Dear Readers,

Hi there, glad to see you're still reading! I'm so excited about this fanfic! It feels like ages since I was able to write about Luke and Mara like this. I know it doesn't seem that way, with such humungous gaps between posts. But I assure you, I'm stoked about this story, thrilled to death to be writing it, and apologize for the delay. This chapter has been a true challenge in more than one way. The first chapter was so easy to write and I loved it so much, it was very hard for me to follow it up with a chapter that would do it justice. After at least five different drafts, I finally found one that I loved as much as the first chapter, and here it is! So hopefully you'll all enjoy this chapter as well!

Not only was it difficult to follow the first chapter. But this was supposed to be the first chapter I collaborated on with my newly acquired (dear friend &) beta-reader. But her computer died, so I apologize in advance for errors of any kind. I waited for a little while, but I just can't keep this chapter to myself anymore! So, whenever she gets back, we'll begin our fun. But for now, I'll go ahead and let you guys read on. I want to start off this chapter right, like I start out all of my stories! By thanking all of you wonderful readers who took the time to write in…

Starting with…

Jacqueline Roget – You were my first reviewer for this story! Thank you so much for letting me know you were interested! Much Love!

Mara Jade Hughes – Thank you so much for your fun review, it made me laugh and kept me inspired to keep going! Hope you like this chapter as well! Much Love!

starwarssomeone - Thank you so much for writing in and being so encouraging! I hope you like this new chapter as well! Much Love!

Mara look-a-like – Thank you so much for writing in, you've probably read and reviewed every Luke and Mara story I've ever done. And I mean, you read it as it was being posted. Your encouragement, loyalty and, and friendship has really kept me going throughout the years! I hope you had a blast in Disney World (you think you're a big kid… I was jumping up and down for you getting to go! LoL!) I hope you enjoy this chapter when you return! Much Love!

MirandaJade87 – Thank you so much for your encouragement and kind words! I hope you'll like this chapter too! Much Love!

Agi Vega – Glad to hear it! Hope you enjoy the latest installment, Thank you so much for writing in! Much Love!

wbsaw – Thank you for taking the time to write such a long and nice review! I also wanted to thank you for warning me my story's title has been used before, I did not know that. The time frame is exactly around where you guessed, you were very close! I was aiming for not long after Calli left. Hopefully Han and Leia explain that a little better in this chapter. I can't thank you enough, for your warning, constructive criticism and anti-Calli antics! LoL, my kind of reader! I hope this chapter better explains things and I hope you enjoy! Much Love!

AN: A reader just informed me that my title has been used before. I didn't know that and wanted to say if the writers of the other tale have any problems with my tale's title. Please let me know, I'm not copying or trying to steal anyone's thunder. Sadly, everything you're reading was thought up or dreamed up in my own twisted mind. I apologize, and hope no one is at all offended by my tale.

Monica Ryan – Thank you so much for taking the time to write in. And thank you so much for the compliments, I'm truly honored! I know a complement like that coming from you is a true honor and I hope you still like me after this chapter. LoL! I really hope you enjoy this new chapter! Much Love!

FairyVampire – Glad you enjoyed, hope you like this chapter too, thank you so much for writing in! Much Love!

Sweetdeath04 – So great to hear from you! Oh, you know Leia's not giving up, that's why we love her! (And that Lando line was seriously one of my favorites too!) Wink-wink! I'm so glad you enjoyed and you're still reading! You've probably read and reviewed every story I've EVER written for this site! As always your review has brightened my day! I hope you're stories are still going well, and hope you enjoy this chapter too! Much Love!

SkyBlueSw – My kind of reader! LoL! I couldn't agree with you more! I love 'secret romance' tales, especially between Luke and Mara. And like you, I can't seem to get enough! I've been dying to write one for ages, I even wanted 'A Beautiful Disaster' to be that way, but that story ended up taking a different direction (pout!). Yes, I am going to continue posting, I'm soooo excited about this story! I hope you enjoy this chapter as well as future chapters I'm typing now! Thank you so much for writing in! Much Love!

Stinkin Sammy Jay – Glad to hear it, hope you like this chapter as well! Much Love!

Dedicated to the first reviewer of this story, Jacqueline Roget! Because whenever I post a new tale, I'm a total wreck until I get that first review! LoL! Seriously, people study it! Thanks again for your kind words!


"The Secret Romance Of Mara Jade"

Chapter 2 – He Deals In Subtle Hints


Princess Leia was in pain… GREAT pain. There was an entire drum-line parading around, banging a tune behind her aching ears. Her bed was spinning underneath her so fast it amazed her she was able to stay still. She dared not open her eyes, for the sunlight streaming down through her blinds was murderous, she was sure one glance could kill her. But what made all of this a hundred times worse was when she'd awakened; she badly needed to use the refresher! She was a little afraid to try moving with out help, because the room kept being leaned on her.

Why had she drank so much last night?! What had she been thinking?! Honestly?! But as the former princess of Alderaan, began to think about it, her memories of the evening before were restored. The answer to all of the questions floating around in her mind was, 'Luke Skywalker.' Her kind, intuitive, selfless, force-sensitive twin brother; who never ceases to amaze her.

It was no secret that the former Tatooine farmboy, had always had trouble with the opposite sex. All of the force training in the world couldn't seem to help him in that department! No matter how many times Leia tried to help him, he always told her to 'back off.' But at this rate, she wouldn't live to see him married and happy! Which was a thought scary enough to keep Leia persistent. She would not let her only brother; give into a life of solitude.

