The Ties That Bind
Chapter 14
Lightning crackled in the Naboo sky as the sun began to climb over the horizon, its light muted by the dark storm clouds. Inside the palace, the Jedi council surrounded the single occupant lying still on the bed. Their heads bowed, low murmurs could be heard through the open window. Rain lashed at the panes, revealing a young woman pacing in the next room, her hands playing with the edge of her formal gown. Her hair lay in a mess about her shoulder, the chocolate strands twisted and gnarled.
"What's taking them so long!?"
"Easy Padmé," admonished the other young woman from her position at the desk. "The Jedi know what they're doing, if anyone can heal Anakin they can."
Padmé whirled, her skirt swirling about her ankles as she walked. "It's been hours, how long does it take to simply annihilate that thing from his system? He got what, one drop in his blood stream?"
"Be thankful it wasn't more, Padmé, any more and he'd be dead by now."
She started shaking, clenching her hands together. "Don't remind me. I could lose him still." She wrapped her arms about her waist, pausing by the window and stared out as the rain hit the glass in sheets. "The rainy season is here."
"You didn't notice it, you've been too busy with your Jedi."
Padmé leaned her head against the pane. "He's got to be alright, Sabé, he's got to pull through this!"
*Angel...*
She jumped, her heart moving into her throat at the whisper soft, agonizing voice. "Anakin!"
Before Sabé could stop her, Padmé ran to the bedroom door and threw it open. "Anakin!" She ducked under the arms of the Jedi, who were still deep in meditation, and crawled onto the bed. "Anakin?"
He didn't stir, even as she stroked his brow, clutching one of his hands in hers. "Anakin? I heard you call me." She searched his still features, concern causing her brow to furrow. She hadn't imagined it, had she?
*Angel...*
Her heart jumped again as his voice echoed in her thoughts, louder this time. She reached for their mental link, their Life bond. *Anakin?*
The barest tendril of thought came through to her and her pulse leapt. He was alive! He was going to be alright! Tears flooded her eyes, and she fought to blink them back. She placed her palm on his forehead, leaning down to gently kiss him on the lips as the Jedi Masters took a breath as one.
Anakin moans softly as she pulled back, the barest squeeze of his hand making her eyes tear up again. Her throat tightened with relief and joy. "Anakin!"
"Angel..."
She ducked her head, blinking rapidly. "No, Ani, just Padmé."
*You are an Angel, you led me back.*
She closed her eyes, feeling her fight to keep from crying fail as the tears spilled over her cheeks.
*Don't cry, Padmé, please.*
Neither noticed when the Jedi council silently left the room, their skin ashen, exhausted from hours of repairing micro-cellular damage. Padmé pulled his hand to her lips and kissed it, her eyes shimmering as she looked down at him. "I thought I'd lost you."
"Never..." his voice was barely a whisper, and she could tell he was exhausted. Healing her the day before must have drained him so completely he'd been defenseless against whatever had been injected into his system. Guilt assailed her and his eyes sharpened on her face. *It's not your fault, Angel, honest! Don't even think it!*
"I can't help it."
His fingers squeezed her again. *You're tired, Ami, get some sleep. I'll be fine once I've gotten some real rest.*
She shook her head. "I couldn't, not now. I almost lost you the last time I fell asleep."
"Please?"
Her heart melted at his soft plea. She kissed the backs of his fingers and stretched out next to him, angling her body so she could cradle his head against her chest. "I'll lie with you and watch over you while you sleep, but I don't think I'll be able to."
*Thank you, Angel.*
She bent down and kissed his gently. "Sleep, Ani. I'll be here when you wake up."
His eyes fluttered closed and, quickly, he breathing became even again. She gently stroked his hair as she lay beside him. She'd come so close to losing him, so close to being bereft of his presence. She could feel it again though, feeling his emotions and thoughts. He wasn't dreaming, not yet, but she was certain she'd feel and experience those as well if he did. Laying her head on top of his, she curled around his upper body and stared at the window. She wouldn't be caught unawares again.
Yet, when Sabé checked on them a few minutes later, Padmé's eyes were closed, her breathing even. Sabé smiled softly at her friend, shaking her head before going to check the window. Making sure both locks were in place, she then turned to the bed and covered Padmé and Anakin with a blanket before shutting the lights off. The door closed behind her soundlessly as she stepped back into the common room. She had to check with the security people, but for now, she'd stay where she was and make sure nothing happened to either of them. It was the least she could do after last night.
