Kenobi Motel

by imaginedestiel

Tragedy brought Obi-Wan Kenobi and his son, Anakin, to the small town of Coruscant. With the purchase of a secretive motel, they'll try to start afresh, but the Dark Side surrounds them, and depraved desires become harder to disguise. (Bates Motel/Psycho AU)

23. Chapter 23

Thursday evening was spent getting Anakin's pet mouse situated into a new living space, complete with a running wheel and a real water dispenser, although Obi-Wan said he didn't doubt Anakin's makeshift one would have served its purpose well. Anakin named the mouse Deedee and the little animal was gradually getting used to him.

Padmé came home after work, no longer living with Rex. At this point, Obi-Wan was almost thankful that Anakin had called for a break—for one, they couldn't, or rather, shouldn't have sex with Padmé in the house, and two, it gave him a chance to admire Anakin from afar. To him, Anakin was extraordinary. Even if all he did were ordinary things, like smile and bite his lip and ask Padmé if there were any other cute officers she had her eye on. Padmé laughed and gave his arm a smack in return.

"Do you have eyes for anyone, Ani?" she asked, a hand in her long curly hair.

Anakin bowed his head to keep from glancing at Obi-Wan.

"You do," Padmé teased, "Who is it? Ahsoka?"

"Ahsoka's my friend," Anakin replied firmly, "and she thinks you're cool."

"Me?" Padmé questioned, grinning.

"Yeah, you. Little does she know I'm way cooler than you."

"What definition of cool are you using?" Padmé retorted, and Anakin laughed. Obi-Wan hid his smile with the book he'd stopped reading ten minutes ago. Night came and they repeated the same pattern as the day before—Padmé went to her room down the hall, Obi-Wan went to his, and Anakin tried to fall asleep in his before giving up and tiptoeing into Obi-Wan's. Obi-Wan welcomed him wordlessly and Anakin slipped under the covers and snuggled up to his father. They slept peacefully, without nightmares or worries.

Dr. Jinn called the next day to check in. Anakin was at school, and Obi-Wan paused his cleaning of the motel rooms to answer the phone. He sat on the edge of the bed and said, "Hi, Doctor Jinn."

"Hello, Mister Kenobi. How are you?"

"I'm good, how are you?"

"I'm doing well. How is Anakin?"

Obi-Wan stroked his beard for a moment. "I think he's better, overall. He's smiling more, and he's excited about the school dance tomorrow. However, I should tell you what happened a few days ago…"

"What happened?"

"Anakin was kidnapped by two of my motel guests. We got him back mostly unharmed and the kidnappers are in custody, so I don't think he feels unsafe now. But Anakin doesn't usually take his experiences lightly," Obi-Wan said.

"No, I wouldn't expect him to," Dr. Jinn replied. He thought for a few seconds. "I would continue to watch him carefully. If you can do anything to boost his confidence, such as teaching him self-defense, you should. Has he had any more nightmares?"

"No," Obi-Wan said, "At least none that he's told me about."

"That's good," Dr. Jinn replied, "Perhaps some of his anxieties have been relieved. If you or Anakin have any questions, feel free to call me."

"We will, thank you. I'll see you tomorrow at five, correct?"

"Yes. Do you still have my address?"

"Forty-six South Pine Street?" Obi-Wan asked. It wasn't difficult to memorize.

"That's right. I'll see you then."

Obi-Wan thought he heard a smile in his voice. "See you then," he said, and hung up. He went back to cleaning and tried to think of a new way to teach Anakin the lightsaber techniques they'd never completely mastered.

Anakin came home after art club to find Obi-Wan loading something into the back of their car. He walked up to him just as Obi-Wan shut the trunk. "What's this?" he asked, gesturing to the car, or rather what was inside.

Obi-Wan smiled. "It's a surprise. Are you ready for some Jedi training?"

Anakin crossed his arms, the straps of his backpack folding in the process. "Am I supposed to be?"

"Oh, come now. I know you have some skills. That doesn't mean you can't improve. Got your lightsaber?"

Anakin patted his cloak.

"Good," Obi-Wan said, and moved to the driver's side of the car, then stopped. "Anakin," he called.

Anakin paused from getting in the passenger seat and went to him. "What?"

Obi-Wan opened the car door and gestured for him to get in the driver's seat. Anakin's eyes went wide. "Really?" he exclaimed.

"Don't make me regret it," Obi-Wan replied. Anakin grinned and slipped his backpack off his shoulders, putting it in the backseat before buckling up. Obi-Wan swallowed hard as he sat in the passenger seat. Anakin held out his hand for the keys.

"First things first," Obi-Wan said, "Can you reach the pedals comfortably? Use only your right foot."

Anakin tested it out. "Yep."

"Can you see clearly out of the rearview mirror?"

"Yes."

"The side mirrors?"

"Yes."

"Do you know which one is the parking brake?"

Anakin looked around. "This one?"

"Yes, good. Now when you start the car, you'll want your foot on the brake. Otherwise the car will start moving."

"Okay."

Obi-Wan handed him the keys. "Start the car," he said. Anakin flipped through the house key and mail key and office key until he found the right one. He stuck it in the slot and twisted, and the car roared to life.

"Alright," Obi-Wan said, knowing he should at least sound calm, "Be careful backing out, always. Put your hands here—" He positioned Anakin's hands higher on the wheel. "Now check your rearview mirror. Is there anything behind you?"

"No," Anakin said.

"Look over your shoulder, too."

"Nothing," Anakin said.

"Okay, now with your foot still on the brake, put the car in reverse—"

Anakin changed gears and they moved backwards a little before Anakin slammed the brakes. He looked over to assess Obi-Wan's reaction.

"It's going to take practice," Obi-Wan said, although he still had a furrow between his brows, "Try easing off the brake instead of letting it go this time. Check your mirrors first."

Anakin managed to back out slower on the second try. It was good the parking lot was nearly empty. The hunters had all but left following their leader's arrest.

"Now turn the wheel—"

"Which way?" Anakin asked, panicked.

"Either way for now—"

They swerved to the right.

"Brake!" Obi-Wan called.

The car jolted to a stop.

Obi-Wan breathed deeply. "You have good reflexes, at least," he offered.

Anakin rubbed his forehead.

"Come on, hands on the wheel. We're not going into town."

"Where are we going?"

"You'll see. I'll guide you. Ease off the brake and turn the wheel gently this time…" Obi-Wan reached over and helped him. "We're going to make a left—stop at the road, Anakin—look both ways—now accelerate… okay, slow down. Watch the speedometer and keep your speed level—too slow—too fast—Anakin!"

"What?" Anakin snapped, "I'm trying!"

"You have to keep your foot still when you hit the correct speed. There's a stop sign ahead. Start slowing down."

Anakin grumbled. They stopped a little over the line.

"Okay, next time start slowing down sooner. Look both ways. Now go."

Anakin slammed his foot on the accelerator. The tires screeched as they sped into the distance. Obi-Wan felt his shoulders tensing up. "Please, Anakin…" he mumbled, "Don't kill us."

Their five-minute journey became ten with stops and starts and complaints from both sides. Eventually Anakin was able to pull over where Obi-Wan wanted. Obi-Wan unloaded a compact machine from the trunk of the car, along with a bulky bag that he slung over his shoulder. They trudged through the forest and came upon a clearing where no one would see them. It looked familiar to Anakin in a way he couldn't express. Then his eyes were drawn to a rectangular shaped impression in the ground. "Father!"

Obi-Wan set down his bag and the machine before turning to face Anakin. "Yes, sweetheart?"

Anakin held himself. "This is where they kept me. The box used to be there." He pointed.

Obi-Wan placed his hand on Anakin's shoulder. "I know. That's why I chose this field. You have to conquer your fears."

Anakin's eyes fell to his feet.

Obi-Wan cupped Anakin's cheek and Anakin looked into his eyes. Obi-Wan said, "If it gets to be too much, we will stop. Right now in this very moment, though, nothing about this space can hurt you. Do you believe me?"

Anakin nodded.

"Do you believe your eyes?"

Anakin looked around. It was true that the box had been taken away. Now there was only grass. "Yes," he muttered.

"Okay. Stretch while I set up the equipment."

Anakin did as Obi-Wan asked.

"We'll start slow so you can get the hang of it again," Obi-Wan said, everything now ready.

Anakin rolled his eyes, ignited his lightsaber, and took a defensive stance. Obi-Wan pressed a red button on the machine and it chugged out baseballs at a moderate speed. Anakin sliced through three and Obi-Wan turned the machine off. Anakin deactivated his saber and crossed his arms.

Obi-Wan walked over to him and examined the charred remains of the baseballs. He picked up two uneven halves and showed Anakin. "Try to cut them directly down the middle. Accuracy could save your life." Anakin watched him with keen eyes as he went back to the machine and turned it on.

With three smooth strikes, Anakin cut the next projectiles into equal halves.

"Very good, Anakin," Obi-Wan praised, "Shall we speed things up a little?"

Anakin tried to remain professional and not think about Obi-Wan saying those words in the bedroom. "Go ahead," he replied.

Obi-Wan turned a notch to the right and pressed the 'on' button. He let it go a little longer this time so he could watch Anakin's movements. "Stop," he called, and turned the machine off.

"What?" Anakin retorted.

Obi-Wan crossed the distance between them and said, "Your form needs some work. First off," he stood behind Anakin and nudged his feet apart. "Feet shoulder width apart." Obi-Wan grasped Anakin's shoulders and pulled them back slightly. "Keep your body open and free to move in any direction." He reached around and adjusted the distance between Anakin's elbows. "Don't keep your arms so close to your body. Your lightsaber will shield you."

Anakin nodded and tried to correct the path his thoughts were going down. Every subtle touch of Obi-Wan's spurred them on. When he spoke again, Anakin could feel the rumble of his voice in his chest, Obi-Wan's arms wrapped around him to guide him through the motions.

"Your lightsaber is an extension of you," Obi-Wan said, "When it moves, you move with it." He brought Anakin's hands down and to the left, pressing forward so Anakin wouldn't hold himself so stiffly. Then up with a twist of the wrist, back straight, blade pointing down. Twist again, bring the blade around in an arc. Obi-Wan let go of Anakin and faced him. "Got it?"

