Part Two

Luke walked in a measured pace towards the dining hall. It was good to be home, he thought and even more so now that Mara was here. Why she should make it better for him he hadn't quite worked out but he would. A strong frisson in the Force alerted him to the fact he had company as Kyp Durron joined him. His features were sober but Luke could sense the younger Jedi's amusement.

"Something is amusing you, Kyp?" Luke kept his voice even.

"Maybe," the younger man drawled. Not in the least fazed by Luke's Jedi Master persona. "Are you going to ask her out?"

"What!?" Luke's step faltered. "Ask who out?"

Kyp chuckled wickedly as his comment successfully disturbed the Jedi Master's calm. He'd only been in the exercise room for a few moments but what he'd seen had been… interesting. "Come on, even a non-Force user could sense the tension between you two a parsec away."

"Excuse me?" Luke raised an eyebrow and glanced over at the other Jedi.

"Luke," he stopped and faced his former teacher. "I don't pretend to understand the relationship you and Jade have had for the past ten years. What I really don't understand is - why it hasn't gone anywhere recently. Most friendships as intense as yours is, develop."

"Kyp…" Luke began warningly.

"I could feel whatever it was between you in the Force and it was strong. It wasn't one-sided either, nor was it platonic."

"Kyp… I think…"

"Don't think, Master. Do. There are not many places to go on this planet unless it's one of the other temples. So dinner and dancing is out. Not that you could do that anyway as she's limping. Wait… I know. Take her to the mineral baths. It would be good for her... ankle." He drew out the last word, his dark eyes dancing with mischief. "Hell, it might even be good for you. No one ever goes there after dark."

Luke's face shuttered. "You're imagining things."

Kyp's voice gentled. "When did you decide to die emotionally?"

Luke's face darkened. "You have no business…"

The younger man moved a step closer. "I dare because I can feel you retreating from us all," he said fiercely. "You're afraid to make a commitment and take a chance. I think there are strong emotions between you and Jade."

"I am a Jedi, Kyp. I have to be calm and at peace."

"That's rubbish and you know it, Master. You're not going to go over to the dark side just because you fancy Mara Jade. There would be an awful lot of dark siders if that was the case." He gave a dry chuckle. "Half the Jedi population would like to…"

"That's quite enough!" Luke said sharply, as tart green jealousy once again threatened his control. "Don't talk about Mara like that."

"There is more to life than just the Force."

"The Force is present in all life." Luke argued. "It is around us and…"

Kyp shoved his hands into the pockets of his robe to try and quell his urge to shake some sense into his Master. "That's not what I meant and you know it."

"You don't know what you're talking about," Luke snapped, his lips white.

"Go on," Kyp urged. "Ask her. I dare you."

Luke shook his head minutely, unable to respond to the other Jedi's suggestions. Kyp took a long look at Luke, smiled, then walked away. "Think about it. She likes you – a lot." He turned around and smiled again. "I don't know exactly how you feel about her, but Master… your shields are slipping so I can guess."

Luke watched the departing man, his thoughts racing. 'Was he that transparent?'

**************************************************

Luke wandered slowly along the corridor towards the dining hall entrance his mind confused. "Ask her… No – I can't. She wouldn't… Would she?" Kyp had been joking, hadn't he? "My shields slipping…. What nonsense." Luke paused his hand hovering over the dining hall door control panel. It would help her ankle – going to the hot mineral springs, he conceded and he hadn't been there himself for a long time. He could ask and if she said no, then Luke would go alone. The springs were soothing to the mind as well as the body. He was just going to ask for her company as a friend and suggest that it might help her injury. It must have been painful to make Mara cry out. The door to the dining hall slid aside and the noise and chatter of the Jedi relaxing over their meals spilled out to greet him.

Kyp caught sight of the Jedi Master's distracted face and grinned.

"What's up with Luke?" Corran Horn leant across the table. "He looks as if he's several systems away." He dumped his tray on the table and slid into a seat across from Kyp. "Problems?"

"'What's up with Luke?'" Kyp repeated and chuckled lightly as he took a sip of water. "Oh, I think Luke's current problem is female, fiery and Force strong, with green eyes and red hair."

Corran choked on a mouthful of food. "What!"

"You know exactly 'what'."

