PERFECT STRANGERS: PART IV

TUESDAY NIGHT...

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I HATE MY BROTHER! He is so completely wrong and just-- evil! He comes in here and starts telling me how I feel like he knows what's going on in my head! He only thinks he knows—and I've got to keep it that way. Sigh This is getting out of hand. I don't feel in control of my emotions anymore. It's scary and weird... but not really in a bad way... Sith, I have really gotta quit the caffeine after 20:30...

Jaina stood in front of the mirror, absent-mindedly brushing her hair, thinking. The banquet was in three days. And it was not going to be just another day at the garage. She wasn't sure what to expect. She wasn't sure about Brock. She didn't want him to embarrass himself, but she wasn't sure if he knew how to act.

"What am I thinking! How could I be such a jerk! Of course he knows how to conduct himself. He's been a perfect gentleman since the first day I met him. I'm ashamed that I even--"

"Jaya, could you please contain your excitement?" Jacen asked leaning into his sister's room. "I can feel you all the way in the other room."

Jaina snapped out of her thoughts and immediately erected mental barriers. "What are you talking about?" she answered nonchalantly.

"Your date, of course." Jacen walked over and stood next to her, arms crossed. "You haven't brought a date to a banquet in years!" he exclaimed. "You must really like this guy, huh?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

Jacen rolled his eyes. "Okay fine, we don't have to talk about it. I already know what you think of him."

"You do not! How dare you probe my mind, Jacen!"

Jacen threw up his hands. "You insult me! You honestly believe anyone in this house needs a mind probe to know what you think of Brock Mitchell?"

"Would you shut up! Really." Jaina threw her brush onto the bed. "You have no idea what I really think of him—because I don't even know!"

"Oh, you know." he countered, sauntering toward her. "I've seen the way you act around him. How you just about melted the other night when he hugged you. I've sensed your emotions changing when he gets close to you. I've felt your heart speed up when he smiles at you. And I--"

"Shut up!" Jaina shouted, shoving him away. She felt violated. "You have no right to pry into my personal thoughts! There is nothing going on between me and Brock, so just drop it!" Jacen fell silent for a moment to let her cool down.

"I'm not prying, Jaina." he said quietly. "It's just—this vaping twin thing, you know? I'm sorry."

Jaina sighed. She did know. And that's why she couldn't be upset.

"I know," she answered softly. "I'll try to contain myself around him." She smirked. "If you will please just make a bigger effort to respect my privacy."

Jacen started toward the door. He turned and flashed her a lopsided grin. "I'll work on it." He left her room, without another word.

Jaina rolled her eyes. Leave it to Jacen to get me worked up over something as trivial as this banquet. He has no idea what I really think of Brock, he just--

Just then, Jaina caught sight of her computer's auxiliary screen. Bouncing around in huge purple letters were the words:

YOU WANT HIM BAD.

SAME TIME, DIFFERENT PLACE...

Thunk. "Seven."

Thunk. "Fifteen."

Thunk. "Twenty one."

Thunk. "Thirty six."

Jeremy looked up from his magazine and stared at Brock for a moment. "You alright, Mitch? You've been putting holes in that board for an hour."

Brock chunked the last dart at the board and sighed. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just messin' around."

Jeremy shook his head. "Stang, she's controlling your mind already."

Brock turned abruptly. "What? What're you talking about?"

"Your princess, of course."

"What? I'm not even thinkin' about her! There are so many other things I have to think about."

"Oh really? Like what?"

Brock ignored the question. "Besides, why should I waste my time? I'm really starting to think she's not my type."

Jeremy pulled off his glasses and laughed. "You think she's out of your league?"

"Of course not! I just don't know if I wanna get into all that-- you know, political crap."

"What political crap?"

"Well, okay-- she asked me to go with her to this-- banquet thing. It's at some fancy reception center and all of these off-world senators and governors and crap are gonna be there. I don't really wanna be surrounded by a bunch of spoiled, power-hungry politicians making speeches for hours and--"

"Then what'd you say?"

Brock paused. "Are you kidding? You really think I could say no to her?"

Jeremy burst into laughter and stood from his chair. "Mitch, you're pathetic."

"I'm not-- man, shut up!"

"Just wait." he continued, walking into the kitchen. "In a couple of weeks, you'll be walkin' around this place asking me to fetch your slippers and brandy."

Just then, the doorbell buzzed and Zane and Lucy Romero entered with a stack of three pizzas.

"Dinner!" he announced.

"Sorry, man," Jeremy called from the kitchen. "Looks like we might be splitting Mitchie's-- unless you remembered the caviar topping..."

Brock quickly pulled apart the dart he was holding and threw the flag at Jeremy, who cursed as he dodged the dull projectile.

"I will vaping kill you, Sali!"

Zane cocked an eyebrow at Lucy. "Did we miss something?"

Jeremy grinned mischievously and took his pizza from Zane.

"Yeah, Mitchie's hot for that princess."

"Princess?" Lucy asked.