But he was putting up a mighty fight, against all of her efforts. His latest claim being that he is with a special someone, but in secret. A secret so great and important that he can't even tell his own family. Which Leia couldn't see anyone making Luke do! It just didn't make sense to her. Not to mention, if this girl didn't want anyone to know that she was dating Luke. Than Leia wasn't so sure that this girl was right for Luke, if she existed. This girl could easily be leading him on another wild chase. That will eventually end with heartbreak on Luke's part, and after Calli… Leia couldn't stand to see that happen to him again.

The princess was under the impression that there wasn't any girl. She was convinced Luke was making this person up; so she would stop trying to help him. It wouldn't be the first or last time Luke had done something like this. She appreciated him not wanting a fuss or not wanting her to worry. But he just couldn't understand that that's what families do!

Frustrated and desperate, Leia maneuvered herself into a sitting position on the edge of her bed and managed to stand up. Drumming in her head unyielding, along with the rooms spinning and leaning, the princess stumbled into the refresher. For once, cursing herself for not listening to her husband. He'd tried to warn her, he'd even tried to slow her down, but she'd been relentless and more than a little upset. She had just thrown a party that hadn't served it's purpose, that was failure in her book, and she didn't like failure. So sad over her latest failure and angry with her twin, who wasn't even TRYING!

It really was for his own good, Leia knew that with an utter certainty. It wasn't something she was saying just to make herself feel better at the end of the day. It was a true statement in her eyes, and Luke would understand that. Maybe not now, but eventually he would, she had faith in that. She only hoped that when that time came that perhaps her twin would stop being so cold towards her. Stop… ya know, force leaping off of balconies to escape her.

As Leia came out of the refreasher, she decided she would attempt to start her day. But the object of her frustration and thirst for alcohol the night before, was leaning on her and Han's bedroom doorframe. He offered her a cup of caf, greeting her with the customary, "Hi sis," he'd greeted her with for years.

"Luke," Leia bit out, but took the offered cup and headed for her walk-in closet.

"Off to a bit of a rough start today, aren't we?" Luke asked but received no answer. So he continued to say, "Before you begin to worry, the twins are in school, Ani's in daycare, and Han's at work. He called out for you, letting the politicians know they had a day to relax. Since you weren't feeling very well, I thought you might want some company."

Silence ensued, the sound of Leia's hangers clanking together was his only answer.

"I see you're still upset about last night." Luke said wrinkling his nose, slightly.

"Whatever gave you that idea little brother? Wait, you might want to jump off of our balcony too. Because this conversation could get ugly." Leia said nonchalantly as she brushed past Luke and into the refresher to change.

"Come on Leia, that is not fair!" Luke whined through the door.

"Fair?! Luke, you're actions were unfair! Along with cold, inconsiderate, uncalled-for, childish, and unnecessary!" Leia bit back through the door. It was so much easier for her to argue with him when she couldn't see his face.

"I only did that because you simply refuse to listen to me. I don't need you throwing me parties and mixers trying to help me find someone. For the hundredth time, I've already found the right woman for me. Now, why won't you respect that?" He said back, losing a little bit of his prized patience.

"Okay, here's why, what's this new girl's name?" Leia asked, for what must have been the millionth time.

"Just because I can't tell you who she is, you think I'm making her up? You really think that I could make up how she makes me feel?" He asked.

"You would if you were trying to get me off of your back. Because you've done it before," Leia called back.

"I've never made up a girl to get you off my back!"

"But you have lied to me about girls, in the past, I know that." The princess pointed out before opening the door. Now that she was fully dressed, she felt better prepared to face her brother. "Look Luke, I'm not really mad… I'm more disappointed. Only because you refuse to even try."

"I don't need to Leia, I'm telling you, I've found the girl that I want to spend the rest of my life with. Trust me on this." Luke said sounding more like her brother and not the annoyed man that she had been yelling through the door moments ago.

"I want to Luke, but honestly, I don't see how that could be true. This woman you're with doesn't want anyone to know you're together. Doesn't that strike you as odd?" Leia asked, feeling like a broken record.

"Not really, because she's not doing it because she wants to, she's only keeping it a secret for now. Only because she's never had anyone care for her like I do. Not in her entire life, could you imagine such a thing? She's never had somebody love her, show her affection, and romantically care for the way that I do. She needs time to acquaint herself with what that's like. The other reason she wants to keep this quiet for a little while, is because she wants to protect me. Which is something no other woman has ever considered before." Luke explained.

"So she says," Leia said sounding unconvinced.

"It's true."

"Protect you from what exactly?" Leia asked, hoping to get more clues if nothing else.

"She has a very dark past, but her presence in the force is blindingly bright. She's pure and good to the core; she just doesn't want the galaxy to think badly of me for being with her." Luke explained

"When you say dark past, how dark are we discussing? On a scale of dark like Stormtroopers, Vader, Palpatine?"

"Now if I said that, you would start trying to guess who she is. Which I hate to say it, but neither of you, are ready for that to happen… not yet." Luke explained.

"So she definitely has a dark past, involving the empire, but you refuse to name how dark. Come on Luke, do you really think we'll judge her so harshly for that. Mara is one of our best family friends and her past is as dark as they come. She was even trying to kill you at one point, and she's family now."

"I know you feel that way about Mara, and I couldn't be happier about that. But she's a friend of the family, and took a long time for her to win your trust. I know it would have been ten times harder if I'd been in love with her when you were introduced." Luke tried to explain without giving too much away, yet hinting at the same time. Knowing he could hint all day and Leia wouldn't catch on. Not in the mood she was in right now.