Anakin took a breath and refocused. "Yeah."

"Don't be afraid to move your feet. You should stagger them for balance. Feel your center." He moved to start the machine.

Out came the baseballs. Anakin's movements were more intentional, more rhythmic, and he smiled at the scraps of his work in the grass. He looked to Obi-Wan.

"Much better, Anakin," Obi-Wan said. "If we had a training remote, you'd do well at deflecting. I think we should practice dueling, even if chances are rare that someone would use a lightsaber against you."

Anakin loved dueling as a child. It was more of a game then, like play fighting or tickle wars. He loved the whirls of color and the sounds the sabers made. The meaning of it had changed now. Obi-Wan and Anakin tramped through the grass until they were a reasonable distance away from the machine and baseball remnants.

"Let's try not to take any unnecessary risks, okay?" Obi-Wan said, "I wouldn't want someone to lose a finger."

Anakin blinked and saw Cad Bane holding a hunting knife over his hand. He shook his head to clear it.

"Are you alright?" Obi-Wan asked, and took a step closer. Anakin held up his hand.

"I'm fine," he replied, "Let's do this."

Stubborn, Obi-Wan thought. He activated his lightsaber and the duel began. Anakin hurried to meet Obi-Wan's attacks, each so effortless compared to his. He felt each blow radiate throw his arm, but Obi-Wan gave no indication that Anakin's blade created any resistance. It looked like Obi-Wan could predict when Anakin wasn't going to be fast enough to counter his strikes. He'd adjust for him, slow down or change directions so he didn't end up hurting him. Anakin realized that in all their sessions Obi-Wan had never used all his power against him—of course he hadn't, Anakin was a child when they'd first started training. But being with him now, Anakin was almost bitter about how out of practice he'd become, how unchallenged he was since the start. He was vulnerable. Weak.

Anakin's feet faltered and he fell backwards, Obi-Wan's blade stopping its arc with plenty of distance from Anakin's body. He deactivated his lightsaber and held out his hand for Anakin to take.

Anakin grabbed it and heaved himself up. Obi-Wan pulled him into a hug, fingers curling through his hair. He could tell something was wrong.

Anakin closed his eyes and concentrated on the touch. He clung to him as Obi-Wan radiated happy thoughts. It lasted until Anakin felt better.

"Want to try one more round?" Obi-Wan asked.

"Okay."

They separated and drew their weapons.

"Think of me as your enemy," Obi-Wan said. "A real one won't stop before going for the kill. You have to get the upper hand first."

Anakin nodded and steeled himself up. Enemy, he thought. Cad Bane. Aurra Sing.

Obi-Wan advanced on him and their blades clashed. Anakin's didn't bend to Obi-Wan's so easily this time.

Enemy, Anakin thought, Cody. Ventress!

Anakin moved faster, striking, skirting, spinning. Obi-Wan kept up.

Enemy, Anakin burned, Zam Wesell. Maul Opress.

A close call. Obi-Wan dodged him neatly.

Enemy, Anakin vowed with gritted teeth, Rush Clovis.

Obi-Wan yelped as Anakin's lightsaber swung across his face. He lost his balance trying to avoid Anakin's attack and cupped his hand to his cheek as he hit the ground. Anakin dropped his lightsaber in the grass, still on, and rushed to Obi-Wan's side.

"Are you okay? Are you hurt?" Anakin yelled, "Let me see!"

"I'm fine," Obi-Wan said, and removed his hand. He tried to steady his breathing. "You just got my beard. It was hot, that's all. No burns."

Anakin examined him, a singed area where a chunk of hair was now missing. He pressed along Obi-Wan's jaw. "Does that hurt?"

"No, Anakin, I'm fine. It's alright."

"I didn't mean to," he tried to explain, "I don't want to hurt you!"

Anakin's lightsaber had blackened the grass below it and lit a small fire in the surrounding greenery.

Obi-Wan sat up more and grabbed Anakin's face. Anakin's brows furrowed as Obi-Wan kissed him. He didn't understand. Wasn't Obi-Wan mad? Wasn't he worried Anakin would betray him like all the others?

Obi-Wan pulled back slowly and stroked Anakin's cheeks with his thumbs. "My darling," he said, "I know you wouldn't hurt me intentionally. I know what the problem is as well."

The fire got a little bigger.

"You do?" Anakin asked.

"Yes. You used your hate as strength, when really love is more powerful. Don't wish to destroy your enemy. Wish to save yourself and those around you instead. Anger will distract you."

Anakin let out a long breath. That was exactly what happened. And it got Obi-Wan hurt. Or, almost hurt.

"Anakin! Your lightsaber!"

Anakin whirled around and summoned the blade to his hand. He grabbed the nearest cloak and put out the fire with it. The cloak happened to be Obi-Wan's. Anakin returned the tattered remains to him as Obi-Wan stood up and brushed himself off.

"I'm sorry, Father," Anakin said, his head down.

Obi-Wan lifted his chin with a curled finger. "Multiple lessons you have learned today, haven't you?"

Anakin stifled a laugh. Rare was the impression of Obi-Wan's old master.

"We'll save more practice for another day. Want me to drive home?" Obi-Wan asked.

"You know it," Anakin replied. They cleaned up and packed their supplies into the trunk once they reached the car. On the way home, Obi-Wan said, "I have a question for you."

Anakin pulled his gaze away from the green blur of their surroundings. "Yeah?"

"Are you still mad at me?"

Anakin took a second and reached for Obi-Wan's arm, his hands on the wheel. "No, I'm not mad at you," he said.

Obi-Wan chewed on his lip.

"I love you," Anakin supplemented, "You're my one and only father. I don't want anyone else."

Obi-Wan smiled at him with a sadness in his eyes.

"I'm calling the break off," Anakin said, "Officially."

Obi-Wan's smile widened. He said, "I'm glad to hear it."

Anakin rested his eyes and tried to find calm within himself. Love for others. He had all the love in the galaxy for Obi-Wan. He should've been thinking about protecting him, saving him when he had failed himself and others. "Father," he called.

"Yes?"

"Can we check into the motel when we get back?"

Obi-Wan glanced at him, wondering who looked slyer at the moment. "Yes," he replied, "Let's do it."

---

They took the key to Room 13 from the motel office and pushed it into the lock. Anakin drew the shades over the window and Obi-Wan did the same with the little one in the bathroom. He shut the door behind him, and Anakin made sure the door to the outside world was locked up tight before they embraced each other in the middle of the room.

The kiss was so much better than the one from two nights before. Obi-Wan let go of his guilt, Anakin his resentment.

Off came their clothes. Obi-Wan wanted to touch all of Anakin all at once, and Anakin was happy for it—Obi-Wan's hands were always a stabilizing force in his life. Obi-Wan's grip was on Anakin's ribs, his ass, the back of his neck, and all over again. Anakin took Obi-Wan's hips in his hands and pulled him tight against his body. They kissed like there was no tomorrow.

Anakin let his hands trail low, the skin of Obi-Wan's ass slightly cool to the touch. Not for long, Anakin thought. A laugh caught in his throat.

"What?" Obi-Wan murmured, looking for the answer in Anakin's eyes.

"Nothing," Anakin said, biting his lip to keep from laughing.

"It's something," Obi-Wan countered, voice a husk of its normal self, "What is it?"

Anakin smoothed his hands over Obi-Wan's butt and up his back. "This thought just popped into my head, that's all."

"And what was it?" he urged.

"I thought of spanking you. It would warm you up," Anakin spilled.

Obi-Wan laughed. "Please don't," he said.

Anakin gave him a kiss. "'Course, Daddy. Whatever you want."

Obi-Wan thought on it. He smiled and tucked Anakin's hair behind his ear before leaning by it. "I want you to lose yourself in me. Don't hold back."

Anakin met his eyes questioningly.

Obi-Wan caressed his cheek. "Please, baby. I've missed you."

Anakin smiled a little as he wove his fingers through Obi-Wan's hair. "Did you think I would say no?"

Obi-Wan didn't answer besides a smile. Anakin turned him around, guided him to the bed, then bent him over the mattress. Obi-Wan ran his hands over the bedspread and breathed in the smell of freshly cleaned sheets.

Anakin traced lines up Obi-Wan's back and over his arms, paying special attention to the scar on his upper arm. He bent down and kissed it, then swept his mouth through Obi-Wan's hair and covered his cheek in little pecks. Obi-Wan grinned and reached back for him as Anakin pulled away. Anakin pushed Obi-Wan's feet apart and stuck his index finger in his mouth.

He coated it a few times over before pushing his finger inside Obi-Wan. He worked it in and out, seeking the spot that would make Obi-Wan moan. Obi-Wan closed his eyes and wound his hand around a fistful of the comforter.

Anakin put two fingers in his mouth and repeated the process. Obi-Wan seemed to be relaxed even though they'd neglected to bring the lube down from the house. Anakin would just have to be careful. Or give him so much pleasure that any discomfort was null.

Anakin removed his fingers and Obi-Wan groaned. Anakin smoothed them over Obi-Wan's jaw and asked, "You want these back, Daddy?"

He nodded and gave Anakin's hand a squeeze. "Can't wait for your cock."

Anakin couldn't help the flood of pride he felt. He put three fingers in his mouth and returned them to Obi-Wan. Obi-Wan gripped the sheets again. Anakin made circles on Obi-Wan's hip with his palm. "Sometimes I can't believe you're real," he said.

Obi-Wan tried to look at him better.

"That you let me do this to you," Anakin continued.

Obi-Wan put his head down, then looked at him again. "I love you, honey. I'm not entirely selfless though."

"You think this is selfish?" Anakin pushed his fingers deeper. Obi-Wan muffled his moan with the mattress.

"Yes," he said eventually, "I want you this way."