"Oh, that. It's not finally sunk in, has it?" His voice told the other Jedi that he didn't hold out much hope for that event ever happening. "Luke will never admit to himself that he feels more for Mara Jade than for any other Jedi on Yavin, let alone admit it to Mara and she's as bad."

"There are hints."

"They really have no idea, do they?"

Kyp shook his head. "Of course they don't but I told him to ask her out."

Corran spluttered. "And he hasn't turned to the dark side, skewered you with his saber or fed you to the ewoks?"

Kyp smirked. "Look at him. I think he's actually considering it."

"Feeding you to the ewoks?"

"No, nerf brain. Trust a Corellian to… No, Horn. I think Luke is actually considering asking Jade out."

"Are you sure?" Corran shook his head with amazement. "Now I've seen it all. I recognized he had it bad for her…" He sighed. "It is sad when another man joins the ranks of the doomed."

"I'll tell Mirax." Kyp grinned.

"You wouldn't – you're too scared of her." Corran's face broke out into a smile as he thought of his wife, away on a trading run in the corporate Sector.

"True."

"Luke may be in a dither about Jade but whether he does anything at all is up to the will of the Force."

"I'm worried about him." Kyp murmured.

"So am I. He's retreating from us into the persona of 'the Master'. He's not living. He's too calm… too controlled all the time." Corran picked up his fork and took a bite of his meal. "You did tell him to ask her out? You're sure he understood that's what you meant?"

"I could not have been any more obvious," Kyp protested.

"Apart from locking them in a room together for a week?"

"You are talking about two of the most gifted Jedi in the galaxy? Locks are not going to keep them confined."

"Yeah." Corran chewed a piece of nerf steak. "Silly me."

"He is collecting two meals."

"One for him and one for Mara?"

Kyp nodded. "I think so."

"Where is Mara?"

"Sprained her ankle during a workout. He carried her back to her room."

"Protesting all the way, I'll bet."

"Yes. Doesn't mean anything though. It is up to them whether they do anything more."

"Then it will never happen."

"That's what I'm afraid of."

**************************************************

Luke returned to the residential quarters with their dinners on a tray. Mara was tempted to feign sleep, but knew that Luke would not be fooled. She'd rather face him, then let him think her a coward. She'd nothing to be anxious about. Nothing had happened between them – so why was she so apprehensive? He'd said in an indirect way that she was fair. Was he being brave or foolish? She could sense his presence nearing her room. He was… nervous about something. Nervous yet oddly determined. No, pretending to be asleep was not going to be an option. She activated her door control the moment he reached her room.

"I figured you probably didn't get a chance to eat." His eyes drifted to her wet hair and robed figure and then quickly averted his gaze. The robe clung to her figure and outlined every soft curve showing that she was indeed female. He swallowed, his mouth dry.

"Move so I can shut the door, Skywalker," she muttered.

Not noticing his reaction, Mara was wishing he had taken the time to put on some more clothes. Skywalker still wore his sleeveless workout outfit that showcased his well muscled physique. It made her edgy, her fingers itching to touch his smooth skin.

He mumbled an apology, his face reddening slightly as he moved inside her quarters, placing the tray on a low table.

"I'm not hungry," she muttered stuffing her hands inside the pockets of her robe.

"You have to eat," he said and smiled as her stomach gave a low rumble. "See you are hungry."

"Traitor." She breathed down to her stomach and then turned to the Jedi. "Thanks," she mumbled as she began eating the food, not even noticing what was on her plate.

Luke picked up his eating implements with one hand and balanced his plate on his knees with the other. "Have you ever been to the mineral baths?" he asked spearing a blue vegetable with his fork.

Mara shook her head. "No."

"I thought that maybe I could take you to them after we've eaten. It should help reduce the swelling on your ankle. They're reputed to have therapeutic properties." Luke wondered if his face had flushed slightly and attempted to maintain control. He doubted Mara would accept his offer and he watched her silently to see what she would do. There was something new and strained between them and he felt it keenly.

Mara was about to shake her head, noticed the Jedi narrow his eyes and just exhaled. "I can see that you've set your mind to this haven't you."

A slow smile spread across his face. Something deep inside the trader melted at the sight. "Why Mara, I expected more of an argument from you."

She waved her hand and then smiled, "Can't let myself become too predictable can I?"

Luke snorted and shook his head. "I would never call you that, Jade. Seriously, it would do your ankle some good. I can tell that it is still causing you some discomfort."

"How did you know?"