Somewhere beneath the palace a dark figure limped through the halls. The security above had been increased and getting back to their room had been almost impossible. At least, it would be until nightfall.
The stench of burned ozone waved across their face as they stepped into one of the water refineries below the palace. Extracting the metals from the water, they were exuding sheets of building materials for the homes on the surface. The figure stopped beside on of the intake vents, where the water poured into the machine and reached up to pull of their gloves. One finger at a time, the black gloves were removed, revealing slender, strong hands that seemed to be a stranger to hard labor. Woman's hands. Smooth fingers unmarred by calluses, dipped into the running water and cupped it, bring it to run gently over the small blaster wound in the back of her thigh. She sighed as the cool water soothed the sting of the heated flesh. Damn that woman. She had rotten timing. A half second more and she would have accomplished her mission with a single thrust of a needle.
She carefully checked the wound with her fingers, finding only a glancing blow and sighed in relief. It could be patched up and covered by tonight's ceremony. It wouldn't do to have to change her choice of gown now. She stood, pulling her gloves back on and looked around. The exhaust vent extended into the ceiling, leading straight into the walls of the Palace and the roof. She paused under it, a cold smile crossing her lips beneath the mask. From the roof the access to her chamber was through a window, that she could swing. Literally.
Carefully checking the vent for alarms, she pulled a little multi-tool from her pocket and applied it to the sides. The vent came free after a couple of minutes of toying with the hinges. She let it fall, swinging open like a door, before jumping into the vertical shaft. Before she began to drop, she extended her legs outwards, slamming them into the wall as the small of her back hit the other. Jammed in the tunnel, she carefully replaced the vent covering, being careful to leave no evidence of her tampering. Thankfully blaster wounds didn't bleed.
Carefully pushing herself up through the vents, the going was slow, the throbbing of her thing making her hiss more than once as the muscle cramped around the injury. She gritted her teeth, silently vowing to do more climbing and physical exercise when her wound was healed. She came to an off shoot and pulled herself up, taking a moment' rest. She grimaced as the blaster wound grated against the sharp edge of the vent. Scratch that, she'd keep doing the physical while she healed. Her pain tolerance had to be improved. Bracing herself again, she continued climbing towards the roof. She'd failed twice in one night, but once she was patched up and healed, she would try again. She would not fail.
Anakin began to stir as the rain began to let up around dinner time. His head was pounding, his chest aching from whatever had been injected into him earlier. His mouth felt dry as his eyes slowly opened. His head was resting on something soft. The tiny details on Padmé's gown slowly came into detail and it was all he could do not to move. His head was nestled securely against her breast, her hands loosely linked behind it to keep him there. He swallowed with difficulty.
"Padmé?"
She moved fractionally, but her thoughts were still focused on his comfort. Even in sleep she was concerned with how he was resting.
Anakin took a breath, his mind slowly registering where the rest of his body was. He felt his cheeks heat as he realized he was half draped over her, his hands curled around her hips like a baby monkey. Her feet were tangled in the sheets by his hips, cocked as if to kick. He hoped she wouldn't jerk when she woke or it would be very, very painful.
He tried another tactic. *Angel... Wake up... It's time to wake up.*
He could feel awareness slowly beginning to awaken, the dreamless sleep which held her captive, beginning to loosen its hold.
*Angel.*
*Anakin?*
He chuckled softly, letting hit hands slip around her waist to engulf her in a hug. *You were expecting someone else, love?*
She yawned and he tilted his head. She was awake. "Good morning."
She neck jerked at the soft voice, her face tilting slightly so she could look down at him. A smile blossomed on her face. "Anakin. You're alright!"
He smiled, hugging her waist before slowly letting her go. She refused to move and he swallowed hard. "Angel, I'm having a tough time being this close to you, do you think...?"
She caught his thoughts as he said the words and released him. "Sorry."
He grabbed her by the waist and tugged her down so that their faces were even. Levering himself up on one arm, he stared down at her, reaching up to sweep her hair off one creamy shoulder. "I love you. Did I thank you for what you did yesterday?"
"I almost got you-"
He bent his head, kissing the words from her lips. She began to respond and he pulled back. "You saved my life, Padmé. Twice."
She shook her head, "I didn't."