"Come here then," Anakin said, and pulled him off the bed and onto his knees before him. He hooked a hand behind Obi-Wan's neck and drew him forward. Obi-Wan opened his mouth obediently and let Anakin guide him down his cock. Just when Obi-Wan was starting to like the feeling, Anakin weaved his fingers in Obi-Wan's hair and pulled him off.

"Up," Anakin said. Obi-Wan stood. "On your back," Anakin directed, pointing to the bed. Obi-Wan positioned himself with his knees up and a pillow under his head. He didn't sink into it like he did the pillows in his bedroom. Anakin joined him on the bed and pulled his leg to the side before pressing into him.

"Oh," Obi-Wan moaned, the sound cut off in his throat as Anakin drove out a rhythm. It felt closer than before, rougher. Anakin pushed Obi-Wan's leg closer to the man's chest and leaned down to kiss him.

Obi-Wan's brows pinched and he wrapped his arms around Anakin as their lips brushed against each other's. Anakin pulled away and then gave him a ghost of a kiss, his fingers slipping down Obi-Wan's thigh to rub at another scar. "Anakin," Obi-Wan murmured, eyes closed.

Anakin took Obi-Wan's other leg in his arm and sped up his tempo. A high-pitched sound escaped Obi-Wan's mouth. Anakin leaned over him again, Obi-Wan's legs pinned between their chests as he moved deeper inside him. "Father," he whispered, a sheen of sweat on his skin.

Obi-Wan felt something depraved course through his body. He put his legs over Anakin's shoulders, muscles tensing when Anakin picked up the pace again. Anakin stopped for a second, nearly overcome.

"Not yet, Anakin," Obi-Wan said, the plea clear in his voice, "Take a breath. Not yet."

Anakin met his pretty eyes, his bangs half fallen in them. He put a finger in his mouth once more and slid it in beside his cock.

Obi-Wan's lips parted with a gasp. What a good idea. "More," he said.

Anakin smiled and sucked on two of his fingers. Obi-Wan let out a long groan when Anakin gave them back, fucking slowly with the controlled motion of his arm. The stretch was intense.

"Anakin—" Obi-Wan started.

"Shh, Daddy," Anakin said, the movement of his lips mesmerizing, "We wouldn't want anyone to know, now, would we?"

"No," Obi-Wan muttered, "No one can know... How good you are... At fucking me..."

"This?" Anakin asked, showing him his wet fingers, "That's just me stalling. This..." Anakin pulled out of him and turned him over, pressing in again as he held Obi-Wan in place, one hand pushing his head into the bed and the other near the small of his back, "...is me fucking you."

The bed rocked back and forth. Obi-Wan whimpered and whined, his cock desperate for some attention other than the weak friction of the bedsheets. Anakin wanted him to moan louder. He'd make him moan louder. Anakin drew back and thrust in as far as he could. Obi-Wan made a garbled sound. Anakin did it again, Obi-Wan's whole body sliding with the movement. Obi-Wan screamed into his pillow.

"Look at me," Anakin said. Too rough?

Obi-Wan turned, half-mad and panting. "Don't stop!"

Anakin flipped him over and entered him again without a second thought. Back to his youthful pace, a blur of his hips. Obi-Wan couldn't take it anymore, he was so raw. He reached for Anakin to steady himself and came with his hands around Anakin's throat.

Anakin fucked him through it, the grip on his throat only tightening. Anakin felt his consciousness leaving him, his body acting on its own accord. Finally, Obi-Wan flopped against the mattress, his cock spent, and Anakin took a harrowing breath as he came, as if all the intensity of his past orgasms were combined into one. Everything was stars until Obi-Wan pulled him into his arms. "Anakin?" he asked.

Anakin just groaned in response.

Obi-Wan smiled and kissed his wet hair. "Thought you might have passed out," he said.

Anakin dragged a hand up to rest on Obi-Wan's chest. "That was really good," he told him.

Obi-Wan rubbed what he could of Anakin's neck. "I didn't mean to do it so hard. Or so long."

"It was perfect," Anakin replied.

"It's going to kill your brain cells."

"Stop shaming me, Daddy."

Obi-Wan laughed and turned towards him, hugging him with both an arm and a leg as he pressed kisses to every place he could reach. "I love you so much, Anakin."

Anakin smiled. "I love you too, Father." He ran his fingers through Obi-Wan's beard.

They spent a few seconds in warm silence.

"I think you're going to have to shave, though," Anakin said.

"Blast," Obi-Wan grumbled.

"I'm sorry."

"You're forgiven, sweetheart. It was just an accident."

Anakin raised his head to look at him.

Obi-Wan said, "Just don't call me a Padawan after I shave, alright?"

Anakin smirked. "Now I'm kind of excited to see it."

Obi-Wan rested his forehead against Anakin's for a moment. "Shall we shower?" he asked.

Anakin dragged himself and then Obi-Wan out of bed. They stepped into the shower and drew the curtain. Obi-Wan jumped at the hot water. "Turn it to cold," he ordered.

Anakin adjusted the handle until cool water came out. He wrapped his arms around Obi-Wan, one hand dipping lower than the other. "Maybe I was too rough," he said quietly.

Obi-Wan's face read indifference but he took Anakin's hand away from his backside anyway. "Let your Daddy be," he said.

Anakin turned away from him with an aggravated breath and started scrubbing at his skin.

"Anakin," Obi-Wan whispered, then again a little louder, "Sorry, honey. I just need to… cool down."

The water poured over them. Anakin pretended he hadn't heard. Then he turned back around and asked, "What's wrong? I thought I did what you wanted."

Obi-Wan ran a hand over his face. "You did. It was good. Very good. I think maybe I," he paused, thinking, "enjoyed it too much."

"How?" was all Anakin could respond with.

Obi-Wan's cheeks were red. "Well, I've never really screamed like that before."

Anakin stared at him so he'd give him more of an answer.

"It's just embarrassing," Obi-Wan said.

Anakin narrowed his eyes. "Don't ask me to top if your pride's going to be hurt afterwards." He turned around and went back to rubbing soap on his arms.

Obi-Wan stepped forward and pulled Anakin against his chest. "What I mean is," he revised, smoothing Anakin's wet hair out of his eyes, "I'm extremely impressed. And you're right to check on me. I've just learned I'm not invincible."

Anakin hummed. "I wasn't trying to tease you just now."

"I know," Obi-Wan said, "You're my sweet, smart boy."

Slowly, Anakin put the soap down and turned around. "You've really never screamed like that before?"

The blood rushed to his cheeks again. "Anakin, what do you want me to say? You're the best?"

Anakin nodded, a grin on his face.

Obi-Wan sighed and smiled back. "You're the best."

Anakin bounced on his feet and kissed Obi-Wan. He got some burnt hair in his mouth. "Ugh! You have to get this stuff off your face!" he declared.

"Stuff?" Obi-Wan questioned, "My carefully groomed and perfectly shaped beard, you mean?"

"The scratchy stuff that ruins your blowjobs!"

"What!"

"It tickles!"

"You are so getting it when we step out of the shower—"

"Getting a blowjob?"

"No! Maybe! For Force's sake, Anakin—"

Anakin's laugh echoed in the little bathroom.

---

When they went up to the house, Obi-Wan went to his bedroom for a nap. It was partially out of necessity and partially because he didn't want to give Anakin the satisfaction of shaving right away. Anakin pouted and waited for Padmé to come home. Obi-Wan called to him after an hour had passed.

Anakin followed his voice into the bathroom. Obi-Wan held a towel over the bottom half of his face like a veil. Anakin spied the beard clippings in the sink. He gasped. "You did it already?"

Obi-Wan nodded mysteriously. "Are you ready?" he asked.

"Yes! Show me!"

Obi-Wan pulled the towel away and set it on the counter. He hoped Anakin approved.

Anakin came up to him with wide eyes and moved feather light fingertips over Obi-Wan's soft cheeks. "You look so young," he said.

"Is that a good thing?"

"Yes," Anakin whispered, still stroking his face, "My young Daddy." He reached for Obi-Wan's left hand and observed the pale pink ring. "My husband."

Obi-Wan took a shaky breath. "Why don't you put on something nice and we'll have ourselves a honeymoon?"

Anakin crossed his arms. "We just had a honeymoon and we didn't even leave the general vicinity of the house."

"Please, Anakin," Obi-Wan said, "When you talk the way you do, it gives me ideas."

"Like what?" Anakin replied, unmoved.

Obi-Wan spun Anakin around and pulled him tight against him, an arm reaching around to play between his legs. "Like how a bride should be treated on her wedding night."

Anakin's cheeks filled with fire and he pushed Obi-Wan off. "I'm not a girl!" he yelled, and stormed off to his room. Padmé came home in time to hear Anakin slam his door.

"What is it this time?" she said to herself, then spotted Obi-Wan in the hallway. "Oh. I almost didn't recognize you. Are you trying to impress someone?"

"Someone," Obi-Wan murmured, distracted.

"You should update your wardrobe," Padmé joked, "That's not what the kids are wearing these days."

"I'll keep it in mind." He went to knock on Anakin's door.

Inside, Anakin twisted his wedding ring around and around on his finger. He wished things could just be simple for once. If Obi-Wan wanted to feel like a man again… Fine. Anakin didn't have a problem with that. He just didn't want to be used. Or made fun of.

There was a soft knock on the door.

"Who is it?" Anakin called in a sing-song, obviously annoyed voice.

"Obi-Wan," he said.

Anakin sighed. He didn't want to fight. "Come in."

Obi-Wan was surprised to find the door unlocked. Maybe Anakin remembered his comment about breaking in. He found the boy sitting on the edge of his bed, facing the bookshelf. He sat beside him.

"I think you misunderstood me," Obi-Wan said.

Anakin fiddled with his ring. "What did you mean?"

"The bride gets treated like a princess. As you should be. Cake and flowers and pretty things to wear."

"You said wedding night."

"Kisses and snuggles and a good dinner."

"Right."

"We're equals in this, Anakin. I didn't mean to assign us roles, if that's what you thought."

Anakin picked at his comforter. "I thought I'm just your replacement for Mother."

"No, no, no. I treated her as an equal too. But you are special, Anakin, unique—you mean so much to me. You're not a replacement. You can't be replaced."