Luke stretched out his hand and traced the frown lines on her forehead with a gentle finger. "This… and the hint of strain around the edge of your mouth. The hot springs are wonderful. We discovered them when we were clearing out one of the smaller temples. The water is deep enough to swim in and it's warm. I suspect that the temple was built to house the springs after they were discovered."

"It does sound good." Mara rubbed at her still aching and swollen limb. "Alright, you've convinced me, Skywalker. Give me a chance to change and I'll go with you." She placed her cutlery on her empty plate and handed it to the Jedi Master.

"Take your time." Luke settled back into an armchair as if preparing for a long wait. "The medical droid prescribed you a pain-killer for your ankle."

"I was going to self-heal," Mara protested.

"You can try both methods."

Blasted farmboy had all the answers tonight. Feeling out of sorts with the Jedi's presence and wanting to be ready for anything, Mara took the pills that were lying next to the plate. She hobbled her way into the sleeping chamber to change into her swimming clothes. As she gazed at her refection in the mirror she nearly took off her costume and shouted to the Jedi master that she was not coming. Why was she feeling like this? Luke had seen her in her swimming attire before. She put her robe back on over the skimpy garment and walked slowly out of the room.

Mara insisted on walking, admittedly slowly to the mineral baths. They were more than half way there when she realized that she was feeling decidedly peculiar. The world around her started to shimmer. She took another step and nearly fell as the ground was came up to meet her. Grabbing the nearest tree she held on, swaying woozily. Something was definitely wrong.

"Mara! What is it?" Luke grabbed her arm and supported her before she could fall. His eyebrows drawn together in concern.

"What the hell did you give me, Skywalker?" Mara's voice was filled with anger. Her entire world heaved. She felt as if she were falling to the ground in slow motion. Something stopped her decent and she was hardly aware of the fact that she was being carried by the Jedi, her face pressed into the hollow of his neck.

"Put me down," she murmured without heat as the anger left her.

"You'll fall." Luke's voice was close to her.

"You won't let me." Mara looked up at Luke's firm chin as he resolutely carried her through the trees.

"That's right."

"Hmmmm." She said taking a deep breath, enjoying the closeness. She thought she felt his amusement tempered by his concern but everything was so fuzzy she wasn't sure. Mara felt it almost impossible to form a complete thought, and she felt wonderful. The pain in her ankle was gone and life was good. The only thing that seemed real to her was the strong arms that clasped her protectively.

She felt Luke shift and he seemed to be talking from far away. She was only able to focus on him when she realized that he had called her name repeatedly.

"Mara!"

"Hmm?"

"I just called the med centre. They told me that you might experience some side effects to the drug that was prescribed for you."

"You think?" Mara laughed. "I feel very…" she giggled.

Luke bit his lip as he stared down at the woman in his arms. Mara Jade did not normally giggle. Her wide green eyes met his trustingly. "Force!" Luke swore under his breath. "I'm sorry, Mara. I would never have suggested you take anything so strong. I had no idea it would cause such a reaction. Do you want to go back to your room? I'll take you if you want to go but the effects should not last for long. We're nearly at the springs."

Mara did not admit defeat. She was still in control. Wasn't she? "S'okay," she muttered thickly. "Let's go to the baths." A faint and very remote voice in her head told her that perhaps she had made an error in judgment, but rationality had left a good ten minutes ago. She wanted to go. She was all ready and she felt wonderful. Her ankle? What ankle?

"If you're sure?"

"Yeah… sure." For a moment reality returned. "I think I'm drunk, Luke," she slurred. "I haven't felt like this since… oh way back… way… way back."

"I think I get the idea," Luke said trying to keep a straight face. Under the influence of medication she may have been but he didn't want to forget she was dangerous and probably armed.

"I think it was one of Karrde's things."

Luke's spike of jealousy again took him by surprise. "Karrde's things?" he managed out of suddenly stiff lips.

"Social evening… a party. To celebrate a successful contract… oh, I can't remember exactly what it was. It was a good night… I think I caused a lot of trouble…"

"You?" Luke mastered his emotions and gave a wry smile. "Never. I won't let you get into any trouble."

"So you say. Most of the trouble I have is because of you… or is it with you. Why is it that…" she asked artlessly. Her unexpected chatter refreshing to Luke's ears.

"I don't know but I don't get you into trouble and I won't let it happen now."

