makes to room seem-"
"Bright?" She laughed. "So many of my friends hate it. They are shocked that a Jedi would opt for vibrant hues over the more traditional-"
"Sedate colors." He finished for her and she nodded.
"Well I for one like it. It makes the room seem alive." He decided.
"I didn't know rooms could be alive?" She teased.
"Then you haven't been in Yoda's quarters. With all the various plant species he has on hand, his rooms are very much alive." They both smiled to one another.
"Have you seen him since you got back?" She asked leaning back shifting into a more comfortable position. Obi-Wan matched her gesture as he leaned against the arm of the couch facing her now. She couldn't help but notice how great he looked in his emerald tunic. It managed to capture his beautiful eyes and show off his trim muscular body as well. She was suddenly grateful for years of Jedi training which enabled her to hide her inner thoughts behind a mask of serenity.
"No, but we are getting together tomorrow afternoon. I really can't wait. Other than council briefings and debriefings I haven't had any time with him for months. "
"Is he a good master?" She asked genuinely curious. She liked the old Master and would never doubt his connection with the Living Force but after seeing how defiant Qui-Gon had turned out she had wondered on more than one occasion if Yoda was effective in training padawans. Then again perhaps Qui-Gon was just a fluke.
"You know he wasn't really my Master for very long, but he certainly was a good Master to me during that time. He helped me through a very rough patch. I wouldn't be here if not for him." Obi-Wan's voice lowered remembering fondly all the Yoda had said and done for him during those dark days. Adi was silent for a moment not wanting to interrupt his thoughts.
"How do you like being a knight?" She lightened her tone moving on to less painful topics.
"I love it. It is more demanding than I thought it would be, but I love knowing I am making a difference. I love feeling the Force guide me and learning to trust it. I always thought I trusted it before but when I was a padawan I really only trusted it to a point."
"To a point?" She queried.
"Just to the point where it didn't contradict what my Master felt we should do." He paused remembering the times he and Qui-Gon had differed in beliefs and he had acquiesced to his Master's authority. "But now it is just me, well and the Council of course, but mostly on missions it is just me. I have to trust it so completely and it never lets me down." Adi's heart clinched slightly as she realized how many times his Master had let him down. No wonder he loved the consistency of the Force. She nodded her understanding.
They continued talking about old times and their latest adventures. Adi entertained him with stories of her many missteps when she had been a new knight and negotiator while Obi-Wan recounted a few humorous foul-ups of his own. It felt good to relive so many old memories shared with friends still with them and long past. As time past they seemed to relax into each others company. It was comforting but with brief moments of tension that kept it interesting. Finally Obi-Wan couldn't stand the suspense any longer. He cleared his throat and waited for her to look at him.
"Adi, do you mind if I ask you a question?" His voice softened.
"No go ahead." She leaned in a bit to encouraging him. He lowered his gaze to the cushion between them for a moment. Obi-Wan reached for the courage he needed to precede. Finally he took a deep breath and began speaking without looking up.
"Why am I here?" He raised his eyes once the question was out. His gaze met hers and she could see the hesitation in them.
"Why do you think?" She asked cocking her head to the side and pressing her lips together.
"I don't know. I thought it might be official but now I-" His words were inaudible as they trailed off.
"Well it is official." She said and noticed a quick nod of resignation on his part. His apparent disappointment gave her the courage she needed to continue.
"I officially want to spend time with you and had hoped that perhaps you would like to spend some time with me." She reached for his hand. He smiled up at her with eyes full of relief. She sighed as well in relief. She had wondered if he would understand when she had asked him out, but knew that perhaps she had been purposely vague. Better to have a misunderstanding than an awkward situation. Such tactics were not her usual modus operandi. She would have to meditate on her actions.
"Yes." His voice was pure and touching. "I would like that very much." There was a moment of awkward silence as they both tried to understand what the admission meant.