Brock chunked a pillow at Jeremy. "Sithspawn!"

Jeremy deflected the shot and laughed again. A smile crept onto Zane's face as he handed Brock his pizza.

"Hey, go for it, man. She's--"

Lucy shot him a playful glare.

"—seems like an amazing person." he finished safely. "Besides, I think she's kinda sweatin' you already."

"Yeah, she is," Jeremy answered. "She vapin asked him to a banquet."

Zane's eyes widened as he moved toward the living room chair. "And you said yes?"

"Of course I did!" he shouted defensively. "You saw her!-- Sorry, Luce."

Lucy rolled her eyes.

"Alright, my man!" Zane said with a grin. "Movin' up to first class! Off to your first big executive party."

"Somebody wanna explain to me what's going on? Mitchie?" Lucy asked, squeezing between Brock & Jeremy on the couch. Brock gave his best female friend a slice of his pizza and then quick rundown on the situation as Zane and Jeremy demolished their dinner.

For quite a while, Lucy Romero had been Brock, Zane and Jeremy's single link to the female world. She had revealed enough to them about fashion, romance, and the minds of women to keep them forever in her debt.

However, Lucy was also one of the best fighter pilots on Echo squadron and because of her ability to get into risky situations and then miraculously get out of them, she had earned the nickname Lucky. Zane and Lucy had been close friends since they were eight years old. During their childhood, the two decided that when they became old enough, they would attend the Academy together. Beautiful and friendly, Lucy became instantly popular with the male pilots. She earned their respect by proving to be better than most of them. She had long, dark hair, a flawless complexion that looked forever tanned, and large almond shaped eyes that kept Zane wrapped around her little finger. But she seemed to be unaware of her own power, which made her even more attractive.

Lucy listened enthusiastically to Brock's story of his good fortune, and when he reached the end, she grinned.

"Sounds like you've been keeping yourself entertained! And you've done fine on your own so far, but you gotta get some new threads for the banquet-- cause they won't let just any grease monkey into one of those things." She elbowed him playfully.

Brock stopped chewing. "Good point. What do you wear to something like that?"

"That, my friend, is where I come in."

Admiral Lockhart entered the bridge and her crew snapped to attention once again. General Cerberus stood and walked to her side. "I apologize for the delay this morning, Admiral. I didn't expect you to be awake so early. We have Coruscant onscreen now."

Admiral Lockhart ignored his apology and suppressed a smile. She could already sense the strong presence of the Jedi. She turned to the viewing screen. "Have you deployed the HITS probes?"

"Thirty seconds ago, Admiral." Commander Taurus called out.

The HITS probes were probably the most useful weapons that the Admiral had in her possession. They were nearly microscopic, yet extremely powerful observation probes, which were strategically placed in important areas of the Republic headquarters. They could easily follow anyone one person or group that they wished in order to obtain necessary information. Admiral Lockhart obtained the probes and the designs for them by way of a slicer and technical genius called Tarik. They met on a small planet called Zavala on one of the crew's early missions. After Tristan had gained Tarik's trust, he showed her the plans and the prototypes for his brilliant innovation. Shortly after that, Tristan murdered Tarik and purloined his inventions to use for her own dark purpose.

"Good work, Taurus." Lockhart commented standing behind the young Commander. "But where are my Jedi?"

"I am in the process of locating them, Admiral."

"What do you mean "in the process! I want them now!" These students are vital to our plan, Commander! I want information on each and every one of them! I want an inside link to the Jedi praxeum! I want probes following everyone involved so that we can find the perfect person for this very sensitive job. You wouldn't dare deny my orders, would you Taurus?" she growled menacingly.

Taurus felt a hint of pressure on his vocal chords. "No-- of course not, Admiral." he sputtered. The pressure disappeared.

"I didn't think so."

Admiral Lockhart left the slightly shaken Commander Taurus to his search, and continued walking around to monitor the rest of her men. As she stood over one of the other Commanders, she looked over his head and secretly admired the workers for a moment.

The crew of the Artemis was fairly large, but they were in no shape to wage war on the entire New Republic. However, Tristan felt that they were skilled enough to take on a few inexperienced Jedi. Many of these men had been around since the very beginning. They had worked hard to get to the place they were, and for that, she wished to reward them.

General Cerberus was certainly one of the hardest working members of the crew. He made sure everything was done precisely on schedule and carried out the Admiral's orders before they could scarcely leave her lips. He had been that way ever since the first day he began working for her, and as a result of that diligence, Tristan never hesitated to leave Cerberus in control when she was busy. His only fault was that he had a bit of a temper and a habit of throwing his weight around when the Admiral was not present. Because of this, Captain Mycenae had taken it upon himself to keep him in check.

Another crew member who was proving to be advantageous was Commander Benjamyn Taurus. Even though he had ways of making her very angry, he was a good man. He was one of the crew's younger members but his knowledge was far beyond his years. In fact, it would not be an overstatement to call him a technical genius. Admiral Lockhart often called on him to repair the complicated weapon systems of the ship or to program things into their computers. Because of his youthfulness, she was usually reluctant to call on him save for his technical skills. But lately, he had proved to have some good ideas and except for the occasional moments when his age was obvious, he was proving to be a valuable asset to the crew.