Mara turned her head up to see Luke smile.

"Spoil sport." She lightly slapped his arm.

Luke carefully slid his precious burden on to her feet. "Careful," he cautioned as she took a wobbly step.

"Sith, Skywalker," Mara looked up at the man by her side, her eyes large and vivid in her pale face. "I don't think those pills agreed with me." She blinked as they entered the bathing area. The spring bubbled from deep below the rocks and over centuries had formed a natural pool. Some long ago civilisation had added decorative effects and the Jedi had added atmospheric lighting. Mara swayed back and fore and happily took it all in.

She removed her robe, completely oblivious to Luke's expression when he saw her in the revealing bathing suit. He had seen her in such attire before but it hadn't really registered how the perfection of her form impacted upon him. Gingerly she stepped into the water and as the warmth hit her she relaxed even more.

"Mara," Luke warned as he rushed to support her. His hands clutched at her upper arms, trying not to touch more of her soft skin than he had to.

"I'm fine," she assured him airily.

"Don't move."

"Why?"

"Just don't," he instructed, his voice firm as he could make it.

"But I…"

"Mara!" he pleaded. "It's only for a moment." Luke tore off his own robe and returned to her side, helping her ease into the pool. Until he was sure the effects of the medication had worn off there was no way he was leaving her side for a second.

Carefully supporting her, he helped her sink into the warm water. "Mmmmm. This is nice. Thanks."

Luke inspected Mara as she leaned back and closed her eyes. She was submerged in the water from about mid-chest down. The ends of her fiery red braids floated in the water like exotic seaweed. She took his breath away. Luke enjoyed this rare opportunity to absorb her beauty and revel in their closeness without pretence. He was beginning to realise that Kyp was more observant than Luke had thought. In fact his former student had opened his eyes to something he'd been fooling himself about for a long time. His feelings for the woman in front of him had changed and he wasn't sure how or when that had happened. What exactly was Talon Karrde to her? The more he dwelt on it the more the question burned into his brain. Mara and Talon laughing together, having fun, perhaps even… Force this wasn't good. She would kill him when she found out. She couldn't find out. Then one of Kyp's other statements came up for air.

'It wasn't one-sided, nor was it platonic.'

He moved deeper into the pool, crouching beside her. She'd sunk a little more into the water and a tiny thrill of anxiety caused him to move closer. Had she fallen asleep?

"I'm awake." She assured him, her eyes opening, dark pupils stared deep into his own.

The Jedi held her arms, preventing her from slipping further into the water. Their gazes caught and held. Luke was unable to break away. A slow seductive smile spread across Mara's face and she said, "You have the most incredible eyes, Skywalker – mesmerizing..."

His heart began hammering in his chest. Pleasure at her words warmed him to his soul. Did she find him attractive? Was it possible that she viewed him not as just a friend, or a Jedi Master, but as a man? Hope surged within him. For years, this woman had held a special place in his heart, but he had always thought that the odds were astronomically high against their relationship developing into something more. He'd decided that this could never happen so he had never dwelt too much on wishing for the stars. He'd convinced himself he was meant to be alone. Then he remembered all the times in his life that he had beaten the odds and a smile grew across his face. For the first time in years hope unfurled her little shoots and began to grow. He bent his head to meet her lips without realizing his own intent when Mara's eyes blinked rapidly and she asked, "Did I just say something really stupid?"

Luke reared back, chagrined. She was not exactly herself right now. She had just admitted to feeling drunk, not in control. "No," he soothed nervously. "It was actually kind of nice." Luke felt somewhat guilty but he decided that this was an opportunity that he would be a fool to miss. He was determined to learn more about the attractive close-mouthed trader. Han would be so proud of him. He suspected Mara was becoming more and more clear headed with each passing moment.

"Did Talon Karrde have a hard time accepting your decision to leave his employ for awhile?" Luke asked casually.

"He had no choice. I have months of vacation accrued, and besides he can get someone else to run his errands for awhile."

Luke tried to hide his smile. Her disdain for Talon's ability to prevent Mara from doing what she wanted was clearly evident through the Force. He was not sure of their relationship, but Luke doubted there was anything deeper than a friendship between the two. He desperately hoped that there was nothing more than friendship between Mara and her boss. "So you're not missing him?"

"Why would I miss him?"