Adi caught herself lost in the sight of him. She had watched him change so much over the years. She could still remember seeing him as a young initiate, awkward padawan, easily embarrassed adolescent and finally the beautiful young man sitting in front of her. She had feared that the few years between them would be too great an obstacle for them to overcome, but had known that she would never have forgiven herself if she hadn't at least tried to see if they could mean something to one another.
Over the last six years she had grown to care for him more than she had wanted to admit. It would have been wrong for her to have acted on her feelings while he was Qui-Gon's padawan. The code allows liaisons between masters and padawans as long as they are not in a training relationship, but somehow she had felt it would have been inappropriate. Maybe it had just felt like the wrong place and the wrong time. She had always planned to approach him once he had been knighted. Unfortunately, he had had so much to work out after his knighting, she hadn't wanted to burden him with any additional emotional baggage. It had been in his last briefing before the Council that she had decided that she would take her chance.
In the briefing, he had stood before the members confidently. There had been a serenity and acceptance that she had never seen in him before. It was as if somehow over the last year he had come to terms with his past and found the strength to move beyond it.
She always enjoyed his briefings more than any other knight's because of his occasion observations under girded with the flavor of his dry wit. She had seen the admiration of her fellow Council Members. He was truly an exceptional knight and from all of her encounters with him a kind and loving person. All day long she had been trying not to get her hopes up about tonight but now suddenly found herself full of hope.
"Adi, one more question?" He raised his eyebrow. She pulled herself reluctantly from her blissful thoughts. Moving closer to him she attempted to display a bit of mocked irritation.
"Yes."
"Your perfume? Where have I smelled it?" He asked breaking the tension.
Adi smiled playfully. "I could tell you, but what fun is there in that? Let's make a bet. I'll bet you that you can't guess where you first smelled my perfume before the night is out. You get three guesses. If you haven't guessed it by the time our date is over I will tell you. Fair enough?" She put out her hand and waited to see if he would accept her challenge.
"Fair enough." He took her hand. He was always up for a challenge and loved winning bets. It was a firm handshake but the skin was so soft. It surprised him. His own hand was calloused by countless hours of saber practice how was it that hers would feel so good to his touch. Catching himself he continued, "So what should we wager?" Enjoying the feel of her hand lingering in his he boldly gave the question an erotic charge raising his eyebrows suggestively.
Adi's smile went predatory at the sound of his voice and leaned in until their lips were a breath apart. Softly she whispered, "How about a kiss?"
Her gaze fell to his lips and then returned to meet his sea change eyes. They had always taken her breath away. She had only seen them this close up once before. It had been a moment so filled with emotion she hadn't been able to fully appreciate how truly beautiful that were. Now she found herself unable to look away.
Never one to be willfully intimidated he played along. Moving closer while turning his head ever so slightly he locked his eyes upon her slightly parted lips and whispered back "A kiss."
She felt her breath catch in her throat for a moment meeting his eyes once more. It suddenly felt very warm in her quarters. She was surprised and delighted at his response. She smiled and began to pull back.
Suddenly she felt his hands on her arms pulling her closer as he buried his face into her neck. She suppressed a surprised gasp and then a moan has she felt his lips press against her neck. His breath was warm as it tickled the sensitive skin behind her ear.
"Obi?" She asked feeling a little confused as well as a little out of breath. She had hoped he would be interested in her but now it seemed things were going a little too fast.
He released his hold on her and allowed her to pull back. A mischievous smile played upon his lips and there was a familiar glint in his eyes.
"Just had to get a good wiff of you. It's only fair. Oh and by the way didn't you ask me here for a drink?' His expression turned into one of complete confusion as he gestured to his empty hand.
"Did I?" She feigned ignorance using the time to regain a measure of control over her breathing.
"Yes you did." He nodded. He was amazed how relaxed he felt in her presence. He was slowly allowing the realization of her intentions to sink in. He found her presence intoxicating and wasn't at all sure that he needed a drink in his present state of mind.
"Hm. No I don't believe I said anything about a drink. You are mistaken. It must be your youth. You know children just don't listen to their elders anymore." She sighed in resignation. He shook his head and laughed smirking devilishly at her.