"Especially while she had that blaster to your head," Leia smiled.

"Han, you and the kids are my family, and you're going to be hard on anyone I bring home. Which I know is because you're all looking out for me; because you love me. But because I love you guys and this girl so much, I'm not bringing you all together until I'm absolutely sure you're both ready. Please understand and please don't get mad at me for that." Luke pleaded.

"I already told you, I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed." Leia clarified.

"Why, because I don't want to date anyone else? I was under the impression that one girl at a time was a good thing." Luke asked.

"No, because you're stuck on a woman, but refuse to introduce her to your family. No matter what we do." Leia explained, sending their entire conversation back to square one. Just when Luke had thought he was finally getting through to her, she hadn't heard a word he'd said. So, not wanting to go dark side and scream at his only sister; Luke shook his head in defeat once again.

"Even with a hangover, you refuse to hear a word I say. Well sis, since I'm clearly not being heard, I'll not waist my breath another moment. Hope you're feeling better, I'm sure Han and the kids will be home soon enough." He said calmly, before Luke left the room, and Leia was sure moments later, she heard him leave the apartment all together.

He didn't really think she would give up on him that easily, had he? He couldn't have, he knows her better than that. Leia was already beginning to plan her next move, around the fuzziness in her mind. She couldn't wait for her husband to arrive home, just to tell him of her latest conversation with her brother.

Later on that afternoon, Han came home with all three little Solos' and Mara Jade. She had bumped into Han somewhere along the way; and volunteered looking after the kids for a bit. She could tell that Han and Leia needed a bit of privacy, and the kids had been dying to spend some time with their adopted auntie. This gave Leia the warning that they'd probably heard about Luke's little visit. So after all three little ones had greeted their mommy and kissed her 'hello.' They were sent to the playroom with their Auntie Mara, so their Mom and Dad could have a little chat. Han kissed Leia, like he did when he arrived home everyday. Then he pulled Leia into the family area and got cozy with her, on a couch. When they were both comfy, Han asked, "How long was the kid here before you ran him off?"

"Not long at all, you know he is carrying a much shorter fuse these days." Leia said, mostly making conversation.

"I don't think we're much help in that department, sweetheart."

"Han, is it really all that terrible to want to know for sure my brother's happy?" Leia asked looking her husband straight in the eye.

"Do you want my honest opinion?" Han asked.

"Yes, I wouldn't ask if I didn't."

"Then no, I don't think that's terrible," Han said.

"Thank you, darling." Leia smiled and kissed her husband gratefully. After they parted, some time later, Han added, "But I do think you're carrying this whole 'date-my-brother' thing way too far."

"How so?" Leia asked innocently.

"Come on, princess, the break-up with Calli was hell on the kid. There was a time when I would have agreed with you. That he's probably given up, and just making up this other girl, so you won't fuss. But I talked to him myself, last night Leia; and he didn't seem to be talking about an imaginary person at all. He looked like someone who really is in love. Didn't he seem that way when you were talking to him today? Even for a minute?"

"To be honest Han, I don't remember. My whole morning was really fuzzy and I can't honestly say I saw anything like that." Leia said sadly, ashamed of where her recklessness had lead her.

"Well, I'm afraid if you want to find out who this woman is… You're going to have to start paying very close attention. Because that's how Luke operates, in subtlety, you know that! A sentence that doesn't even make a bit of sense to us, makes perfect sense to him. In fact it's usually his way of hinting, he likes to deal in subtle hints if we start putting his hints together, well have a much better picture of who we're talking about." Han explained.

"So you think that he really is in love with someone, this time?" Leia asked, not really knowing whether to be excited or frightened for her twin. He'd been in love before, and each time, had ended badly for him.

"Yeah I think he is, and I hope I have an idea of who he's talking about too." Han smiled, the same cocky smile that used to make Leia want to punch him. It amazed her how quickly that smile had switched into making her want to kiss him.

"Well than, by all means, who do you think he's talking about?" Leia asked.

"I think our mysterious-possible-future-sister-in-law, and our kids' favorite 'auntie,' are one in the same." Han said with smug smile still in place.

"So you're telling me that you think that Mara Jade is Luke's mystery woman?"

"Yes!"

"Come on, Han!"

"I'm SERIOUS!"

"Oh right! So you're honestly telling me that you believe this guess of yours has nothing to do with past history? You've always wanted them to get together!" Leia asked wisely.

"It has nothing to do with that, Leia; it was all about the way he described this girl. It sounded like he was talking about Mara to me!" Han tried to make her understand.

"Han Solo, you've been trying to get them together, in your own sweet way, for years. I think you're imagining things, or hearing things you want to hear." Leia smiled, remembering once again why she'd married this man. No matter how worried, or terrible she felt. He could still make her feel better and smile.

"Really?"

"Did I stutter?"

"No but let's recap a little here? Hmm? What exactly has he told us about this woman?" Han asked, before continuing with what Luke had let slip to him. "Have you seen his latest speeder?"

"He has a new one?"

"Well I guess that answers that, yes, he has a new one. It resembles the Jade's Fire an awful lot! I even commented on the and he made a funny face, not looking at me."

"Darling, we all do that when we think you're not looking." Leia explained, smiling brightly and patting his arm. He sneered back at his wife for a second before responding.

"Ha-ha, very funny, but you weren't there, you didn't see it!" Han laughed sarcastically.

