Mara landed the Fire in the former Imperial City of Coruscant. She sat back in her pilot seat and sighed. She knew she was a hot-tempered person and often did things rashly then ended up regretting it. She somehow wished she didn't stomp off Yavin Four like that, knowing she'd left a hurt Luke behind. He'll get over it, she told herself. After all, he's a Jedi. He might even be glad I'm gone, Mara reasoned. The thought didn't comfort her.
A couple of hours later, Mara met Karrde at Luxuries Delight, a new, high-class restaurant. Mara's eyes plainly said: "Don't ask about Skywalker or I'll blast you off the planet." Karrde understood and kept silent/
"Where are you staying?" Mara asked.
"Leia and Han were kind enough to find me an apartment temporarily for a great price." Mara sighed. She didn't want to hear about people related to Skywalker either. She tuned out as Karrde rambled on about the Solo's
Karrde kept chattering away to Mara, all the while contemplating whether to tell her about Skywalker's strange call. He decided to wait, and see if anything unusual would happen.
"Anyways, Leia has arranged an apartment for you as well. When I'm finished with business, we'll be leaving. You can just take the time to tour the planet if you like." Mara nodded.
"Mara! Long time no see," Leia greeted warmly.
"Hey Leia," Mara replied.
"Okay…here. Apartment number 531 is yours for now," Leia handed her a key.
"Thanks. Say hi to Han and the kids for me." Leia nodded. Taking Karrde's advice, she hadn't mentioned Luke to Mara. She wished the two would try to reconcile their difference. In so many ways, they were like a perfect match. At the rate their relationship was moving, Leia guessed they'd never figure it out.
The next day, Mara awoke to the sunlight streaming through her windows and the sound of busy Coruscant. She decided to take a look around since she never really had a chance.
"I'm going to work on the Falcon today. It needs some touch-ups. See you tonight, Princess," Han grinned roguishly, and gave Leia a kiss. Leia smiled. Han was one of a kind.
Leia began busying herself with making breakfast for Jacen and Jaina when they got up. About ten minutes later, a knock came on the door. It's probably Mara, Leia thought. She opened the door and to her complete surprise, found she was looking at her brother.
"Luke?" she asked, bewildered. He smiled slightly.
"Hi, sis."
"Why are you here? I thought you said you were busy with the Academy." Luke cut straight to it.
"I need to talk to Mara," he replied, his expression turning somber. Leia wasn't surprised at that. She knew Luke would travel across the galaxy and back again just to apologize to someone. Leia was worried though. She knew how tough Mara could be and she didn't want to see Luke hurt. She was about to instruct him on what not to say and what to say. Then, she decided against it. Luke could take care of himself. He was a grown man and a Jedi.
"Room 531," was all she said. It took a lot of effort to keep her mouth shut. Luke smiled and nodded, silently thanking his overprotective sister for not saying what she wanted to.
To Be Continued…
Oh well, I guess Luke and Mara's meeting will have to wait till next chapter. I don't want this one to go on forever. Sorry guys…I'll try and put Chapter 4 up ASAP. Thanks a bunch for all the reviews!
