Here's the beginning of the second part of the STORM trilogy : A Day of Rain. Enjoy!



Prologue

The cry of the alarm was quickly mirrored by his son's own cry. Kyp swore as he carried Hale swiftly through the corridors of the complex, Jaina a few feet ahead, cradling Hanna against her own chest. Both stumbled slightly as the complex rocked. Jaina lost her footing, reeling backwards before she pulled herself up with the Force.



Kyp reached out with a hand, placing it upon the small of her back as they continued to hurry along to her parent's suite. The Yuuzhan Vong had come to what they had believed to be the safest place in the galaxy - Mon Calamari. And the young parents were ready to defend it.



Leia was at the door as they reached the suite - reaching out to collect her grandchildren. Upon taking them and handing them to Tahiri, who as not a strong pilot would help with all the Jedi children. Leia turned back to her daughter and son in law, pulling both into a tight hug.



"May the Force be with you." she whispered softly. Jaina reached out to touch her mother's cheek.



"Take care of my babies," Jaina ordered fervently and her mother nodded back. Kyp grabbed at her hand and after both cast long, longing glances back at their four month old children they broke out at a run towards the hangar where their ships were housed.



They were the last to enter the bay after their squadron, who all had suites near the hangar. But the two Jedi were the first to fire their engines and lead their pilots into battle. Jaina had returned to the military after the wedding, participating in what most felt to be the last pitched battles of the war.



"The Vong have to be pretty desperate to attack us here," Sharr commented over the comm.



Kyp gritted his teeth. "They've attacked my family for the last time." Through the Force he reached out to Jaina and they fell into the battle meld they knew so well, made so much easier because of their bond.



The Yuuzhan Vong never stood a chance, returning to Mon Calamari after already losing one battle there, years before. In only five brief hours the last yammosks were obliterated, only a few dozen coralskipper escaping. Together, Rogue and Twin Suns squadrons accounted for more than half of all the kills of the battle - Kyp and Jaina accounting for nearly five percent between them.



The War was over and the New Republic had won. With the fighting over, attention was turned to rebuilding like the galaxy had never seen. Money was poured from all sectors to planets and systems ravaged by the Vong. Coruscant was left alone, a testament to how close they had come to falling to the invaders.

Elections were held for a new Parliament. A new system was devised, and ten councillours were elected, the Prime Minister elected from among their number. Commander Jaina Solo-Durron was elected to the Council in a landslide vote.



Stability begins to rule again over the ravaged Republic, but the Peace Brigade still plays a role by espousing hatred towards the Jedi and anyone who fought against the Vong. Elements are stirring, yet for those on Mon Calamari the mood is hopeful and one of love...





Chapter 1



Kyp Durron loved his wife.



He loved the way she looked in the morning as she slowly woke up over a cup of caf. He loved how she looked on rainy Calamari days, the humidity flushing her skin and curling her hair. He loved her even more when she held one of their children in her arms, soothing away hurts with a smile and a kiss.



He loved Jaina right now. She trailed hot kisses upon his collarbone as he moved over her in their bed. They hadn't had real time alone in close to five days and Kyp meant to make the most of it.



He placed a kiss on her neck then captured her lips in a searing, passionate kiss. When he pulled away she gazed at him with lidded eyes, their normal brandy colour darkened. Her lips parted in a gasp as his hands slid underneath her nightgown, pushing the black silk up her legs. Kyp groaned as he realized she wore nothing underneath. He kissed Jaina again as he began to -



"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa-h!"



Both froze. Still above Jaina, Kyp closed his eyes and counted to ten, silently pleading for silence. It didn't work.



Jaina sighed. "I'd better go to her."



Kyp obediently rolled away from her, throwing a hand over his face and sighing melodramatically as Jaina extricated herself from the sheets. She silently padded out of the room and after a minute, groaning, Kyp followed after her. But she went towards the nursery closer to their bedroom where their three month old daughter Lelila had been sleeping - Kyp headed towards the slightly larger other bedroom.



The twins were still fast asleep, they had gotten used to their younger sister's late night calls for their parents. Kyp glanced at his chrono, sighing quietly when he realized it was almost two in the morning.



Hanna and Hale had a large bedroom, partly divided by a wall. Both were burrowed in a nest of blankets. The twins had celebrated their second birthday only two weeks ago. Kyp's heart still swelled every time he looked at them.



If someone had told him ten, even five years ago that he would settle down with 3 children, a large home, a wife rising in the political world... he would have laughed in their face. He was 40 years, commanding the Twin Suns Squadron (now a legendary squadron rivalling Rogue Squadron) and he had a family. He couldn't imagine his life any other way.



Hale had pushed down his blankets so Kyp carefully

recovered his son. Hanna's stuffed Ewok had fallen out of her arms so he replaced it. He then left their bedroom, crossing to the nursery.



He paused in the doorway to behold the sight before him.



Jaina was rocking Lelila in the rocking chair, humming quietly. The baby's cries had been reduced to whimpers. Her eyes were closed and a lock of Jaina's hair was clasped between stubby fingers. Jaina looked up and smiled at Kyp, he entered and as he drew closer Lelila opened her eyes to look at him.



Lelila was a beautiful baby - but her eyes always surprised strangers. They were a deep violet colour, and while her parents had expected the colour to change to a less rare blue, they hadn't.



Kyp smiled at his youngest daughter and she yawned in response.



Jaina smoothed Lelila's hair gently. "I think she just wanted some physical reassurance. Maybe she had a nightmare."



Kyp kneeled next to the chair, stroking the baby's cheek. "I hope she doesn't want some every night," he spoke quietly but ruefully.



Jaina gave him a look he had gotten to know well over their two year marriage. "Please, Kyp, how old were the twins when we started to get a full night's sleep?"



"We've been getting a full night's sleep?!"



"Exactly." She rocked Lelila for another quiet minute while the girl released another quiet yawn. Jaina rose and lay Lelila into her crib. She opened her eyes briefly, to assure her mother was there and then with a sigh, drifted off.



Kyp and Jaina stood over the crib for a moment, and then, putting an arm around her waist Kyp led Jaina out of the nursery.



They strolled slowly to their bedroom.



Jaina glanced up at her husband with a playful smile. "Now where were we?"



Kyp stepped in front of her, stopping her at the top of the stairs. "Right about... here." He lowered his head taking her lips for a passionate kiss, his tongue exploring the familiar confines of her mouth. She responded immediately, raking her fingers down his bare, exposed chest over his pecs and abs, causing him to moan into her mouth. He clutched at her backside, pulling her closer as her hands strayed lower towards -



Ding.



Jaina tried to pull away at the sound of the doorbell but Kyp held her fast.



"Kyp... the door - "she admonished laughingly as he placed kisses across her shoulders.



"Door?" he asked with mock confusion. She pulled away and he swore. "The Force doesn't want me to have a sex life - does it?"



Jaina laughed at him, then disappeared into their bedroom. He looked after her, somewhat puzzled. "Uh - Jai? Isn't the door that way?"



She swept back out, her pale grey silk robe now on, his slightly darker robe in her arms.



"You can't go to the door like that," she told him, handing him the robe and then running lightly down the stairs.



I never said anything about going to the door, I was going to bed! he replied as he pulled the robe on and belting it as he followed her down at the stairs.



Jaina shot him a look over her shoulder and he responded with a grin that always disarmed whatever annoyance she held towards him. It worked and she just shook her head as she proceeded to the door. Their Noghri bodyguard, Krohklianh stood at the door and nodded at her, to indicate it was safe to answer.



Jaina punched the door, her brow furrowing as she greeted the Council Head of Security. "Xave, what brings you at this hour?"



As Kyp stepped up behind his wife the older man bowed his head. "Madame Councillour, there's been as assassination."



Jaina sunk into the couch. "Who?" she asked softly.



"Prime Minister Pwoe," Xave replied dutifully.



Jaina placed her heads in her hands,"When?" came the muffled query.



"A few hours ago, as he was leaving the Senate Building. A sniper hit him from atop a roof."



"Was he apprehended?" Kyp asked as he sat next to his wife.



Xave nodded, "Spouting Peace Brigade propaganda. Pwoe was a puppet of the Jedi..."



"All for having the temerity to fight the Vong, instead of handing them our galaxy on a platter." Jaina rose abruptly, crossing to the window and she gazed out. "Have the other councillours been told?"



Xave nodded. "You were the last to be told... Councillour, we need to name a new Chief of State."



Jaina gulped in a breath, nodding as she turned to the two men. "Councillour Mothma would be a good candidate, following in her mother's footsteps."



Xave shot Kyp a quick looked before he answered. "The other members of the Council have already come to a consensus as to who should be the new Chief of State."



Kyp sat back in the couch, a thoughtful look on his face. It took Jaina another moment to devise what Xave was saying.



"What?!"



Xave stood. "Councillour, you were elected with a large majority - you're a hero in the eyes of the citizens of this galaxy."



"That doesn't mean I'm qualified to run the galaxy! I have the least experience of anyone on the Council!" Jaina protested.



"But in that experience you've done a lot of good, made a lot of allies in the Assembly." Kyp pointed out.



"I"m barely 26! I'm too young to take this on..."



"Your mother, Councillour, was barely 29 when she became Chief of State. All the other members of the Council are older, members of the past political generation. It's time for the new generation to take up the reigns of power."



Jaina perched upon the arm of a love seat as she listened. She sighed,"I... I knew I would end up here eventually. But I've seen what my mother sacrificed. I want to be a mother to my children, to not make the mistakes my mother did..."



