Part Two

When they landed the freighter on the landing dock they were immediately shown to the opulent lobby of the main hotel by a silver protocol droid. Luke cocked her a smile, his blue eyes dancing. He crooked his arm and offered it to Mara, donning his role. She nodded slightly and slipped her arm through his allowing him to set their pace. They followed the highly polished droid to the front desk. The lobby had no walls, just a roof overhead, so the sound of exotic birds filled the air like music and a waterfall on the main grounds lightly misted their faces as they waited for the uniformed human male to notice them.

When he finally realized he had guests standing before him he said, "Oh, I do beg your pardon. I did not mean to make you wait. May I see your Ids?"

Luke hesitated for just a fraction of a second, but Mara covered for him, immediately handing over her forged Id. Luke fumbled slightly, but handed his Id to the attendant, his face calm and composed.

"Very good Mr. And Mrs. Corelio, C3D5 will see you to the honeymoon suite. If you have any questions call us through the terminal conveniently located in the entry alcove of your room. We at Erosia have made it our supreme goal to provide you a pleasurable experience."

Luke fidgeted slightly, but his voice was bold as he asked, "Where are all the other guests?"

The man gave Luke an odd look, but was too well trained to comment on the question. "Most of the guests make use of the facilities in the hotel," he paused meaningfully. Mara sensing the attendant's suspicion, shot Luke a brazenly seductive smile. Luke shifted uncomfortably and his complexion reddened slightly. He could feel his pulse race at the promise in her eyes and he absently reflected that she excelled at undercover work. The man relaxed, his suspicion allayed.

Luke tried again, "I just had heard about all the things there were to do here."

"We do have some self-guided tours of the local sights. There is a complete list of all the options in your room." The man quickly added as if he suddenly realized why Luke had asked the question, "Don't worry, sir. We at Erosia V pride ourselves on ensuring your privacy."

"Let's go see our room, Lucas dear." Mara stressed the name, slightly afraid that Luke was forgetting the role that they were playing. Her mouth was pursed, and he found it impossible to pull his eyes away from her full lips.

Luke sensed her building anxiety and he felt unusually warm. Was it always this hot on Erosia? His pride was stung that Mara doubted his ability to deceive the hotel staff, and he decided it was time to show her just how well he could act.

"That sound's like a wonderful idea, honey." Luke bent down and before Mara guessed his intention, he kissed her. His lips were warm and gentle. At first she didn't respond, somewhat taken aback by his confidence and to be completely honest with herself, also profoundly effected by his touch.

Then she heard Luke's voice challenge in her head, I thought you were the pro at undercover work.

The quicksilver anger that rose within her broke her momentary lethargy. You've seen nothing yet, Skywalker!

She threw her arms around Luke's neck and began to respond heatedly. Mara's heart beat too fast and when she felt Luke's stunned reaction she was filled with a sense of satisfaction. He pulled her against him, so that the entire world melted away. There was just the two of them engaged in something that started as a battle and was evidently becoming something more.

It was a moment before they heard the hotel attendant clear his throat, a sense of humorous acceptance emanating from the man. All of his previous suspicion was gone from his mind. "C3D5, why don't you show our guests to their suite?"

Luke broke away first and Mara slowly opened her eyes to see the Jedi Master grinning down at her.

Mara felt her face flush realizing that the Jedi had successfully goaded her into revealing more than she would care to admit. She mentally reviewed what had transpired, wondering if she had let her barriers slip when she was in Luke's arms. She hoped he hadn't read the thoughts that had started to become increasingly harder to suppress. She wanted to glare at him, but was prevented from doing so if she wanted to maintain their cover.

I'll deal with you later, Jedi. Mara said in his mind, making his title sound like an insult.

Promises, Promises. Luke teased, unable to restrain himself. The curve of his smile grew even wider.

Any hint of warmth she might have felt toward the Jedi melted away in the heat of her growing ire. He was so damned infuriating sometimes. Mara studiously ignored Luke and followed the protocol droid to the elevator. When the lift doors closed Luke turned to the droid, "Is this the only hotel on Erosia V?"

The droid turned to the Jedi and positively glowed with enthusiasm, "Why yes, this is the only hotel on this planet. Erosia V is sparsely populated, with no indigenous sentient life. Other than a few private homes and one mining facility on the far side of the planet, this is the only settlement."

This peaked her curiosity. Mara's questioned, "Mining facility?"

"Yes a Mr. Lando Calrissian owns a very profitable enterprise mining zurenium ore. It is prized for its high quality and powerful aphrodisiac properties."

Mara felt her face tighten and she avoided eye contact with the Jedi beside her.

Luke raised and eyebrow and inquired, "Aphrodisiac properties?"

C3D5 began to explain, "An aphrodisiac is a substance used in some humanoid races to heighten sexual . . ."

"Yes, yes, I think we know what an aphrodisiac is." Mara cut off the didactic monologue.

Luke shot her a grateful glance, and she was charmed by his embarrassment. He was so often the calm Jedi Master, that whenever she saw glimpses of his homespun beginnings she was captivated anew. He was such a study in contrasts.

The droid continued in its modulated voice, "Oh, then perhaps you were interested in purchasing some for yourself? It is on the room service menu under the heading "Pleasure enhancements." The lift doors opened and the droid shuffled down the dimly lit corridors.

Mara raised an eyebrow at Luke, wondering if she could make him blush. He colored to a predictable shade of red, but then said, "No I don't think that will be necessary."