There were many more officers on the ship, but Tristan chose not to grow close to any of them. If too many people knew her too well, she would lose her respect and authority. She kept her circle of companions limited to those three men and dwelled in the assurance that they would not ever betray her.

"Taurus? An update?" Lockhart asked warningly, walking back toward his post.

Stang, would she never let up? "Yes, Admiral." Commander Taurus answered calmly. "Probes have been mounted and are set to monitor-- Jaina Solo... her brother Jacen and the entire Solo residence... Tenel Ka... Alex Lowry--"

"Those last two names aren't familiar. Who are they?"

"Alex Lowry owns a coffee shop called Astraglo. Jaina Solo has visited there four times in the past two weeks. I thought it would be a good place to watch. Tenel Ka is Jaina's close companion."

"Very well. Continue."

Taurus waited for the rest of the names to come up. "The last two are following Kyp Durron, a Jedi Master at the Academy... and of course Luke Skywalker."

Tristan's blood ran cold as the familiar names ran through her mind. Jaina and Jacen Solo; children of Han Solo, the man who was partially responsible for the destruction of the first Death Star. And Luke Skywalker, destroyer of the Empire, and the reason for her misery. Sweet revenge was hers at last.

"Send their profiles to my quarters."

The next afternoon, Admiral Lockhart decided to hold a conference with a few key crew members to decide what miserable soul they would use for this mission. But they had disappointed her and she hadn't gotten any useful ideas from them so far. Frustrated, Admiral Lockhart rose from her chair in the conference room. They had been watching their probes for over twenty-four hours, and nothing significant had happened yet. Admiral Lockhart was not a patient woman. Captain Mycenae, General Cerberus, General Adelae, Commander Taurus, and Commander Houston were about to die from boredom. They hadn't moved for the past two hours. Lockhart mumbled to herself as she circled the table. Mycenae leaned back in his chair and rolled his eyes. "Admiral, we have been here for hours and accomplished nothing! What can we possible think of now that we haven't already discussed? Why don't we just monitor Skywalker and his family--"

"And then wait for him to decide to fly somewhere and then catch him in space? Is that what you're suggesting?" Lockhart made her way over to Mycenae and leaned down to look him straight in the eye. "Are you that stupid, Mycenae! Of course you're not. Your wouldn't be first officer if you were." She straightened up again and continued walking around the room.

"My simple-minded crewmates. Do none of you realize what Skywalker is capable of? Because of him, Lord Vader, betrayed and killed himself and his master. Entire planets have succumbed to the Republic because of his influence. He has murdered millions, and gained endless knowledge from traveling all over the galaxy. Skywalker has more power than you can imagine. It would be foolish for us to assume we can take him down."

"What are you suggesting, Admiral? That we avoid going directly to the source?" Cerberus asked.

"Exactly." Lockhart answered. "I am suggesting that we work through the people he is closest to. Perhaps his wife, who was a former agent of the Emperor. Or maybe one of his students. A young, naive Jedi who will turn him over to us unintentionally."

"What about one of the Solo children?" Taurus suggested. "Not only do they attend the Jedi Academy, but they are the children of Skywalker's sister. They may be of some use."

Lockhart grinned deviously. "That's the spirit, Commander."

THURSDAY AFTERNOON...

122523-434

You know... I don't even know what to say. I wish I could just take a picture of my brain and look at it and try to figure out what's going on. I am confused. Sooooo confused...

"One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two,-- got it?"

"Um yeah, sure."

Jaina laughed. Brock was a bit dazed. Jaina Solo had spent the past hour in his arms, her fingers intertwined with his. Jaina had remembered him saying during their night at Astraglo that he wasn't much of a dancer. So she figured a few lessons would be a good excuse to spend some extra time with him. Brock was enjoying every second of it.

Jaina smiled. "You've done great. I can't believe you've put up with me this long!"

"Are you kidding? This is cool. You're a great teacher."

The music ended and the couple released each other. Their eyes locked for a moment and Jaina thought for sure that her heart was going to jump out of her chest.

"Um-- whaddya say we take a break? I'll put on-- something fast."

"Yeah, sure. That's cool."

Jaina crossed the room to the sound system and began looking for different music. Brock smacked himself in the forehead. "Yeah sure, that's cool? What are you, fourteen? C'mon Mitchell, quit acting like an idiot!"

Suddenly, a very familiar tune resounded through the living room, and a smile spread across Brock's face. Jaina reentered the room and caught sight of his ear to ear grin. "What are you so happy about?"

"This song, Paxton is a genius."

Jaina humored him with a grin. "What are you talking about?"

Brock's mouth fell open. "Don't tell me you've never heard of Louis Paxton!" Jaina smiled and shrugged.

"You mean after all the dances they've taught you, you don't know how to swing!"