"Sure, darling, now what else has given you this strong opinion?" Leia encouraged, having fun with him, but truly curious at the same time.

"He told me… probably the same thing he told you. He said he wished he could tell the whole galaxy, but he couldn't. Because the girl he's so gone on, has never been in love before. He mentioned her having a real rough past not being used to anyone caring for her."

"He told me that too, but I didn't automatically picture Mara upon hearing it."

"Leia, do you remember how long it took for that girl to warm up to us? How long it took before she would let us and the kids hug her, kiss her? Could you imagine the poor thing when someone's trying to get romantic with her? When it's some one who genuinely cares, that she cares about too?" Han asked honestly, which Leia admitted, in her own mind, was a good point. But she wasn't letting him know that just yet, she wasn't convinced.

"Yes, but Mara didn't seem to have trouble with that kind of affection when she was dating Lando." Leia pointed out.

"Yeah, though I wouldn't really call that dating, that was more like… helping. Other than that, you're right, but do you remember what Mara said last night? She confessed she's never been able to think of Lando that way! She's professional, she's all about the job, and if it's her job, her emotions don't get in her way. But if it was somebody who loved her, and wasn't a job, who just wanted to be affectionate… I can't see that person being able to do that. Not without her getting used to the idea first, like she had to with us, and the kids. And Luke, you know as well as I, even when they first met, he's always harbored a soft spot for her. Most importantly, he knows just how to help her and not alienate her. Probably better than anyone, it just makes sense!" Han explained beautifully.

"I'll admit that does make sense, but I'm still not convinced." Leia stated.

"Well, maybe this will help to ease your doubts a little more. When I asked him was he sure about this girl. He didn't even let me finish the sentence before he was answering me. He said, 'Yes, he'd never been more sure about anything before, in his life.' He also said, 'he knew he'd had his foul-ups, and made mistakes, but now he was sure it had been her all along.' Now tell me, does that sound like he's talking about Mara, or what?" Han asked pretty proud of himself.

"I'll admit, that part does sound like it could be Mara. But why would Luke hide a relationship with Mara, from us? She's already a member of our family! How bad can he think we'll be?" Leia asked.

"Well, it's like the kid said, she's not quite ready for the galaxy to know." Han explained.

"And she's trying to protect him." Leia muttered to herself, making Han ask, "What did you say?"

"Luke said something today about, this girl wanting to protect him. Protect him from what everyone would think of him, being with her. Her past was supposedly that bleak, but you know? I mentioned Mara by name, and how she was family to us now. He spoke of her too, after I brought her up. All the while making Mara and his mystery woman sound like two entirely different people." Leia said, convinced that Han had to be wrong.

"Well, maybe when Mara's alone with Luke, she is a different person, if they're so in love. Though we wouldn't know anything about that." Han said wiggling his eyebrows at her.

"You're still a scoundrel!"

"And you love it!"

"Han, I'll admit, your views have brought up some really ironic links. But I really don't think you're completely right." Leia shrugged.

"I'm telling you I know what I'm talking about, princess." Han smiled, as Leia gave him a sideways glance. Clearly saying, 'that's what you think!'

"I guess we'll find out eventually," Leia said as she was getting up from their little comfy spot on the couch. Han standing up as well, just as Mara came into the room.

"Hope I'm not interrupting here, but I'm afraid another one of Jacen's little pal's evaded your inspection, Solo." Mara said, holding up a rather large lizard between her thumb and forefinger.

"Ick!" Leia said sticking her tongue out in disgust.

"Thanks Jade, I'll take the little guy, and let him free in the gardens. I think he could help out with their insect problem." Han smiled down at the little thing as he took it from Mara.

"Just like the other five your son's managed to bring home." Leia said, still recovering behind Han.

"Hmm, he brings home an A, he's your boy. He brings home a lizard, he's all mine. How generous of you your highness." Han said more to Mara than Leia. Which had made Mara laugh, as she headed back towards the playroom and Han headed out the front door.


In The Gardens…

Han released Jacen's new little friend, as he said he would and turned to head back inside their building. But in mid-pivot, he spotted his brother-in-law coming his way. "Hiya Kid."

"Hi Han, setting free another one of Jacen's friends?" Luke asked, with a knowing smile.

"Yeah, what can I say, the kid'll probably grow up to be an animal handler." Han smiled proudly, before changing the subject. "I hear you ran out early today."

"More like I was chased off, early," Luke corrected sadly.

"She's determined, isn't she?" Han asked curiously, having noticed some of this himself, as he'd told his wife his theories.

"Oh yes, it would have been a lot more supportive talking to a wall." Luke said, as calm and placid as ever.

"Well Luke, it's not like you're alone in this. I'm trying to help you convince her, and I know your girl's supportive! But I'm afraid I'm having as much luck convincing Leia, as you are. You know how these women can get, once they've got it the way they want it in their heads." Han smiled, taping his temple.

"Yeah, I know all about that, ol' buddy. But I appreciate your help, because I don't want to end up fighting with her over this. Or driving a wedge in our relationship, ya know. You two and the kids are my family, and don't want anything changing that. I just… we just need a little more time." Luke said running a hand through his already messy blonde hair.

"I know Luke, and I'll try to give you and Mara all the time I can."

"Mara?" Luke asked, pulling off a wonderful performance.

"That is who your secret lady is, isn't it?" Han asked, straight out, not missing a beat.

"Han… I don't know where you got that idea. But Mara and I are friends-"

"Sure kid," Han smiled, not the least bit convinced.