Anakin turned to him, his eyes teary.

"Oh, my love, come here," Obi-Wan said, and hugged him, "I'm sorry. I don't know what's wrong with me."

"Nothing," Anakin mouthed, his face in Obi-Wan's shoulder. There was no familiar beard brushing against his cheek. "It's me who likes to wear girls' clothes."

"There's nothing wrong with that," Obi-Wan said, soothing a hand over his back. "You know I've done the same."

"For me."

"Perhaps."

Anakin nuzzled deeper into Obi-Wan's neck. He smelled good, like shaving cream. Obi-Wan gave him a squeeze.

"Are you mine?" Obi-Wan asked.

Anakin raised his head. He gave a quiet, "Huh?"

"My baby? My husband?"

"Oh," Anakin said, smiling, "Yes."

Obi-Wan gave him a quick kiss. "Good. I love you. Let's enjoy a quiet evening together, what do you say?"

Anakin smoothed his fingers across Obi-Wan's cheek again. "That sounds perfect."

They did exactly that.

---

Saturday came. Obi-Wan tried not to be nervous about his appointment later, and Anakin hoped Ahsoka would be happy with his appearance and his dancing. It came easy to him... when he was drunk. He didn't want to get drunk tonight. But perhaps a drink with Obi-Wan would calm their nerves. He'd noticed his father pacing. It had gone on for the better part of an hour now.

"Father," he called, approaching Obi-Wan in the family room, "Will you help me get dressed?"

Obi-Wan's attention was easily swept up in Anakin. They went to Obi-Wan's room and Anakin undressed slowly, enjoying Obi-Wan's eyes on him. When he stood before him in just his boxers, he smiled and spun around with his hands in his hair. Obi-Wan grinned and wrapped his arms around him. "Precious boy," Obi-Wan praised.

Anakin giggled and kissed him and poured happiness into their bond. "I love you," he said.

"I love you. Mmm." Obi-Wan leaned in and deepened the kiss. Anakin pulled away after a few seconds, saying, "You're supposed to help me get dressed, Mister."

"Oh, am I?" Obi-Wan teased, hands trailing down Anakin's sides, "You did a fine job of undressing yourself."

"Thank you," Anakin replied, and Obi-Wan laughed. "But I'd hoped you'd do the same later."

Obi-Wan smoothed a hand through Anakin's hair, then across his jawline. "Of course, my love. I'll be waiting for you."

Anakin beamed and changed into his black leggings. Obi-Wan pulled the maroon tunic over his head, then the dark surcoat, and had Anakin sit in his lap while he brushed his hair. Anakin squirmed a little.

"Stay still, Anakin," Obi-Wan said, not wanting to be further distracted by Anakin's body.

Anakin glanced back at Obi-Wan knowingly and replied, "I'm just so excited." Then a second later, "Do you think we could have a drink together?"

Obi-Wan brushed another stroke through Anakin's hair. "What kind of drink?"

Anakin turned the other way. "You know."

The boy's hair slipped from his fingers and Obi-Wan admired its silky softness.

"I suppose if it's just one," Obi-Wan answered. He patted Anakin's legs. "Up."

Anakin stood grinning and Obi-Wan retrieved his gloves and blue velvet cloak from the wardrobe. He put the mask on last.

"Mysterious," Obi-Wan complimented.

Anakin bowed for him and Obi-Wan took his hand and rushed down the stairs. "Let's dance, my darling," he cheered. Anakin felt lighter than air. They pushed the furniture in the family room up against the walls and picked a record. Obi-Wan took two glasses from the kitchen and poured rosy liquid into each. He handed one to Anakin and they linked their arms before taking a sip. The record player sent sugary piano notes and harmonies through the air. Another sweet sip. Obi-Wan took Anakin's hand and curled his own around Anakin's shoulder. Anakin's heart fluttered as he placed a hand at Obi-Wan's waist. His father was adorable, especially minus the beard. His hair seemed longer in comparison and the locks were really misbehaving today.

The two moved about the room, a swing in their hips and a time in their feet. The song reached a climax and Anakin slipped away from Obi-Wan to pick something new. Drums kept a steady beat while a guitar strung out bold and electric sounds. Obi-Wan downed his glass. Anakin kept an arm around his back as they bounced around, goofy smiles on their faces. The song ended with a final chord and Obi-Wan chose something that would let him catch his breath. A classic waltz. Anakin smiled into Obi-Wan's shoulder as they held each other again. One, two, three, one, two, three...

The next track was a parlor song from a hundred years ago. Their movements slowed as the lyrics drew them in.

Lips like red roses and eyes like the sky...

Don't ever make me say goodbye...

Obi-Wan stopped and brought Anakin's mouth to his with a hand at the back of his neck.

I love you...

Please stay true...

Anakin breathed a moan into Obi-Wan.

My whole heart, never let us part...

Tongues sliding, skin blushing—

"Skyguy! Your front door was unlocked—"

Obi-Wan tore away from Anakin and placed his head on his shoulder, as if they'd only shared a quick peck. He rubbed his thumb across Anakin's lips twice, like it was a natural display of affection, removing the proof of their makeout. He moved to face him again, one hand on Anakin's shoulder. The other dragged across his mouth as if he were receiving bad news. "What time is the dance again?" he asked.

Anakin wore a nervous smile and glanced from him back to Ahsoka. She looked confused. "It's at six," he replied, and gestured for Ahsoka to come over. She did. Obi-Wan turned to face her.

"Snips, you look amazing," Anakin said, and it was true. The silver dress draped over her slim body sent sparkles of light around the room.

"You do," Obi-Wan agreed, "like a princess and her prince." He gave Anakin a subtle push. Ahsoka smiled at his awkward laugh.

"Father, I've told you a hundred times—"

"I just can't believe you wouldn't want a smart young woman like Ahsoka," Obi-Wan countered, faking a smile.

"Father..." he protested.

Ahsoka put her hands on her hips, a show of her pride. "Alright, alright," she said, smiling, "Thank you, both of you, but I'll have to take the prince to the carriage now or we'll miss dinner."

"Dinner?" Anakin asked. Now it did sound like a date.

"Dinner with Barriss and Lux! Did I forget to tell you?"

Anakin shook his head, unsure. Obi-Wan snuck away and returned with a stack of credits. He handed them to Anakin.

"Father—" Anakin said, eyes going wide at the money.

"Hush, Anakin. Go enjoy yourself," Obi-Wan insisted. Anakin smiled a wobbly smile and Obi-Wan kissed his cheek. Then he checked his watch. "My appointment is at five," he said, "so I better get ready. You two have fun tonight."

Ahsoka thanked him and took Anakin's arm. "You look amazing, too," she whispered on their way out. The door shut behind them and Obi-Wan sat on the couch for a moment, his body and mind heavy. That was impossibly close. Perhaps he should have berated the girl for waltzing into the house without ringing the doorbell. But his anger would only confirm he'd been doing something he shouldn't have. He finished Anakin's glass of wine for him, then went upstairs and straightened his clothes. He decided he needed some hairspray if anyone was going to take him seriously.

At a quarter to five, Obi-Wan locked up the house and got in his car. Dr. Jinn's house was not difficult to find, and the man opened the door for him as soon as he arrived. He guided Obi-Wan into the living room and offered him tea, which he accepted. Dr. Jinn went to the kitchen and returned with a rustic tea set, then sat before Obi-Wan in a high-backed chair and poured the green tea into two of the red cups. Obi-Wan sat opposite him on a plush loveseat and sipped from his teacup. It was a comfort he was familiar with. He shifted a little in his seat, the previous day's activities flashing in his mind.

"Are you alright?" Dr. Jinn asked.

"I'm fine," Obi-Wan said, flushing, "I'm just a little... sore."

Dr. Jinn's teacup stilled right before his lips, and then he sipped from it and set it on the table between them. "Sit however is comfortable for you, then."

Obi-Wan was too embarrassed to move. What was wrong with him?

"Have you been well these past few days?" Dr. Jinn asked.

"Yes," Obi-Wan replied, "Anakin is feeling much better and smiling a lot—"

"Mister Kenobi," Dr. Jinn cut in gently, "I asked if you were doing well, not Anakin."

"I'm happy when Anakin is happy," he said simply.

"And when he isn't happy?" the doctor probed.

"Then I'm not happy."

Dr. Jinn sipped his tea.

"Isn't that normal?" Obi-Wan asked.

"To an extent," he replied, "You should be able to separate your child's feelings from yours."

Obi-Wan nodded, contemplating. He said, "I was quite worried earlier about this appointment."

"I'm sorry to hear that. May I ask why?" Dr. Jinn questioned.

"I thought you'd make me talk about Ventress."

Dr. Jinn smiled slightly. "I can't make you talk about anything. This time is yours, and what we talk about is your decision."

Obi-Wan tried to smile back. "What do you recommend we talk about?"

"Perhaps your childhood?"

Obi-Wan thought that wasn't a bad place to start. Voicing that he was given up by his parents as an infant made him realize it was not the happiest of childhoods, however. He brightened when he talked about his training, what he learned from Yoda, and the first time he met Satine. His grief was still a clear memory, but the intensity of the feelings, Obi-Wan was glad to say, had faded over time. Dr. Jinn asked about Padmé.

"She's grown up so fast," Obi-Wan said, "She's beautiful, smart—I wish we were closer."

"Why aren't you?"

Obi-Wan told him what he'd discussed with Anakin, that they both tried but were caught up in the past too often.

"The fault may lie in miscommunication," Dr. Jinn supplied.

"Exactly," Obi-Wan agreed.

"Why are things so different with Anakin?" the doctor asked.

Obi-Wan drank the final drop of his tea and set the cup on the table carefully. "For one thing, he had two parents for the first seven years of his life. His mother and I must have achieved some sort of balance I didn't have by myself."

Dr. Jinn nodded.

"Without her... Anakin and I just grew closer and closer. I tried to be as tender as Shmi was. I still do."

Dr. Jinn smiled and moved a strand of gray hair out of his eyes. "I can tell he loves you very much."