"Fraid not."

Brock grinned again. "You wanna learn?"

Jaina cocked her head. "I thought you didn't dance!"

"I had to say something to get you to teach me." He smirked.

Jaina's mouth fell open and her eyes narrowed.

"Aw, the Mad Face!" he teased. "I love the Mad Face. You are just so vaping irresistible when you look at me like that. Come here."

Jaina took his hand, desperately trying to crush the swirl of emotions rising into her torso.

"Okay, here's your basic step…"

A smile spread across Lockhart's face as she gazed into the viewing screen. "Are you seeing this, Mycenae? It's nearly too good to be true. We couldn't ask for a better setup!"

Mycenae's eyes narrowed as he stared into one of the viewing screens. "I don't understand, Admiral."

Lockhart rolled her eyes. "Think about it, Mycenae. It would be too obvious and too difficult for us to attack Jaina Solo herself. But since she has this less significant boyfriend, he's the perfect target! No one cares what happens to him. He could lead us right into the heart of the royal family and then the Jedi Academy-- and then to Skywalker." Tristan took her comlink and called for Taurus to join them in the observation room. Seconds later, he appeared.

"Yes, Admiral?"

"Taurus, I want probes following Captain Brock Mitchell every second and I want a complete readout of his history, records, etc. I also want to be able to see EVERYTHING that happens at this banquet on Saturday night. Get probes up in the Kahanek Banquet Hall before Saturday afternoon."

Taurus sighed to himself. That was almost impossible. "Yes Admiral." he answered, concealing his annoyance.

Tristan turned back to the screen. "I am anxious to see what is to become of this relationship." Oh, Captain Mitchell. You didn't know what you were getting into, did you? Just wait. Your compassion for the Princess will be your undoing.

SATURDAY NIGHT...

122723-436

My father is impossible. He doesn't trust me and he's making my life miserable. Brock on the other hand is completely perfect and wonderful and-- he's making my life even more difficult. Don't get me wrong though! I'm so happy! Really, I am! But I'm losing my mind...

Jaina stepped out of her bathroom, coughing furiously. Hairspray was not good for the lungs! After the cloud of mist had cleared, she reentered the bathroom and inspected her hair. Nearly perfect-- with a few rebellious strands of hair hanging in her face. "Must you be the non-conformists!" Jaina growled at her hair.

"Come here hon, I'll help you." Leia beckoned her daughter and smiled at her. "You must be nervous if you're screaming at your hair."

Jaina sighed. "Maybe I am a little. I don't know why. I've done this a thousand times." Leia only smiled. Jaina knew she knew, but she appreciated the fact that her mother knew when to be quiet.

"Alright, Mitchie, it's zero hour! Let's go!"

Lucy wound her long, dark, hair up with a pen and paced back and forth in Brock and Jeremy's living room. Zane watched her with a smile. "Stang, I think you're more nervous than he is, Lucky." Lucy glared at him.

"I am not! I'm excited for him. I mean when was the last time one of us got invited to a big executive party? This could so change his life forever!"

Zane smiled again. "I don't think so, honey. Mitchie's a good guy, but he's no prince."

"So!" Lucy argued defensively. "Han Solo was just a smuggler, and he married a princess. Now-- Captain Brock Mitchell is gonna sweep his daughter off her feet."

Jeremy and Zane shrugged as Lucy walked back down the hall to Brock's room and banged on the door.

"Mitchie, you're gonna be late! Come on! Let's see how you look."

"Okay, okay! I'm coming!"

Lucy stood outside the door with her arms crossed, waiting. A moment later, the door creaked open.

"So... whaddya think?"

Tristan was seated in the observation room with Mycenae and Cerberus. She had ordered them all to spend this evening with her, watching and listening. Tonight would be the night that she decided whether or not Brock was to be chosen for this mission. Taurus was busy making sure that they would have no trouble hearing every word that was spoken that night, as well as watch every movement. Tristan's only disappointment was that Skywalker would not be present at the banquet. But it was better that way. If he was there, he would have that harlot, Mara Jade, on his arm. That was the last thing Tristan wanted to watch. She pushed that thought from her mind and smiled as she thought of his destruction.

"Hurry up, Taurus." she called. "It would be a shame for you to miss this."

Jacen knocked lightly on his sister's door. "Can I come in?"

"I guess."

Jacen rolled his eyes as he entered. "You're not mad at me, are you?"

Jaina turned to face her brother. "No, I'm not mad at you." she answered. "Help me put this on." She handed him a necklace.

Jacen obliged. "Hey," he began. "I just wanted to let you know that-- I'm not gonna mess with you tonight." He paused. "I want you to have a good time and—I hope things turn out the way you want them."

Jaina turned to face her brother. When it came to serious matters, Jacen wasn't great at verbally expressing himself, but she could tell this was heartfelt. She smiled and hugged him. "Thank you, Jasa. I appreciate it. Now go away, so I can finish getting ready."