"So this is the game we are going to play. Hm..well ok then. To be fair Master Gallia it isn't that the youth," He stopped to indicate himself humbly, "don't listen. It is that our elders," stopping once more he sympathetically pointed to her, "can't remember like they use to. Age related dementia." He whispered the final words as if they were a secret he wasn't suppose to share. She couldn't help but laugh and playfully slap at his arm. He dodged easily and rose to his feet.
"Missed me. Oops losing your reflexives as well I see." He observed reaching his hand out to her. "So old lady where are you taking me?"
"The crèche." She said with mocked bitterness then added " How about Barker's?" She allowed him to help her to her feet. She leaned into him and raised her head a bit exposing her neck in the process.
"Want to take a guess yet?" She asked.
"Not yet but I do have a new condition. I get unlimited wiffs." Standing behind her he wrapped his arms around her waist and drew his head back down into her hair. She decided she very much liked that condition and so made no protest.
They made their way out into the hallway.
"How did you get so good at dodging?" She asked as they arrived at the lifts.
Obi-Wan laid his hand upon the small of her back as he leaned across her to summon the car. Warmth raced through her as to her obvious delight he kept it there.
"What do you mean?" He asked absently.
"Dodging?" She threw another playful slap in his direction to illustrate her question which he easily avoided never removing his hand from her back. She realized then that the boy had skill.
Obi-Wan laughed heartily, "Adi you do remember who my Master is right? Little green guy with a HUGE stick. It was either learn to dodge or get new shins."
She joined in his laughter as they entered the lift. Feeling his arm slide around her waist she allowed herself the luxury of leaning slightly against his firm body. Never one to be overly optimistic she found though she had no choice but to admit that she had a very good feeling about this.
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"Your thoughts betray you." Anakin mocked sitting in a far corner of the palace library. "Much fear I sense in you." Anakin stuck out his tongue and shook his head.
"Give me a few more years to train and we'll see who has fear in them. It will be more than my thoughts betraying me or maybe I will just betray all of you." He spoke to no one in particular.
The hurt of the council's rejection had never truly healed within him but instead had grown and festered over the past year. That rejection had caused him to hate all of the Council members but especially Mace Windu and Yoda.
He had never revealed this to his Master. Qui-Gon was merely aware that he still had residual hurt over the rejection. Master Jinn had had him meditate on it until his knees were raw but he had never quite mastered releasing the pain into the force. Instead he had learned to shield his thoughts from his master. He had created a tiny lock box deep within his mind where he hid all of the anger and pain, along with the sorrow and longing he felt for his mother, and the resentment he felt towards his masters both on Tatooine and Lustar. He locked it all away until he was sure that Qui-Gon was deep in sleep. It was then that he would call upon the darkness within him. He would open the box and watch as the darkness consumed all of his emotions. He loved the darkness. It made all of his pain go away. It was only a temporary fix of course, but just as he knew his emotions would return; he also knew that the darkness would return. He could count on it. It was reliable and would never let him down.
He had known that Qui-Gon had freed him and for that he was grateful but hadn't he won his own freedom? What had the man done that was so extraordinary anyway. He had merely placed the bet. Wow big deal. It had been Anakin who had risked his life in that race. Anakin had saved Qui- Gon, not to mention Padme and perhaps her whole planet. What did it ever get him? Nothing. He never heard one word of thanks from that Queen. She hadn't even offered a reward. If it hadn't been for him she would still be sitting on Tatooine in a busted ship.
He wondered sometimes about Padme. She had seemed nice. He wondered how things had turned out on her planet. He had told her that he was going to be trained as a Jedi. He felt the sting of embarrassment wondering if Obi- Wan had told her how things had really turned out. He shook his head. He didn't like thinking about that time in his life.