Mara turned away unsure if he was playing their part for the benefit of the protocol droid, or if he was reminding Mara of their kiss in the lobby. "Is there no end to Lando's business ventures?" Mara whispered to Luke under her breath in an attempt to change the subject.

Luke just shook his head minutely and they entered the hall. Golden mirrors coated every surface so that the various doors were almost invisible if not for the indicator light above each entry. Red lights glowing into the infinite.

"Follow me please." The droid stopped next to the closest glowing light and punched a code into a panel recessed beside the door. He repeated the number for their benefit. Both Mara and Luke memorized the code quickly as the mirrored door faded away revealing an opening.

Warm amber lights glowed as they entered the suite. Tropical plants lined the walls so that it was as if they were in a small garden and not inside a building. A large bed covered by shiny bronze material and a multitude of pillows dominated the main room. Mara felt her body grow warm and her breathing became labored. She wondered if Calrissian had anything to do with the operation of this resort, or had been a consultant to the decor. She'd seen his apartment on Coruscant. There was no denying the purpose of the design. This place's sole objective was seduction. No matter where she turned her gaze, she was unable to dispel the image of that inviting bed.

Luke had his back to her as he transferred some credits to the droid on a small datapad, while Mara moved as casually as she could away from the bed to inspect the rest of the room. There was an intimate kitchen alcove with a small table that seated only two at one end, and a large bathroom with an enormous shower and deep tub big enough to swim across.

She entered the bathroom, eager to put some distance between her and the Jedi. When she worked the controls, a steam of fine mist erupted from the ceiling, scenting the room. She quickly jabbed the switch off, cutting off the cascade. Mara did not try any of the other switches, instead returning to the main room. Perhaps, if she could do something to dispel the inviting atmosphere and the lure of the bed. Mara attempted to adjust the lighting, but it seemed that there was only one setting, low. Bells rang hauntingly in the background through some sort of centralized sound system. She was able to turn the volume down, but she didn't know if it only made matters worse. Now the low music sounded like a subliminal throbbing, almost more erotic than the evocative bells.

Mara could control herself; she was not going to allow an inviting atmosphere to get to her. After all, despite the similarly alluring décor in Calrissian's apartment, she had fended off all his advances with ease. Why should this be any different? Her gaze drifted back to regard Skywalker and her courage wavered. He had changed clothing just prior to departing the ship. His muscular build was discernible through the thin cloth of the non-descript flight suit, and his blond hair gleamed in the low lighting. Lando Calrissian was no Luke Skywalker.

Luke had felt his spine go rigid the moment they had entered the room. He closed his eyes, with his back to Mara hoping the droid would not comment on his expression. Fortunately, the protocol droid was so busy explaining the various features and options available to them, that he failed to notice Luke's preoccupation. The man slowly opened his eyes wondering how he was going to stay in this room with Mara without revealing the desire he firmly held in check. It was one thing, to fall back on the excuse of their pretense. But that would only go so far as long as they were in the privacy of their room. They had to leave this room as quickly as possible. He was no longer just fearing for the safety of his family, he was also fearing for his own sanity. He quickly paid the droid and watched longingly as the silver figure disappeared down the hallway.

Mara heard the front door close, and Luke seemed suddenly very interested in the computer alcove. He went through every menu at least three times, and she was tempted to ask him if he had memorized the contents yet. A small smile curved her lips, the Jedi was just as uncomfortable as she was about their environment. She decided to give him some space. Mara moved to inspect the shuttered window. She punched a button and the metallic shades slid quickly into the sills, eliciting an involuntary gasp from the woman.

His adrenalin spiked when he heard her quick intake of breath. Luke turned, lightsaber in hand, only to lower it when he realized what had startled Mara. They were at least a thousand meters from the ground and a multicolored sky swirled like a giant oil painting. The clouds were all shades of blue, green, and reds. It was truly magnificent. The ground was so distant, it appeared to be another shade of green in the distance, providing a bottom frame. Distracted by the view, Luke was free to gaze at Mara without her knowledge. She was stunningly beautiful. Her red-gold hair seemed to glow in the dim lighting and her tenacity and courage drew him like a mynock to a power cable.

He stepped forward slowly. Mara turned to face him. Luke's hair was a burnished gold in the reddish sunlight that added very little illumination to their room. He gazed at her with an intensity that made her mouth go dry. She knew with utter certainty that if she continued to stand unmoving, Luke would kiss her. There was something about this place, no she had to be honest with herself. There was something about this man, that made it impossible for her to ignore him. She was tempted to give in to the impulse. He hesitated and she wondered what would happen if she attempted to seduce him. Later, she could blame the environment or her hormones, but she knew that she wouldn't. The danger was too great. Mara could not just have a casual fling with Skywalker. It would destroy them. She had to get out of this room quickly. By the smoldering look in his eyes, she knew she could not resist him if he kissed her. Events would take their natural course. Her gaze darted to the bed just a few centimeters away, and their friendship that had taken so long to build would be gone forever.

Mara retreated a step and asked, "Have you sensed Leia since we arrived?"

Luke paused his forward momentum, his focus turning outward for a moment. "I can sense her nearby but she seems to be in no real danger. In fact, she seems to be . . . quite satisfied."

At the disconcerted look on his face, Mara grinned. "Maybe she's taking this vacation to heart?" Mara looked meaningfully at the cushioned bed.

Luke reddened and said, "I guess it's always possible. I know I sensed danger earlier. I still would like to check things out."