The white roses trembled slightly in Brock's hand. He was alone outside the door of the Solo residence. After being wished farewell and good luck by his three best friends, he had summoned his courage and pride, and made his way to the very spot he was standing. "This night could change everything." he thought. "Or it could change nothing." He wasn't quite sure what to expect from the next few hours, and after taking several steps in what he believed was the right direction-- he wished there was someone to push him the rest of the way.

the sound of Windsor chimes echoes throughout the house

Jacen was checking out his appearance in the living room mirror when the doorbell rang. He and Anakin had decided to attend the banquet in Jedi Knight attire. The girls, however, rarely passed up an opportunity for a new formal dress Jacen's Jedi robe lay on the couch and he was buttoning the top buttons on his dark green tunic.

In a few seconds, he realized that he was expected to answer the door. "Don't everybody run down here at once! I'll get it!"

Brock breathed small a sigh of relief when Jacen opened the door. "Hey, Mitchell! Come on in."

Brock and Jacen were dressed slightly similar, and just as nice. Lucy had been extremely pleased with her best friend's appearance. When he took the time to actually put gel in his hair change out of his scrubby trousers, he cleaned up nicely. Brock was clad in black pants that went down into shiny black boots. His maroon tunic was a different style from Jacen's and in the right light, it looked almost metallic. He hoped it was at least close to the color of Jaina's dress. To top off the outfit, a black formal cape was draped over his shoulders. It was one of the nicest garments he owned. "Jaina's still getting ready." Jacen commented. "I say, give her at least another fifteen minutes." Brock smiled. "It's alright, I expected to wait."

"You're welcome to come with me and A.J. to pick up Tenel and Tahiri."

"Nah, I'll stay here. Try to make nice with your dad."

Jacen grinned. "He's been repeatedly warned by Mom and Jaina to be good this evening. Good luck anyway. A.J.! Let's go!"

Seconds later, Anakin came flying down the stairs. He was dressed much like his brother, only in royal blue. His long dark hair was parted on the side and hung in his eyes a little.

"Take it easy, Mitchell."

Brock made himself comfortable on the couch. His head was swimming with excitement-- and nervousness. He was snapped out of his trance by Han's voice coming from upstairs. "Yeah hon, I'll wait for ya in the living room." Brock swallowed hard. He hadn't done anything wrong-- there was no reason to be nervous.

"Hey Brock, didn't know you were here." Brock stood up quickly and extended his hand to the legendary war hero. "Yes sir, good evening, General."

"Just Captain Solo is fine." Han replied shaking Brock's hand. Then Brock resumed his place on the couch as Han sat down in his chair.

"So, you ever been to one of these things?"

"No sir." Brock responded. "I'm not too fond of huge social gatherings. But, I have a lot of admiration and respect for your daughter and-- I wouldn't miss another opportunity to spend time with her. She's brilliant."

Wow! Where had that come from!

Han was apparently taken by surprise as well. "Well, I'm glad you think so highly of her. She is pretty amazing. Gonna be a powerful Jedi one day. Actually, she already is."

"Yeah," Brock shook his head. "I must admit, that was quite a surprise."

"Whaddya mean a surprise?"

Brock chuckled nervously. "She kinda forgot to tell me who she really was. About you and the rest of the family. I just thought she was a new pilot or someone I hadn't met."

Han leaned back in his chair and chuckled. "Oh that. Yeah, she has a selective memory. She doesn't think it's important. But most people do care. For some reason they freak out when they find out I'm her dad." He grinned. "It's not like I'm gonna kill any of her friends or anything!" Han laughed, and Brock laughed politely, swallowing the lump in his throat. "Aw, Jaina, please hurry!"

After what seemed like hours had passed, Han and Brock's uneasy conversation was put to an end by the sound of the front door opening. A second later, Jacen appeared with Tenel by his side. Anakin and Tahiri followed close behind them.

"Hey Brock. Jaina come down yet?"

"Uh, no."

Tenel touched her boyfriend's arm. "I'll go get her. Come with me, Tahiri?" Tahiri nodded and followed Tenel up the stairs.

Jaina jumped when she heard the knock at her door. "Come in."

Tenel and Tahiri leaned slowly into Jaina's room. "You ever comin' down honey?" Tahiri asked with a smile.

Jaina grinned and jumped up from her chair. "Hi guys! When did you get here?"

"A second ago." Tahiri answered. "Only to be greeted by a really hot, LONELY fighter pilot. Why aren't you down there?"

"Well, I--"

"No excuses!" Tenel piped up. "Get your butt down there! Now!"

"Tenel, wait--"

"I'll pull you--"

Jaina grabbed her best friend's right hand; a miracle in itself since the accident.

"Tenel," she whispered softly. "Tell me I have nothing to worry about. Tell me everything's going to be fine."

Tenel smiled warmly and hugged her best friend. "You look gorgeous, and everything is going to go perfectly. But not if you don't get your butt down those stairs."