"You did. You felt someone watching us, you saw the flash of the vibro blade before it was thrown. You're the one who woke up and stopped the assassin before they could finish whatever they had planned. I can only assume it was my death."
She slid her arms around his bare chest and hugged him before realizing exactly what his state of undress was. She froze, her cheek over the heat of his heart. "Anakin?"
"Yes, Padmé, I have something on under the covers."
She flushed as he laughed, catching her dismayed thought.
"Well, you know you can always ask if you want me to remove them."
She swatted him before placing a gentle kiss over his heartbeat. "Maybe later, you naughty boy."
He chuckled, holding her to him as he rolled onto his back. He stared up into her face, gazing deeply into her eyes. "I love you."
"What's wrong?"
"I almost lost you."
"That's my line."
He cupped the back of her head and gently urged her down, his gaze going to her lips as he did. "Whoever's it is, I couldn't feel you. That scared me more than anything."
"Oh, Anakin. I was terrified!"
"Kiss me, Angel. Remind me."
She went willingly, her lips sliding over his in an aching kiss that burned him clear to his toes. He held her to him, his tongue slipping into her mouth to duel with hers. She sighed, moaning softly as she melted over him like chocolate. His kiss made her feel like a wanton, a woman willing to do anything to please him.
*I like that thought, Angel.*
She laughed softly in her mind, projecting an image of them rolling around on the bed and falling off for him to see. Anakin chuckled, his lips sliding off hers to gently tease her ear. "Is that an invitation?"
She shivered against him, gently breaking his tight hold on her and bracing herself above him on her elbows. Her smile was slow. "Not yet it's not. Nothing can happen until you're knighted, remember?"
His smile vanished, his gaze becoming shuttered. He'd been trying to forget.
"I know you don't want to think about it, Anakin, but you've only got a week to prepare. Who knows what kinds of trials you'll face between now and then. I could lose you."
He framed her face with his hands and shook his head. "No. I'll never let that happen. The thought of you in pain..."
She swallowed, blinking back irrational tears. "You need to get dressed."
He allowed her to roll off him but caught her hand before she slipped from the bed and placed a gentle kiss on the sensitive skin of her wrist. "No matter what happens, Angel, remember I love you."
She nodded. "Me too."
He released her hand and allowed her to stand. Watching her, he made no move to follow until she turned to him, one hand on her hair self-consciously. "Come on, lazybones, out of bed." His heated gaze made her blush. "And stop looking at me like that, I'm a mess."
A slow, sexy smile curved his lips. "You, my dear, are the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen. I think I have to fluster you more often."
She blushed more, her cheeks going from pink to red as she turned her face away. "Anakin, please."
"Why does it bother you when I compliment you?"
"I don't know."
"Because I'm sincere?" he picked up her thoughts even as she spoke and pushed himself into a sitting position. His head spun some, but he felt a lot stronger than he had the day before. "Padmé, you've received lots of sincere compliments."
She met his gaze a little shyly, striving to keep her mind off his bare chest. "I can tell you mean them Anakin. It's in your movements, your tone. That's very... humbling."
He tossed back the covers and stood, cut-off shorts his only clothing as he approached her. He was a little shaky on his feet as he pulled her into a hug. "I'm supposed to compliment you, though, it's part of my job description."
She laughed softly, returning the embrace. "Thank you, Anakin."
He kissed the top of her head before stepping away. "Hand me my tunic, would you, Ami? I'm starved!"
"Me too." She collected his tunic and pants from the floor, spinning as his thoughts, quickly hidden, flashed through her mind. "Anakin!"
He blushed. "Sorry."
She arched an eyebrow as she handed him his pants. "'For food too?'" she echoed. "My my, one track mind there, Jedi."
He ducked his head. "Spiteful wench."
She burst out laughing, throwing his tunic at him. "I'm going to change. Maybe by then you'll have your mind back on track."
Anakin was pulling his tunic over his head as she left the room and sighed. Sometimes Force Bonds weren't all they were cracked up to be.
Obi-Wan joined Sabé for dinner later that evening after checking on Anakin. His Padawan had seemed no worse for wear after his little near-death experience. He was hiding something, but Obi-Wan was certain Anakin would talk when he was ready.
Sabé was seated at the table, a glass clasped loosely in her fingers as she watched him. "For a minute there I thought you might not come."
"My apologies, I had to check on Anakin."
"How's he doing?"