Mara raised her eyebrows and Luke felt a huge grin spread across his mouth. He tried to cover it with his hand and began laughing instead. "That isn't what I mean, not that the thought doesn't have some appeal."

Mara felt a warmth suffuse her being and she made her way to the bathroom. His honesty was refreshing and it buoyed her spirits. "At least you have the courage to admit it, farmboy. I'm going to make use of that enormous tub." She closed the door deliberately with a resounding thud. Mara relaxed against the closed doorway, feeling some of the tension ease from her shoulders. She could sense Luke's laughter even though it was quiet in the other room.

After a long soak in the tub, Mara emerged with her hair wrapped in a towel and wearing one of the hotel robes. She was surprised to find the room empty. Luke's bag was open and a datapad was lying conspicuously, beckoning to her. Mara went over to the unit and pressed a button.

A text message scrolled quickly across the screen. "Went down to the guest services lobby to see if I can find out anything. I'll be back soon. L."

Mara was extremely irritated that Skywalker had left her behind. She tugged the towel angrily from her hair letting it drop to the ground. She picked up the datapad and stuffed it back into the Jedi's bag. Her hand brushed against something sharp cutting the edge of her finger. Without thinking, Mara pulled the item from the inner recesses of the bag. It was a holoplate. She pushed a button wondering what image Skywalker had stored in the unit, and when the picture coalesced before her she collapsed in a seated position on the bed, unable to exhale. The holo had been taken at a social function they had both attended a couple years ago. Mara and Luke were grinning at each other like the best of friends or even. . . like lovers. Mara was wearing a black and silver form fitting gown and Luke was dressed in his customary black. She was gazing up at Luke and he was looking down at her with an amused affection.

There was something in his eyes that seemed to indicate that his feelings were more intense then normally expressed by platonic friends. She had not noticed his expression at the time when the picture had been taken. They looked like a happy couple, as if they had come together. She could almost imagine that they were on a date, or an anniversary, from the pose and expressions captured in the holo. Mara had remembered the time when the holographer had captured the image, mistakenly believing they had attended the event as a couple. No wonder the holographer had believed that. Mara had secretly wanted to purchase a copy of the holo, but did not want the Jedi to wonder why she would be so inclined.

Obviously, she was not alone in that desire. There was a tentative knock on the door and Mara shoved the picture back in to the bag. She suppressed a guilty flush, and managed to calm herself to face the Jedi. She could sense Luke's presence on the other side of the door and projected to him Come in.

Mara quickly secured her robe and moved to her own bag to gather a change of clothes.

When Luke entered the room laden down with bags, he was surprised by the sight that greeted him. He could feel his smiled slipping from his face when he saw her in a low cut robe with her wild curls clinging damply to her forehead and shoulders. A Jedi knows no passion, he told himself.

His pale face filled Mara with satisfaction. "Sorry, I forgot to grab a change of clothes before I got into the tub."

"You could have asked me to bring your luggage to you." He set the bags down on the small kitchen table.

Mara raised an eyebrow and Luke coughed and turned his head. "Yeah . . . . Well . . . I brought you some flowers."

Luke produced a vibrant bouquet of cloned Alderaanian lilies. "I thought if I was buying you a gift, it would be a good excuse to leave you back in the room." Luke said lamely.

"Thinking in character, I like it. You're getting good at this." Too good, Mara added as she took the flowers and placed them in a vase set into the window sill. How did Luke know that these were her favorite? Or was it just a coincidence?

Luke watched her eyes travel over the beautiful blooms, wondering if she appreciated the flowers. When he had seen them in the shop, they had reminded him of Mara, beautiful and incredibly rare. As she placed them in the vase, he noticed blood on her finger.

Luke grabbed her hand and said, "You're bleeding."

Mara felt a flush stain her cheeks and she made sure her barriers were firmly in place, "It's nothing." She snatched her hand out of his grasp and wiped the blood on the discarded towel.

Luke looked at her speculatively then said, "There's dancing scheduled to start shortly and I thought it would be our best opportunity to learn anything, to mingle with the natives, so to speak. I could get cleaned up while I let you have some privacy to dress."

"Alright." Mara nodded and Luke grabbed his bag and entered the bathroom.

The red haired woman chose a close fitting red-gold outfit that exactly matched the shade of her hair. She pinned her hair up so that just a few tendrils curled enticingly around her face and neck. She applied make up that made her eyes almost seem wider than normal. She inspected her appearance in the tinted mirrored walls and decided that she looked better than average and smiled slyly. Even though she had decided it was best that Skywalker and she stayed friends, she could not help wanting to make him sweat.

While the tub filled with water, Luke withdrew a dark gray dress suit and with a short tapered cape that was the latest fashion. It wasn't exactly his style, but then again, he wasn't supposed to be Luke Skywalker. As he pulled out his boots, the holoplate that had been tucked into his bag plummeted toward the floor. He caught it with the Force a moment before it shattered, and slowly levitated it back to his hand. He activated it, knowing what he would see. He had memorized every detail of the holo years ago. He brought it everywhere he went, for some reason, finding it impossible to leave behind. This fact use to drive Callista crazy. He wondered why that thought had occurred to him just now. He hadn't thought of Callista in a long time. He tried to recall her face, but the image of a beautiful woman with flame hair and emerald eyes dominated his mind. No matter how hard he tried, he couldn't bring Callista's face into focus. It didn't really matter, she was a part of his past.