Jaina grinned. There was a time that she thought Tenel wasn't capable of showing her emotions. Her relationship with Jacen had opened her up a lot and helped her to express herself better. The entire New Order had become much more relaxed about sharing their feelings with each other.

"Come on, Princess. It's time."

"She's coming!" Tenel announced, floating down the stairs. Jacen's heart raced at the mere sight of her. She looked spectacular. Her sparkling green dress set off her deep emerald eyes, and her auburn hair wasn't braided as usual. Instead, it cascaded down her back like a waterfall.

Tahiri followed closely behind Tenel. Her sky blue dress matched Anakin's eyes. She caught his gaze from the stairs and grinned at him. He grinned back. Though they were only friends, Tahiri had to admit, he looked adorable. The tunic he wore set off his blue eyes and with his hair falling in his face just a little, he was irresistible.

Brock stood nervously, roses still in hand, and turned around just in time to be confronted with a figure from a perfect daydream.

Jaina descended the staircase in her metallic, cranberry colored dress. Brock fought to keep his mouth from falling open. Her brown hair was pulled up with a few ringlets hanging in her face, and a small, sparkling tiara graced her head. Her brandy brown eyes sparkled when they met Brock's green ones. His face broadened into a grin.

Jacen concealed a smile at Brock's reaction. He hadn't seen his sister this happy in a while. He sensed her emotions as Brock handed her the roses and gently hugged her. But he tried his best to keep to himself, and focus on something more important. Like the way Tenel looked in her dress.

"Thank you, Brock. They're beautiful. I'll have to find a vase. Come with me?" she said starting toward the kitchen. " Sure." Brock grinned and followed her, completely enchanted.

Han kept a watchful eye on his daughter.

"So, are you excited?" Jaina asked filling the vase with water. She actually had to concentrate on keeping her focus off of Brock to avoid spilling water everywhere.

"Of course. I have every reason to be."

Jaina placed the roses in the vase and eyed Brock. She decided to hide her nervousness by being a tease. "Wow. You clean up nice, Mitchell. And look! We even sorta match!" Jaina grinned. Gods, she was gorgeous! "And by the way," she continued. "I'm really sorry I made you wait."

"No, no, no," he answered quickly. "Don't be. It was worth every second. You look-- incredible."

Jaina felt her face getting warm. "Thank you."

Brock smiled. "You're welcome." He offered her his arm. "Shall we?"

Jaina smiled back and slipped her arm through his. "Yeah, let's go."

The shiny, silver transport vehicle pulled up at the door of the Kahanek Banquet Hall on Coruscant, and all four couples exited the vehicle. Brock smiled to himself as they approached the massive threshold. This night is going to be amazing! He felt Jaina squeeze his arm. He turned his head and she grinned at him. "Ready to go?"

"Yes, yes, of course, your Majesty." Brock said in his best snobby accent. "Let us go mingle with the other members of the elite society."

Jaina giggled. "Just open the door."

The architecture of the Kahanek Banquet Hall was spectacular. Everything on the interior was either ivory or golden, and ornate crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling. Ice sculptures decorated the banquet tables, which were lined with exotic hors d'oeuvres from all over the galaxy. And there were hundreds of upper class people milling around. They spoke in foreign tongues of which Brock could not even begin to distinguish. He would have felt very small and insignificant, were it not for the beautiful princess on his arm.

"Kind of overwhelming, huh?"

"Oh yeah." Brock replied slowly.

Jaina smiled. "It still gets me every time, and I've been to tons of these."

"But you fit right in. I mean look at you! And look at me."

Jaina did so. She eyed her date up and down and then met his eyes in a smile. "Are you questioning my judgment?" she inquired with mock annoyance.

Brock grinned sheepishly. "Yeah, sort of."

Jaina straightened his tie with a smirk. "Never do that again." she answered. "Come on, I'll introduce you to some people."

Brock and Jaina found Jacen and Tenel and the four mingled until it was time to eat. They located their table at the front of the banquet hall where the four couples were seated around the esteemed Dzani Ambassador and his assistants. After a few short speeches, dinner was served, and conversation commenced at the table.

Brock ate more cautiously than usual, being careful not to spill anything and make a fool of himself. But he had a hard time simply concentrating on eating, because he couldn't keep his eyes off of Jaina. Everything about her was just so-- cute! He was greatly looking forward to the rest of the evening, while still trying to enjoy every minute that passed.

"You still remember the moves I taught you?" he whispered to her when dinner was finished.

"Sure." she answered. "But I'd be kind of surprised if we got to swing here."

"Why's that?"

"Well, they just usually don't play anything like that."

Brock smiled. "Maybe no one's ever requested it." Jaina smiled back.

"How about you?" she asked a moment later. "Still remember?"

"Of course!" How could I ever forget?