"You can learn from your mother's mistakes, love. You can see what she did, take her as an example. And we can work around it, find ways to balance both of our careers while keeping the children first." Kyp leaned forward to speak to her earnestly.



Jaina looked into his eyes, saw the surety there. She drank in his strength and love, it held her up it times like this.



Xave stepped aside slightly. "The Council will convene at 1300 hours, Councillour. I believe that you and your husband have a great deal to discuss."



Once they had seen Xave to the door, Kyp led Jaina into their kitchen. He put on a kettle for a cup of tea as Jaina sat upon the counter. Kyp crossed the small space to stand in front of her, resting his hands on her thighs.



"Do you think I can do this?" Jaina asked finally.



"Yes."



Jaina sighed, running a hand through her hair. "I don't know if I can. And I'm so afraid of not being here for the kids when they need me..."



Kyp stopped her train of though by brushing his lips against hers. She twined her arms around his neck, burying her fingers in his silver streaked hair.



Kyp pulled away, looking at her seriously as he caressed her cheek. "You are not your mother. Your mother made mistakes, Sith, we all do. And you can learn from that and we will do our best to always be here for our kids. Now listen to your husband in all his wisdom."



Jaina chuckled, low in her throat and tightened the loop of her arms, moving closer to Kyp. "Maybe my all-wise husband needs to convince me..." She delicately nibbled on Kyp's lower lip. With a groan he lifted her from the counter and carried her, laughing, up the stairs. The bedroom door closed behind them and there were no more interruptions that night.





As Jaina strolled down the stairs the next morning she found Kyp already in the kitchen, preparing the twins' breakfast while they played in the living room.



"Morning," she drawled as she entered the kitchen, sliding her arms around his waist.



"Good morning, Goddess," Kyp replied with a smile as he leant down to quickly brush his lips against hers.



Jaina turned to the high chair where Lelila sat, cooing to her daughter as she picked her up. "How's my princess?" she asked, rocking the baby slightly as Lelila giggled.



"I think the princess is hungry," Kyp commented, caressing the baby's cheek.



Jaina nodded, "I thought it was about that time." she left the kitchen and entered the living room, where the twins were very seriously playing with blocks. Jaina dropped a kiss upon both of their dark heads before she sat to nurse Lelila.



As the baby began to suckle, Jaina let out a contented sigh as she surveyed the scene before her. Her children playing - for once without much argument, her husband fiddling around in the kitchen and her youngest child in her arms. She had a pretty good thing going here and she was desperately afraid she would lose part of it if she accepted the Chief of State post. She couldn't turn it down - but could she take on the position while remaining a good wife and mother?



The door chimed and Kyp left the kitchen to answer it. As if on cue, Leia stood there. Kissing Kyp quickly on the cheek she hurried into the apartment.



"Jaina - I just heard..." Leia embraced her as best she could with Lelila still in Jaina's arms. "Congratulations, darling. It's what you've always wanted - isn't it?"



Jaina shook her head. "Not always," she said quietly.



Leia pulled back, her eyes darkening. "What do you mean?"



"I'm not sure if I'm going to take it, Mom." Jaina replied softly.



Leia frowned. "Why not?"



Jaina glanced at the twins, now having built a tower almost two feet tall of blocks. "Give Grandma a kiss and then go eat your breakfast," she instructed quickly.



They both quickly received a kiss and hug from Leia before running into the kitchen. Jaina could hear them pestering Kyp for more sugar in their cereal and she smiled slightly.

Jaina turned back to her mother. "I'm just not sure if I can take it on right now. The responsibilities are great... and my babies are still so young."



Leia sat back. "You don't want to turn into me."



Jaina nodded quietly as Leia rose, crossing to the armchair.



Leia looked down. "I made mistakes. I had worked my entire life for the Rebellion - then for the New Republic, it was still my top priority for a lot longer than it should have been. And you kids suffered for it. You had a good childhood, you had Han - but I don't know if you really had me."



Jaina took Lelila, now finished feeding and laid her carefully in a bassinet sitting next to the couch, rising to stand with her mother. "I always knew that you were very busy, with very important things to do. But I knew that if I really needed you I could go to you. I did have a good childhood. I just want better for my children."



"But is there really anyone else who can take up the reins now? Most of the council is just waiting for the next election to retire, and those who aren't cannot lead a galaxy. You're the only one who could hold it together now."



Jaina nodded. "I know. Which makes this really hard."



Leia thought for a moment. "You know, I remember once having a conversation with Luke about how it had always just been he, I , Han and Mara. We didn't have anyone from the past generation to influence us, push us. So we were very touchy about accepting advice. You, Jacen, even Ben have to deal with all that we expect from you. But other than that, we're here to help you." Leia caressed Jaina's cheek and her daughter smiled. "I think you should do this. And I'll be here to help you, keep you away from the mistakes that I made."



Jaina smiled. "Okay." she embraced her mother tightly. When she pulled away she had gotten a huge grin on her face. "I'm going to do it."



Leia pulled her in for a hug this time, both laughing. They broke away quickly when a large crash resounded from the kitchen and the sound of bickering toddlers not listening to their father was clearly heard. Jaina led the way into the fracas, with Leia right behind her.





Jaina bit her lip, pacing nervously in the anteroom outside of the Council room. She moved back and forth across the blue marble floor, her black over robe falling in a train behind her. It was belted over a shimmering gold robe, her hair done up in a formal style and golden earrings falling from her ears to her shoulders. She looked like a Chief of State. Problem was, she wasn't one yet.



"Relax, Princess," Kyp drawled from where he leaned against a column the same blue marble as the floor. He looked the picture of a hero in his black New Republic commander's uniform, his black cape spread over broad shoulders.



"Don't tell me to relax," Jaina sighed, crossing her arms as she stopped to face him. "They're voting on my future in there. Our future Kyp!"



Kyp grinned at her. "You're cute when you're neurotic." His grin subsided as she glared. "Jai, you know this is just a formality."



Jaina sighed, letting her arms fall to her side. "I know. I just haven't been this nervous for a long time. Since our wedding day."



Kyp quirked an eyebrow. "Nervous? On our wedding day? Why would you have had cause to be nervous?"



Jaina smiled up at him smugly, "I was nervous that you'd show up wearing something horribly unmatched as you are wont to do..." Jaina chuckled as Kyp mock glowered at her. "Like you weren't nervous too."



"Only that you would smarten up and realize you were way to good for me," Kyp murmured to her. "I'm so proud of you, you know."



Jaina smiled brightly at him as she raised his face to his, "I know." She moved her lips against his in a sweet and tender kiss.



Kyp pulled away, looking down on her with affection. "I love you."



"I love you too." Jaina smiled, leaning up to kiss him again.



Neither noticed an aide slipping out of the council room. "Uh - Madame Durron?"



Jaina pulled away quickly, a slight blush gracing her features. "Yes."



"The Council is awaiting you," the aide told her dutifully.



"Thank you," Jaina sent Kyp a quick look as she pulled at her robes to make sure they were in place. After a moment she turned back to the aide. "I'm ready now."



She stepped up to the heavy gold doors that were the entrance, Kyp right behind her to her right. The doors began to swung open as the aide entered before her, announcing to the Council.



"Chief of State Jaina Solo-Durron and Commander Kyp Durron."



Jaina couldn't restrain her wide smile as she entered the room, the eight assembled councillours rising to bow to her. She walked slowly to the larger chair at the head of the oval table that denoted the Chief of State. She lowered herself gracefully into it, making sure that her robes settled elegantly around her.



As the rest of the councillours sat, Mahless Mothma remained standing. "Madame Chief it is my honour to welcome you to our Council, yours to oversee." She handed Jaina a vellum scroll. "May I welcome you with the news that you were unanimously elected to the position by my esteemed peers and that we all bear the hope that you will lead the New Republic to stability and greatness."



Jaina inclined her head back to the woman. "Thank you Councillour Mothma, Now if we may proceed to the first order of business, nominating a candidate for my former position..."



Kyp stood behind her, smiling beatifically upon her as Jaina assumed the role her mother had taken before her, to make it her own.



In the darkened room, three sat at a table, their heads huddled together.



"That was way too fast that they elected her... I thought our sources said that she would take at least a week to consider it! She took less than a day!" One hissed.



Another sat back in their chair. "She's always been unpredictable. Her and her damned husband. I can't remember how many plans they've thrown off." They smiled. "But they'll pay. I just received news from Niruan. They're agreeing to speak with us - under the table of course. Don't want to risk that precious treaty which they treasure so much," their voice dripped in sarcasm.



"One good thing about Imperials - they're easy to predict. Wave a chance at power in front of their noses and they'll jump for it." The third stood and activated a holoscreen inset in the table. All three looked at the holo. It had been taken the day that Chief of State Jaina Solo had been elected, her husband besides her.



The third smiled thinly. "We won't fail this time. We'll strike at what they hold dearest - and with the Imperial and Chiss fleets behind us.... The galaxy will be ours!"



Above the table hung a delicate sculpture of two clasped hands, reflecting the holoscreen below, the three children smiling out of it.





As Chief of State, Jaina Solo-Durron rose with the sun every day. She left her warm bed, left her husband's arms and dressed in the silence of the dawn. She slipped into the twin's bedroom, giving each one a kiss and brushing Lelila's cheek in the nursery. Kyp would wake with them, and then go off to the Headquarters. They had found a wonderful nursemaid in a young girl who had been a refuggee, named Merili. She loved the children like one of her own, and her culture had always encouraged Force users so she was able to keep the talented children in hand.