"I'm serious here, Han, she's my best friend." Luke insisted.

"Oh sure, you and Mara are just friends, does she know about your secret love?" Han asked, knowing if he could just keep him talking, he could maybe get a hint or two. Knowing Luke's settle hints or slip-ups wouldn't be lost on him like they would be on Leia right now.

"Yes, she knows." Luke said smoothly.

"Well what does she, your best friend, think of all this secrecy?" Han asked curiously.

"She's just as curious as you and Leia; but she doesn't want me to know that." Luke smiled, Han recognized this smile that was only for her, but what Han wasn't sure of, was did Luke realize this smile existed.

"So, she doesn't like it much, either?" Han nosed a little deeper.

"No, she doesn't, but even she's being more understanding and reasonable than Leia. Which is something I thought I'd never say." Luke said, with a note of frustration re-entering his voice.

"I know she's just trying to help, but how can she think she's helping, by ignoring everything I say to her?" Luke continued quietly.

"How did I just know I would find you two together?" Mara asked surprising both Han and Luke as she came to join them.

"Mara, I didn't know you were on Coruscant!" Luke played out wonderfully as he jogged up to her and hugged her. Whispering through the force, 'He's on to us.'

"Well if you weren't doing acrobatic-moves off of balconies, maybe we could have hung out last night!" Mara said as she shook her finger at him, while she whispered back to him, 'Don't worry, just play along, Farmboy.'

"You were there last night too?" Luke asked innocently.

"Yes, I was the only one that saw you leap off of that balcony. Though if I had men chasing me like those women were after you last night… I probably would have jumped too. And a lot quicker than you did." Mara had to admit.

"So, I'm forgiven?" Luke asked smiling brightly.

"For now," Mara smiled, before brushing past Luke and going to stand with Han a few feet behind the jedi. "Now tell me Han, has the farmboy given you anymore hints as to who this mystery woman is? He's being very stubborn, and won't even give me a hint." Mara complained, making Han's eyebrows rise.

"Really, I was wondering if you had gotten any clues. You're his best friend."

"Yes, but I'm his best who happens to be a woman. And that makes the farmboy too shy to tell me things; you know how red he gets." Mara explained.

"MARA!" Luke complained, blushing.

"See what I mean, you're his best guy friend, and you were his friend long before you were related."

"I would appreciate it, if you two, who claim to be my best friends. Would kindly stop talking about me like I'm not standing right here." Luke said, still a little red.

"In a hint Leia got from Luke, though she doesn't think it's a hint. He told her, 'This girl doesn't want to tell anyone just yet because she's trying to protect him.'" Han shared.

"Han!" Luke objected, but his objection didn't even slow Mara down.

"Reallllllly? Well, what's that little viper in the grass got to hide?" Mara asked, before adding, "I bet she's a twilek."

"What?" Luke asked incredulously.

"Yeah, the kid did always have some attraction to twileks." Han added with a teasing grin.

"Guys!?" Luke continued to complain.

"Hey, you're the one who doesn't want to talk about your new lady. I, for one, think it's perfectly fair if Solo and I try to figure out who your lady is. It's not like he's getting much help from your sister. She believes you've bumped your head one too many times and you've got a new 'imaginary' girlfriend floating around." Mara pointed out, slyly winking at Luke while her back was all Han could see.

'She's brilliant, this could work.' Luke realized, but if being a jedi has taught him anything. He didn't have as much trouble keeping his reactions secret anymore; so blank jedi mask unwavering, he asked, "Is that what she told you?"

"That's the sum of it." Mara assured.

"She thinks I'm crazy? That's what she's telling people?"

"Correction, she knows you're crazy, now she thinks you've lost it completely. But don't fret too much, Skywalker. I don't believe your sister's theory is public, I think it was just between her and me." Mara said, patting his back.

"Is that supposed to make me feel better?" Luke asked.

"Well, that's the best I can do, I could surely do better… if I knew who your new 'little woman' was. But since you're not in a sharing mood, I'm not in a real sympathetic mood." Mara smiled evilly, while Han struggled to keep his laughter at bay.

Luke smiled falsely and said, "Nice try, but since you two have been 'so helpful.' I think I'm going to call it a day."

"That sounds like a good idea that way you and your girlfriend can get to tonight's activities a little earlier tonight." Mara winked, while Han was still fighting the good fight.

"Not that it's any of your business, but my girlfriend isn't around. She's away on business." Luke said, while Han was marking down another slip-of-his-tongue.

"Hmm, you and businesswomen," Mara shook her head.

"What's wrong with businesswomen? Last time I checked you fall under that category yourself, Jade!"

"Maybe, but you must like strong women, that's all I'm saying. Not always the prettiest cake in the display window, but whatever you like." Mara smirked.

"If you don't have anything nice to say, than don't say anything at all." Luke recited, in a whiney tone.

"Alright Skywalker, I was just kidding. You know that I think it's great you're dating again, but as your friend, I'm imploring you to be careful. Because like Leia and Han, I can't bare to see you get hurt again. So just look out for yourself and make sure this one isn't another viper in the grass." Mara said with a gentle and friendly hand resting on his shoulder. As he stared into her eyes, all he wanted to do was grab her up into his arms and kiss her. But she'd done such a wonderful job steering Han off of their trail. It would be horrible to blow it now.

"Thanks Jade, though I don't think you'll have to save me from this one's clutches. She's different from the others." Luke assured.