When the tables were cleared, the lights dimmed, the stage lit up, and the Dzani Ambassador's secretary took the stage and began a long, monotone, speech. Brock hid a yawn about halfway through. He resolved his boredom by counting the petals on the flowery tablecloth. He had reached 463 when the secretary stepped down, after announcing his successor; the Ambassador himself. The older, and slightly rounder man ambled up onto the stage, thus beginning the longest forty-five minutes of Brock's life. Jaina turned her head from the stage and caught her date concealing a sigh. She smiled at him and shrugged slightly. He returned her smile, but his face suddenly turned more serious and he glared into her eyes, and sly smile working its way onto his face. Jaina glared back. She wasn't about to lose a staring contest. Especially not to someone with eyes as gorgeous as Brock's.

Jacen noticed his sister staring into Brock's eyes, and nudged her with the Force. Jaina assumed he was teasing until she heard his voice. You two aren't the only ones staring at each other! Jaina suddenly felt her father's eyes on them, and unintentionally, she blinked, losing the contest and coming face to face with her father's glare. Han flashed her a warning look, and a forced smile, and then turned his eyes back to the stage.

Jaina slowly reverted her gaze to Brock, who had seen her father's reaction to their little game. He gave her a genuine smile, and mouthed the words, "rematch later". Satisfied, Jaina turned her head back toward the Ambassador.

Fifteen minutes later, Jaina heard a soft, repetitive noise. A rhythm, barely audible without the use of the Force. She quickly identified the source; Brock was tapping his fingers on his thighs. She didn't sense any intentional mischief, so he was simply bored again, and this cadence was amusing him for the time being. She let it go on a few more minutes, and then quietly, keeping one eye on her father, she slid her hand out of her own lap and onto Brock's leg, covering his fingers. Brock jumped slightly at her touch. The two were sitting close enough together that Han hadn't caught the movement, for he was seated across the table from them and was actually paying attention to the speaker. Brock turned slowly to her, a grin threatening the corners of his mouth. Jaina fought to hide her own. A few seconds later, Brock began tapping his fingers again, under her hand. This time she squeezed his hand to make him stop. But her stomach fluttered when he pulled his hand from beneath hers, laced their fingers together and gently brushed his thumb against hers. She glanced at him for a long moment and he shot her a triumphant look that clearly said 'This could keep me occupied for awhile.' Then he winked at her. Jaina rolled her eyes to hide the blush.

It took every ounce of willpower within Han to remain silent. As the congregation applauded the Ambassador at the close of his speech, Han glared at Jaina. He finally caught her eye and she smiled innocently at him.

"Alright, enough talk for one evening." the Ambassador said in his distinguished accent. "We will now proceed to the ballroom for dancing and refreshments. Thank you all, and good night."

Everyone rose from their tables and began to follow the crowd. Jaina surrounded she and Brock with her friends, and never laid another eye on her father.

Steve Tyrell's version of "The Way You Look Tonight" has been deleted from this story. Once again, please use your imagination to set the mood. Sorry.

Her hair was mussed, her feet were sore, and her dress was beginning to cling to her, but Jaina couldn't feel a thing-- except Brock's muscular forearm around her waist and the electricity coursing between their intertwined fingers. He was an amazing dancer. Not only had he swept her across the floor through dozens of traditional songs, he had even convinced the emcee to play two swing songs for them to show off to. After numerous rounds of applause from their captive audience, Jaina was floating, despite her aching feet.

And now, she was close enough to feel his heartbeat, close enough to see a flicker of delight in his emerald eyes when she smiled at him. He was perfect. The evening had been perfect, everything was—too perfect.

Jaina pulled back and looked up into Brock's eyes. As doubts filled her mind, her face turned to a paradoxical combination of anxious bliss.

"What are you thinking about?" he asked her softly.

Jaina sighed, slightly embarrassed. "I guess—I'm just wondering."

"About what?"

"If—maybe this is too good to be true." she mumbled.

Brock looked slightly concerned. "What do you mean?"

Jaina licked her lips nervously. "I guess—I just didn't have any expectations for this night. But I think that if I had—you would have surpassed them all." Brock smiled down at her. She smiled back and carefully slid one hand onto his chest.

"I like you, Brock."

Sweet!

"Well, if we're being honest," He grinned. "I must admit—I've had a mad crush on you for weeks now."

Jaina smiled and Brock thought his heart would explode. As they danced, he slowly released her fingers and slipped both of his hands around to the small of her back, sensing traces of her smooth skin between the ties at the back of her dress. She slid her arms carefully around his neck.

"But,"

Stangit! Brock's heart dropped into his shoes.

"Call me a cynic," Jaina continued quietly. "But something about this-- is so good that—it scares me."

As his heart traveled slowly back up to his chest, Brock brushed Jaina's cheek with his fingers. "It's okay to be scared—as long as you don't run."

Talk about knowing the right thing to say. Jaina's trust in Brock soared instantly. She looked up at him with determined eyes.

"I won't if you won't." She whispered.

Brock grinned. "Like I said before, Sparks—you couldn't get rid of me now if you wanted to."

Jaina's whole body tingled as his breath tickled her ear. Her feet were barely touching the ground as she slid her arms around his neck again.