But Jaina left that every morning, sliding into the speeder waiting for her, sitting in the back seat. Through out the entire flight, her hands always itched to take the controls, speed up the little craft, perform a few tricks. But she didn't. She was Chief of State. The title tied to her seat as well as any safety harness.

Upon arriving at the Senate building she would be escorted to her office by her assistant, Auron. He was a young man with many ideas wanting to make a difference in the galaxy. The first time she had met him there had been something in his pale grey eyes that had reminded her of Anakin. Jaina had hired him on the spot. He carried a cup of her favourite caf, for he knew that Jaina would not truly wake up for hours without it.

Auron would relate to her any events that had happened over night, any movement in the Senate, results of debates and votes.

This morning - Auron had very important news.

"Madame," he bowed slightly to her as he handed her the porcealin cup. "We've had news from the Unknown Region."

"Really? From the Chiss or the Imperials?" she asked, sipping as they walked.

"Both. They released an announcement of discussions with the Peace Brigade." He looked rather nervous imparting that, with reason. Jaina stopped in midstride, sending him a venomous look.

"What did you say?"

"The Imperial and Chiss alliance is looking into a cease fire with the Peace Brigade."

Jaina snarled a Correlian curse as she resumed walking, robes flying behind her and Auron jogged to keep up.

"They are aware that the Peace Brigade just assasinated Pwoe!"

As she was saying this, Xave as well as Councillour Mothma came around the corner, both bowing slightly. Jaina stopped as she looked to the two for input.

"They are aware of this fact, Madame. But you know the Imperial faction was never happy with the war. And now some who wish to see the New Republic fall are in positions of some power." Xave told her.

"And the Chiss?" Jaina asked.

"The Chiss... might just be more able to dissuade from the foolhardy agreement," Councillour Mothma interjected. "They did send aid to us in the war, the leader of that Squadron now a very important figure in the military.Admiral Fel would have to be a key figure in this agreement."

Jaina furrowed her brow. "Admiral Soontir Fel?" She could see him supporting this...

But Marella Mothma shook her head. "Admiral Jagged Fel, madam. His son."

Jaina stared. "I can't ever see Jag being a part of this."

"Jag?" Auron asked. "You know the Admiral?"

Jaina bit her lip. "A long time ago, Auron." She looked back to her advisors. "Have our diplomats been able to make any headway?"

Xave sighed. "Little, ma'am. But perhaps you could make a difference. We'll call it a state visit- you could take it as an opportunity to twist Admiral Fel's arm."

After a moment, Jaina quickly nodded. "Make arrangements." As she moved on her mind began whirling. She could just imagine Kyp's reaction to this...

"You're going to WHAT?!"

Jaina sent Kyp a withering glance through the mirror. "Kyp, don't say it like that."

Her husband was pacing their bedroom, "Like what? That I might be slightly disturbed by the fact that you're going off to see your ex-boyfriend, and leaving me behind?"

"You want me to take you and the kids into hostile territory? I don't think so..." With a sigh Jaina rose from her dressing table, turning to face Kyp. She caught his hand as he stalked past her. He stopped to look at her. "Kyp. I love you. You know that. I don't love Jag. You also know that."

Grudgingly, Kyp nodded and slid his arms around her waist. "I know. It's just... I'm still amazed that you're with me. You could have had any guy in the galaxy, you could have had Jag, who everyone was convinced was perfect for you. Instead - you picked me."

"Instead - I picked the man I love, the greatest father to my children and the man who will back me up no matter what." Jaina shook her head. "Yeah, I guess I screwed that one up."

Kyp smiled down at her, brushing a lock of hair off her face. "I still worry."

"And I worry about you! Who knows when you might meet some young, pretty thing with blond hair who is more than 5 feet tall..." Laughing, Jaina lifted her lips to Kyp's.

The kiss was anything but chaste, the passion driven from their love for one another. When Kyp pulled away he placed a kiss against the underside of Jaina's chin.

"Maybe I don't need to worry quite so much..." he whispered as he kissed the nape of her neck.

Jaina sighed softly. "No... but you better not let me go because I don't think I can stand up."

Chuckling, Kyp lifted her and laid her down on their bed. The twins had been asleep for hours, Jaina had just fed Lelila and the baby would now sleep for at least 4 hours.

Jaina reached up to Kyp's face as he hovered over her, twining a finger through his hair.

"I'm scared," she whispered finally.

"Of what?"

"That we'll go to war again. We're nowhere near ready to go against the Chiss- let alone an alliance of the Chiss, the Imps and the Peace Brigade! I don't want to lose everything we've fought for."

"You won't," Kyp murmured. "You'll be able to convince them not to."

Jaina's eyes drifted away to the window, seeing the stars hang over Calamari. "Jag had to be involved in the decision to talk to the Peace Brigade. Why would he do that? He's seen what they would do - have done! He fought them alongside you and me! I don't understand it..."

Kyp stopped her trail of thought with a soft kiss. "You will. You'll talk to him - beat some sense into him. And you'll save the galaxy yet again."

Kyp kissed her again, pulling her tightly to him.

Jaina pulled away first, her eyelashes hooded over her eyes. "It'll only be a month. A week to get there- two weeks for talks and then I'll return as fast as I can. But I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too... but I'm going to make sure that these few days before you leave are so memorable you'll come..." Kyp placed himself atop of her, sliding her robe off her shoulders. He lowered his lips to next to her ear, "... running back to me."



The next few days were spent in a flurry of preparation as it was obvious diplomatic channels were not working with the Chiss. Kyp tried to find as much time as he could with his wife before she left but the military were unobtrusively preparing for war.



Kyp sighed as he stood slightly behind Jaina, as she knelt to embrace the twins. Both were trying to look brave for Mama, but Hanna couldn't help herself but sniffling as Jaina kissed her atop the head.



"Now - you'll be good for Papa, alright?" Jaina asked them gently.



Hanna nodded quietly while Hale spoke for the two. "We will Mama."



Jaina smiled down at them and quickly gathered them again into her arms. Only when Auron cleared his throat unobtrusively, reminding her of the time did she let them go. With a little push, they obediently returned to their nurse, Merili, and each took one of her hands.



Jaina rose and turned to Kyp, and the baby who he held in his arms.



"Oh, 'Lila..." Jaina sighed as she lifted her daughter from Kyp's arms. The little girl was only lately awake and blinked up at her mother. Jaina cradled her gently against her, murmuring a few soft words.



Kyp stepped closer to his wife, placing a hand on her waist. She looked up and brown eyes met green for the millionth time - yet the spark still flashed between them. Kyp attempted to smile crookedly but failed miserably. Even after two years since the kidnaping, he still hated the idea of his wife being out of his protective reach.



Jaina smiled slightly at him. "Don't worry, love."



"What me worry? Never..." Knowing that the casual rogue act had failed, he sighed gustily. "I'll just miss you that's all."



"I'll miss you too..." Jaina lifted her face to his to capture his mouth in a kiss that was a promise to return and a full outpouring of her love and passion for him.



"Ewww!" came the chorus from behind them.



Kyp pulled away from his wife to regard his elder children with a serious eye. "Are you two really starting with me already? Your mother isn't even gone yet!"



Jaina giggled slightly, but it was with great reluctance that she handed Lelila back to her father. Kyp reached out a hand to caress her cheek. "Come back to me, Jaina."



"As fast as I possibly can," she returned quietly.



Kyp dropped his hand and Jaina turned from him, nodding to Auron. Her aide keyed the door and it swung open to the bright Calamari sunlight. Jaina strode out onto, ignoring the masses of holoreporters there snapping pictures and calling out to her. A few turned their cameras to capture Kyp and the children standing in the door, and Kyp ushered the children back inside.



As he walked away down the long corridor, he heard the roar of engines being fired and an unease settled over him as he felt his wife leave.



Jaina watched dispassionately as her ship touched down, watching Niruan come closer and closer until she felt the slight bump that belied landing. She tugged at her pale cream robes as she moved to the landing ramp. There was a hiss as it opened, lowering to the ground and she made her way down it, Auron and her Noghri bodyguard behind her.



Outside, it was a sea of white. Stormtroopers. Jaina fought to keep her expression of distaste off her face.



Directly ahead of her, stood a contingent of Chiss military. Three stood in front, all wearing uniforms with a number of bars on them.



Jaina came to a stop a meter ahead and waited.



The tallest stepped forward. "Madame Chief, I am Admiral Nu'ruodo."



Jaina extended her hand. "Admiral, thank you for inviting me to your lovely planet. "



He took it, raising it to the level of his lips but did not kiss it. He let it drop rather quickly and the two leaders gazed at one another with minor hostility.



Nu'ruodo motioned behind him. "May I present my compatriots, Commander Dr'oulan and Commander Re'vrawn."



Both Chiss nodded to her, their red eyes lidded.



A feeling of unease settled over Jaina as Re'vrawn stepped towards her.



"Madame Chief, Welcome to Niruan."



The Stormtroopers snapped into position. As one, they raised their blasters into the air and fired. The burst of fire rumbled the ground.





With a roar of engines, the clawcraft settled to the hangar floor.



The Admiral hopped out of his ship in a practiced jump, pulling off his helmet to run a hand through close cropped black hair.



Jagged Fel strode through the halls of the Pilot's Quarters towards his own suite. His rank as head of the pilots of the Chiss Empire as well as being in charge of most tactical decisions gave him a large two floored apartment. He entered with a sigh of relief, glad to be home for the first time in two months. Though, he couldn't truly call this place home. He was travelling around the Empire so much, he hadn't spent more than a week on Niruan in more than 4 years.