He was about to turn the holoprojector off when he noticed the drop of drying blood on the sharp edge of the frame. He touched it tentatively and immediately remembered the cut he had seen on Mara's hand. No wonder she had acted so odd when he had asked her about it. For a moment, he was angry. He felt betrayed that she stooped to searching his bag when he was gone, until he remembered the datapad. She must have inadvertently discovered it when she had returned the datapad to his satchel. Luke wrapped the picture in a hand towel and put it carefully away.

The Jedi turned off the water and slowly stepped into the steaming tub. His mind were racing. What had Mara thought when she had discovered the picture? Why did he even keep the picture? He didn't even carry a holo of his family every where he went. He certainly never kept a picture of Callista. Why did he refuse to leave this image? He sent a Force tendril to tentatively probe the ex-Emperor's hand, but her shields were affixed firmly in place.

It was too early for dancing, so they had decided to search for Han and Leia's room. Luke and Mara walked through the labyrinthine corridors with a studied casualness. After they past the first couple, Mara took Luke's hand and smiled warmly at the newcomers. The strangers returned the silent greeting with indifferent politeness, just as eager to be on their way. Their fingers remained entwined and Luke had difficulty concentrating on anything but the feel of Mara's warm, smooth skin.

"I thought I saw a control room in an alcove right beside the main lift. If you can distract the attendant, I'll slice my way into the system and find the Solo's room number."

Her voice thrummed through Luke's body, and he pulled his mind away from their joined hands to her words.

"This would have been a whole lot easier if we brought Artoo with us." Luke complained mildly.

"It's bad enough that your face is recognizable throughout the entire galaxy. If you had brought him, there would have been little doubt as to your true identity," she said. It was obvious that they had had this discussion before.

"I could have rather darkened my hair and grown a beard." Luke muttered.

Mara shook her head, not sure how to voice her objection to this idea. She liked him just the way he was. "It wasn't necessary." She said, a slight edge of embarrassment in her voice.

Luke grinned, more than willing to leave his astromech droid behind if only to witness Mara's reluctance to change his appearance.

"Come on." Mara said gruffly, "Let's just do this thing. It can't be too difficult. I doubt their security is too difficult to crack. . . ."Mara's voice trailed off when a gleaming red protocol droid ambled by.

"Excuse me." Luke inquired asked the passing droid.

"May I be of service, gentle being?"

"I'm so glad that you came along."

The light in the droid's eyes positively glowed with enthusiasm "It is my pleasure to serve you."

"This place is so grand, I'm a little embarrassed to admit it, but my wife and I can't find our room."

Mara felt a jolt course through her body the moment Luke called her his wife. She tried to hide her reaction from the Jedi.

"This is the premiere hotel for the entire sector, it's perfectly understandable that someone unfamiliar with the layout might loose their way. What is your room number?"

"Uh. . .Dear, do you remember our number?" He tightened his grip on her hand and her eyes grew wide.

Mara's face was blank and she replied, "I thought you stored in on your datacube, which I think is in your luggage in the room."

"Don't worry. I'm programmed with all the guest information as well as hundreds of possible itineraries . . ."

"Then you'd be able to tell us our number." Luke prompted.

"That's what I believe I just said. What is your name?" The droid responded, his voice tone so similar to Threepio's that Luke had a hard time suppressing a smile.

After a brief hesitation Luke answered, "Han Solo."

"Right, this way kind beings. No need to be embarrassed. It actually happens quite frequently. Why I remember the time. . . ."

Mara tuned the droids rambling out and sent to Luke Nice going.

He smiled politely at the droid and then grinned widely in triumph to Mara. This expression was all the encouragement the protocol droid needed to regal them with more examples of his usefulness and all the numerous tasks he performs.

Luke's finger rested against a vein at her wrist and he could feel her fluttery, erratic pulse. Was Mara anxious? Luke smiled reassuringly to the beauty and felt her pulse leap in response. His own heart increased in tempo and he felt a rush of adrenalin that had nothing to do with their mission to investigate Han and Leia's room. It was odd really, how effected Luke was by the simple joining of their hands. The faintly unfamiliar experience of sharing this outward sign of affection, admittedly for the sake of any casual observer made him acutely aware of her as a woman and he realized how much he enjoyed the touch of her hand. Luke found himself wishing that she had chosen to clasp his hand, not because it would aide them in their pretense, but because she yearned for the contact.

He squeezed her hand reflexively and she stumbled slightly. Mara turned her head away and casually untangled her fingers from his grip. Luke silently cursed himself and felt the palm of his hand grow cold from the absence of her warmth. She kept her head turned away and Luke felt a flash of embarrassment in her sense.

He suppressed a smile, realizing that she was not as unaffected by him as she would like him to believe.

The droid gestured to the door and said, "There you are."

"Thank you. You won't let anyone know that we got lost will you?"

"I will wipe the incident from my memory banks." The droid assured them as he ambled off.

They weren't sure if the droid would actually do what he said, but they really didn't worry too much about the staff knowing that the Solos were a little feeble minded.

Luke asked, "Do you think you can get the door open?"

"I should be able to." Mara mumbled. Her red gold hair fell like a curtain across her check, shielding her face from his gaze.

When he had gathered enough courage on the ship to kiss Mara, he had told himself that if it proved to be an absolute disaster he could always fall back on the excuse of their pretence. He had been encouraged by her response and her reaction shortly after had made it evident that she was attracted to him.