Obi-Wan sighed, taking the seat across from her. "He's better, seems to be recovering but he's hiding something. I'd feel much better if he'd just confide in me."
Sabé took a sip of her wine, nodding to his glass. "Try it, the wine is excellent."
He took a sip of the clear red and his eyebrows rose in surprise. "Smooth."
She smiled. "I thought you could appreciate it. Did you have the chance to talk to the council today?"
He nodded as she set her glass aside and began serving them dinner, "Master Windu came to speak with me, yes."
"And?"
He met her gaze squarely. "They'd like to talk to you in the morning."
A shiver of fear slid down her spine. "Did he say why?"
"No."
Sabé bit her lip, chewing on it as she turned the thoughts over in her mind. She didn't like what she came up with. "Very well, I'll meet with them in the morning. For now, I have you to myself and I intend to take advantage of it."
"Of the time, or of me?"
"Would I have to take advantage of you, Master Jedi?"
He fought back a grin. "Do you think you could, handmaiden?"
"Is that a challenge?" she asked coyly, batting her eyelashes at him.
He coughed, changing the subject. "This smells delicious, did you make it yourself?"
She chuckled. "You can run, but you can't hide, Jedi. Yes, I made it myself. After what happened with Anakin I didn't want to take any chances."
He unfolded a napkin and placed it in his lap as she did the same. "A wise decision. Perhaps we should have asked Anakin and Padmé to join us."
She sputtered on her wine as she was trying to take a sip. "Oh no you don't! I spent hours just getting this right, that can make their own dinner!"
He chuckled, picking up his utensils as she glared at him. "I'm joking, Sabé. Dig in. I don't know about you, but I'm starving."
She let her annoyance fade and picked up her utensils, touched when he waited for her to take a bit before digging in. The look of pleasant surprise on his face was well worth the time she'd put into their dinner. "Didn't know I could cook, did you?"
He swallowed the mouthful. "This is wonderful! Wow."
She blushed and left it at that, continuing to eat in silence. It was companionable, easy, the way good friends can simply sit back in silence and feel comfortable. A warm feeling suffused her as she watched Obi-Wan eat. She wanted this every night, with him. She wanted to be the one he came home to. They finished dinner and retired to the couch, wine glasses in hand. "Did the council have anything else to say, Obi-Wan?"
He took another sip of his drink, shaking his head. "No. They wouldn't even give me some indication of what their decision is." He crooked his index finger at her. "Come here, beautiful lady, you're too far away."
Her smile was for him alone as she slid over on the couch, placing both of their glasses on the coffee table before curling up at his side. Her head came to rest on his chest as he gently stroked her hair. She sighed contentedly. "Will you spend the night with me tonight, Obi-Wan?"
His heart skipped under her ear and she felt his sharp intake of breath. "Sabé..."
She slid her hand across his chest, wrapping her arms about his waist. "I know, I know. You can't."
"It's not that I don't want to."
"You don't have to explain."
He tilted her head up by slipping a gentle finger beneath her chin so he could look into her eyes. "I feel I have to."
She shook her head. "No, you don't. I know you can't because of what might happen tomorrow. But that's why I want you to stay. I'm terrified," she admitted softly. "I could lose you for good, Obi-Wan. Do you have any idea how bleak my life looks without your friendship, your acceptance?"
His eye looked deeply into hers as he gently traced the curve of her jaw line. "I know. You've given me a gift in my time here, Sabé. Something I never hoped to find, and never thought I could accept. I admit Anakin and Padmé's circumstances have helped, but I don't want to lose you."
She smiled at him, tilting her head and raising it slightly so she could kiss the base of his throat. "You won't. Not now, not ever. Even if the Council says we can't go through with this. Even if I should somehow die before we're allowed to be together, you'll always have me. I love you, Obi-Wan."
He ducked his head and kissed her softly. "Do you really want me to stay tonight?"
Her breath caught in her throat and she nodded. Making a quick decision, and damning the council to the recesses of his mind, he scooped her up in his arms and stood. "Then I won't disappoint you."
She looped her arms around his neck, dragging his lips back to hers for a passionate, soul-stealing kiss. His arms tightened around her as he stepped through the room towards the bedroom. She sighed contentedly and proceeded to seduce him with her mouth. A willing captive, he returned her kiss, the embers of passion flaring into life quickly and threatening to consume them. Her soft moan of pleasure was cut off as he kicked the door closed behind them.