He had stepped out of the shower when he noticed the message beacon flashing, orange for highest importance. He opened the message, surprised to see it was from Admiral Nu'ruodo. The other man hated Jag, and would not send him a message unless it was of the highest importance.



"Fel, the Chief of State from the Republic just arrived, they got wind of our dealing with the Brigaders and are looking to dissuade us. You're going to be negotiating with her, seeing as you already know her. Jaina Solo -" the Admiral's attention was diverted for a moment and he had a brief, murmured conversation with someone offscreen. "Anyways, we're having a ball to 'welcome' her tonight. Be there, try and throw her off the track." The message ended with a brief salute.



Jag sank into his chair. Jaina here? For a moment, he couldn't quite breath. He had dreamed of meeting her again for years... Jaina was a politician???? He would never believe it... Of course, there was only way to be sure. He had a ball he was late for.

--

That evening, the ball was held in the Imperial tradition to welcome Jaina to the planet. She was heralded in by a chorus of Chiss musicians with a flourish and she walked down a long, gold staircase by herself, head held high. She wore a pale grey gown which hugged her upper body before spilling into a large skirt with a train. Golden stones fell from her ears and circled her neck.



She smiled slightly as she met official after official, some pretending politeness, others openly hostile. She was about as popular here as the Imperials were back on Mon Calamari.



Commander Re'vrawn was her designated escort for the evening, introducing her and supplying her with champagne when her crystal goblet grew empty. He was also probably there to make sure she didn't sneak off, steal Imperial secrets and blow up half the palace.



Jaina fantasized about that option for most of the evening.



At last, there seemed to be an end to the military officers. Jaina relaxed slightly.



Re'vrawn glanced out of her out of the corner of his eye as he raised his glass to his lips. "We had hoped that you would meet Admiral Fel tonight before negotiations begin tomorrow but he has not yet arrived from a mission.



Jaina shrugged imperceptibly. "I have already met the Admiral. I can understand his need to complete his mission."



Re'vrawn raised an ebony eyebrow. "Indeed. You encountered him when he served in the Vong war?"



Jaina nodded. "He served in my squadron for a period of time. We were... friends." She took a long sip of her champagne and looked away.

"I see." A long silence fell between them.



A number of remarks flashed through Jaina's mind, but most of them would have torpedoed any hope of reconciliation with this people. No matter how much she might despise them, peace must be maintained.



Jaina squared her shoulders and set her goblet carefully down onto the marble table next to her.



"I think I will consult with my aide for a moment," she informed Re'vrawn.



"But Madame - you are expected to begin the dancing," he reminded her stoicly.



Jaina raised an eyebrow. "And just who am I supposed to start it with?" The thought of touching Re'vrawn, much less dancing with him... she repressed a shoulder.



"With me." the voice came from behind her and was oh-so familiar.



Jaina smiled without moving. "Admiral Fel." She turned to face him and in one smooth motion, extended her hand.



She hadn't seen Jagged in close to five years. He had barely changed. Perhaps there was an extra scar on his chin, a new crease in his forehead from worry but it was minimal. The carefully suppressed light in his green eyes was still there. Yet, this time when he smiled at her and kissed her hand it didn't have the same feel of magic.



"Madame Chief, it's good to see you. And may I extend my congratulations upon your recent election?" his tone was carefully formal.



"Thank you Admiral." Jaina bit her lip, searching for the proper response. "I was pleased to hear of your promotion. And I hope that we will be able to find a solution to our difficulties without having to resort to conflict."



"You should certainly hope so," Jag replied, his eyes sparkling, "Considering I still beat you in the sims 9 times out of 10 the last time I saw you."



Jaina smiled. This was the Jag that she remembered. Arrogant, cocky, and not a little handsome. "Things change, Admiral."



"Perhaps," Jag smiled down on her. From the other side of the ballroom, the musicians began a melody Jaina recognized as an Alderaanian waltz. He cocked his head, "I believe that I have the honour of claiming this dance." He extended his arm and Jaina slid her arm into it.



"Lead on."



Later, Jagged and Jaina walked outside, along the terrace, overlooking the perfectly manicured gardens. Jag felt as though the last five years had never passed at all, that they were still a young couple in love in the midst of a war.



He glanced down at Jaina, resplendent in her pale grey dress, jewels at her ears and neck. A serenity seemed to have fallen over her in the past few years. It suited her. They stopped and she leaned against the balustrade.



"Niruan is really lovely," she commented softly. "After so many planets were destroyed during the war - it's nice to find at least one planet in the galaxy that doesn't have desperation in the air."



"I can understand that, Madame Chief. Know that you are always welcome here. " Jag stood next to her, breathing in her scent. Emperor's Bones he had missed her - maybe this was to be another chance for them.



Jaina shook her head. "Don't call me that. I'm getting sick of being 'Madame - this' and 'Madame - that'. Call me Jaina - like you used to."



"I'd like to do a lot of things I used to..." Jag stepped in front of her and for the first time in years, made an impulsive decision. He quickly lowered his head and touched his lips to hers, massaging them slowly. He stopped when Jaina placed a restraining hand on his chest.



He drew back and Jaina looked at him, a small smile on her face. "Jag..." her voice was tinged with sadness.



"I still love you, Jaina." he told her softly.



She shook her head. "I can't Jag..."



"Are you dating someone?" Jag asked.



Jaina gave a little laugh, "Dating? No..."



"We can work out the political issues, we could visit each other..."



Jaina moved away from him, running a hand through her long ponytail. "I guess, I should tell you, should have told you before-"



"Madame?" Auron stood in the doorway. "Madame, you have a transmission from Mon Calamari. It's General Antilles."



"I'm coming," Jaina told her aide absentmindedly, he nodded and left, leaving the door open for Jaina.



"Come t my suite tomorrow, before the lunch conference and we'll talk." Jaina told him, and Jag nodded in acknowledgement.



"Goodnight Jag."



"Goodnight Jaina."



She turned and left the balcony, leaving behind and looking after her. He could have sworn that the Noghri following after her glared at him.





Jaina bit her lip, pacing her bedroom. How the hell had she gotten herself into this mess? She hadn't known that Jag would be here, though the thought had crossed her mind. But then, telling him about Kyp had never crossed her mind either.



His protestation of love still hung in her mind, his kiss still burning on her lips. She was a happily married woman!



... or was she?



Jaina sat heavily down on her bed, head in her hands. This was madness. She loved Kyp, her [b]husband[/b] of two years, with her entire soul. She loved her children, her precious babies. She was happy. So why with one kiss in the moonlight, one whispered confession from Jag's lips did she feel that old affection for him.



Jaina frowned. Affection. She remembered feeling that for Jag, and she did feel it now. But there was nothing more. No spark - like that which she felt with Kyp. When she was with her husband, her skin felt flushed and feverish, she needed to have him near her, needed him to touch her. She loved him to the bottom of her heart, knew that they understood one another - could help and support each other through anything. He was a wonderful father, if not always the best disciplinarian. What she felt for Jag compared to how she felt about Kyp was like a spark next to a burning sun. There was no comparison.



Jaina rose from the bed and began to stretch, as was her habit at night. She dropped her barriers, opening herself up to the universe. She found her husband's presence quickly, thanks to their deep bond.



Affection reached across the galaxy as Kyp realised her presence and opened himself up to her. He was lying in the bed, avoiding the empty side of the bed.



Evening love, she sent with a mental caress.



It's the middle of the night here, Kyp replied lightly. Your daughter has been keeping me up.



Oh so now she's MY daughter? Jaina smiled as she wrapped herself in her husband's awareness.



Only when she's taking after her mother and being impossible. Kyp shot back.



How about when she's been incorrigible just like her father - hm?



Kyp's only reply was a mental kiss and a picture of what he would have done to his wife if she had been there then. Jaina blushed slightly, revelling in the feeling.



I miss you, she sent.



Kyp's mood lost it's lightness as he closed his eyes. I miss you. The kids do too.



Only about another week or so. The envoy is being very accommodating... Jaina stopped herself from continuing as Jag's face that evening popped into her mind. She raised her barriers slightly. For some reason - she didn't want Kyp to know who was being so kind to her. She yawned slightly. I'm exhausted, love. I'm going to go to sleep.



Kyp seemed slightly puzzled but he agreed readily enough. Get lots of rest - can't have you getting worn out. I love you, Jai.]



Jaina smiled, feeling her very being glowing with the love for her husband. I love you too. Jag's image was quickly forgotten as she filled her mind with her husband lying in their bed, and her wish that she could be there with him. Good night.



Exactly one half hour before the noon conference, Jagged rapped on the door to Jaina's suite.

It was opened by Jaina after a long pause, as she was still belting her pale grey robe.



"I'm running so late, I was talking to my -" Jaina paused. "Kyp. I was talking to him rather late last night."



"I'm glad that you two are still close. I always trusted him to watch your back. How is Master Durron?" Jag asked as he entered the lush apartment.



Jaina dropped her gaze, playing with the tassel on her belt. "He's - actually part of something I need to discuss with you."



Jag stepped closer to her, placing his hands upon her hips as he looked down with a fond smile on his face. "Can't it wait until later?" he began to lower his face to hers but she stepped away.



"Let me get dressed and then.... we'll talk." Jaina disappeared into her bedroom.



Jag looked after her, then sat down on one of the silk covered couches to wait.



A low beep echoed through the room and Jag half rose when the holo-screen switched on.