"Is she different because she is a twilek?" Mara asked, not able to help herself. Luke was about to scold her, but she cut him off and said, "Just kidding, I'm sure whoever and whatever she is, doesn't matter. They say if she's the one, than she's the one and you can't help it."

"You're getting more flattering as we go and sadly, it has to end. Great to see you Jade, maybe we can hang out before you leave." Luke smiled warily, trying to seem miffed at her comments on his love. Which was a bit challenging, while Luke knows ironically, Mara was talking about herself. "Later Han."

"See ya around, kid." Han answered as Luke steadily walked home. As he was walking away, Han and Mara watch after him, for a bit. "So what do you think of this mess, Jade. Do you believe him?"

"Honestly… yes, I do. He seems happier than he's been in quite a while. That's something he can't fake, Solo, no matter how hard he may try." Mara said.

"There's something I wonder through." Han said, wisely.

"What's that, Solo?"

"I wonder how his new lady feels about him having a special smile that's just for you." Han said, watching Mara carefully to gauge her reaction.

"What do you mean?" Mara asked, looking at Han like he was crazy.

"He does, ya know? Have a special smile, that only shows up when you're around, or someone mentions you. I don't know how any woman could compete with that kind of devotion." Han said, crooked smile, up one side of his face.

"Solo, no self-respecting girl would put up with that. You're imagining things! Clearly seeing things that you think are real, and aren't." Mara insisted, laughing at the thought of it as she walked away, heading back for the turbo-lifts. Han did just manage to hop on the same left as Mara and when they were behind the closed doors of the lift, and alone. Han insisted, "Let me tell you something Jade-"

"I have no clue where these accusations are coming from, Solo. But let me assure you, love isn't something I want or need. That's Skywalker; he's the one who can't live without it. We're just friends, that's the way we both want it. I hope he has finally found love, I hope with all my heart this new girl is the one. So he can finally be happy and have his fairy tale. As for me, I'm just fine without that kind of love. Leia, the kids, Luke and you are my family, and I have every intention of accepting whoever Skywalker chooses to marry; but that's all the family I need. So before you start preaching to me about something you think you know, let me assure you of that." Mara insisted.

"I know all of that Mara, you're 'Miss Independent,' and I'm all for that. But as much as I want this new relationship to work for him. Something in me, is telling me there's no way that's possible. What's even more discouraging is I can't see him loving anyone else, when he looks at you, and smiles at you like he does." Han explained.

"Okay, what is this 'look' like, and this 'smile' the farmboy keeps giving me? The one you keep bringing up, even though I've never noticed any such thing, what's it like?" Mara wanted to know.

"Like you're the only two people in the galaxy. Like the mere thought of you or mention of you're name makes him happier somehow. Like a man in love, and don't forget, I know a little bit about that, Jade." Han reminded; Mara was about to reply, but the doors of the lift opened indicating they were back on the Solos' floor. And he cut her off as they were walking down the short hallway leading to his front door.

"You can make up all the excuses you like Mara; but I know what I saw. And either this 'new girl' isn't the one for Luke, and he'll end up back where he started after Calli. Or the 'new girl' is you." Han said, before walking into apartment and pretending their conversation hadn't happened.

Playing it smart, Mara hung around for a bit longer, to show Han he hadn't scared her in the least. Make him believe she had nothing to hide, nothing to lose, nothing to gain, leaving just before dinner, not able to stay. Because all the while she'd stayed, ever since her little conversation with the head Solo. She'd felt her insides twisting and turning themselves into very sophisticated and uncomfortable knots. All she'd really wanted to do was run from that apartment and tell Luke everything his brother-in-law had said.

Luke had been thoughtful enough to page her, and help her escape. Of course that had helped a lot. She'd claimed it was Karrde and she was needed for duty. She escaped with ease and at one point she was practically running for her speeder. She thought of going straight to Skywalker's dwellings. But she wanted to get cleaned up first, least she could do for him after he'd so kindly helped her.

What she didn't expect to find was Luke already making himself at home, in her apartment. "Luke," Mara breathed relief.

"I hope you don't mind, but since you're not here very often. I thought it might be nice to have our fun here tonight. If that's okay?" Luke smiled as Mara came in and just hugged him. "Can I take that as a yes?"

"Yes, Luke, that's fine," Mara smiled, so brightly, but she didn't look like she felt too well.

"Are you alright?" Luke asked with concern, as he touched her face to see if she was running a fever.

"I'm fine, now," Mara said with utter certainty, before kissing Luke long and deeply.

"Nice to see you too," Luke laughed when they parted; Mara wasn't usually the one to bestow affection like this, so passionately, so quickly. Usually Luke would have to start it, but not tonight. As great as all of this was, Luke didn't know if this was a good or bad sign. Even though kisses like her's left him feeling like there wasn't a complaint in the world. It was something in her eyes, something she hasn't shared with him yet.

"Thanks for paging me, you saved me." Mara smiled, genuinely grateful.

"My pleasure, but why didn't you just leave? Was my sister sharing some more theories on her crazy, head-case of a brother?" Luke asked with a smile.

"No, Leia was behaving herself for the most part. I was catching up with your niece and nephews, which, as always, was an adventure. But I was also waiting around to prove to Solo that he was wrong." Mara explained.

"Han's still on to us," Luke said, it wasn't a question.

"Yes, and he let me know it too. So you see, I had to stick around, to show I wasn't scared, I had nothing to hide. But I had plenty to hide; I'm just great at secrets!" Mara said spreading herself over her couch tiredly. "My stomach's got so many knots in it, I don't think it'll ever go back to normal."