Chapter 14
Lightning crackled in the Naboo sky as the sun began to climb over the horizon, its light muted by the dark storm clouds. Inside the palace, the Jedi council surrounded the single occupant lying still on the bed. Their heads bowed, low murmurs could be heard through the open window. Rain lashed at the panes, revealing a young woman pacing in the next room, her hands playing with the edge of her formal gown. Her hair lay in a mess about her shoulder, the chocolate strands twisted and gnarled.
"What's taking them so long!?"
"Easy Padmé," admonished the other young woman from her position at the desk. "The Jedi know what they're doing, if anyone can heal Anakin they can."
Padmé whirled, her skirt swirling about her ankles as she walked. "It's been hours, how long does it take to simply annihilate that thing from his system? He got what, one drop in his blood stream?"
"Be thankful it wasn't more, Padmé, any more and he'd be dead by now."
She started shaking, clenching her hands together. "Don't remind me. I could lose him still." She wrapped her arms about her waist, pausing by the window and stared out as the rain hit the glass in sheets. "The rainy season is here."
"You didn't notice it, you've been too busy with your Jedi."
Padmé leaned her head against the pane. "He's got to be alright, Sabé, he's got to pull through this!"
*Angel...*
She jumped, her heart moving into her throat at the whisper soft, agonizing voice. "Anakin!"
Before Sabé could stop her, Padmé ran to the bedroom door and threw it open. "Anakin!" She ducked under the arms of the Jedi, who were still deep in meditation, and crawled onto the bed. "Anakin?"
He didn't stir, even as she stroked his brow, clutching one of his hands in hers. "Anakin? I heard you call me." She searched his still features, concern causing her brow to furrow. She hadn't imagined it, had she?
*Angel...*
Her heart jumped again as his voice echoed in her thoughts, louder this time. She reached for their mental link, their Life bond. *Anakin?*
The barest tendril of thought came through to her and her pulse leapt. He was alive! He was going to be alright! Tears flooded her eyes, and she fought to blink them back. She placed her palm on his forehead, leaning down to gently kiss him on the lips as the Jedi Masters took a breath as one.
Anakin moans softly as she pulled back, the barest squeeze of his hand making her eyes tear up again. Her throat tightened with relief and joy. "Anakin!"
"Angel..."
She ducked her head, blinking rapidly. "No, Ani, just Padmé."
*You are an Angel, you led me back.*
She closed her eyes, feeling her fight to keep from crying fail as the tears spilled over her cheeks.
*Don't cry, Padmé, please.*
Neither noticed when the Jedi council silently left the room, their skin ashen, exhausted from hours of repairing micro-cellular damage. Padmé pulled his hand to her lips and kissed it, her eyes shimmering as she looked down at him. "I thought I'd lost you."
"Never..." his voice was barely a whisper, and she could tell he was exhausted. Healing her the day before must have drained him so completely he'd been defenseless against whatever had been injected into his system. Guilt assailed her and his eyes sharpened on her face. *It's not your fault, Angel, honest! Don't even think it!*
"I can't help it."
His fingers squeezed her again. *You're tired, Ami, get some sleep. I'll be fine once I've gotten some real rest.*
She shook her head. "I couldn't, not now. I almost lost you the last time I fell asleep."
"Please?"
Her heart melted at his soft plea. She kissed the backs of his fingers and stretched out next to him, angling her body so she could cradle his head against her chest. "I'll lie with you and watch over you while you sleep, but I don't think I'll be able to."
*Thank you, Angel.*
She bent down and kissed his gently. "Sleep, Ani. I'll be here when you wake up."
His eyes fluttered closed and, quickly, he breathing became even again. She gently stroked his hair as she lay beside him. She'd come so close to losing him, so close to being bereft of his presence. She could feel it again though, feeling his emotions and thoughts. He wasn't dreaming, not yet, but she was certain she'd feel and experience those as well if he did. Laying her head on top of his, she curled around his upper body and stared at the window. She wouldn't be caught unawares again.
Yet, when Sabé checked on them a few minutes later, Padmé's eyes were closed, her breathing even. Sabé smiled softly at her friend, shaking her head before going to check the window. Making sure both locks were in place, she then turned to the bed and covered Padmé and Anakin with a blanket before shutting the lights off. The door closed behind her soundlessly as she stepped back into the common room. She had to check with the security people, but for now, she'd stay where she was and make sure nothing happened to either of them. It was the least she could do after last night.