It revealed what seemed to be a large, bright and empty apartment. Then the sound of grating came through the speaker and a chair slid into view slowly. Like it was being pushed by a being that wasn't quite tall enough to be seen by the holocomm. There was quiet muttering coming from the screen as Jag approached it. Finally, two small heads popped up on screen as two children climbed up on the screen.



The boy pressed his hands against the screen. "Mama!" His face drooped as he saw Jag. "You're not Mama!" he accused sullenly.



"You're not Mama!" echoed the little girl beside him. Both children seemed to be about two years old with green eyes and dark brown hair. But they seemed amazingly eloquent - or they would if both hadn't been pouting at him.



"Where's Mama?" the boy asked, crossing his arms across his stubby chest.



"I want MAMA!" The girl shot out.



Jag took in a deep breath. Children.



He didn't like children. Never had. He hadn't been able to deal with his brother and sister until they were at least six or seven. And these were toddlers. Perhaps he could reason with them.



"How do you know Mama is here?" he asked.



The girl stuck out her bottom lip. "Cause Papa called her two days 'go. And we saw her."



"Are you sure he called this frequency?" Jag asked.



Both regarded him with blank eyes.



Maybe they were the children of one of Jaina's aides... "Do you know your Mama's name?"



"Mama!" the girl replied dutifully. "That's her name!"



Her -twin?- poked her in the side. "He means her name, blaster brain."



She gave him a withering glance before turning back to Jag. She puffed up her chest. "My mommy's name is Jedi Knight Chief of State Jaina Solo-Durron!"



Jag's jaw dropped. "What?!"



And then from behind him...



"Hanna and Hale Durron!!! What in blazes do you think you're doing?!!!"



Both twins grinned, their faces alighting. "MAMA!"



Jag spun on his heel to see Jaina standing in the doorway, wearing red ceremonial robes, her hair piled atop her head in a elegant manner - and a look on her face that he had seen his own mother wear a number of times.



"Hale Zeth Durron! I asked you a question! What are you doing?!" She stepped towards the screen.



"Calling you... We miss you Mama!" Hale replied dutifully.



The expression on Jaina's face softened. "I miss you too baby, but what did your father tell you about calling me?"



"That you're real busy, and we shouldn't unless we ask." Hanna replied this time, with all the resignation a two year old could muster.



Jaina crossed her arms. "Where is your father?"



"Upstairs - with 'Lila." Hale supplied. "When are you coming home Mama?"



"Soon, baby. Hanna, honey - go get him for him please." The little girl obediently hopped off the chair and ran up the stairs seen in the background of the screen.



Jag breathed deeply, turning to Jaina. "Those are you children?"



She nodded slightly.



"And their father is..." Jag knew the answer but he couldn't bring himself to say it.



"My husband," Jaina replied icily. Hale cut in at this point.



"My papa's name is Jedi Master Commander Kyp Durron of the Twin Suns Squadron!"



Jag made a choked sound. Jaina graced her son with a small smile. "Thank you honey." She sent Jag a quick glance. "This is what I needed to talk to you about."



"I can.... see that." Jag replied tightly.



In the background of the screen, Jag saw Hanna making her way down the stairs holding onto, sure enough, Kyp Durron's hand. In his other arm he held a small bundle. As they came closer Jag saw that it was a small baby, no more than a few months old. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Jaina's face light up as she saw her husband come closer, their child cradled against his chest.



"Hey - she let you get much rest last night?" Jaina asked once Kyp was within range.



"Nah - but I'm okay." Kyp responded. He spotted Jag. "Jag! Good to see you! I hear the rugrats gave you a bit of a surprise."



"Somewhat," Jag replied succinctly. "It's good to see you as well. May I extend congratulations upon your marriage?"



"Uh... thanks." Kyp sent a quick look at Jaina, who shook her head quickly. "This is Lelila, our latest." He lifted the baby's hand and waved at the comm.



Jag inclined his head slightly as Jaina stepped forward. "Kyp, dearest..."



"Yes, sweetheart?" Kyp responded, a roguish grin on his face.



"I don't suppose it would be possible for you to keep our children under control until I get back?"



Kyp appeared to ponder the idea. "Well, we'll see...."



Hanna climbed back up on the chair. "Mama - we miss you!!"



Jaina gulped in a breath. "I miss you too darling..." Her voice sounded somewhat choked. "I'll be home as soon as I can make sure the galaxy is safe - okay?"



The little girl nodded with a wisdom that belied her years.



Kyp smiled down at the twins, then looked back at the camera. "We'll see you soon Jai."



The twins became a flurry of waving. "Bye Mama!!!" Kyp reached out and with a wink at Jaina, shut off the connection.



The suite that Jag and Jaina stood in seemed unbearably quiet.



Jag glanced over at Jaina, surprised to see her wiping at her eyes. She saw him, and gave a half hearted laugh. "I'm sorry - it's just this is the first time I've been away from them for more than a day or so. Kyp and I haven't gone far from them since they were born - for protection."



Jag nodded. "Of course. I understand."



Jaina shook her head. "No you don't. I'm sorry - but you have no idea what it's like to have children and to know that there are people out there who want to hurt them. Especially the Peace Brigade."



Jag's expression tightened. "You have no idea what you're asking us to do Jaina."



"No? Is it that unreasonable for me to ask you not to deal with a terrorist organization that has threatened my life - along with my husband's and children's more times than I can count!" Jaina spun on her heel to face Jag fully.



He stepped back slightly, he hadn't ever seen her get so... passionate about something.



"No?" she asked quietly. "Well - I think that gives you a reason as to why we didn't work out Jagged."



Jag's frowned slightly as he realized that she had read his thoughts. "I would prefer if you didn't look into my mind, Jedi Solo."



"Solo-Durron if you don't mind," she responded with a frosty smile.



Jag looked away. "Why didn't you tell me?"



"I was announced when I arrived as Jaina Solo-Durron," she replied, slightly puzzled.



"I arrived late."



"Oh." Such a small word, meaning so much. Jaina sat down on the couch. "I thought that maybe you knew... it's not like the media doesn't pay attention to us."



"I've been on assignment for a little more than four years. I haven't spent more than a week here in that time. Most of that time I usually spend sleeping." Jag sat next to her.



"Sleep? I understand that... but then I haven't had a full night's sleep since the twins arrived." Jaina glanced down, twisting a ring on her hand as she spoke. A ring, Jag suddenly recognized, as a wedding ring. She wore another band with a large diamond with it.



"How long have you been married?" Jag asked, very softly.



"Almost two years. I might actually miss our anniversary." Jaina sighed.



"And your children..."



Jaina smiled as she thought of them, "Hanna and Hale turned two about a few weeks ago, Lelila is only four months old."



Jag's voice was flat as he responded. "You're happy."



Jaina nodded. "Very much so." She glanced at him, "About last night..."



He stood abruptly. "No. I'd rather not discuss it if you don't mind."



"We can't not discuss it!"



"Says who?" Jag asked bitterly.



Jaina rose, looking at him steadily. "Me."



There was another long silence as they faced one another. Neither willing to back down.



Jag looked away finally, breaking eye contact. He spied the golden chrono sitting on a desk. "We're going to be late."



Jaina followed his gaze. "Shavit. We are. We had better go." Jag waved for her to precede him. She stopped at the door, touching his arm.



"But we will continue this conversation, Jagged." Her voice was serious, he nodded reluctantly in return. She swept out of the suite and he followed after her, his heart clenching a little more with every step.





A week later Jaina sighed, bracing herself against the railing of the balcony which jutted out from her suite. She took a long sip of the Correlian whiskey in her glass as she hung her head, biting her tongue as she turned to the other occupant of the balcony.



"I'm getting really sick of your 'negotiating' style, Jagged."



Jag gazed at her levelly from the recliner where he sat stiffly, his whiskey untouched. "Perhaps it's your inability to see reason."



Jaina laughed harshly. "Reason? Oh yes - that it's perfectly reasonable to deal with terrorists." She dropped onto the recliner next to his.



Jag leaned in. "They're a legitimate political group who have a number of contacts that would allow us to..."



"Try to bring down the New Republic - fragmented as it is?" Jaina replied sarcastically. "A figurehead for a Chief of State..."



"You're not a figurehead." Jag growled, looking away.



"Well - we agree on one thing. But people see me as such." Jaina quirked an eyebrow. "Think I'm weak. I'm fine with that. It'll make it an even bigger shock when I blow up the very last of the Peace Brigader bases."



"I never saw you as quite so bloodthirsty." Jag commented quietly, taking his first sip of the Correlian whiskey.



Jaina smiled. "Didn't fit in with your perfect image of me, sitting up there all pretty and feminine on that pedestal." She lay back on the recliner.



Jag's eyes raked her body, clothed in a simple white gown that in the sunset light became nearly translucent, barely obscuring her lithe body. He took a long swallow of whiskey.



Jaina sighed heavily. "We've been having this argument for a week, Jagged." She eyed him. "Along with you dancing around me for that time. I'm sick of both of it."



Jag looked away. "I have no idea to what you're referring."



Jaina sprang up, grabbing his hand. "Don't try to bullshit me - I know you. You won't let us talk about the fact that I'm married and it's becoming physically painful for me to be around you, you're radiating such agony."



Jag's head snapped around. "Do you mean - "



Jaina dropped his hand. "I'm happily married, Jagged. It's just uncomfortable for me to be around you - trust me, I have suddenly developed feelings for you over night."



"Would that be such a bad thing?" Jag asked softly.



Jaina stared at him, her brandy brown eyes dark.