Obi-Wan's heart warmed inside his chest.

"Do you have a lot of friends, Mister Kenobi?"

Obi-Wan ran a hand through his hair and replied, "I have a few."

"Good friends?"

"We're getting there, I suppose."

"If you don't mind, will you tell me if you're seeing someone currently?"

Obi-Wan avoided his gaze and said, "It was just a one-night thing."

"Do you prefer that to dating?" Dr. Jinn asked.

Obi-Wan's hand moved to rub where his beard used to be. "Not really. I prefer something long term, but it's difficult finding the right person, especially with Anakin."

"Because he's still young?"

"Yes."

"I see."

Obi-Wan bit the inside of his cheek. "Do you happen to read the Coruscant Current?"

Dr. Jinn nodded. Obi-Wan sighed heavily. "So you know about the former Sheriff Cody?"

"I only know what I've read. You hold a truer part of the story, I'm sure."

"Yes... Let's talk about something else."

"Alright."

"I don't know what to talk about."

Dr. Jinn smiled. "No worries, Mister Kenobi."

"You can call me Obi-Wan."

"Of course, Obi-Wan."

Obi-Wan smiled a little. "How am I doing?"

"Perfectly," said Dr. Jinn. "My other patients are not always so eloquent."

Obi-Wan held in a laugh. "Your other patients are children."

"That is correct," he replied, and chuckled himself. "Why don't I fix us a snack? Are you very hungry?"

"I wouldn't mind a little something," Obi-Wan told him. Dr. Jinn stood and went to the kitchen. Obi-Wan pulled out his cell phone and sent a text to Anakin.

---

Anakin's phone buzzed inside the belt around his waist. He put down his fork with a creamy noodle still stuck on the end and looked at the text.

How are you? My appt. seems to be going well. Miss you!

Anakin smiled and typed a message back. Barriss noticed him smiling and asked, "Have you got a significant other that I don't know about?"

Ahsoka frowned a little. Anakin shook his head and put his phone away. "It's just my dad."

Barriss' date, Lux Bonteri, smirked and asked, "Was he checking on you?"

Anakin smirked back and said, "He was. I guess your dad didn't check on you or he might have straightened your tie."

Lux looked down and laughed. He adjusted the knot and replied, "He didn't. Nice catch."

"No problem."

Ahsoka jumped in and said, "Hey, I think we have time for dessert. What do you think?"

Anakin smiled at her and looked over the menu. "Want to share the warm brownie à la mode?"

Ahsoka brightened and said yes. Anakin asked Barriss if she wanted one.

"No thanks, Ani, I'm so full!" she replied, having eaten a plate of chicken parmesan for dinner. Anakin nodded and turned to Lux.

"Lux, do you want one?" he asked.

"Bro, you don't have to—"

Anakin got the attention of the waitress and ordered two brownies à la mode. Lux said thank you and ate his dessert happily when it came. Barriss had a few nibbles of it and Anakin and Ahsoka split theirs down the middle. With Ahsoka on his arm, Anakin and the others left the restaurant and drove to the dance. They put on their masks before entering the packed gym. Barriss' looked like yellow butterfly wings. Lux's had little golden bells on the ends of his mask, and Ahsoka's had a flashy show of white feathers of the top and side edges of hers.

Inside, the gym was filled with lights of different colors, and popular music was being blasted from a few speakers. Bodies danced in all the available space, dresses swirling and tuxedos brushing. To the side, there were punch bowls and finger foods. Anakin smiled.

---

Obi-Wan's phone beeped and he looked down at the text from Anakin.

I'm having fun! We're at an expensive restaurant. Thanks for the credits. I miss you too!

He smiled and tucked the phone away as Dr. Jinn returned.

"I hope this is alright," said the doctor, setting down a plate of apple slices and peanut butter and another of carrots and dip. "I'm a vegetarian."

"It's perfect," Obi-Wan replied, and reached for an apple slice. "Thank you."

"You're very welcome." Dr. Jinn went for the carrots and poured himself more tea. Obi-Wan admired the softness of the living room. Light yellow walls, gray furniture, a white coffee table and window sill.

"Have you thought of something you'd like to talk about?" asked Dr. Jinn.

Obi-Wan finished chewing his apple slice and hummed. "I suppose… Do you have any advice for letting kids grow up? I gave Anakin his first driving lesson yesterday. I want him to be able to live in the real world and experience things… But it scares me."

"I think you have a right to those feelings considering all that's happened to you two," Dr. Jinn said. Obi-Wan nodded. "I would advise you to start trying new things with Anakin now. Travel, teach him how to navigate new situations and people. Have him get a job, or work officially at the motel."

Obi-Wan was glad Dr. Jinn hadn't told him to set Anakin loose completely. "Those sounds like wonderful ideas. Thank you."

Dr. Jinn smiled, and it was quite the pleasant sight.

---

Ahsoka took Anakin's hand and led him into the thick of it as Barriss and Lux found a group of their mutual friends. The song was electronic, a thrill to the ears, and Anakin quickly succumbed to its rhythms. Ahsoka grinned and grinned, thinking that Anakin was the best dressed there. His cloak and gloves made him look like the hero in a romance holo. The light bounced off Ahsoka's dress, and the feathers fluttered by her montrals, her blue eyes the spotlight under her mask. Anakin was proud to have such a beautiful friend.

They voted for Homecoming King and Queen, and drank punch and ate little cookies between songs. A slow, piano-fueled ballad came on and all the non-couples rushed to the sides of the gym. Ahsoka put Anakin's hand at her waist and rested her head against his chest. The feathers of her mask tickled his nose and Anakin giggled a little before leading her through the motions of their dance. He spun Ahsoka out to the side and then back into his arms. Barriss gave a whoop for them as she danced with Lux. Ahsoka laughed and turned back to Anakin. "I have a question," she said.

"Yeah?" Anakin asked.

"Would you consider dating a girl?"

"Yeah," Anakin affirmed, then thinking of an eternity with Obi-Wan, "but not right now, really. I still—I still miss Elan."

"I understand," she said, and held him close again.

Anakin blinked and his throat went tight. "Snips," he whispered, with sudden realization.

She smiled at him, her eyes teary.

"Snips…" He hugged her tight. "You're my best friend."

"You're mine, too." She sniffled.

"Don't cry, Snips! I love you so much. Here." He cupped a hand to her cheek and kissed the other one. "Don't cry."

Ahsoka smiled and pushed him away. "I'm fine. Silly Skyguy. 'm fine."

"Okay," Anakin said, giving a small smile back. He took her hand and found Barriss by the bright pink punch. He bowed and said, "The princess would like a dance with your Majesty."

The girls laughed and Barriss set down her cup so she could dance with Ahsoka.

---

Two plates of snacks later, Dr. Jinn and Obi-Wan had talked casually about the happenings in the town, the opening on the Coruscant council, the new café and how it was dividing the town into loyal devotees for one or the other.

"I actually… kissed the Sheriff in the Corellian Café. Sheriff Cody," Obi-Wan said.

"Oh?" said Dr. Jinn, sipping his tea.

"It was the first time I kissed a man."

"Sounds like it was spontaneous."

"A little, yeah. We dated after that."

"Was it fun?"

"Yes, definitely for the first few dates."

"And after?"

"It got complicated."

Dr. Jinn nodded.

Obi-Wan fiddled with his empty teacup, observing the design curving around its sides. "Now his brother and I are friends, but somehow things are even more complicated."

"Would you care to explain?" Dr. Jinn prompted.

"Well, for instance—" All the color in Obi-Wan's face drained away. "Something's wrong with Anakin," he said.

---

Anakin stepped out the gym side exit and breathed in the cold autumn air. He needed a few minutes to himself after leaving Ahsoka in Barriss' hands. Leaning against the cool concrete of the building, he let his gaze drift upwards, mask in hand. The sun had already abandoned the sky and this part of the school was dark and cut off from the world. Anakin glanced over the empty bike racks and the closed gate separating the area from the school's main court yard. Beneath his feet was old dirt, the gravel worn away after years of students moving to and fro. He could still hear music emanating from inside. It was his only company in the dark until a tall figure emerged from the gym side exit. His face was covered by a white mask, ranging from his forehead to his chin with detailed eyes and a curvy nose, but no mouth. Anakin stiffened. He watched as the figure tugged on the lanyard in his pocket and pulled out a ring of keys. The mystery man sent Anakin a wayward glance before locking the door from the outside.

Startled, Anakin asked, "What are you doing? Who are you?"

The figure stuck the keys back in his pocket and sauntered over. "You know who I am," he said, voice muffled by the mask. Mister Clovis. Anakin's heart began to pound in his chest. No need to panic. He could get out of this. He was fine. Don't panic—

Clovis stood before him and planted his hand against the wall by Anakin's head. Anakin swallowed his discomfort and reminded himself that Clovis was scared easily, at least by his father.

The man took off his mask and leered at him. This was the perfect opportunity. "From the moment I first saw you," Clovis began, reaching out to touch Anakin's face, "I knew I wanted you."

Anakin smacked his hand away, snarling, "Don't touch me!" He ducked under Clovis' arm to get away, but Clovis was expecting that. Anakin's stomach collided with the man's arm and Clovis shoved him back against the wall. Anakin opened his mouth to shout and bit down on his tongue as Clovis jammed a blaster under his jaw.

"I am truly sorry about this, Anakin," Clovis said, unable to fight his usual charming smile, "I've come to find there is no other way to get what I want."

Anakin tasted blood pooling in his mouth. Clovis didn't let up on the pressure of the gun as his free hand trailed a path down Anakin's chest, fingers bumping over the layers of exquisite fabrics.

Anakin thought he knew what fear was. He twisted under Clovis' grip, but Clovis forced the blaster deeper against the muscle of Anakin's jaw, pushing his head back and causing Anakin to strain to keep eye contact. The blood in his mouth surged to the back of his throat and he sputtered, choking on it.

Clovis looked downright gleeful. "That's the spirit," he said. "Be a good boy and don't make this difficult." His fingers curled around Anakin's velvet cloak where it draped over his shoulder.