Sometimes he wondered why he ever said he wanted to be a Jedi. Why was he even bothering with all the stupid training? What was the point? Having always lived the poverty ridden existence of a slave he found the elegance of King Napal's palace most appealing. Yet Qui-Gon constantly reminded him that once his training was complete that they would leave the palace and that none of this worldly matter would have a place in their lives. Jedi place no value on physical possessions or wealth. 'We live to serve.' He could hear his Master's voice lecturing in his head. "Well if that is the case I could have served as a slave and still had my mother." Anakin said aloud to himself. //Once a slave always a slave.// He thought bitterly. //Isn't that right MASTER?//
The bond tingled in his mind alerting him to his Master's arrival. He quickly threw his thoughts into the lockbox and sealed it shut. He turned his attention back to the astronavigation book and began working on a new problem on his data pad.
He could feel Qui-Gon watching him long before the man actually spoke.
"Mace isn't with me. There is no need for the rouse." Anakin turned to see his Master smiling at him.
"Hello Master. Finally escaped?" He laughed as he said the words but a small amount of bitterness bleed through.
"It was a long afternoon, but one which served to prove your abilities beyond a doubt. I was very proud of you my Padawan." He placed an encouraging hand on he boy's shoulder. He had noticed the trace of bitterness but chalked it up to exhaustion.
"Thank you Master. Can I expect to have more of these exams in the future?" He turned his face back towards his data pad.
"That all depends." Qui-Gon began, "It appears that the Council has finally realized your importance and has offered to admit you to the Temple to complete your training." He watched Anakin for his reaction. //Finally.// The boy thought carefully maintaining his shields.
The boy turned to look up at Qui-Gon for a long moment. "What will become of you?" He asked softly.
"I will be readmitted to the order." Qui-Gon was sure that this had been a point which had been debated at long length in the Council Chambers. He could almost hear the voices of the Council members arguing that once declared dead a member cannot return. He felt certain he was being allowed back in as a necessary evil in securing Anakin's return.
"Sounds like a good deal. too good really, it makes me sorta nervous." Anakin turned off his data pad and stood up. "When do we have to let them know?"
"Tonight if possible but if not then whenever we finally discern what the will of the force is for our paths." Qui-Gon couldn't help but sound a bit surprised. He had expected that Anakin would have jumped at the chance to be trained formally at the Temple instead of like an outcast isolated on a distant planet.
"What do you think?" Anakin asked. Qui-Gon paused wishing he could hear Anakin's opinion before stating his own. He didn't want to overly influence the boy.
"I think that it is important that you are trained at the best possible facilities. These are hardly the best. I believe it will be an adjustment for you but you are strong, determined and quick. I think it would be good for us to be back among those who are like us. " Anakin nodded as if taking all of his Master's reasons into consideration.
"Even though they rejected us? You think we should return?" Anakin began walking towards an oversized window overlooking the gardens.
"Anakin the Jedi Order is like a family. We care for each other, support each other, try to guide one another, but at times as in any family we disagree and must go our separate ways. That is what happened, but now the force is showing the Council that they were wrong about you. They won't reject you. They are inviting you, welcoming you, wanting you to come and be a part of their community. They are adopting you into their family." Qui-Gon spoke softly as he stood behind the boy giving him space to think and consider.
//What if I reject them?// Anakin thought to himself. //Maybe I don't want them.//
"I already have a family." Anakin replied a wave of sadness washing through the bond.
"I realize that Anakin and I wish I could do something to help with that situation but I have neither the funds to free your mother nor feel the Force's leading to do so. If I did we would already be there."
"Do you think the council would have her released in exchange for my agreeing to come to their Temple and train?" His eyes were hopeful and bright.
"You can ask but I really would be surprised." Qui-Gon replied, "It has to be the will of the force. If neither you nor I feel that leading, I would be surprised if the Council would feel it either." He paused and squeezed the boy's shoulder reassuringly. "Now let's go spend some time meditating before supper." Together they made their way back to their quarters.
******************
They both stumbled slightly as they entered the main Temple doors. Carried along by their laughter they were enjoying the after glow of a wonderful evening of sharing stories and a few drinks.