Jaina's heart raced. This wasn't going to be a simple friendship. Something was happening between her and Brock; something so strong, it was almost tangible. As the song slowed, the desire within Brock swelled. Though he had once been content to gaze into her brandy brown eyes, it was no longer enough. Her lips were beckoning him, and if the room hadn't been full of people, including Jaina's father, he would not have hesitated. But while he was deciding whether or not to resist temptation, the song ended and light flooded the dance floor. The couple remained in their embrace, desperately trying to freeze in that moment, but of course, it was too late. Angry at his indecision, Brock did his best to swallow his disappointment. He sighed and caressed Jaina's cheek with a sad smile.

"Thank you for the dance."

Admiral Lockhart's heart pulsed as she watched the couple in disgust. Isn't that sweet. He likes her. No... he WANTS her. She stood up abruptly. "I've seen enough." She turned to face her men and pointed behind her at the screen that bore the image of Brock and Jaina.

"He is the one I want. And he is the one I will have for this mission. We will begin to plan tomorrow morning." With that, she left the room. It made her sick to watch the couple any longer. Her head filled with evil schemes as she made her way to her quarters. "Unfortunately for you, Captain Mitchell," she thought "You're going to have to experience the pain of being forgotten by someone you love. But, not to worry. You too shall have your revenge."

"PARTING IS SUCH SWEET SORROW..."

The transport dropped the entire party off at the Solo's home. Jacen and Anakin took Tenel and Tahiri back to their apartments and Han and Leia went inside. Brock and Jaina walked hand in hand to the end of the hallway where the elevator lift was. They trudged every step, hoping to prolong the end of the evening. Brock finally turned around and took both of Jaina's hands in his own.

"I should be walking you home, Sparks."

Jaina rolled her eyes. "But you can't. Because my father will spy on us until I get into the house."

"Nah, he wouldn't do that." Brock grinned.

"You don't know my father!"

"I imagine I will eventually." Brock answered. He released her hands and slowly slipped his arms around her waist. A chill went up Jaina's spine and she could feel her heartbeat in her stomach. Was this a second chance? Brock pulled her in closer and she returned the embrace, slipping her arms around his neck.

"It'll be nice to eventually know your father, and your mom and both of your brothers," he mumbled, frightfully close to her ear. "But for now, my attention is focused elsewhere."

Nearly melting, Jaina squeezed her eyes shut. Everything felt so right. Jaina tried her hardest in that moment to dismiss the feeling as the romantic atmosphere of the evening, but it was much more than that.

Brock had been waiting ever since the end of that song for a second opportunity to show Jaina how he felt, and now, her hands were sliding down his shoulders and her face was only inches away.

But the couple was so entranced by their thoughts and emotions that they barely heard the door slam down the hall. Seconds later, Jaina realized what was happening and quickly released Brock. "Oh no. No, no, no! He is not doing this to me."

"Doing what?" Brock asked touching her hand again.

Sure enough, Han appeared down the hall. Brock quickly released her hand, and Jaina wanted to cry.

"You guys get lost?" Han asked in an overly cheerful voice. Jaina was angry beyond words, but Brock read her face and spoke for her.

"Um, no, actually-- I was just leaving, Captain Solo. I didn't think it was right for her to walk me all the way up, you know?"

"Oh yeah, I understand, I--"

"Daddy, please—just go. I'll be right there, I swear." Jaina bit out icily.

Han looked a little surprised. "Excuse me, Princess. I'm going to drop this off at Luke's. I'll be right back."

Jaina rolled her eyes. "I'm sure you will, Dad." she muttered.

Han eyed the pair for a moment, then continued around the curve of the hallway, as if to convince her.

As soon as he was out of earshot, Jaina covered her face with her hands. "I don't believe him! He is SUCH a liar! We were out less than ten minutes! Brock, I am SO sorry, I had--"

"Shhhh." Brock whispered placing his finger over her lips. "Don't worry about it. It's okay." He smiled sadly. Their faces neared and their foreheads touched, but their lips did not.

Brock chuckled, in disbelief that they had been interrupted again. "Stang, I wanna kiss you." he finally whispered, amazed at his own honesty. "But if I start, I'm not gonna stop-- and your dads' gonna be back any minute."

Jaina couldn't even hide her anger with a smile. "I'm so sorry Brock, I--"

"Shhh." he interrupted again, concealing his deep disappointment. "Don't you dare be sorry." He flashed her a sad smile. "We've got time-- just not tonight, unfortunately. But--" he squeezed her hand. "I'll talk to you first thing tomorrow, okay?"

Jaina nodded. "Alright."

Brock cupped her face with his right hand and brushed her lips with his thumb. "Save those for me?"

A shiver raced through Jaina's body as she smiled and nodded. "Goodnight, Captain."

"Goodnight, Sparks."

Wishing he could do so much more, Brock raised Jaina's hand to his face and caressed it softly with his lips.

"I will never forget the way you looked tonight."

Their fingers separated at the last possible moment, and Brock disappeared into the lift.

END PART FOUR