"No matter," Luke replied quickly. "You're good friends and have an excellent working relationship. In fact, I would say you sometimes work better with him than you do with me."

"I would rather have you in a crisis," Mara confided artlessly. "I think we work fine together. You can be a little Skywalker at times but… Karrde doesn't totally understand me. He tries but… you know who I am. Damned annoying too. I would rather have him with me in a trading capacity. I would never make any profit if it was you."

"How do you know?"

"You would make me feel that I was cheating the poor buyer. All that Jedi goodness."

He shook his head, but he smiled. "Now, Mara." Luke had to ask her. "Why did you wait to train at the Academy until I was gone?"

Mara sat higher in the water, her face assuming a serious expression. "It's just less complicated that way."

"You find things between us complicated? How?"

"Fishing for compliments, Skywalker?"

This answer surprised Luke. "I don't understand. How can things being complicated between us be construed as a compliment?"

"Look. I just wanted to be able to concentrate on my studies. I can't do that with you around."

"What, study?"

"Concentrate."

"I don't disturb you that much?"

"I wouldn't say that," she whispered. "Your eyes… so clear and blue. I can see the galaxy in them." Mara ran a teasing finger across his bicep and smiled when he gave a little gasp in reaction to her touch. "You do when you walk around without your shirt on. You do in your bathing shorts. For someone normally clothed from head to toe in black I seem to see a lot of skin." Her gaze ran down his body. "You're in good shape, farmboy and…" she trailed her hand slowly over his bare chest. "I like what I see – very much. So no concentration."

"Oh." Luke was inordinately pleased with her answer - if a little embarrassed. The little shoot of hope unfurled a few more leaves. Her eyes had begun to clear and he knew that she was returning to normal once again.

He moved away from her and closed his eyes, enjoying the warm water as it lapped around his shoulders. When he opened them he found Mara's gaze fixed on him. "You okay, Jade?"

"Think so," she replied slowly. "My head is beginning to clear. At least, I hope it is clearing."

"Good."

She glared at him. "The last half hour is very vague. I don't like not being in control. What did I say?"

"Nothing much. Just relax and let the water soothe your muscles. Don't move too much yet. Give yourself another five minutes, just to be sure."

Mara gave him a suspicious glance. She had the feeling she had let her normally guarded tongue go into hyperdrive.

The Jedi began to swim laps, wanting to think, and attempting to give the trader some space. He was not sure what she would remember of their conversation, but he doubted she would feel good about revealing all that she had. He dived toward the bottom of the natural pool, the warm water swirling around him. His emotions were in turmoil, but it was only a moment before he knew his heart. Things crystallised in his mind in a way that had him almost trembling. Mara! Beautiful, deadly Mara. His feelings for her had always been strong, but now he knew what she really meant to him.  He decided at that moment that he would pursue Mara Jade. He knew that she was fond of him, and now he knew that she was attracted to him. The feeling was definitely mutual. They were like two halves of a whole; they belonged together. Part of him wondered if he was opening himself up to more heartbreak. Losing Mara would be completely different. He knew that he would never recover. But he would take one more chance – he had to. His decision was made in a moment, but if the Force was with him, would last a lifetime. He pushed against the bottom of the pond and made his way quickly to the surface. She was hard headed and stubborn, but she was not the only one who possessed those particular traits. He could be quite determined when he wanted something. And what he wanted, he had discovered - was her.

Luke leisurely swam toward Mara, watching her thoughtfully. She slowly unwound the plaited braid at the nape of her neck until her hair hung in long waves down her back. She shook her head as if trying to clear her thoughts and dived into the water. She moved with sure strokes across the surface of the pool. She was so beautiful it made his heart constrict.

Luke had never acted on his desire, because he was unsure of how she really felt about him. Perhaps, Mara had never allowed her attraction for him to surface, because he had never shown her how entrancing he found her to be. The Jedi stretched out with his senses to check that there was no one else nearby. They were totally alone. He could not ask for a more perfect opportunity to eliminate the shields between them. First, he had to be sure that she was no longer under the influence of the medication. He formed a plan and hoped it would not serve to alienate Mara from him.

Mara watched as Skywalker swam toward her; his gaze never wavering from her own. She felt a slight fluttering sensation begin to grow in her belly and she turned her gaze away, trying to maintain her equilibrium. He was up to something. He had this trick of looking inward and it made his eyes appear more vividly blue. She made her way toward a small ledge in the pool and sat down. Skywalker sat down beside her – very close.