Once inside the lift Adi rested her hands easily on his hips as she smiled up at him quirking her eyebrow silently asking if he wanted to take his last and final guess. He had been putting it off for quite a while now and she was ready to declare her victory. Obi-Wan furrowed his brow as if attempting deep contemplative thought. They both burst out laughing and then immediately resumed their previous facial expressions.
Upon reaching her door she spoke the question aloud.
"Ok Obi-Wan do you want to take your last and final guess or do you just want to concede and declare me the victor?"
"Concede?" He asked feigning offense "You truly are drunk." They both laughed again leaning in on each other for support.
"Ok, let me think." He brought his hand up to his forehead as if he had the answer written on his wrist.
"Do you need another wiff?" Adi asked wincing as she heard her voice sounding a bit too hopeful. Having his lips pressed to her neck all night had felt glorious. On more than one occasion she had had to fight the urge to hold him there.
As his contemplation continued she began to arrogantly pat herself on the back.
"Just give up." She chided him. "You know you don't have a clue."
Her eyes met his. She realized that there was a knowing glint in them.
"Adi you are so right I don't have a clue-" He looked at her utterly hopeless.
"Ah Ha!" Adi interrupted. "I knew it!!!" But before she could go on, he placed a finger over her lips.
"Allow me to finish MASTER Gallia." She conceded with a gesture and leaned back smugly against her door.
"As I was saying I don't have a clue because I don't really need one. " He gave her a wicked smile. " I actually had it figured out from the first wiff though I must admit I did enjoy all the subsequent wiffs immensely." He winked.
She shook her head in disbelief. "No way. There is no way you would remember."
Obi-Wan let her finish her overly confident rant with an expression of utter Jedi patience and serenity painted upon his face.
"Are you finished yet?" He asked using her words from earlier in the day. She nodded. He seemed very confident and she was starting to feel a hint of defeat.
"I remember it clearly. It was a few years back. We were all attending The Festival Ball at the Senate's Reception Hall. I was fourteen going on twenty. You were wearing a black gown with a red shawl wrapped around your shoulders." He paused staring up to the ceiling reliving the vision. She felt a blush rise in her cheeks. He looked down at her once more. "You danced with first one master and then another never a free moment for a poor pathetic padawan." He pouted and sighed. "As the evening went on you laid her shawl aside. Between the dancing and toasting you managed to accidentally leave it behind when you left. I picked it up and brought it to you several days later. The shawl smelled wonderful just like you do tonight. That was the first time I smelled this fragrance." He ended opening his hands in a gesture as if to say "Ta Dah" and bowed to an imaginary crowd.
Her mouth dropped open as she stared at him in total denial. He had enjoyed watching her face transform from confidence to disbelief. His victory was evident in her posture.
"How could you possibly remember that?" She put her hands on her hips demanding and answer. "That was over ten years ago."
"Well if it is a confession you are seeking. I had a bit of a crush on you at the time and actually kept the shawl for several days before returning it to you. It just smelled so good and I was honestly a little nervous about seeing you. " He blushed slightly but maintained eye contact with the beautiful master standing opposite him.
"Well you did it. Very well done Knight Kenobi. I extend my deepest congratulations on your exceptional memory skills." She conceded with exaggerated formality giving him a pat on the back and playful punch in the shoulder. He bowed to her failing to appear humble in the least degree.
"I have a Council meeting in the morning." She suddenly announced. "This has been fun. We should do it again." She reached to activate her door but was suddenly halted. An arm was across her doorway blocking her path.
"Adi I believe you owe me something." His voice was meant to sound playful but there was something else overlaying it. Adi's knees went a bit weak as she turned to face him.
"And what might that be?" She asked trying to lighten the mood. She had put him in a bit of a spot and now wanted to give him the opportunity to back out if that was what he wished. From the heat in his gaze she knew it wasn't what he wished.
'This." The word barely preceded his actions as he leaned in gently cupping her face with his hands and lifting her mouth to his.