"I'll do it," Anakin blurted, the body-racking panic he felt finally subsiding enough for him to have a coherent thought.

Clovis looked intrigued, but he knew the dirty rat was full of tricks.

"Please," Anakin said, his voice hoarse from the angle.

That had him. It was beginning to hurt with how much he wanted Anakin. He'd waited so long, but it would only make the reward sweeter—he was dizzy with the thought of it. Clovis gave Anakin just enough room, the cool durasteel of the blaster still only centimeters from Anakin's face.

Anakin, very slowly, turned around as his cloak fell off his shoulders. He slipped his lightsaber out of its inner pocket before it hit the ground, igniting it as he whirled around to strike Clovis.

The man was no longer behind him. Anakin blinked furiously, turning wildly from side to side to distinguish the figure from the dark. Where was he?!

Clovis kicked Anakin's legs out from under him and his lightsaber was knocked loose from his hand. He hit the ground with a crack and Clovis snatched the glowing saber as he straddled Anakin's hips. He underestimated the length of the blade and it slashed across Anakin's eye.

Anakin's scream rebounded off the walls around them and he cupped his hands to the sizzling skin. He kicked and shoved at Clovis, but the man only grimaced at the irritation. He placed a hand in the center of Anakin's chest and pushed until the boy's shoulder blades ground into the dirt beneath them, raising Anakin's lightsaber high in the air as he did so, its tip still pointed at Anakin's face. "I will not ask you again, Anakin," growled Clovis. "Make this easy for me."

The deepest, darkest dread took over Anakin and he thought he might lose consciousness. He started taking off his belt, if only to give himself time to think.

Clovis sat back and deactivated the saber. He watched smugly for a moment as Anakin discarded the belt, but the boy's hands were shaking so badly he couldn't possibly take off anything else in a timely manner. "Here, allow me," said Clovis, and he started to pull the surcoat off of him. Anakin stretched out his hand, but no Force manifested. The surcoat was off. Anakin tried again. Nothing. Panicked, he pushed at Clovis' hands himself, but nothing would deter him, and Clovis promptly tore off his long tunic when Anakin refused to raise his arms. The air chilled his bare chest. Clovis leaned over him and braced some of his weight on an elbow by Anakin's ear, their faces close together. With his free hand, he touched Anakin languidly, from his collarbone to his navel. He bowed to close the distance between their mouths. Anakin turned his head to the side desperately.

Clovis gripped his chin harshly and brought him back to face him. "Won't you kiss me?" he asked. Anakin shook his head as best he could. "I've been nothing but good to you, Anakin," Clovis said, "You could at least return the favor."

Anakin felt rage surge within him. "You're delusional!" he shouted, and pushed at Clovis' shoulders again. "Get off me!"

Clovis slapped him and Anakin stilled, for a second. He curled his hands into fists and hit Clovis as hard as he could, but the angle was no good and Clovis had Anakin's hands pinned to the dirt in no time. "You're rotten, you know that?" Clovis spat, "You're a rat. A slut. A whore. You deserve this, for every time you've denied me, every time you caused me trouble…"

Anakin fought against Clovis' grip to no avail.

"Be still!" Clovis shouted.

Anakin struggled under Clovis' weight. "Let go of me!"

Clovis held his wrists with one hand while the other yanked the ring of keys from his pocket. He wound the lanyard over his fist and swung the keys across Anakin's cheek. Anakin cried out and crossed his arms over his face. Clovis struck him again and again, forming gashes and drawing blood till finally Anakin yelled, "I'm sorry! Master! Please!"

Clovis let the keys slide out of his hand and fall with a clink against the ground. Slowly, Anakin uncovered his face and looked up at him. Clovis looked oddly sympathetic. He was calm as he spoke.

"You know what I'm thinking, Anakin? If you're good, and I mean really good, I won't hurt you anymore. I'll keep you in my house, in my bedroom, just like you were my own doll. Would you like that? Hm?"

Anakin began to weep. Hot tears spilled into the lightsaber burn and off the sides of his face. "Help me! Someone help me! Father!"

"Hush now," Clovis said, wiping away the tears and stroking his bleeding cheek, "You'll be happy, making me happy. I'll show you." He tugged at Anakin's waistband.

"No!" Anakin wailed. "No, no, no—"

Clovis clamped his hand over Anakin's mouth and dug his nails into the cuts on his cheek. "That's enough!" he barked. Anakin was silent, reeling in pain. "You force me to take what I want. You'll see," he said, snatching Anakin's hand and bringing it, despite the boy's resistance, to the jut in his pants, "You'll see what I can make you feel."

Anakin's vision blurred and he saw Obi-Wan kneeling beside him suddenly. "Father," he cried.

Obi-Wan looked angelic in his light-colored robes. "I'm here, Anakin. Take a deep breath, alright?"

Anakin sobbed. "I can't—"

"Breathe in," Obi-Wan said soothingly.

Anakin tried.

"Breathe out," Obi-Wan whispered.

Anakin did.

Obi-Wan swept a hand through his hair. "Daddy's going to take care of you, okay?"

Anakin squeezed his eyes shut and nodded.

"Stay with me, Anakin," Obi-Wan urged, voice still so calm, "Where's your lightsaber?"

"He has it!" Anakin told him. He watched as Obi-Wan picked up the lightsaber beside Clovis and ignited it.

Clovis glanced over his shoulder. "Who the hell are you talking to?" he demanded.

Obi-Wan slashed the blade across Clovis' throat. Clovis sputtered, the wounds tearing from the pulse of his blood. Anakin was soaked in it as Clovis collapsed on top of him, but none of that mattered. Obi-Wan caressed Anakin's face gently so as not to hurt him, the saber deactivated beside him. "You're safe now," he whispered.

Anakin couldn't find the words to thank him. He was fading fast.

"I'll always be here for you, Anakin. It's all alright… You're okay…"

Anakin was lost to the darkness.

---

"Something's wrong with Anakin," Obi-Wan said.

"How do you know?" Dr. Jinn asked, still calm.

Obi-Wan clutched at his heart and Dr. Jinn crossed the room in an instant.

"Mister Kenobi," he urged, "I need you to tell me exactly what you're feeling."

Obi-Wan's fingers were rigid over his heart, his face creased with pain. "It hurts," he choked out.

Dr. Jinn pulled his cell phone out of his pant pocket and told Obi-Wan, "I'm going to call for an ambulance. You might be having a heart attack."

Obi-Wan grabbed his arm to stop him. "Don't," he said, "It's Anakin."

"Please, Obi-Wan," Dr. Jinn pleaded, "This could be life or death. Just let me call."

Obi-Wan let go of Dr. Jinn and ran for the door. Dr. Jinn only had to take long strides to catch up to him, his palm flat against the front door before Obi-Wan could leave.

Obi-Wan turned to him with weepy eyes. "You have to let me go," he said, "My son needs me!"

Dr. Jinn put his phone back in his pocket, but it would only remain there for sixty seconds unless Obi-Wan could prove he was without a doubt okay. "I need you to think rationally, as best you can," Dr. Jinn said, his hand still on the door, "What can you do right at this very moment to help Anakin?"

Obi-Wan stared at him, thoughts whirling around. "Call him," Obi-Wan said.

Dr. Jinn gestured for him to do so and Obi-Wan took out his phone to call Anakin. Anakin didn't pick up. Obi-Wan looked at Dr. Jinn desperately.

"Do you know where he is now?" the doctor asked.

"The school dance," Obi-Wan replied, and reached for the door handle. Dr. Jinn grabbed his hand.

"Is there any pain in your chest now?" he asked.

"No," Obi-Wan lied.

"Do not lie to me," Dr. Jinn advised, "This is your life, not mine."

"It's not my heart," Obi-Wan insisted, "it's more than that. It's our bond. My very soul. Do you understand that? Have you ever been so connected to another person?"

"Yes," he answered grimly.

"Then please—" Obi-Wan cut himself off with another cry of pain.

"I must insist you lie down," Dr. Jinn said, and guided Obi-Wan to the love seat, "I'll try calling Anakin for you."

Obi-Wan couldn't manage a thank you. Dr. Jinn held the phone to his ear and listened to it ring and ring. Obi-Wan took a sharp breath.

"Are you alright?" Dr. Jinn asked, clearly believing him not to be.

"Anakin..."

"I'll call the school and tell them to find out where he is."

"He's not awake."

Dr. Jinn wasn't hiding his concern quite so well now. "But he was before?"

"Yes," Obi-Wan whispered, afraid of what that meant. He stared at the ceiling, very still.

"Give me a moment." Dr. Jinn called the school and asked for Anakin. They said it would be hard to find him because all the students were wearing masks.

"Call him over the loudspeaker, then!" ordered Dr. Jinn, drawing the attention of Obi-Wan. "You must find him. His father and I are quite certain something has happened to him."

"And you are his... other father?"

"I'm his doctor! Find him!" Dr. Jinn hung up and called Anakin again. There was no answer. He resolved to be patient and wait for a call back from the school. He looked over Obi-Wan.

"Has the pain subsided?" he asked.

"Yes," Obi-Wan said, a frown still pulling at his lips.

"I'm sorry for raising my voice."

Obi-Wan glanced at him. "It's alright."

"Do you want some water? Aspirin?"

"If you are still worried, I will take them."

Dr. Jinn went to his medicine cabinet and returned to Obi-Wan, still laying on the love seat. "Here," he said softly.

Obi-Wan swallowed the pills with some water. The phone rang. The caller ID was Anakin's. Dr. Jinn handed the phone to Obi-Wan. "Anakin?" he pleaded, not sensing a change in Anakin's physical state.

There was a staticky sound coming through the line. "This is Ahsoka," came the girl's voice.

"Ahsoka," Obi-Wan said tentatively, "Where is Anakin?"

"He's—he—" she couldn't speak.

"What's happened to him?" Obi-Wan demanded. "Please tell me."

"He's hurt," Ahsoka spilled, "and Mister Clovis is dead."

Obi-Wan's voice caught in his throat. He couldn't breathe. Dr. Jinn took the phone out of his limp hand.