Luke had always found Mara to be a beautiful woman. He respected her abilities, but no matter his inclination and his deeply buried infatuation with her, Luke had always believed that Mara barely tolerated him. He believed that she reluctantly accepted his friendship. He knew she was uncomfortable with displays of emotion, but he only now began to realize that her anger and icy demeanor might in fact be a way of denying a shared attraction. Once this thought had coalesced in his mind, Luke couldn't seem to think of anything else.

The Jedi moved closer to her on the pretext of blocking her from any observers. She glanced up, her face flushing. Mara's fluid movements faltered the moment he neared and she cursed under her breath. With his Force sense trained on her reactions, Luke detected her sudden flare of awareness.

He wanted to feel guilty for not remaining focused on their task at hand, but he did not believe that they were in any real peril. He found Mara's response to his proximity incredibly revealing. She had returned his kiss with a passion that equaled his own, but until now he had not been sure if her reaction had been a result of either loneliness or some sort of reflection through the Force of his own desire. He had been afraid, that somehow he had projected his own emotion into her and that he had experienced a false passion. This fear had undermined his confidence. But he wasn't kissing her now. He wasn't even touching her and they were still incredibly attuned to each other.

"Luke? What's the matter?"

He focused his gaze on her face, realizing that she had said something to him, but he had been lost in thought. "Huh? Oh, nothing."

"You seemed like you were somewhere in the Outer Rim."

"Sorry. I guess I'm just a little distracted."

"It's a good thing you didn't go on this mission by yourself."

"You're right, I'm glad that I have you with me." He agreed.

"When you were floating in space dust, I was asking if you could sense your sister in there."

After a moment's pause, Luke shook his head. "No. She's not inside."

"Then let's see what we can learn."

Mara opened the door and they went inside. The dim light brightened to display a grander version of their own room. It appeared unoccupied. If it wasn't for the suitcase in the corner, they would have believed they had discovered the wrong room.

As Mara's gaze traveled the tidy room, her mind wandered to the blond man standing beside her. She flexed her fingers wonderingly, marveling at the way Skywalker's touch had left her skin tingling. She could still feel the way his strong hand had warmed her through to the root of her soul.

She darted a quick, sidelong glance only to see the Jedi regarding her with his penetrating gaze. They stood like that immobile for a long moment until Luke flushed slightly and said, "They've been here, and I can sense that Leia's close by." He indicated the small bag on the 'fresher vanity counter.

Mara glanced in the disposal unit and saw the evidence of a recent meal on along the chute's edges.

"They've been here recently. Looks like they tried the Bothan stew."

"I guess that means that they won't be at dinner?"

"Probably not, but it wouldn't hurt to see if we can learn anything."

Skywalker's stomach growled at these words and Mara laughed. The slight tension that had begun to grown between them vanished instantly.

"You wouldn't be motivated to go down to the dinning room for another reason, would you farm boy?"

"I do think better with a full stomach, and besides, I've heard they have the best nerf steaks in the galaxy."

Night had fallen and when they entered the large dining area, the first thing Luke noticed was the roiling iridescent clouds overhead. The night air was cool, but not uncomfortable even for someone accustomed to the desert heat of Tatooine.

Luke notice that even Mara was taken aback by the beauty of the garden. Private booths were tucking into verdant alcoves, so that it was nearly impossible to see any of the other guests. Mara leaned close to Luke and he felt his heart begin to pound. For a moment he thought she was going to kiss him, but she whispered instead. "Sith, this place is impossible. We're never going to find them this way." She was oblivious to the thoughts surging through his brain.

He wanted to agree but he was startled when a naked woman approached them. Her lack of attire stunned him, which Mara mistook for appreciation. He wanted to explain to her that although he was a seasoned traveler, he still wasn't used to differing customs of dress, or undress as the case may be.

She glared at him as the woman gestured for them to follow her to a table. He realized that this must be one of the many pleasure servants mentioned under the room's list of services.

Luke donned his Jedi Master face and followed the woman to their reserved alcove. She flashed him a smile, but was immediately put off by his indifference. The numerous green trees and flowering bushes created intimate barriers. It felt like he and Mara were in paradise. This really was a wonderful place, and he made a vow to himself that someday he'd come here to enjoy the atmosphere.

Mara felt as if her stomach were a boiling pit of lava. She continued to glare at Luke.

He could feel her emotions and he realized that she was jealous. This was getting better and better.

"You're beautiful when you're jealous."

"I am not jealous, I'm just worried about our cover." Even to her own ears it sounded lame. She tried to put the Jedi out of her mind, but he looked so damned good across the table.

He reached across the table and took her hand. Mara clasped his palm, not because she was getting into her role, but because it was the most natural thing in the galaxy to do. He looked deeply into her eyes, seeking reflexively for something through the Force. Her Force sense enveloped him in warmth, suffusing him with her being. He hadn't known what he was doing, he had been acting on sheer instinct, and Mara, it appeared, had responded automatically. He allowed his unspoken longing to be conveyed to her, his unrelenting yearning to bask in her very essence. She was startled by this exchange, but did not pull away. She was just as transfixed, captivated by this spiritual touching.

They did not speak of the power of this exchange. It was too real to deny, too beautiful to be real.

They realize they were no longer alone. Another attendant stood beside the table.

Mara pulled back her hand, and dropped her gaze. "Go ahead and order. I'm going to find the 'fresher."

She left quickly.

Her first reflexive impulse was to avoid any deeper entanglement with the Jedi. But her more practical, honest side counseled her and reassured her. It encouraged her to be upfront about her responses, and to ask him about the unexpected and absolutely wonderful expression through their bond. She had never felt such fulfillment or acceptance before and he had only been touching her hand.