"I'm sorry you had to go through that alone, Mara. I know it had to be terrifying, and this is all too soon for you." Luke said wonderfully as he came to join her, kneeling beside her lounged form.

"I've handled situations much scarier than Solo, some I barely got away with life on! None of them shook me the way this did tonight; I'm not cut out for this!" Mara said tiredly.

Luke chuckled, "Yeah, we've handled plenty of life-threatening situations with ease. But neither of us can seem to handle 'this' situation, right."

"I know I've always teased you about not being able to get this right. Now that I'm actually trying to make a relationship work, I see now that it's not you that has the problem, it's me!" Mara complained.

"No you don't, you're doing just fine, we both are. The problem here is my family, and I apologize for them. I would tell you to not worry about them, but I won't mislead you; I'm afraid they're a part of the package." Luke said tiredly, before continuing. "Leia, with her unhealthy interest in my love life, and Han's suspicions."

"He's so certain, too! There was no arguing with him. You won't believe what he said to me. He said, 'Either this new girl will break your heart, or the new girl was, me.'"

"You have to hand it to Han, he knows me better than most." Luke smiled, down on her.

"He's convinced I'm the only one you could ever be happy with." Mara said still sounding a little frustrated.

"Well it's like I said, he knows me better than most." Luke smiled, just before kissing her. Trying to show her how much she meant to him in this deep kiss. Mara was breathless when they were forced to part due to lack of oxygen. Her face was serene but sad; her eyes remained closed for a long moment.

"Mara, are you sure you're feeling alright? You look so sad." Luke said with concern.

"Luke, maybe this wasn't such a good idea." Mara said looking at him right in his eyes.

"Going to see Han and Leia today?" Luke asked, hoping she didn't mean what he thought she meant.

"No… I mean, maybe this… you and me… isn't such a good idea."

"Don't say that… please…"

"Luke, being with me is not helping you at all. It's only making your situation worse."

"Are you kidding me?"

"No Luke, let me finish," she asked, sitting up slightly. "Do you remember what I made you promise me on our first official date?"

"Yes, you made me promise, if things weren't working out that we would stop before we couldn't remain friends." Luke recited, but added, "Which doesn't apply here; because we haven't even been able to spend too much time together yet."

"And yet technically we've been dating for almost a year now. I don't think we're doing this right, with all the secrets, and we have to work so hard just to get a few hours together. The ridiculously small amount of information I know about love, it's not supposed to be that way. So, I want you to be honest with me, and not let this go too far. I don't want you to never speak to me again if things go badly. So please, do you really think this is still a good idea?" Mara asked with a sad smile.

"Mara ever since we started dating… things have done nothing but get better for me. You're amazing; you're beautiful on the inside and out. Not to mention you make me crazy; I couldn't even look at those other women last night! You have my heart, and I think you always have. Loving you is so effortless, for me. Sure the other stuff is tough sometimes; but if you think for a second it's going to make me give you up? There's no way!"

"Luke-" Mara choked out on unshed tears.

"I'm in love with you, please don't ever doubt that." He said as he hugged her.

"I'm in love with you too, I know it. But it's not right that you have to go through all of this torture. I know that it's hurting you having to keep me secret."

"It would hurt me a lot more to let you go, or not be with you at all. I'm telling you I can wait whether it takes months, or years, I don't care. I'll give you as long as you like, but please, please, don't ask me to end this. Not now, not ever, just let me be with you. Like now and let me share more moments like this. Please Mara." Luke asked, in the same sincere way, that had made Mara fall for him somewhere along the way.

"How can I walk away from you, while you're saying things like that?" Mara asked, with a smile, shaking her head slightly in disbelief. But it wasn't that easy, it couldn't be. "No Luke, this is crazy, absolutely crazy and just too hard. Please, let's just be rational and-"

"Who told you love was rational?" Luke laughed.

"I'm serious here, Luke!" Mara claimed sitting up. "Han and Leia are absolutely right, after all that those other bimbos put you through… You deserve the absolute best, and I know that can't be me. And I can't bare to lose you totally. Maybe we should-" Mara's rambles were cut off by another deep and insistent kiss. Courtesy of Luke, not only to make her stop talking in such a way. But was there a better way to show his lady that he wasn't interested in any other girl?

When Luke finally did pull away, Mara had been lain back down. Her lips were kiss swollen and her eyes were still closed. Luke took delight in the fact that bliss on her face was his creation. He leaned his forehead to hers and whispered, "How could I possibly consider anyone else? When being with you, feels like this? Like coming home."

"Luke-"

"Shh, yes, I know not everyone has to work at love the way we do. But none of them were Mara Jade, or Luke Skywalker. I've had to work hard for everything in my life, and I know you've worked even harder for everything in yours. Why wouldn't this be any different?"

"You know? I never really thought of it that way." Mara admitted, draping her arms around his neck.

"I see," Luke smiled pulling one of her hands to his lips, gently kissing it before continuing. "And yes, there was a time that I'd given up on love, as Leia and all of you expected. I thought I'd never find my match, my equal. That one person who completes me, and challenges every step I take. But now… whenever I'm with you… Everything's so clear, nothing's ever been so clear to me."

"So, you're saying that we should keep going?" Mara asked.

"Yes, I want to stay together, but only if you want it too. If you're really uncomfortable with this; if you really think it's not going to work out, or you'll hate me if we go further. Or if my family is too much on you, I'll understand. But as for me? I don't think I'll ever want it to end." Luke confessed, with a small smile.