"Ahsoka, this is Anakin's therapist, Doctor Jinn. Can you tell me what condition he's in?"

"There's blood everywhere."

"His?"

"I can't tell. It's dark," she said.

"Is he awake?"

"No."

"Is he breathing?"

"Yes."

Dr. Jinn took a breath. "Did you say there was someone else with him?"

"Yes," Ahsoka said, a sob coming through, "Mister Clovis. His throat is cut."

Dr. Jinn held a hand to his mouth and closed his eyes. "How is Anakin hurt?"

"He's all cut up. He's not wearing anything."

Obi-Wan was stock still.

"Okay," Dr. Jinn said, "Okay. Ahsoka, I want you to call the police and tell them exactly where you are. Stay with Anakin as long as you can, at least until they arrive. Ask for an ambulance. Can you do that?"

"Yes," she said, sounding scared.

"You've done a great job so far. Anakin's father and I will meet him at the hospital. It's going to be alright."

"Okay. I'll call the police."

"Thank you." Dr. Jinn hung up and sat with Obi-Wan on the couch. "Mister Kenobi," he said, "You've got to relax. Take a deep breath."

Obi-Wan took a breath, and then another and another and they came so quickly it was like he wasn't breathing at all. Dr. Jinn held Obi-Wan's face so he'd meet his eyes. "Anakin's going to be alright," he said.

"No," Obi-Wan moaned between sharp gasps, "He won't be! My baby! How could this happen? How could I not protect him?" Obi-Wan sobbed. "Anakin—poor Anakin—"

Dr. Jinn pulled Obi-Wan against him and let him cry on his shoulder. A minute passed of Dr. Jinn's steady hands on Obi-Wan's shoulders. Obi-Wan snuffled and tried to wipe Dr. Jinn's clothes as he pulled away. "I'm sorry, I'm getting you all wet—" he said.

"It's alright," Dr. Jinn replied, reaching back for a tissue. He handed a few to Obi-Wan. "I'm going to drive you to the hospital," he said, "and I'll stay for as long as you'd like. Anakin is going to need both of us."

Obi-Wan nodded, patting the tissue over his cheeks before pressing it firmly to each eye.

"You should know that he might not want to be touched. That's normal. He might feel uneasy around men as well."

Obi-Wan stifled another cry. "Have you helped children with this before?"

"Yes," he said.

"Have you... Have you helped adults too?"

Dr. Jinn was quiet. "I haven't, but I can help you, if that is what you need."

Obi-Wan breathed a sigh of relief and rested his head on Dr. Jinn's shoulder. Dr. Jinn separated them gently. He said, "Anakin is going to need you to be strong, okay? Try to clear your mind. Is there anything else you need before we leave?"

Obi-Wan wiped his face and said, "I need to make a call." He picked up his phone with shaking hands and dialed a number. "Rex?" he asked.

"I'm here," Rex said.

"I need you to do something for me."

"Shoot."

"Anakin's been assaulted. He's at the school still, I think, and an ambulance should be on its way. Will you ride with him in the ambulance?"

"Yes, of course—when did this happen? Is he alright?"

"I don't know—It wasn't very long ago. Tell him I'm on my way, okay?"

"I will. Alright, I'm in my car now."

"Thank you, Rex." He hung up and went with Dr. Jinn to his car.

---

At the school, Ahsoka found Anakin's cloak lying on the ground and brought it over to him. He was still unconscious. She covered him and called his name, but he didn't wake up. Rex sped through the town to get to the school sooner than the ambulance. "Anakin!" he called.

"Here!" Ahsoka yelled back.

Rex raced toward her voice and found the bike gate locked. "Go through the gym," Ahsoka told him, pointing towards the entrance. He did, and wove through dancing bodies and singles standing awkwardly around the edges of the gym until he found the side exit. He pushed through it and heard Ahsoka tell him too late that the door was locked from the outside. It closed behind him. Rex knelt beside Ahsoka and Anakin and asked, "Has he shown any kind of response?"

"No," Ahsoka said, "I've tried to wake him up."

Rex checked Anakin's pulse and glanced over at Mister Clovis' body. "Has he moved at all?" Rex asked, with a nod of his head.

"I think he's dead. I used the flashlight on my phone to see when I first found them, but then..." Ahsoka reached for Anakin's hand. "I heard Anakin's phone buzz and I called his dad back."

"Let's see if he's got his keys on him," Rex said, clicking the flashlight on his phone, "We'll need the gate open for the paramedics and the other officers."

Ahsoka watched as Rex scanned over Clovis' body, finding the keys in plain view beside Anakin. "Are you friends with Anakin's father?" Ahsoka asked.

"I am," he said, holding up the keys in front of his flashlight. He paled.

Ahsoka saw blood drip off the keys and felt another wave of tears come over her. Rex took a picture and then went over to the gate and unlocked it. He wiped his hands on his pants and knelt beside Anakin once more.

"Anakin," he called, "Can you hear me?"

Anakin's brows pinched and he moaned. Ahsoka squeezed his hand.

"Anakin," Rex said, "Can you open your eyes?"

The policemen and paramedics arrived, but still Anakin slept. Rex lifted him up and wrapped the cloak around him better before they got in the ambulance, with Anakin on a stretcher. Rex had Ahsoka come with so she wouldn't try to drive herself home. He sent a text to Obi-Wan with an update just as Anakin took a gasp of air. His eyes darted around the small, white space. "Where am I?" he asked, struggling to sit up straight, "What happened?"

"Anakin," Rex said calmly, "We're on our way to the hospital."

Anakin looked at Rex and Ahsoka uncomprehendingly before the pain he was in announced itself again. He gazed down at himself and the velvet cloak wrapped around his middle. His memories came back with a shriek.

"Anakin—" Rex started.

"Where's my father? Where is he?"

"He's on his way to the hospital. We'll meet him there," Rex answered.

"He was here!" Anakin cried. "Did he leave? Why did he leave?"

"Anakin, kid, Obi-Wan wasn't with you. You were at the dance, remember? Obi-Wan is… Ahsoka, do you know?"

"Your therapist was with him," she told Anakin, "He said he would be at the hospital, too."

Anakin pulled the cloak around him tighter and felt complete and utter fear pulse through him. "Father," he murmured.

"We'll be there soon," Rex tried to soothe, "And you can see him then."

Anakin hid his face as he cried. He was so embarrassed. Ahsoka wished she knew something to say that could make things better. She came up with nothing and just held herself. They reached the hospital and Anakin was led into a private room that the Sheriff wasn't allowed in. Ahsoka stayed close to Rex in the waiting room. Dr. Jinn and Obi-Wan arrived soon after. "Where is he?" Obi-Wan asked Rex, still half-panicked.

Rex said, "Room one ninety-one." He stopped Obi-Wan before he could run down the hallway. "He's pretty beat up," he said softly, "so prepare yourself first."

Obi-Wan swallowed harshly and glanced at Dr. Jinn.

"I'll wait outside his room," said Dr. Jinn, "and you can call me in if he requests it."

Obi-Wan spared a glance for Ahsoka but only gave her shoulder a squeeze before he strode down the hallway. They found the room and Dr. Jinn waited nearby. Obi-Wan knocked on the door. A nurse opened it and asked, "Are you his father?"

"Yes," Obi-Wan said.

She waved him in and Anakin burst into tears all over again. "I knew you didn't leave me!" he professed.

Obi-Wan rushed to his bedside and Anakin reached for him, to his surprise. Obi-Wan held him gently, Anakin's arms around him tight. "Anakin, my darling," he said, "I'm sorry I couldn't get here sooner."

Anakin let him go and held both of his hands in a death grip. "I was so scared—"

Obi-Wan took a deep breath to steady himself. "You're safe now, it's alright. Don't cry, baby. I'm here."

Anakin rubbed his aching eyes, yelping when he touched the burn through his brow. The nurse readied a form as Obi-Wan took a seat by Anakin. She spoke calmly and softly. "Anakin," she said, "I understand you've been through something tonight. I'd like to ask your consent to examine you. The process takes time and is somewhat invasive. However, it can help you a great deal if you need to prove what happened to you took place."

Anakin turned to Obi-Wan, looking uneasy. "It's okay," Obi-Wan said, "I'll be with you the whole time."

"Okay," Anakin said. The nurse wrote something down and then asked, "Before we get started, can you tell me if anything hurts more than the rest?"

Anakin pointed to his eye, his gaze downcast. The nurse checked to see if any damage had been done to his actual eye before she cleaned the area. "What's this from?" she asked.

"My lightsaber."

Obi-Wan tried to hide his reaction.

The nurse put burn cream over the vertical line before placing a bandage on it. She asked about his cheek, where the wounds were deeper and still wet.

"Keys," Anakin said.

She cleaned the crooked cuts and determined they'd need a few stitches to be safe. Anakin squeezed Obi-Wan's hand hard as she did it. Next the nurse undid his hospital gown and swabbed some of the blood off Anakin's chest that clearly wasn't his. "What happened to your arms?" she asked.

"Keys," Anakin repeated. Obi-Wan's eyes welled up. The nurse cleaned his arms next and bandaged him from wrist to elbow.

"I'll need to look at the lower half of you now," said the nurse. Anakin's face was wrought with discomfort and Obi-Wan put a hand on his uninjured cheek. "Hey," he said, "Just look at me."

Anakin relaxed somewhat as he looked into Obi-Wan's eyes. He could see that Obi-Wan had been crying. "Father," he started.

"Shh," Obi-Wan hushed, "You're okay. I'm here."

The nurse was careful in her examinations. "Okay, Anakin, I need you to turn over."

Anakin did as she asked, but he couldn't help the swell of shame he felt, especially with Obi-Wan there. Obi-Wan ran fingers through his damp hair, saying, "It's okay, it's okay… It's not your fault… We're almost done… You can do this…"

The nurse had Anakin turn around again and helped him with his hospital gown. "Now," she said quietly, "I know this will be hard, but I need you to tell me what happened from the beginning."

