Author's Note: Hey there! I have a few more chapters to add - enjoy!
"Yes, it's me," the droid replied, managing to look quite pleased with himself. "In addition to my rather extensive knowledge, I have now been programmed to include a wide database of choreography instructions. I do believe I will be very helpful."
"Great," Anakin commented through gritted teeth. Padme squeezed his arm before stepping forward.
"Okay, Threepio," she said. "Where do we begin?"
"The first performance will be a beautiful slow dance," the droid explained. "Contestants will be judged on technique, romance and presentation. I have many innovative ideas that should result in a top ranking."
Turning stiffly, the droid activated the music. A haunting melody filled the air.
"I love this song," Padme exclaimed, drawing Anakin close to her as Threepio began to outline the routine. Hmmm... Maybe this won't be too bad after all.
STUDIO 5, FOUR HOURS LATER.
"Uhhh, I hate this song," Padme grumbled, as Anakin stepped on her toes for thirtieth time in the past hour. She didn't know what hurt worse - the bottom of her feet from the horrible footwear they left her to wear - or - her poor toes from all the abuse they were taking from Anakin's heavy boots.
"Sorry, sorry-" he apologized, running a hand through his hair. Frustrated, he strode over to the snack table, pouring himself a glass of purple liquid.
Turning, Padme directed her question at C-3PO, "How far through the routine have we gotten? Surely we are almost finished..?"
"We are at the 27 mark," he replied.
Hearing that, Anakin slammed his cup on the table. "What! That's it? I ought to come over there and dismantle your math sensor! And maybe the rest of you too!"
"Goodness gracious me!" Threepio responded, taking a step back.
Shaking her head, Padme returned to the middle of the dance floor. Sensing that Anakin was nowhere ready to resume their lesson, she closed her eyes and raised her arms like she would if he were standing before her. Cueing the music, she mentally counted off her steps as she spun around the dance floor, trying to commit the routine to memory.
Watching from the sidelines, Anakin felt his heart melt as he watched his wife move gracefully around the dance floor. He couldn't imagine a more beautiful sight in all the galaxy. Surely he could do this. After all, he managed to master the grueling lightsaber exercises Obi-wan taught him and those were incredibly strenuous and intricate.
Yes, he could do this. He had to - for Padme's sake.
With a renewed sense of determination, he strode back onto the wooden floor.