He leaned in, capturing her lips in a deep, soulful kiss. He poured every ounce of love, of passion for her into the kiss. He opened his mouth, trying to deepen the kiss before she pulled away.



She gasped. "Kyp - "



Jag pulled away, frowning angrily as she closed her eyes. A kiss like that - and she spoke her husband's name? Her old, probably nearly decrepit husband when she had a young, vibrant man with her. A man who could hand her the galaxy.



Jag reached out a hand to her as Jaina let out a small sob. "No..."



"What?" he asked softly. "Is something wrong?"



She looked up at him. "Is something wrong??? Just the fact that my husband was reaching for me - and felt what we just did. That he knows that you just kissed me - and that I let you?!"



Jaina and Jagged stared at one another for a long moment, Jaina horrified, Jag only slightly concerned, before Jaina pushed to her feet, moving back into her suite.



"Auron! AURON!!!" she yelled, her temper fraying dangerously.



Her aide skidded through the doors. "Madame Durron - what - "



"Get my things packed, we're leaving." she told him shortly.



Auron stared. "What?! We can't just leave, you still have two days of negotiations scheduled."



"You're leaving?" echoed Jag from the door.



Jaina turned slightly. "Yes Jagged. I'm leaving. I have a great deal to fix back on Mon Cal." she returned her gaze to Auron. "Get my bags packed and I want my ship to be in lightspeed in the next hour. Do you understand me?"



Auron nodded quickly before calling to another aide, rushing out into the hall.



Jaina shifted her gaze back to Jag. "Negotiations aren't working Jag. And I don't think they're going to. If you want them to continue - send someone to Mon Cal. We're not about to declare war, neither of us can afford to, but this should be resolved." With that, she moved into her bedroom. Jag trailed after her.



"Why are you doing this?" he asked softly.



She spun around to face him. "Why am I doing this? WHY? Because my husband thinks I'm being unfaithful and I have to get home before..."



Jag quirked an eyebrow. "Before he massacres another billion people?"



Jaina stared at him, dumbfounded. Finally, she shook his head. "You don't know anything about - "



Jag moved closer. "What? Decency? Not being a mass murderer?" He grabbed her by the waist, pulling her against him. "I could be so much more to you...." He lowered his lips to hers, before she pushed him away.



"You could never be anything to me!!!"



"Really? Your husband is almost twenty years older than you Jaina. Eventually, he'll get old. Maybe even earlier. Do you want to be a nursemaid for the rest of your life?"



Jaina snarled at him. "Kyp is not old. I love him. He's the father of my children!"



Jag moved closer again, grabbing her hand, caressing her palm with his thumb. "I can father children Jaina. I have more clout in this galaxy than he ever will." He slid an arm around her waist. "We could rule this galaxy together."



Jaina snorted, pulling away. "Rule the galaxy - in an Imperial way? No thank you, Jagged. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to get changed for the trip."



Jagged nodded smartly and moved to the door, but stopped before exiting. "You know, I think that I will send someone to continue negotiations."



Jaina was un-braiding her hair. "Who?" she asked absently.



Jag lifted the corners of his mouth, his version of a grin. "Me."



Jaina started, turning to stare at him. "What?"



"I think that I am the member of the Chiss most suited to negotiate with the New Republic. I'll have my ship prepped within the day." He bowed to her mockingly, beginning to leave.



"Are you trying to ruin my life?" Jaina demanded after him, hands on hips.



"No," Jag tossed over his shoulder as he left the suite. "Just your marriage."



As her ship lowered itself upon the landing pad, Jaina bit her lip, pacing across the landing ramp. The week long voyage had felt very long to her, and though she had taken shifts piloting the ship, her nerves had begun to overwhelm her. Every time she attempted a Jedi relaxation technique, she was reminded of Kyp. Reminded of the fact that he had blocked their bond for more than a week now, since that one dreadful moment.



Once the ship had touched down she smacked the opening for the ramp, almost racing down the ramp.



No one was there. Jaina stopped at the very bottom of the ramp, looking around. She had expected at least her parents to be waiting for her. Kyp's presence, or lack thereof, gave her an indication of his mood.



Auron came down the ramp behind her. "Madame.... Master Durron is not here to greet you?"



Jaina shook her head quickly, wrapping her arms around herself. "No."



Auron reached out to touch her shoulder and Jaina smiled weakly. Her aide took a deep breath. "I don't believe that you'll be pleased to know that Admiral Fel's ship has just dropped out of hyperspace and he is hailing us - you specifically."



Jaina bit back a curse.



Auron smiled sympathetically. "Perhaps.... I should arrange for some difficulties? Perhaps there is not a landing pad available for several hours?"



Jaina smiled brightly. "I knew I hired you for a reason." She squared her shoulders. "Make sure I'm not disturbed until I contact you."



Auron nodded. "Of course. May the Force be With you."



Jaina smiled at him over her shoulder as she moved to the lift. But her nerves returned as it shot downwards. She and Kyp's suite was on the ground level, with access to a large private garden and pool. AS she moved away from the sky she unbutton her formal robe, exposing the soft white dress underneath, brushing the brilliant green robe aside, securing it behind her back. She breathed deeply again as it slowed.



Jaina stepped into the antechamber of the suite, and raised her hand to knock before she laughed self consciously. Why would she knock to enter her own home? Why did she feel like she was invading. Jaina banished that thought as she pushed the door open.



The apartment was deathly quiet. She looked around. The living room was the picture of perfection, just as it was once the cleaning droid had finished. The state never lasted for more than a few moments, until the twins would race in and immediately build a fort with the cushions, duelling with the flower stalks the droid arranged.



Jaina stepped through the door. "Kyp? Kids? I'm home." There was no response. She stepped in closer.



Thud.



Startled, Jaina looked up, looking for the source of the sound.



Thud.



At the top of the stairs. There he was. Her husband. Waiting for her.



Jaina smiled broadly, moving to the stairs, beginning to run up them. "Kyp!" She drew back, her smile fading. "Kyp - what's wrong?"



There he stood, staring at her impassively as he leaned heavily on the railing. A bottle of Correlian whiskey hung loosely from his grasp. Behind him, she could see more bottles littered around the landing.



"Wha - " Kyp drawled. "No - honey, I'm home?" He laughed harshly, taking another slug of alcohol. "That's no way to greet your husband."



Jaina rose up the steps slowly, her brown eyes never leaving his bloodshot green. "Where are the kids?" she asked softly.



"Wit yer mother and Han." Kyp replied. "I didn't want them to see me - like this." he took another long drink. Jaina now was on the landing and she slowly reached for the bottle. He snatched it away.



"What's WRONG? You come in here - asking what is wrong????!!!!" he exploded.



Jaina stopped, staring at him, her expression one of contrition. "Kyp...."



Kyp stepped back. "No. Don't you dare 'Kyp' me! Don't look at me with those big brown eyes and try to make everything alright! You can't make it right! How's that for once, Jaina. For once in your life - you can't fix something." He chuckled bitterly and raised the bottle to his lips.



Jaina stepped forward and knocked it out of his grasp. It fell down the stairs, breaking at the bottom and the amber liquid spilled across the floor. Kyp watched the growing pool dispassionately. "Ah damn. Oh well - I've got another in the bedroom."



Jaina grabbed his arm. He shook it off. "Don't touch me."



She reached for him again. "Kyp, please. I'm - I'm sorry!! But it's not what you think!!"



Kyp turned to her, his eyes blazing. "Not what I think huh? Do you think I'm stupid?!"



"No! It's just - "



"Did you kiss him?" Kyp asked softly.



Jaina looked down, finally shaking her head.



Kyp swore. "Don't lie to me Jaina. You owe me at least that."



She raised her eyes. "I'm not lying!" She sighed. "He... he kissed me."



Kyp raised an eyebrow. "Really. How convenient."



"I'm not lying!" Jaina reached out to touch Kyp and this time he didn't shake her off. "Kyp, I love you."



"I love you too Goddess. That's what makes this so hard." Kyp replied darkly.



"What's so hard? I'm here aren't I??!!" Jaina cried.



Her husband gazed at her. "That won't do it Jaina. You betrayed me, Jaina, our marriage and our family."



"I didn't betray anyone! He kissed me and I had no idea you were reaching for me?!!" Jaina tried to explain but Kyp wouldn't hear it.



"Was it just that once?" he asked.



Jaina looked at him for a long moment before shaking her head slowly.



Kyp snarled. "How many times was it Jaina? Twice, Five - did he take you to bed? Did 'he screw you' just like 'he' kissed you?!!!"



"Never! He didn't take me to bed! It was just... two kisses. Two, simple, innocent, kisses." Jaina blinked back tears rapidly.



Kyp simply looked at her. "Nothing about this is innocent, Jaina. Otherwise, you wouldn't be so panicked." He reached out to caress her cheek, then sighed gustily. "I'm going to go sleep this off, you go get the kids." he moved away to their bedroom. Jaina stopped him.



"Kyp? Are we.... alright?" she asked hopefully.



He didn't even turn around. "Of course we're not."



It was almost midnight when Jaina entered their bedroom for the first time since she had arrived home. She had collected the children from her parents' home, skirting any questions about why Kyp had wanted them to stay there. She had given her children dinner and settled them into bed.



For some reason, Jaina hadn't wanted to enter her and Kyp's bedroom. She had paced in front of it for hours, feeling somehow like an invader. That bedroom was a temple to she and Kyp's love. Would she sully it?



Jaina raged at her feelings of guilt - she hadn't done anything wrong! Finally, when she had to blink through her exhaustion she entered.