Anakin worried his bottom lip and Obi-Wan caressed his hand. Anakin told her how he wanted to get some air, and how Clovis was wearing a mask to start with, then how he'd fought but couldn't overpower Clovis. And then how Obi-Wan had saved him.

"Darling," Obi-Wan said when he was finished, "I wasn't there."

"What?"

"I went to my appointment with Doctor Jinn, do you remember?"

"Yes," he said suspiciously.

"And Ahsoka took you to the dance?"

"Yes. But you were there. You came to me and told me to breathe, and then you killed Clovis."

Obi-Wan's brows were furrowed deeply. "Sweetheart, I wasn't there. I couldn't have been. Doctor Jinn and I came to the hospital after Ahsoka told us what happened."

Anakin looked betrayed. "Why are you lying to me?"

Obi-Wan's lips parted.

"Why did Rex tell me the same thing?"

"Because, we aren't lying to you. That's the last thing we'd want to do."

The nurse cut in and said, "Anakin, you've been through something traumatic. Things will be clearer in time. However, from my observations…"

She had their attention.

"You haven't been penetrated. Additionally, I can't find any evidence of ejaculate."

Anakin turned green and the nurse handed him a waste basket. Anakin retched as Obi-Wan rubbed his back gently. Anakin stared at his legs when he was done.

"You may use the shower now, if you wish," the nurse told him, "And there are clothes here for you. If you have any questions or need any other care, I'll be close by."

"Thank you," Obi-Wan said.

She left them and Obi-Wan kept an arm around Anakin as they traversed the short distance to the shower. "Would you like my help getting cleaned up?" Obi-Wan asked.

Anakin was a little freaked out by all the blood still on him. "Yes," he whispered.

"Okay," Obi-Wan replied, and moved behind Anakin to untie his hospital gown. He folded it and put it on the towel rack. "Sit down there," Obi-Wan said, pointing to the chair, "We'll try not to get your bandages wet."

Anakin nodded and sat where Obi-Wan directed as Obi-Wan took a towel and rubbed soap on it. He held it in one hand while he turned on the water and grasped the handheld shower head with the other. "Raise your arms?" he asked.

Anakin did. Obi-Wan tested the temperature of the water and then wet Anakin's chest before he knelt beside him and started scrubbing. "You're getting all wet," Anakin said.

"I don't mind," Obi-Wan said. The grime was coming off steadily. "Am I scrubbing too hard?" Obi-Wan asked.

"No," Anakin said. Obi-Wan sprayed the blood off the towel he'd been using and added more soap, then returned it to Anakin's chest and neck. He got a fresh one for the rest of Anakin's body. "Tell me if I'm hurting you, okay?" he said. His touch was light everywhere that didn't appear to have stains. Anakin watched the water find its way into the drain. "Anakin," Obi-Wan called.

Anakin met his eyes.

"You want to wash your thighs yourself?" he asked.

Anakin realized Obi-Wan had avoided touching anything in the vicinity of his thighs or hips. He turned away. "I'm disgusting," he said.

Obi-Wan moved himself to face him. "You are not disgusting. Anakin, look at me. You're hurt and you're upset, but you are not disgusting."

Anakin felt tears threatening to make a reappearance.

"Sweetheart," Obi-Wan soothed, "I love you unconditionally. There's nothing wrong with you. This is not your fault and you are still my beautiful, beautiful boy. Do you understand?"

Anakin nodded, but the sick feeling remained.

"I felt the same way. After Cody," Obi-Wan said.

Anakin met his gaze.

Obi-Wan said, "I felt so dirty and worthless. But I shouldn't have, you know why? Because it wasn't my fault. And this is not yours. You didn't deserve this."

Anakin held a smile for a second, but decided it took too much effort in the moment to keep it there. Obi-Wan had him stand and finished washing him before massaging some shampoo into his hair and rinsing it clean. He wrapped him in a towel and blow-dried his hair. When Anakin's hair was dry and fluffed up, Obi-Wan retrieved the fresh set of clothes from outside the bathroom and gave them to Anakin. Anakin got dressed as Obi-Wan hung up his wet overtunic and re-clasped his belt over the inner one. He pressed a towel to his pants to soak up some of the water. He turned and saw Anakin staring at himself in the mirror, now dressed in a white t-shirt and pants with a soft waistband.

"Anakin?" Obi-Wan asked, then strode towards him. Anakin flinched, then relaxed when he realized it was only Obi-Wan. Slowly, Obi-Wan took Anakin's hand in his and held onto it warmly. Anakin's gaze returned to the mirror.

"What's wrong, Anakin?" Obi-Wan asked.

Anakin shook his head. Obi-Wan hugged him as he started to cry again. "I wish Mother was here," Anakin sobbed.

Obi-Wan's heart was heavy. Gradually, he was able to guide Anakin back to the bed. He opened the door of the room and asked a passing nurse for two blankets. She went to get them as Dr. Jinn caught his eye.

"How is he?" Dr. Jinn asked, not too loudly.

"I'll text you," Obi-Wan replied, and the nurse returned with blankets that were warm to the touch. He took them and thanked her and slid the door shut behind him.

"Alright, Anakin," he said, as he put the blankets on him and tucked them in around his legs, "Try to rest now. I'll stay in the room with you and keep you safe while you sleep."

Anakin looked at Obi-Wan worriedly as he sat down in the chair beside the bed. "Hold me," he said.

"Are you sure?" Obi-Wan asked.

Anakin scooted over on the bed and moved the blankets to the side. Obi-Wan stood, took off his shoes and then eased onto the bed, careful not to bump into Anakin. Anakin pressed his face to Obi-Wan's chest and breathed him in, and Obi-Wan curled both arms around him after fixing the blankets. Anakin's breathing evened out after a few minutes. Obi-Wan slipped out his phone and typed a message with Anakin still flush against him. He texted Padmé first. Anakin and I are at the hospital, Room 191. Could you bring Anakin's baby blanket? It's in the closet upstairs. I'll fill you in when you get here.

To Dr. Jinn, he wrote, Anakin remembers me saving him and killing Clovis. I tried to explain that I couldn't have. He's sleeping now but I'm sure he's still confused.

Padmé texted back to say she was on her way.

Dr. Jinn said, It seems he's rewritten the memory to make the experience more bearable. I'll have to talk to him to be sure.

Do you have any advice? Obi-Wan replied.

Don't try to correct him if he brings it up again. The return of his memories so soon might be too much for him.

Thank you for all your help. At what point should I have Anakin talk to you?

Whenever he's ready. Just let him know I'm here.

I don't want to keep you here all night.

I don't have anywhere else to be, Dr. Jinn replied.

Obi-Wan furrowed his brows and tried to picture the doctor's left hand, whether it had a ring or not. He said, You have a home and a bed.

I also have two patients who need me. It's alright.

Anakin stirred and Obi-Wan put one arm back around him securely. He listened to his breathing return to normal before texting back, Thank you. I'll tell you when Anakin wakes up.

You're a good father, Mr. Kenobi.

Obi-Wan put his phone in his pocket and weaved his hand through Anakin's hair, not sure that Dr. Jinn's sentiment was true.

---

Padmé went to the house and found Anakin's blanket in the closet, just like Obi-Wan said. It was crocheted with soft, worn yarn in sweet powder blue. Padmé had a vague memory of Shmi making it for Anakin, her belly round with the baby to be. With whatever happened, Obi-Wan apparently wasn't enough comfort for Anakin. Padmé tried not to worry. She bundled up the blanket under her arm and sent a text to Obi-Wan to ask if Anakin needed anything else from home.

A set of robes, Obi-Wan replied.

Padmé went to Anakin's room and gathered all the parts of his usual outfit. His bed was made and Padmé had to wonder if he was sleeping in Obi-Wan's bed again. She went into Obi-Wan's room and inspected the bed. Two pillows with head-shaped indents. She sighed. The last time she'd slept in the same bed as Obi-Wan... was probably when she was twelve, and that was because Shmi passed away. Padmé took a reusable bag from her room and placed Anakin's blanket and clothes inside. She checked on Anakin's mouse and then locked up the house and got in her car.

She arrived at the hospital and found Anakin's room. Rex had left to take Ahsoka home. Padmé passed Dr. Jinn drinking caf in a waiting room chair as she made her way to Anakin's room. She knocked on the door softly.

"Come in," Obi-Wan called.

Padmé slid the door open and saw Anakin pressed tight to Obi-Wan on the hospital bed, his arms and face bandaged. She shut the door behind her and sat in the chair opposite Obi-Wan. Anakin appeared to be sleeping. "What happened?" Padmé whispered.

"Rush Clovis happened," Obi-Wan whispered back.

Padmé's eyes widened and she looked over Anakin again. "He did all this?" she asked.

Obi-Wan nodded and brushed his hand through Anakin's hair, then placed his palm over Anakin's ear. "Rex said they found him without any clothes... With Clovis dead on top of him before Ahsoka pushed him off."

Padmé gasped. "Dead?"

"Oh, sweetheart, I'm sorry if you ever held any affection for the man. He was crueler than any of us realized," Obi-Wan said.

Padmé wanted to cry.

"The nurse said Clovis didn't get a chance to... To do what he wanted," Obi-Wan continued, "but his blood was all over Anakin."

"So Anakin killed him? How?" Padmé asked.

"Rex thinks it was done with Anakin's lightsaber, but they're still examining the body. They found a blaster at the scene, which I'm guessing belonged to Clovis."

"He did say he wanted a new one," Padmé recalled unhappily.

"Anakin doesn't remember everything that happened. At least, he remembers it differently than how it happened, so we have to give him some time and not push the truth on him too hard. However, Padmé, I have to ask you..." Obi-Wan watched her give a hesitant nod. "Did you ever sleep with Clovis?"

"No," Padmé said, "Even with all his flattery he didn't really ask for that."

Obi-Wan nodded and pressed another kiss to Anakin's forehead, seemingly deep in thought. Padmé took his baby blanket out of her bag and handed it to Obi-Wan, who smiled and wrapped it around Anakin. Anakin gripped Obi-Wan's robe tighter, but he didn't open his eyes.