Somewhere beneath the palace a dark figure limped through the halls. The security above had been increased and getting back to their room had been almost impossible. At least, it would be until nightfall.
The stench of burned ozone waved across their face as they stepped into one of the water refineries below the palace. Extracting the metals from the water, they were exuding sheets of building materials for the homes on the surface. The figure stopped beside on of the intake vents, where the water poured into the machine and reached up to pull of their gloves. One finger at a time, the black gloves were removed, revealing slender, strong hands that seemed to be a stranger to hard labor. Woman's hands. Smooth fingers unmarred by calluses, dipped into the running water and cupped it, bring it to run gently over the small blaster wound in the back of her thigh. She sighed as the cool water soothed the sting of the heated flesh. Damn that woman. She had rotten timing. A half second more and she would have accomplished her mission with a single thrust of a needle.
She carefully checked the wound with her fingers, finding only a glancing blow and sighed in relief. It could be patched up and covered by tonight's ceremony. It wouldn't do to have to change her choice of gown now. She stood, pulling her gloves back on and looked around. The exhaust vent extended into the ceiling, leading straight into the walls of the Palace and the roof. She paused under it, a cold smile crossing her lips beneath the mask. From the roof the access to her chamber was through a window, that she could swing. Literally.
Carefully checking the vent for alarms, she pulled a little multi-tool from her pocket and applied it to the sides. The vent came free after a couple of minutes of toying with the hinges. She let it fall, swinging open like a door, before jumping into the vertical shaft. Before she began to drop, she extended her legs outwards, slamming them into the wall as the small of her back hit the other. Jammed in the tunnel, she carefully replaced the vent covering, being careful to leave no evidence of her tampering. Thankfully blaster wounds didn't bleed.
Carefully pushing herself up through the vents, the going was slow, the throbbing of her thing making her hiss more than once as the muscle cramped around the injury. She gritted her teeth, silently vowing to do more climbing and physical exercise when her wound was healed. She came to an off shoot and pulled herself up, taking a moment' rest. She grimaced as the blaster wound grated against the sharp edge of the vent. Scratch that, she'd keep doing the physical while she healed. Her pain tolerance had to be improved. Bracing herself again, she continued climbing towards the roof. She'd failed twice in one night, but once she was patched up and healed, she would try again. She would not fail.
Anakin began to stir as the rain began to let up around dinner time. His head was pounding, his chest aching from whatever had been injected into him earlier. His mouth felt dry as his eyes slowly opened. His head was resting on something soft. The tiny details on Padmé's gown slowly came into detail and it was all he could do not to move. His head was nestled securely against her breast, her hands loosely linked behind it to keep him there. He swallowed with difficulty.
"Padmé?"
She moved fractionally, but her thoughts were still focused on his comfort. Even in sleep she was concerned with how he was resting.
Anakin took a breath, his mind slowly registering where the rest of his body was. He felt his cheeks heat as he realized he was half draped over her, his hands curled around her hips like a baby monkey. Her feet were tangled in the sheets by his hips, cocked as if to kick. He hoped she wouldn't jerk when she woke or it would be very, very painful.
He tried another tactic. *Angel... Wake up... It's time to wake up.*
He could feel awareness slowly beginning to awaken, the dreamless sleep which held her captive, beginning to loosen its hold.
*Angel.*
*Anakin?*
He chuckled softly, letting hit hands slip around her waist to engulf her in a hug. *You were expecting someone else, love?*
She yawned and he tilted his head. She was awake. "Good morning."
She neck jerked at the soft voice, her face tilting slightly so she could look down at him. A smile blossomed on her face. "Anakin. You're alright!"
He smiled, hugging her waist before slowly letting her go. She refused to move and he swallowed hard. "Angel, I'm having a tough time being this close to you, do you think...?"
She caught his thoughts as he said the words and released him. "Sorry."
He grabbed her by the waist and tugged her down so that their faces were even. Levering himself up on one arm, he stared down at her, reaching up to sweep her hair off one creamy shoulder. "I love you. Did I thank you for what you did yesterday?"
"I almost got you-"
He bent his head, kissing the words from her lips. She began to respond and he pulled back. "You saved my life, Padmé. Twice."
She shook her head, "I didn't."