"How do you feel?" he asked. "I'm sorry about the medication," he apologised. "I had no idea it would affect you like that."

Mara's heart began to pound in her chest and no amount of willpower could return the rapid beating to normal. She closed her eyes and then when she realized that she did feel pretty good, she replied, "I think I'll live." It had to be the effect of the medication. What else could it be? The little taunting voice inside her head laughed sardonically. 'That's right, Jade. Blame the pills. You know that you've been fighting the Skywalker effect for years and it's becoming more potent. The immunity the Emperor gave you has worn away.'

The Jedi smiled and said, "Do you mind if I check to make sure that you aren't under any influence of the medication? I don't like the idea of you swimming with your mind in a cloud."

"I'm fine, Skywalker. Besides, if I start to drown, which I won't, I have you here to save me. Don't I?" Mara said dryly. She was nervous about his request to use the Force to evaluate her condition. There were things better left in the dark. It wasn't that she didn't trust him, she did. Mara still didn't like anyone messing around with the inside of her head – especially Skywalker. There were too many things she kept hidden.

"I could show you how to eliminate the mind altering effects, while maintaining the beneficial ones. It's really a useful technique. It's saved my life on more than one occasion. You can use it for filtering out toxic gasses too."

"You never miss a trick, Master Skywalker." She could see the sense in this, and yet could not help but continue to feel reticent. His eyes were a bright blue, gazing deeply into her own and somehow she felt she'd hurt him with her words. "But it is a good way to learn," she added softly.

His wet, darkened hair was plastered to his forehead, stopping just above his well shaped brows. A slight smile began to play about his mouth and she knew absolutely, that he could sense her hesitation, her doubt. Suddenly she wanted to do this. She wanted to be close to him, and she wasn't about to push him away when he offered to commune with her on a more intimate level. Consequences be damned. Besides, she was strong enough to prevent him from reading her deeper emotions, wasn't she?

"All right," she said.

He gave her a brilliant smile that made her feel as if she had made the correct choice. She smiled back, unable to resist responding to his open pleasure.

Luke didn't need to touch her, but it was easier to show this way. Besides, he wouldn't pass up this opportunity. He placed the tips of his fingers against her temple and watched as she closed her eyes. He gloried in her proximity, the ability to touch her, even in so innocent a manner moved him greatly. He closed his eyes and stretched out to her, lightly sliding into her mind. He could see the remnant of the medicine forming a slight film over her thoughts. He showed Mara how to clear it away before removing himself from her mind. He was pleased at how effortlessly she absorbed this information. Palpatine had denied her so much.

"Mara…"

"Yes…" she reached out to him and again his Force sense entered her mind.

He almost backed down, his courage flagging for just a minute. They remained linked on this surface level, able to share emotions, but not delving deeply into each other's thoughts. He had made a decision, and Luke was not one to back down from a challenge. Even one given by himself. He allowed Mara a glimpse of his deep regard for her, and with his heart in his mouth, his incredible attraction to her. Luke felt exposed and vulnerable, but he allowed her to know that he was showing her this deliberately and she could choose to ignore this transaction if she wanted to.

Mara was momentarily stunned by Luke's revelation. Had it all been an illusion? For the first time she could feel his desire for her, held in check by his Jedi control. He respected, admired, and genuinely liked her – but this other feeling was new. Luke Skywalker desired her?

He could sense her surprise and was immediately warmed by a mental caress. It was so reflexive on her part, that Luke even doubted she was aware of what had happened. He withdrew quickly from her mind, not wanting to intrude, wanting to give her a chance to digest what he had revealed. Doubt began to assail him. What if attraction wasn't enough? What if his display of interest only served to push her away? What if he had been mistaken and Mara felt only friendship for him. He was sure it was more than that but…

He opened his eyes and saw Mara gaping at him. Her expression, despite his misgivings, caused him to chuckle and she immediately grew annoyed at being the cause of his humour.

"I'm sorry Mara. I didn't mean to laugh. Don't tell me that you didn't even suspect?" Luke said calmly.

"Suspect what exactly?" She said, frowning a little at him.

"How I feel about you."

"How do you feel about me?" she challenged. He would never manage to say it, Mara reasoned. Luke could lock up his emotions tighter than a Calamarian clam shell.