"I think I can handle it for a little bit longer." Mara said, not missing how a relieved breath left Luke when she said that. "Why don't we give it till our official one year mark to decide for sure. Then we'll have had a little more time and we can decide if it's best to keep going or not? Sound fair?"

"Yes, I like the sound of that." Luke said, ecstatic to have more time to convince Mara that they could make this work. Tonight had not been their best night, since they'd decided to start this crazy secret relationship. He couldn't let her walk away from all they had, not now.

Suddenly, Luke's com-link went off in his pocket. Mara reached into his pocket and pulled it out, she looked at the id-screen and handed it back to Luke saying, "You'd better answer it."

Luke looked for himself, it was either his sister or Han. At first Luke felt like turning it off, tossing it across the room and throwing himself back into his secret girlfriend's arms. Especially since there was no telling how long his time with her would be. But he knew it could be something important, so he took a deep breath and answered the call.

"Skywalker," he said into the mouthpiece.

'Hello, little brother.' Leia greeted as she normally did.

"Hey sis, what's up?"

'Nothing much, I was just at home trying to get caught up on my paperwork, so tomorrow won't be so bad. I was thinking about some of the things I said to you, earlier today. I realize now that I was really out of line, now that the hangover's lifted. I really feel terrible about coming down on you so hard, could you forgive me?' Leia asked, kindly, sounding very reasonable.

It took Luke a second to reply, for two reasons. One being, just how reasonably she was speaking for the moment. Secondly, Leia wasn't the kind of person to give an apology easily… It made Luke wonder what exactly she was up to. "Sure sis, it's alright."

'Really, because I was talking to Han about it. And he's right, I'm not being a very good sister right now am I? You told me you're in love with someone, we should be celebrating, not arguing. Whether we know her name or not.' Leia went on to say.

"I couldn't agree more, but I know you really are just looking out for me. Trying to be the best little sister you can be." Luke said, sharing a surprised glance with Mara, while his voice gave nothing away.

'Good, glad to hear it, what are you up to? I'm not interrupting anything important, am I?' Leia asked.

"No, not at all, I was just working on my ship." Luke covered up beautifully.

'You're not at home? Well it's a good thing I didn't go with my original plan. I was going to come over and apologize in person. But Han disappeared on me and I can't just leave the kids with Threepio, not after last time.' Leia giggled at the memory.

"No, we don't want an episode of that nightmare!" Luke chuckled in agreement.

'Alright, so we're good?'

"We're more than good Leia, you know I love you. But you have to let me do this my way, okay? I promise I'll explain everything to you when I can." Luke swore.

'Please do, I'm only so hard on you because I don't want you to give up. I want you to be just as happy as I am. ' Leia tried to explain.

"I know Leia, and right now, I am happy. Please no more mixers, parties or surprise, double, or blind dates! I'm doing just fine on my own, alright?"

'Alright Luke, I hear you, no more. But as soon as you're allowed to tell us-'

"You'll be the first to know." Luke said, not responding to the 'allowed' crack, not wanting to fight with her again.

'That's all I ask.' Leia said.


Meanwhile… In The Darkened Room Leia Occupied…

'Goodnight Leia,' Luke wished her warmly.

"Goodnight Luke," Leia replied just as warmly, before both twins signed off. Leia thought for a moment, tapping the think arm of the warm light-brown leather seat she sat in. Then she dialed another frequency on her com-link. This time a deeper voice answered, 'Solo.'

"Han?"

'Hiya Sweetheart, what's up?'

"Weren't you down at the docking bays after dinner?"

'Yeah, for a bit, why?'

"By any chance did you see Luke around when you were there?"

'Nope, why, is not home?'

"No, I'm sitting here in his apartment and he's not here. I called him and talked to him, he said he's working on his ship." Leia explained.

'No Princess, I walked right past his ship and it was still covered up and everything. It's good bet that he's with her now.'

"Yes, his secret girlfriend."

'Mara.'

"Han, be serious."

'I'm being totally serious, your highness, honest! The more I hear about this 'girl' the more I'm convinced.' Han said.

"Well I will admit, if this girl was imaginary, he wouldn't disappear with her." Leia frowned, "But if he is with his girlfriend, why doesn't he just say so. Why lie?"

'Because, he probably doesn't want us looking for him. Interrupting their time together, and making his life more difficult.' Han said, trying to think like Luke.

"Can he grasp how hard he's making my life right now?" Leia asked Han sadly.

'I don't think he's lying to be mean, Leia. I think he's doing it to protect her. Remember how he keeps going on and on about how she's not ready to meet us. I think he'll do just about anything to make this easier on her.' Han reasoned, before adding, 'Look, why don't you come on home. If he's where we think he is there's a good chance he won't be coming back tonight.'

"Yeah, I guess your right, I'll be home in a minute." Leia said, as she got up from the comfy chair and started to walk for the door. "But when I get home, I don't even want to think about this, not anymore tonight."

'Gee, what can we do with all of this spare time?' Han asked innocently.

"Sleep Solo."

'Of course, Princess, sleep will be in the equation.'

"Scoundrel!"

'And you love it!'

"Organa Solo out!"

'Solo out!'


That's all for now guys, Did you Like it, Love it, Hate it, Tolerate it? Let me know, but please try to be kind, my heart can only take so much! Hope everyone enjoyed, more coming soon! Much Love!

-SailorLeia