"You did. You felt someone watching us, you saw the flash of the vibro blade before it was thrown. You're the one who woke up and stopped the assassin before they could finish whatever they had planned. I can only assume it was my death."
She slid her arms around his bare chest and hugged him before realizing exactly what his state of undress was. She froze, her cheek over the heat of his heart. "Anakin?"
"Yes, Padmé, I have something on under the covers."
She flushed as he laughed, catching her dismayed thought.
"Well, you know you can always ask if you want me to remove them."
She swatted him before placing a gentle kiss over his heartbeat. "Maybe later, you naughty boy."
He chuckled, holding her to him as he rolled onto his back. He stared up into her face, gazing deeply into her eyes. "I love you."
"What's wrong?"
"I almost lost you."
"That's my line."
He cupped the back of her head and gently urged her down, his gaze going to her lips as he did. "Whoever's it is, I couldn't feel you. That scared me more than anything."
"Oh, Anakin. I was terrified!"
"Kiss me, Angel. Remind me."
She went willingly, her lips sliding over his in an aching kiss that burned him clear to his toes. He held her to him, his tongue slipping into her mouth to duel with hers. She sighed, moaning softly as she melted over him like chocolate. His kiss made her feel like a wanton, a woman willing to do anything to please him.
*I like that thought, Angel.*
She laughed softly in her mind, projecting an image of them rolling around on the bed and falling off for him to see. Anakin chuckled, his lips sliding off hers to gently tease her ear. "Is that an invitation?"
She shivered against him, gently breaking his tight hold on her and bracing herself above him on her elbows. Her smile was slow. "Not yet it's not. Nothing can happen until you're knighted, remember?"
His smile vanished, his gaze becoming shuttered. He'd been trying to forget.
"I know you don't want to think about it, Anakin, but you've only got a week to prepare. Who knows what kinds of trials you'll face between now and then. I could lose you."
He framed her face with his hands and shook his head. "No. I'll never let that happen. The thought of you in pain..."
She swallowed, blinking back irrational tears. "You need to get dressed."
He allowed her to roll off him but caught her hand before she slipped from the bed and placed a gentle kiss on the sensitive skin of her wrist. "No matter what happens, Angel, remember I love you."
She nodded. "Me too."
He released her hand and allowed her to stand. Watching her, he made no move to follow until she turned to him, one hand on her hair self-consciously. "Come on, lazybones, out of bed." His heated gaze made her blush. "And stop looking at me like that, I'm a mess."
A slow, sexy smile curved his lips. "You, my dear, are the most gorgeous thing I have ever seen. I think I have to fluster you more often."
She blushed more, her cheeks going from pink to red as she turned her face away. "Anakin, please."
"Why does it bother you when I compliment you?"
"I don't know."
"Because I'm sincere?" he picked up her thoughts even as she spoke and pushed himself into a sitting position. His head spun some, but he felt a lot stronger than he had the day before. "Padmé, you've received lots of sincere compliments."
She met his gaze a little shyly, striving to keep her mind off his bare chest. "I can tell you mean them Anakin. It's in your movements, your tone. That's very... humbling."
He tossed back the covers and stood, cut-off shorts his only clothing as he approached her. He was a little shaky on his feet as he pulled her into a hug. "I'm supposed to compliment you, though, it's part of my job description."
She laughed softly, returning the embrace. "Thank you, Anakin."
He kissed the top of her head before stepping away. "Hand me my tunic, would you, Ami? I'm starved!"
"Me too." She collected his tunic and pants from the floor, spinning as his thoughts, quickly hidden, flashed through her mind. "Anakin!"
He blushed. "Sorry."
She arched an eyebrow as she handed him his pants. "'For food too?'" she echoed. "My my, one track mind there, Jedi."
He ducked his head. "Spiteful wench."
She burst out laughing, throwing his tunic at him. "I'm going to change. Maybe by then you'll have your mind back on track."
Anakin was pulling his tunic over his head as she left the room and sighed. Sometimes Force Bonds weren't all they were cracked up to be.
Obi-Wan joined Sabé for dinner later that evening after checking on Anakin. His Padawan had seemed no worse for wear after his little near-death experience. He was hiding something, but Obi-Wan was certain Anakin would talk when he was ready.
Sabé was seated at the table, a glass clasped loosely in her fingers as she watched him. "For a minute there I thought you might not come."
"My apologies, I had to check on Anakin."
"How's he doing?"