Luke's courage wavered. It had appeared simpler inside his head before it reached his mouth. Blurting out his feelings suddenly seemed absurd. But he gathered his nerves together and inched even closer to her. "It's difficult to put into words."

"Oh." Mara's face went blank.

"I could show you instead."

"How?"

He lifted his hand and placed it on her bare shoulder. Her skin was damp to his touch and cool yet as soon as he touched her he felt warmth. She continued to stare at him trying to read his expression. Luke waited until she gave him her permission to go ahead with a little dip of her chin. She wasn't going to make this easy.

Finally her acceptance of him gave him the push he needed to continue, "This." He said and claimed her mouth. It was not a soft kiss. Luke felt that this was the moment to prove to Mara that there was something vital between them. He pulled her against him, feeling her breasts press against his chest. His lips moved, sensually exploring her mouth and the contours of her jaw, and then reclaimed her lips.

Mara was motionless for a second, hearing the blood rush in her ears. What was he doing to her? She'd expected to feel his hands on her forehead, his sense mingling with hers – not this infinitely more dangerous method. Her body became languorous under Luke's sensual assault, unable to do anything but clutch at him. She struggled to breathe while warmth spread across her body. She couldn't believe this was happening. She was sure that she would wake up any moment breathless and alone. This wasn't real – it couldn't be.

She began to feverishly return the kiss. Her eyelids fluttered closed and she threaded her fingers into his hair, pressing him hard against her mouth. Their tongues stroked, lips caressing in a primitive need. They both moaned almost inaudibly as their hands began to move the length of their bodies – touching, stroking… caressing.

Luke was gratified by her passionate reaction, immensely relieved that she responded so openly. He could not deny how right she felt in his arms. He could hardly think coherently. Something happened then through the Force. Their essences seemed to meet and meld together for a moment. The sensation was so pleasurable that they both pulled back to gasp. Mara raised her barriers, unsure about this level of joining, effectively easing out of the contact.

They stared at each other in amazement. Luke's face held a serious expression, "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to let it go so far."

"Are you saying this was a mistake?"

Before he could offer an explanation that he only was trying to say that he wasn't trying to move so fast, a voice interrupted. They both jumped, pulling away from each other.

"Master Skywalker, Jedi Jade, is everything alright. I felt a disturbance in the Force." It was Rein Saben, a relatively new student at the Academy.  She was a small, pale humanoid with petite features and long flowing black hair.  Her large dark eyes seemed to absorb every detail about the Jedi Master and one of his… students?

Skywalker regarded Rein Saben, mentally berating himself for his carelessness. How much, if anything, had she seen? "Don't concern yourself, Rein. Everything is fine," he soothed, watching regretfully as Mara swam away from the ledge. She pulled herself out of the water and donned her robe. Luke swam the distance, not wanting to let the evening end like this.

He pulled himself out of the water and gestured to the mineral bath. "Go ahead and use this. We're done."

Mara warily eyed the dripping Jedi, unable to stop herself from admiring his physique. All those Jedi exercises certainly paid off. There was not one ounce of superfluous flesh on him. He was all lean, whipcord strength. She watched him out of the corner of her eye. His muscles rippled when he pulled on a white robe and shot her a look that seemed to say 'This isn't over yet, Jade.'

She walked easily on her injured ankle, but the lingering effects of her dizziness made her vow never to take any medication without researching all possible side effects. Strike that. She vowed to never take any medication at all for any reason. Mara turned and walked away.  At least the medication served to numb her pain well enough so that she could leave Skywalker far behind.

Rein Saben approached him and began to ask about a recent lesson.

Effectively trapped, Luke watched Mara's retreating form, the frustration almost visible in the usually well controlled Master.  Rein Saben paused and asked, "Is there something wrong?"

Luke turned to give the student an apologetic smile, "No.  I'm sorry Rein.  Would it be alright if we continue this conversation in class?" Waves of embarrassment hit the Jedi student, and he hid a wince from the young woman. 

"Yes, yes.  Of course.  I'm so very sorry to bother you, Master."

Mara disappeared around the corner and Luke sighed.  He returned his attention to Rein.  "You misunderstand.  I'm always happy to answer your questions, it's just..."  Luke wanted to tell the student that he was distracted.  That he had to chase after Mara Jade before the situation was completely out of control.  Sith!  He didn't have time for this. But he couldn't tell her anything. As always he was on his own.