By the Maker, she wanted him. She had moved beyond all her rational responses, all her words of caution, how they were so different, how she didn't deserve him, and that he was too good for her. If she were to picture the man who would be her mate, it should be someone more practical like Talon Karrde, more worldly like Han Solo, and with a soul as soiled as a Hutt. She was darkness where he was light, but she was selfish too. If he was not willing to see how wrong he was then, she would take all that he would give. Somehow this rationale comforted her, and she understood why. It made her unlikely pairing with Skywalker sane.

Mara examined her face in the mirror and was surprised to see someone else watching her, when she turned the woman disappeared. There was something vaguely familiar about her features, but Mara couldn't concentrate at the moment. When she returned to the table she saw their food had arrived but Skywalker had disappeared.

He returned quickly. "Come on." He gestured, the food left uneaten.

Mara followed him, unquestioningly.

Luke showed her to an area where dinner was a communal affair. There was an enormous angular table with hundreds of beings talking and eating together. There were beings from numerous races and all parts of the galaxy partaking of the evening meal. The sheer volume of diners lent an air of anonymity to their arrival. No one notice their approach or took particular notice of their presence.

They were seated next to a couple engaged in a passionate kiss, surrounded by a group of humans. There was no sign of Han or Leia, but they sat down hoping to learn something from the group. The couple disentangled themselves to exchange brief introductions, and they were introduced to the other couples seated around them. Mara was amazed that no one even suspected their identities. She supposed that it was either proof of the vastness of the galaxy, that not all of her denizens recognized the New Republic hero, Luke Skywalker, or they were so out of place here that even if recognition began to surface in their minds, it was quickly suppressed. Since when did the Jedi Master Skywalker and the ex-Emperor's hand go to a romantic retreat together?

The conversation largely centered around the local excursions. One couple told them of their climb to the highest peak on Erosia V where they had stayed at a permanent camp ground. There they were actually surrounded by the iridescent clouds and the faint phosphorescence coated their skin so that when night fell their bodies glowed softly in the darkness.

"It was incredibly erotic." The woman assured Mara, nudging her arm conspiratorially.

"Well have to see if we can fit it into our schedule activities," Mara assured the woman.

Mara met Luke's gaze as the woman said, "You better go soon, your husband seems pretty eager."

Luke blushed profusely and turned his head away. He began to question the man seated across from him at the table. He was embarrassed, avoiding her gaze.

Mara regarded him speculatively and asked the woman, "You think so, huh?"

"Can't you tell? You're newlyweds, I know, but I can sense you love each other deeply. Your young man is shy. I think that's sweet. You're going to have to be frank with your feelings, tell him what you want to get him to be more open with you."

"Oh really." Mara said suggestively. Luke had heard this exchange and was watching them openly.

He smiled hesitantly at Mara. "Oh I try to tell her how I feel all the time, Mrs. Drayton. Jadine, knows how much I love her."

Mara turned her head away, unable to control her expression and maintain the pretence.

The woman said, "Why don't you kiss her. No one will think the less of you. It's perfectly alright, in fact it's expected on Erosia V to show your love publicly."

Mara replied, "Oh, I don't know. We've been together too long. We don't do that anymore."

"Oh come off it dear. We'll help you. Go on, kiss your husband."

Mara took a deep breath and then leaned toward Luke. She intended to give him the merest brush of her lips, hoping it would be enough to satisfy the curiosity she sensed growing in their onlookers. But the instant her lips made contact with Luke's mouth, his arms wrapped around her, holding her close. He closed his eyes and began to move his mouth in ways that made her whole body flush and her mind spin. She felt as if she were trapped in a ship caught half way between normal and hyperspace, careening out of control.

She wasn't sure how long they stayed that way, but the woman's voice broke through her daze, "There now. I think your husband has got the right idea."

Mara opened her eyes to meet Luke's gaze. She knew that her desire for him showed blatantly on her face and he whispered her name so low that only she could hear. The very timbre, the dark intensity to his voice made her body flush with anticipation, "Mara."

Mara felt like she should remind him to call her by her assumed name 'Jadine', but the fact that he called her by her real name made her breathless. Luke raised his hand and brushed the side of her face. She tipped her head into his hand, and she saw his eyes dilate in response. She opened her mouth, and realized she had no idea what she wanted to say to him.

She pulled reluctantly away and turned to the woman on the other side of her, "I met a couple here the other day, I wondered if you might have seen them? A very nice woman about my height with dark hair and dark eyes. I think her name was Leia?"

"The woman from Alderaan?"

"Yes, that's right." Mara agreed eagerly.

"They came to dinner once, but I don't think the crowd appealed to them."

"Do you know where they might have gone? She's a friend of mine and I have something I wanted to return to her."

"You're not one of those holo vid reporters are you?"

"Why do you ask?"

The woman looked at her slyly. "I know who your friend Leia really is. I'd recognize that face anywhere. That was Mara Jade and I think the man with her was Luke Skywalker."

Mara just about choked on her food. Luke chuckled behind his hand.

Mara didn't even have to pretend that she was surprised, "Really? I just met her the other night."

"Yeah. I over heard them saying something about a mission for the New Republic and they mentioned a name, Lando Calrissian. Isn't he the man that owns the Millennium Raptor or something."

"Falcon." Mara supplied, not wanting to correct her on all the details.