Kyp's form was visible in the light of the candles they often had lit around the room. Jaina's breath caught as she watched his chest rise and fall in a regular motion. She slipped off her over robe, throwing it on the arm of a chair. She un-braided her hair absently as she circled the room to her closet. She pulled her dress over her head and pulled on a light night gown, a green once which Kyp had given her once. The silk shifted over her hips as she returned to the bedroom and quietly slid underneath the covers.



She lay absolutely still, listening to Kyp's regular breathing. Jaina narrowed her eyes. Far too even. She rolled over on to her side.



"Faker," she whispered playfully.



Kyp sighed heavily. "Is a man not allowed to be asleep?"



Jaina shook her head. "Not when he needs to talk to his wife. You've been sleeping since mid afternoon."



Kyp turned his head so he could look at her. Force, she made his heart clench. When he was still so angry at her - how could she look so beautiful?



"Anger is of the dark side," Jaina murmured softly.



Kyp narrowed his eyes. "Now you're sounding like me, Jaina."



"Is that so bad a thing?" Jaina asked archly. Hesitantly, she reached out to put her hand on his arm. When he didn't brush it off she relaxed fractionally. "You do believe me... right?"



Kyp looked away. "I don't know what to believe."



"You know that I love you," Jaina began but Kyp shook his head.



"This is not about love, Jaina. Of course I know that you love me and I love you... but Fel loves you too." Kyp moved so that he could look her in the face. "And it takes two to tango."



Jaina looked down and quietly sighed. "Do you realize that we haven't been apart from one another in four years? That, omitting the kidnapping, we haven't been separated in ten years?" She reached out to run her hand through Kyp's grey streaked curls. "There isn't a moment that I wouldn't cherish... but I felt - free."



Kyp studied her face. "Do you think you were too young to get married? For the kids?"



Jaina shook her head. "I don't think so. But being with Jag brought up memories from before. When I was just Jaina. Not Chief of State, no one's mother..." her gaze travelled to Kyp's. "No one's bond mate. Just Jaina."



Kyp went to rise but she stopped him, her eyes pleading. "You make me a better Jaina, a better mother, a better Chief of State."



"So why do you feel trapped?" Kyp asked harshly.



"I don't know." Her voice was soft.



"Well when you figure it out, let me know - " Kyp threw the covers off and turned to stand but Jaina moved towards him, pressing her front against his back.



"Kyp..." her voice was husky with emotion. "Don't go."



"I'm just going to the guest bedroom," he replied.



She traced patterns with her fingertips down his bare arm. "Don't leave me all alone. I need you...." her voice changed, deepened. "I want you."



Kyp hung his head, shutting his eyes tightly. "Having another baby won't make everything all better, Jaina."



"I don't want another baby. I want [b]you[/b]." There was a hiss as silk slipped off skin and the nightgown flew past Kyp's head. Her lips tugged on his earlobe.



"Please."



He couldn't say no, though the silence between them afterwards hurt like hell.



The pounding of the door woke her from her sleep. Cursing under he breath she tore off the covers and pulling on a robe, raced through the small apartment to the door. He was panting when she opened it.

"What the Sith do you think you're DOING?" She hissed, grabbing his forearm and pulling him inside the apartment. "Do you want to wake the entire building?! I'm supposed to a waitress."

He leaned his hands on his knees as he regained his breath. "They're here. Both of them."

She stopped. "Solo-Durron AND Fel? Why?"

He nodded, "No one knows. She raced back yesterday and he landed about thirteen hours later."

"I thought that the negotiations weren't progressing. Shavit - it takes a week to get here! How could we have missed this!"

"She did it out of the blue, just decided that she had to come back now. And She hasn't left her home since she got here."

The woman began pacing. "Something is going on here…." She shook her head. "We'll have to move up all our plans. It'll have to be at the Inauguration Ball."

"That's only four days away," the man reminded her.

She rolled her eyes. "You think I don't know that?" She halted and tapped her chin. "This could work to our advantage. Something is going on under the surface, things aren't going as they should - perhaps their guards will be down."

He thought then nodded slowly. "You could be right."

She smirked. "I'm always right." She spied the chrono. "Okay, you've been here way too long. Take the back exit."

"I'll drop something by today, leave it in a menu." He moved to the door then stopped. "Oh - Manon?"

She lunged for him, covering his face with her hand. "Idiot!! No real names! It's a wonder you haven't been caught yet."

He made a muffled noise and she moved her hand. "I'm sorry."

She let him go with a shove. "You should be. Now get me those plans - and try not to screw this up too. Okay?"

"Okay," he slipped out silently, leaving the Peace Brigade commander standing in her living room, thinking.

A smile flickered over her face. The Durrons were going to pay.

Jaina sighed as she entered her private office in her and Kyp's apartments, wrapping her robe around her waist. The sun was only barely peeking over the watery horizon, yet she had not been able to sleep. She had a feeling that Kyp hadn't either, but they hadn't acknowledged each other's insomnia, only lying there quietly, their breathing almost harmonized and the few inches between them had felt like a chasm.



She dropped bonelessly into her chair behind the desk, turning it to watch the sun rise in the sky. She was coming dangerously close to a brooding mood when she was startled out of it by a low beep from her comm. Someone was contacting her, she reached out to bring up the screen and smiled when she was who it was.



"Queen Mother," Jaina said with a twinkle in her eye.



Tenel stood resplendent in a red gown which clung to her toned body and set off her radiant hair. Her lips curled ever so slightly. "Madame Chief..."



Jaina lost it then, giggling. "Damn, Tenel it's good to see a friendly face."



Tenel lost the slight smile. "Why? I just received news that you had returned from Niruan, bringing the representative with you. Everyone believes that war has been averted thanks to you."



Jaina sighed. "It's who the representative which it makes it difficult. It's Jag Fel."



A single eyebrow lifted, "Oh really." Tenel had only met the pilot once on Hapes, but had heard of him many times from Jaina.



Jaina looked down, playing with her wedding ring. "He's still in love with me. And he kissed me and..."



"Kyp sensed it," Tenel finished gravely. She sighed. "This is quite the mess, Jaina." She crossed her arms thoughtfully. Tenel had allowed a prosthetic arm to be made for her during the war, showing her people a stronger front.



Jaina rolled her eyes. "You don't need to tell me that. Kyp and I haven't fought like this... ever."



Tenel narrowed her eyes. "Do you intend to leave him?"



"No!" Jaina rose up towards the screen. "But he doesn't believe me. No matter how many times I say I love him..."



"Infidelity is difficult for many, Jaina. You must give him time." Tenel counselled.



"It just really hurts," Jaina confessed. "And now Jag's here and trying to destroy my marriage - thinking I'll go back to him."



"Would you?"



"No..." Jaina shook her head. "We're too different. He wants a wife, a mother who will stay at home and cook. I can't cook and Kyp is with the kids more than I." She quirked a smile. "I would kill him within a week."



"Perhaps you should tell him that."



Jaina gritted her teeth. "He's stubborn. He's sure we're meant to be and won't give up on the fantasy."



Tenel nodded in sympathy but then she took on a thoughtful look. "How would you like me to make a State visit for your Inaugural Ball? It seems to me that you need support."



Jaina gaped. "You would? Would you be able to get here in time? It should take a week for you to arrive..." she was cut off by a smug smile gracing Tenel's lips.



"I've had the Hapan engineers work on.... improving our engines. I'll be there in two days."



Faintly, Jaina heard the door chime. She nodded quickly. "You're the best Tenel... I can't wait to see you."



"Nor I, friend Jaina, it has been far too long. Until then." The screen went black and Jaina rose, feeling much better. She left her office and went through the living room to see if the door had been answered. She stepped towards it as she saw Kyp throw a punch at Jag.





Jag had strode along the corridors, a slight frown on his face. His ship had been forced to wait for 13 hours until it was allowed to dock. And he had a pretty fair idea of who had ensured that. Durron.



He had been directed to their suite by Jaina's rather hostile assistant, after being told again and again that the family did not want to be disturbed. Perhaps not by others but Jag knew that Jaina would want to see him.



He came to the door and took a moment to brush off his dress uniform before pressing the door chime. And Jag waited. And waited. He glanced down, tapping his foot. When the door opened he smiled and looked up.



At a rather annoyed looking Jedi Master.



Jag lost his slight smile immediately. "Durron."



"Fel." Kyp looked the other man up and down. "You have a lot of nerve coming here."



Jag ignored the stab. "Is Jaina here?"



"My wife is making a call in her office. I'll tell her you dropped by - maybe," the door began to began to close but Jag stepped into it, bracing himself in the doorway.



"I want to talk to Jaina," he ground out.



Kyp gave him a cold look. "Get out of my home."



Jag grinned icily, "Make me."



Kyp punched him.



Jag flew back into the hallway, hitting the wall. Over his shoulder he saw Jaina behind Kyp.



"Jaina!' he croaked.



She looked to Kyp. "Are you done?"



Kyp looked at her with a slight smile on his lips, "Can I kick him while he's down or..."



Jaina shook her head. "I don't think that would be much of an example for the twins. You know that Hana would use it on Hale."



Kyp nodded. "Fine." He inclined his head towards Jag, "You wanna talk to him?"



"Would you mind?" Jaina asked gently, noting the slight tightening of Kyp's mouth.



He slowly shook his head. "No. But uh - I think I'll go back to bed."



Jaina reached out to touch him as he passed her, and Kyp stopped for a moment, caressing her cheek. Jag ignored how her eyes lit when he did so. When she turned back to the Chiss Admiral, her eyes had lost that light.