Obi-Wan sighed, taking the seat across from her. "He's better, seems to be recovering but he's hiding something. I'd feel much better if he'd just confide in me."
Sabé took a sip of her wine, nodding to his glass. "Try it, the wine is excellent."
He took a sip of the clear red and his eyebrows rose in surprise. "Smooth."
She smiled. "I thought you could appreciate it. Did you have the chance to talk to the council today?"
He nodded as she set her glass aside and began serving them dinner, "Master Windu came to speak with me, yes."
"And?"
He met her gaze squarely. "They'd like to talk to you in the morning."
A shiver of fear slid down her spine. "Did he say why?"
"No."
Sabé bit her lip, chewing on it as she turned the thoughts over in her mind. She didn't like what she came up with. "Very well, I'll meet with them in the morning. For now, I have you to myself and I intend to take advantage of it."
"Of the time, or of me?"
"Would I have to take advantage of you, Master Jedi?"
He fought back a grin. "Do you think you could, handmaiden?"
"Is that a challenge?" she asked coyly, batting her eyelashes at him.
He coughed, changing the subject. "This smells delicious, did you make it yourself?"
She chuckled. "You can run, but you can't hide, Jedi. Yes, I made it myself. After what happened with Anakin I didn't want to take any chances."
He unfolded a napkin and placed it in his lap as she did the same. "A wise decision. Perhaps we should have asked Anakin and Padmé to join us."
She sputtered on her wine as she was trying to take a sip. "Oh no you don't! I spent hours just getting this right, that can make their own dinner!"
He chuckled, picking up his utensils as she glared at him. "I'm joking, Sabé. Dig in. I don't know about you, but I'm starving."
She let her annoyance fade and picked up her utensils, touched when he waited for her to take a bit before digging in. The look of pleasant surprise on his face was well worth the time she'd put into their dinner. "Didn't know I could cook, did you?"
He swallowed the mouthful. "This is wonderful! Wow."
She blushed and left it at that, continuing to eat in silence. It was companionable, easy, the way good friends can simply sit back in silence and feel comfortable. A warm feeling suffused her as she watched Obi-Wan eat. She wanted this every night, with him. She wanted to be the one he came home to. They finished dinner and retired to the couch, wine glasses in hand. "Did the council have anything else to say, Obi-Wan?"
He took another sip of his drink, shaking his head. "No. They wouldn't even give me some indication of what their decision is." He crooked his index finger at her. "Come here, beautiful lady, you're too far away."
Her smile was for him alone as she slid over on the couch, placing both of their glasses on the coffee table before curling up at his side. Her head came to rest on his chest as he gently stroked her hair. She sighed contentedly. "Will you spend the night with me tonight, Obi-Wan?"
His heart skipped under her ear and she felt his sharp intake of breath. "Sabé..."
She slid her hand across his chest, wrapping her arms about his waist. "I know, I know. You can't."
"It's not that I don't want to."
"You don't have to explain."
He tilted her head up by slipping a gentle finger beneath her chin so he could look into her eyes. "I feel I have to."
She shook her head. "No, you don't. I know you can't because of what might happen tomorrow. But that's why I want you to stay. I'm terrified," she admitted softly. "I could lose you for good, Obi-Wan. Do you have any idea how bleak my life looks without your friendship, your acceptance?"
His eye looked deeply into hers as he gently traced the curve of her jaw line. "I know. You've given me a gift in my time here, Sabé. Something I never hoped to find, and never thought I could accept. I admit Anakin and Padmé's circumstances have helped, but I don't want to lose you."
She smiled at him, tilting her head and raising it slightly so she could kiss the base of his throat. "You won't. Not now, not ever. Even if the Council says we can't go through with this. Even if I should somehow die before we're allowed to be together, you'll always have me. I love you, Obi-Wan."
He ducked his head and kissed her softly. "Do you really want me to stay tonight?"
Her breath caught in her throat and she nodded. Making a quick decision, and damning the council to the recesses of his mind, he scooped her up in his arms and stood. "Then I won't disappoint you."
She looped her arms around his neck, dragging his lips back to hers for a passionate, soul-stealing kiss. His arms tightened around her as he stepped through the room towards the bedroom. She sighed contentedly and proceeded to seduce him with her mouth. A willing captive, he returned her kiss, the embers of passion flaring into life quickly and threatening to consume them. Her soft moan of pleasure was cut off as he kicked the door closed behind them.