"That's it. I thought I had heard that name before. Just give your item to the front desk. I don't think you'll be seeing them again here. You might catch a glimpse of them in the dance hall. I'm pretty sure I saw them there just the other night."

"Thanks."

The woman regarded Mara carefully, "Haven't I seen you before?"

"Yeah. I work for Novanet. I'll be sure to give you're a credit in my next holo report."

"I knew it." Satisfaction oozed from her in waves.

"Lucas, I think we'd better get going. It's getting late." Mara said pointedly.

Luke nodded. He stood up and followed her out of the room.

"Where to next?" he asked.

"I was thinking about a certain mountain top. . . ."

Luke gaped at her.

Mara laughed as they left the dining hall behind. "Later. For now, let's go dancing."

They were escorted by a Twi'lek attendant to the dancing hall. The hall was amazing, more a cave than a room. It had smooth walls with deceptively small alcoves curtained by waterfalls and small placid pools. It had the allure of privacy, but it did not take long to realize that it was all a cleverly constructed illusion. The room was simply enormous and was probably filled with numerous couples each secured in their privacy both visually and auditory by the plentiful waterfalls.

Luke grew very still and from the faint ripple of shock and the expression on his face, Mara deduced that they had found the setting of his disturbing vision. Slow seductive music filled their assigned alcove and they made a show of being pleased at the atmosphere in an attempt to get the slender Twi'lek woman to leave them alone.

After a brief hesitation, Mara placed her arms around his neck, and Luke placed his hands on her hips. They began to dance, slowly swaying to the seductive music. Mara leaned into Luke and they moved as one with an easy grace. The attendant saw that she was no longer needed and departed quickly.

Mara gazed into Luke's face. His eyes were hooded, his expression unreadable.

"How do you want to do this?" Luke asked.

At first she didn't know what he was talking about. She enjoyed feeling his body moving in tandem with hers, the feel of him pressed against her. Desire clouded her mind, and she shook her head reflexively trying to clear her thoughts. "Right." She tried to think about their goal, finding it difficult as she gazed into his entrancingly blue eyes. His unwavering gaze combined with the occasional brush of his firm body caused tingles of awareness to cascade through the length of her body. Mara managed with great effort, to sustain their easy rhythm and suggested, "I think we should split up to search the area. If anyone asks, we could say that we were seeking a bartender droid. This should be our rendezvous point, so meet back here as quickly as possible."

Luke nodded and said, "Be careful and don't be afraid to call if you need help. We don't need to maintain our "cover" at the expense of safety."

"All right. And if you do find a bartender droid, buy me a drink. I could use a Mandalorian Mead."

Luke smiled and nodded. "Be careful." They regarded each other for a moment, continuing to dance even after they had made this plan to go their separate ways. He was enjoying this moment with the beautiful Jedi, and he was reluctant to pull away. He didn't know when he would ever have the chance to hold her like this again. Although, after their mission was done, he was going to make sure that he figured out a way for them to have many more moments like this.

Mara gave him a rare smile and answered without any sarcasm. "I'm always careful. Don't forget to watch your back too, Lucas." She emphasized his assumed name, gently reminding Luke of his assumed role.

"Of course, Jadine." The Jedi grudgingly released her. Mara stood back and their eyes held for the span of a few heart beats. Then she turned around, disappearing through the narrow, smoothly sanded corridor. Luke watched her go feeling as if he had let another opportunity slip through his fingers. He raked his hand through his hair, feeling at a loss. He was finding it difficult to remember the reason that they had come to Erosia V in the first place. He had to find Leia and Han before he could work out his relationship with Mara. He began to search the area, taking the opposite path, moving further away from Mara.

The cave walls glistened with moisture and some sort of metallic rock. Mara slipped past a human couple that were so absorbed in each other that they were never aware of her passage. They were entwined, their love evident in every gesture. The man nuzzled the woman's neck and she moaned with abandon.

Mara paused feeling slightly voyeuristic and wished that she could feel that free to express her emotions. It was at that instant that she knew with a clarity that was almost terrifying-- she was in love with Luke Skywalker. Shaken, her feet moved quickly as she put distance between her and the loving couple in the alcove. She continued to search for the Solos, but besides noticing that she did not spy her target, she perceived little else. Her mind was trapped in a loop, too stunned and overwhelmed by this revelation about a certain Jedi Master.

How long had she felt this way? Mara's mind recalled the very first time she had laid eyes on the Jedi. She remembered how her heart had pounded, and how she had been so attuned to him. She had believed this to be the result of her consuming anger, and their dreaded, adversarial destiny. Then, she realized that despite this belief, how she had always found excuses to stay her hand and not fulfill the Emperor's last command. Mara recognized the tearing pain that had almost debilitated her emotionally when she had watched Luke fall in love repeatedly, and then remembered the selfish relief when those loves were no longer in his life. She had thought she was so in control, but obviously her heart had been a traitor. She had long ago lost any ability to call it her own.

Mara relived their kiss on the Freighter, Uncharted Territory, and her heart began hammering in her chest. She recalled the many looks, the feel of his hand in hers, the wonderful Force exchange at dinner, and that last kiss. But it was the little things that she could not deny. Although not easy to dismiss, she could explain away her passion for Skywalker. But she could not explain how she craved his proximity, how the merest brush of his hand made her skin burn. Just a look or a smile from the Jedi could make her heart melt. By the Maker, she loved him with a ferocity that was almost scary.