"Jag..." she shook her head. "What the Sith are you doing here?"



"I.. Ugh, want to talk to you," he replied as he stood slowly. "Durron there stopped me."



"The children are still asleep." Jaina replied, coming into the doorway.



"Can I come in?" Jag asked. "I think he broke my nose."



"I think my husband's entitled," Jaina shot back. "And no - you can't come in."



"Why are you denying this Jaina - " Jag reached for her but she jerked back.



"Because I don't love you!" she cried. "I love my husband and you're destroying my marriage! I want you to leave me and my family alone!" the last cry was a part sob.



Jag looked away and roughly pulled Jaina to him, she didn't fight him this time.



"Just go, Jag.... go. Please?" she raised pleading brown eyes to his.



His shook his head. "No. This is right. Tell me this isn't right!" he roughly lowered his lips to hers, brushing hers with a kiss before she could push him away.



"He kissed you again huh?" came the sardonic voice from behind them.



Jaina stepped back into the suite, spinning to face her husband. "Kyp!"



He stood a few feet away from Jaina and Jag, his face a mask of pain. From the nursery, the baby began to cry.



Tears streamed down Jaina's face. "Kyp, please... I love you..."



He pushed past her roughly and broke out at a run away from the suite.



Jaina lashed out with a fist, hitting the wall. "Dammit!" And the baby's cry rose to a wail.



Jag stepped forward, "Jaina...."



And Jag was punched for the second time that day by a Durron.



She stood over him, her face dark. "Leave Jag. If you want to make yourself useful - go find my husband. Otherwise, I don't ever want to see you ever again." The door slammed shut, leaving Jag all alone.



Jag sat against the wall for a dazed moment. What the hell had just happened? Unsteadily, he pushed himself to his feet. He gazed at the door which had been slammed in his face. She had rejected him. Completely.



Jag started to make his way down the corridor. His entire galaxy had revolved around Jaina for the last five years. When he hadn't been with her, she had still been in his thoughts. The beautiful Jaina. His ideal woman. His ideal woman had just punched him in the face.



Jag raised a hand to his jaw and sighed when he felt the ache. He made it to the end of the corridor, where a balcony jutted out away from the elevators. He barely glanced towards it but the solitary figure sitting on the railing captured his attention. Jag knew exactly who it was.



He moved into the doorway, the warm Calamari air washing over his face. "Kyp."



"If you're here to gloat, Fel, I'll throw you over this balcony without a second thought," Kyp growled, his head in his hands.



Jag snorted. "What makes you think I have anything to gloat about?"



Kyp turned slightly to glare at the younger man. "Destroying my marriage, my family and my life maybe?"



Jag sunk onto a bench, rubbing his jaw. "She has a better right hook than I remember. Did you teach her that?"



Kyp shook his head. "Of course I taught my wife to punch properly -" He turned suddenly. "What did you just say?"



"She punched me," Jag sighed. "And kicked me out."



A silence fell over the balcony.



"She really is yours, you know," Jag said quietly.



"Is she?" Kyp looked down at his wedding ring. "Then why'd she kiss you?"



"She never kissed me - I kissed her. More like forced myself on her." Jag sighed. "Thrawn, I've been a fool." He stood, moving towards Kyp. "All this time since she came to Niruan I thought that she didn't love you, that she still loved me and all I would have to do is remind her. So I kissed her, professed my undying love - convinced myself that she was just in denial when she ran from me." He looked Kyp steadily in the eye. "I've never seen her happier as when you touched her cheek. The way she looks when talking about you and your kids..." He shook his head. "If I ever find that kind of devotion I'll consider myself an incredibly lucky man."



Kyp smiled slightly. "I consider myself to be the luckiest man in the galaxy. Everyday that I wake up next to her..." He sighed and gave Jag a piercing look. "If you're jerking me around, Fel, I really will throw you off this balcony."



Jag shook his head. "She said she never wanted to see me again unless I delivered her husband back to her."



Kyp swung off the railing. "I think this husband can deliver himself." He looked at Jag. "Thanks."



Jag shook his head. "I should be thanking you - for not killing me for all I've done."



Kyp shrugged. "You can babysit the kids sometime, that's punishment enough." He nodded to Jag again and then strolled off the balcony, leaving the Chiss Admiral alone.



Jag had never felt so alone in his life.



Down the corridor, Kyp slipped into his home, looking around with a light heart for the first time since Jaina had told him of her trip.

A smile graced his handsome face as he whispered, "Honey - I'm home."



He was greeted with a kind of silence which he had grown to love. The kind of silence wherein all the kids were asleep and he could spend some time alone with Jaina. He started up the stairs, towards his wife.



Kyp reached the bedroom door, and took a second to look at the sight before him. Jaina sat alone on their bed, her knees pulled up to her chest as she watched the sun start to rise over Calamari. It felt like an eternity since Kyp had left the bed when it had really been less than an hour. They still had a few hours until the children would wake up.



His breathing alerted Jaina to his presence and she turned to look at him.



Her beauty took Kyp's breath away as it always did. Her long chestnut hair falling over a shoulder. This was his wife. His love. His lover. His Goddess.



"Didn't take Jag long to find you," her voice was low, tense.



Kyp smiled slightly as he stepped into the room, closing the smoky glass door behind him. "I didn't go far. I never go far from you."



She smiled. "I prefer to have you close."



"I prefer to hold you close." he replied softly.



Jaina's eyes lit with the light which Kyp had fallen in love with five years ago. "Really?"



Kyp nodded. "Really," he reached for her but she beat him to it, throwing herself into his arms. He hugged her close against himself, breathing in the scent of her hair and the perfume he had bought her for their last anniversary.



"I'm sorry," Jaina whispered into his chest.



"I'm sorry," he returned into her air.



Jaina pulled away slightly, her brandy eyes boring into his. "You have nothing to be sorry for."



He shook his head. "Neither do you. We even?"



"Of course," she breathed, leaning in towards him. Kyp stopped her.



"That was quite the bruise developing on Fel. You really punch him?"



She nodded slowly, a smirk crossing her lips. "Yeah. You taught me well."



"Just wanted to be sure, to make sure that I don't ever piss you off." Kyp told her with a smile, covering her body with his own and gently pushing her into the coverlet.



"You have nothing to worry about, Kyp." Her eyes caught his and her tone became serious. "About anything. Ever."



"Good. Wouldn't want to make love to women who might punch me some day," he told her huskily.



Jaina's only reply was her kiss. But it was enough. It always had been. The couple reminded themselves of their love as the sun rose over the ocean, covering them with a bright golden light, but the love in the room was even brighter.



Three days later, Jaina awoke with the sun hitting her face. Sighing contentedly, she burrowed back under the blanket, settling her head on Kyp's strong chest.



She heard a slow chuckle and looked up into her husband's warm green eyes. "What?" she asked.



He shook his head, "Nothing. Just happy."



Jaina smiled. "Me too." She groaned softly. "Do I have to get up?"



"Considering that we have the Inaugural Ball tonight, as well as your supposed best friend arriving in a few hours, yeah, I think you do."



Jaina moved up to kiss Kyp on the nose, "You're my best friend."



"I was referring to Tenel." Kyp told her with a smile. "Same here though, but I hope you don't kiss Tenel like you do me."



Jaina grinned at him. "Well there was that one time when we were sixteen and drunk..."



Kyp propped himself up on his elbow to give his wife a look. "Why did you not tell me about this before and why wasn't I there to videotape it? I could have made a fortune on the HoloNet!!"



Jaina smacked him with a pillow. "I had no idea I had married such a chauvinist."



Kyp tossed the pillow aside. "You like chauvinists."



Jaina shook her head. "I like nice men."



Kyp pulled her closer to him, their faces only a few inches apart. "I'm a nice man," he breathed.



"Hmm... maybe...." Jaina whispered back before he covered her lips with his own. The kiss was deep and soulful, her name which he breathed a prayer. Kyp tangled his hands in her hair while her hands traced patterns down his chest. Their breathing became ragged as Kyp rolled her underneath himself.



A squeal issued from the doorway and twin bullets launched themselves onto the bed.



"Mama mama mama mama!!" Hanna giggled as she landed atop her mother as Hale tackled Kyp.



Jaina sat up, trying to regulate her breathing and pull down her nightgown while Hanna crawled into her lap. "What, baby?"



"Is today the party?" Hanna asked.



Jaina smiled at her older daughter, "Yes it is, and you're going to stay with Threepio tonight."



The twins made mirrored images of horror and Kyp laughed, ruffling Hale's already matted hair. "If you think that's bad kid, I have to go a party and wear a stupid suit."



Jaina smacked his arm. "Kyp. Don't be a bad example for the children."



Kyp grinned back at her. "Too late." He turned to their children. "Okay, who wants hot chocolate with breakfast!"



The chorus of 'Me!'s would have been enough to wake the dead. Jaina sent Kyp a reproachful look as they climbed out of bed. "Like they're not going to be hyper enough today."



Kyp shrugged. "We'll foist them on your brother and Tahiri."



Jaina stopped to consider then grinned. "Brilliant. I knew I married you for a reason."



Kyp pulled her roughly against him, kiss her with abandon for a long minute. His voice was husky when he pulled away, "You mean - aside from that reason?"



Jaina managed to nod before pulling his face back down to hers.



They had no idea they were being watched. Nor any idea that a plan was being put into action. Revenge was a dish best served cold, and this revenge had waited nearly 3 years.