Rein's eyes grew wise and she laid a hand on his arm. "I understand. You have your off-duty time too."

Luke jumped at the contact and swore to himself for displaying such a lack of concentration. "Tell that to the New Republic next time the galaxy wants saving," he muttered under his breath. He sighed and mustered from somewhere an apologetic smile. "Forgive me, Rein. I'm not at my best tonight. I've had a difficult few weeks working on behalf of the New Republic and then a long flight. I will schedule time between us later on this week. It's a good thing you are interested in our teaching. You have the potential to become a very good Jedi Knight."

"No, Master Skywalker," the small woman said contritely. "I am the one who is sorry. You do not get much time to relax."

Luke's famous grin emerged. "No I don't, but what would I do with myself otherwise?"

She laughed with him but Rein could see that his mind was elsewhere. The… student he'd been with. That was Mara Jade. She'd heard of her – who hadn't, and the rumours which circulated about Mara and the head of the New Jedi Order. Rumours which spoke of an uneasy alliance leading to possibly a tempestuous affair. It appeared that these rumours could have some basis in fact. Rein Saben hoped it was true, though she doubted it. Luke Skywalker gave everything for others and took little for himself. The couple looked to have been enjoying an harmless evening swim together. Yes, Rein decided. The stories about the pair had gone back years and were probably untrue. He deserved private time with his friends. It couldn't be easy being who he was.  She would have said everything was innocent but she had felt the flash of heat coming from the pair of them earlier.

"Excuse me,"

"Of course, Master Skywalker." Rein watched as he grabbed his robe, throwing it over his still wet body and left the springs.

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He hurried to Mara's room, but the door was closed.  He could sense her inside, but he could not read her emotions.  Luke gazed at the sealed door, wondering if he should knock, but he realized he had no idea what he would say to her.  He ran his hands through his hair and sighed heavily. He turned away on his heel and walked slowly to his room for the night.  Tomorrow would have to do.

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Mara lay awake for most of the night wavering between anger, bewilderment and hope. She continued to replay the events of the night, analyzing them, trying to uncover a truth that was continuing to elude her. How did she really feel about Skywalker? She could no longer deny the powerful attraction and the incredible desire that they shared.  The feel of his well-shaped lips as they'd covered her own had made her burn like nothing ever had before. Had the Jedi's monastic existence finally caught up with him? Had Luke's body finally given into the weakness of feeling normal desires like every other mortal? Did she really care? They were both mature adults able to handle a sexual relationship, but when the passion faded what would remain?  He was her friend, wasn't he?  Friends didn't experience that depth of desire between them. She could hardly believe that she was thinking of Skywalker in this way. When had things changed between them? Or had this potential always been there just resting beneath the surface? What if there could possibly be something more, if their passion continued to build and their feelings escalated into something even deeper?  What then? This thought alarmed her and she punched her pillow, determined to get some sleep. Sleep continued to elude her.

Mara gave up on sleep half way through the night and got ready for the day. She took particular care with her appearance, telling herself that it was due to the extra time she had to dress. She choose a favourite silver form fitting jumpsuit and wove her hair in becoming braids that hung intertwined down her back. It was functional, so the other students would not think anything of her appearance, but it was also undeniably attractive as well. Mara snorted at herself as she inspected her appearance in the mirror. She was trying to attract Luke Skywalker now – perhaps she'd hit her head as well as spraining her ankle? She touched her lips with her fingers remembering their last kiss, and then grimaced.

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Luke also had similar difficulties falling asleep. He savoured the events of the evening, recalling Mara's passionate response and his own surprisingly hard to control desire for the beauty. The way the Force had swelled around them, joining on a level he had never experience, intrigued the Jedi. If just a kiss caused a disturbance the others could sense, he'd probably have the whole student body banging on their door if they progressed any further than the heated exchange in the mineral baths. Luke grinned ear to ear. He had a pretty good idea that his feelings for Mara were more intense and lasting than any he had ever experienced before. She was an extremely strong individual, but skittish about expressing her emotions. Luke knew he had surprised her into revealing an attraction towards him. The next move still had to be his and it had to be the right one.

Luke winced when he remembered Mara's last words last night, "'Are you saying this was a mistake?'"  No wonder she had practically run away. Force, it wasn't a mistake. This was something he should have done years ago. He would have to prove to her that they were meant to be together. It was their destiny.

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