She stopped for a moment and leaned against a wall, out of sight from the casual observer. She wanted to regain control before she faced Luke again. Mara remembered the holo she had discovered in Luke's bag - the picture of the two of them. What if this time she wasn't alone in her feelings? Mara felt a smile spread uncontrollably across her face. Hope filled her heart and she quickly raised her mental shields so that the Jedi could not sense the sudden burst of joy that speared through her. She knew Luke was physically attracted to her, but what if they shared something more? Could it be that neither of them wanted to jeopardize their friendship to risk something more? Luke was an incredibly brave man when it came to saving others, but perhaps he was not so ready to imperil his heart. She knew he had been disappointed in love many times before, perhaps he was not willing to risk heartbreak again.

She moved silently through the alcoves until she spotted a couple dancing serenely beside one of the waterfalls. As she neared, she recognized Leia and Han Solo. She halted mid-stride, afraid they would sense her approach. It was too late. Leia's gaze turned unerringly in her direction. Mara dashed off before the woman could say anything. There was no evidence that the couple was in any harm, and hoped that her rapid retreat, would make the Solos figure that they had made a mistake. They would not expect to see Mara here. It was possible that they would quickly dismiss any pursuit. She moved faster than caution warranted and felt certain after a few minutes that she had successfully evaded the Solos.

Mara paused for a moment to get her barring, and grew cold and still as a statue. A blond man embraced a woman with malt colored hair just a few paces away.

Luke and Callista!

Luke held the woman in his arms, dancing slowly. There was an intensity to their gaze that made her heart turn to ice. Mara shielded her presence, her shock making her immobile. They were speaking intently, too low for Mara to make out there words. Luke searched Callista's face, and Mara felt her world shatter into a million pieces. She slowly backed away. What a fool she was! How could she ever think that an ex-Emperor's hand and a Jedi Master could ever be together? Unwilling to face them, Mara pivoted on her heel and ran right into Leia.

Leia held out her hands, regaining her balance quickly. "Mara. I thought it was you but I couldn't believe my eyes."

Mara's throat was as tight as a fist. Even if she could speak, she doubted she could manage anything civil. Leia raised a delicately arched eyebrow when she caught sight of her brother in the alcove just beyond them.

"So Callista and Luke are together again. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it myself."

Her words gave the scene an indisputable reality that Mara found devastating. Leia's gaze flew to Mara's face, probing her lightly with the Force.

Han joined them. He gazed at Mara saw her stricken expression, then he caught sight of the couple behind her. He opened his mouth then closed it again. Shock radiated from the man and he commented wryly, "Looks like a regular reunion."

Mara turned reflexively and wished that she hadn't. She watched in mute horror as Callista reached for Luke. Her hand cupped the back of his neck, and Luke bent down to meet her lips. They kissed. Mara's emotions spiraled out of control, and she knew it was only a matter of moments before she crumpled under the weight of her despair. She turned away, her vision had become blurred. She could not meet either of the Solo's eyes and knew that if she said something her voice would break. If she tried a false smile, her face would betray her. Mara could feel the up swell of emotion and before she broke down in front of them, She fled.

"What the . . ." Han said as he watched the red-haired Jedi disappear around the corner.

Leia's eyes were wide and she placed a hand on her husband's arm. "She's in love with Luke, Han." Leia breathed in awe.

Han raised an eyebrow and said, "Poor kid."

"I never thought I'd ever see that happen and now she's too late. I sometimes wondered if she felt more for luke than friendship but I was never certain."

"As I said, the poor kid. I'm talking about Luke this time, sweetheart."

"Yes." Leia shared a grim look with her husband.

"There's nothing we can do about this now. Just let them be." He drew his wife back into the haven of his arms and Leia let her head rest on his shoulder. Both of them truly thankful that their love was reciprocated by the other.

Mara didn't think about where she was going and tried not to think about what Leia and Han must have thought. Somehow, she managed to make it back to the suite. Of all the fates, of all the places they could have gone, they had to run into Callista, but then Mara wondered if it was a coincidence at all. Perhaps Callista had sought Luke out. A faint flicker of memory taunted the recesses of her mind. She recalled the woman who had been watching her in the mirror of the 'fresher. No wonder the partially visible face had seemed familiar, it had been that damned body stealer! Mara had always thought that she had been a fool to abandon Luke. It looks like Callista finally realized her mistake, and had come to reclaim the Jedi Master.

Unable to help herself, Mara replayed the scene in her head. She knew it would haunt her for the rest of her life. She could see the woman's desire for the Jedi. Mara could not sense her emotions, though, since it did not seem that she had regained her connection to the Force. Mara clawed at her hair as if she could physically drive the picture of Luke and Callista embracing from her head.

She'd been fooling herself to think that Luke and she had been moving towards something. She remembered with disdain, all the times she had secretly wished that she could be more than a friend to the Jedi. She also thought of all the women that had walked in and out of Luke's life. When would she ever learn? No matter how long or how much she cared for the Jedi, he always seemed to find someone else to love.

Mara moved into the bathroom and locked the door, hoping that Luke would not return in time to see her dissolve into tears. She knew that her barriers were hopelessly shredded and if he were to return he would see how much he meant to her. How much he had broken her heart.

Mara looked up into the mirrored wall and splashed water onto her face. Hollow eyes gazed back at her rimmed by dark circles. Her face appeared unusually pale and she almost seemed translucent in the dim lighting. She slammed her fist against the wall panel, nauseated by the seductive atmosphere of the place. She was leaving now. She had to get out of here.