Chapter 59

Padme, Sola, and Mara saw a great change in Obi-Wan over the weeks. He was less nervous and anxious and seemed excited about their future on Chandrila. He wasn't nearly as formal as he used to be and was more personable towards people. Sola and Mara never saw their father so relaxed and happy.

Padme knew the sudden change in Obi-Wan was due to his re-connection with his master and finally being able to forgive himself. He opened up to her more freely and no longer tried to hide his feelings and guilt. He could actually have a conversation about Anakin without the tension and unsaid feelings. He poured his heart out to her, about the feelings of jealously and resentment, how some of his actions were done out of selfishness. How he wanted Anakin to hurt as much as he did when it came to his feelings for her. He told her every detail of their fight on Mustafar, what was said, what was unsaid, about everything.

He was amazed by her support, even when he confessed about the horrid details of Mustafar and how Anakin was injured; she never looked at him in disgust or contempt.

"Thank you for telling me how you feel, for being honest."

"I never wanted to hurt you; I kept it from you to spare more pain."

"So what changed your mind?"

"I knew the only way to forgive myself was to tell the truth, all of it."

She smiled at him with a look of understanding, while she got up and reached her arms out in an embrace. "I love you" she whispered.

For the first time in years he couldn't bring himself to say the words back. He was so overcome by emotion he could not form the words. Instead he showed her his feelings in a gentle kiss, showing her how much he loved her back.

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Obi-Wan was finally free, free of his guilt, free of his constant worry. He and Padme were finally able to hide from the Emperor, their force presence hidden, and their children safely hidden and adopted by Mon Mothma. He had learned from Qui-Gon the pathway to immortality and no longer feared what would happen to his children and the twins when he was gone. He knew he would watch over them and guide them using the force. For the first time since the Empire was established he saw hope for the future, it was no longer wishful thinking, it was about to happen.

Just one chapter left---thanks to everyone for the wonderful reviews.