She felt his mouth brush against hers lightly. She felt his lips part slightly and caress hers ever so shyly with his tongue. She felt the modest embrace upon and then within her mouth and then he was pulling away. It had been a question and an answer all in one motion. She had felt both its innocence and heat overpower her reason. As he pulled back she was lost in his eyes and wanted to spend the rest of the night staring into them as the dawn broke through the darkness. She knew she needed to say something but the power of that kiss had robbed her of her ability to speak. He smiled at her with kind amusement. She realized she needed to breathe.
"You see Master Gallia there is more to me than just a nice butt."
He winked as he traced the line of her jaw with the back of his hand.
As he made his way back down the hall, she realized that she should go inside her apartment but seemed unable to move. She just stood in her doorway watching him walk away. She had come to her senses enough to realize that it was a wonderful view. He smirked at her over his shoulder and wiggled the object of her attention.
"How about we try food next time? Dinner tomorrow?" He called back over his shoulder. She nodded. He turned back when she made no audible response. "I'll come by at 8:00."
"Obi?" She asked.
"Yes Master Gallia?" His Jedi serenity returning as he regarded her.
"Want to make a bet?" She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively.
"Depends." He began, "What is the wager?" He asked innocently.
She laughed ducking her head then raising it to meet his eyes. "How about a kiss?" she asked.
He moaned playfully knowing the effect it would have on her then allowed a heated gaze to penetrate her. "A kiss. What is the bet?"
"Bet your late picking me up." She challenged him having regained her confidence.
"It's a bet. Goodnight Adi." With that he disappeared around the corner and was out of sight.
Once inside her apartment Adi slumped against the door taking a few deep breaths. Some time between Obi-Wan walking into her apartment and that incredible kiss at her door she had lost control of the situation. She had always found him attractive but she had never expected to be this affected by him.
/ /It must be the alcohol.// She thought as she pushed off of the door and headed for her bedroom. She caught herself humming as she made her way to the door. She stiffened slightly at a new discovery. //Did he mention something about his butt?// She cringed in mortification. //Definitely too much alcohol.//
Entering his apartment Obi-Wan was still amazed that he had felt so relax around Adi. It had been a wonderful night. She seemed to have enjoyed it as well. He wondered if he had come on a little too strong. He would apologize for that tomorrow. It had been the combination of the perfume, alcohol and repressed feelings he had held for her over the years. He could still feel her lips on his and felt a wave of joy rush over him at the thought of it.
He quickly undressed and double checked his com unit. Deleting the reminder from Yoda for tea the next day he headed for his sleep couch. He realized that he felt happy. It had been a long year that had started with heartbreak and had somehow evolved into happiness.
//Not bad Kenobi. Starting to look like you might have a life after all.// He thought to himself.
Tomorrow promised to be another good day. He had volunteered to work with the smallest initiates in the crèche in the morning, something that he dearly loved to do, would get to spend some long overdue time with his wise old Master in the afternoon and would be dining with a beautiful and exciting woman that evening.
As he began slowing giving in to sleep, he could feel his mind wanting to dredge up sad memories in order to balance the joy he was feeling, but he refused to give in to it. He would not focus on what he did not have but would focus on all that he did. He couldn't remember a time when he had had so much to be thankful for. He would allow his focus to determine his reality. Somewhere in the midst of these thoughts he drifted off into a dreamless sleep.
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Ok before you guys get out your torches please know that this was my first attempt at romantic interaction. There is more to come so we can only hope and pray that I get better at it. I can't say I am entirely pleased but sometimes I just have to chalk it up to needing more writing experience and move on. I really am getting a kick out the reviews. I love all the requests to kill Ani and beat up Qui-Gon. I also completely agree with Shannon that Obi must make Qui suffer but deep down can't help that he loves Qui-Gon. It is his tireless devotion and loyalty not to mention capacity to love and forgive that causes us all to love Obi-Wan. I hope this story meets and maybe even will exceed your expectations but only time and my typing will tell. It looks to be about halfway done unless I get some major inspiration and add more chapters. It could happen. Hope ya'll have a great weekend. I probably won't be posting until the first of next week. But at least I left you on a positive note right?