One Night – Chapter 5
The cold metal railing numbed Obi-Wan's fingers. His tears dried on his face as he contemplated what he was about to do and the effects that it would have on his friends.
To his surprise he found that he didn't care; it only mattered that Anakin would feel nothing. His former-Padawan's words echoed in his head, making a sob work its way out of his throat. Why did he have to fall in love with Anakin? Why did he have to leave?
A hand on his shoulder shocked him back into reality and Obi-Wan spun hurriedly. In his grief he stumbled…only to be caught by strong, familiar arms. Gasping, the older man backed against the railing.
"What do you want?!" he shouted, not looking up. He saw the rise and fall of Anakin's chest as he sighed.
"I didn't come to fight." He paused. "Look at me." Anakin commanded and Obi-Wan felt compelled to obey. A gasp tore itself from his throat as he laid his eyes on Anakin's face.
The younger man's face was covered in purple and grey bruises; his right eye was swollen shut. Obi-Wan gave another small sob as he looked upon the love of his life. Blood trickled steadily from Anakin's nose and there was a cut on his cheek.
On impulse he moved forward and brushed his fingers over Anakin's already swollen jaw. Anakin started but let Obi-Wan caress his cheek. The ache lessened at his touch and Anakin tried to focus on the fingertips of his ex-Master rather than the twinging pain.
Realising that his touch was making Anakin uncomfortable, Obi-Wan moved his hand away. He was far from his certain and controlled self. The words Anakin had said to him had torn down the walls he had so carefully constructed to block his emotions. They now raged in his head, breaking through like a beast and coming out like a tidal wave. He couldn't seem to stop crying and even though Anakin was standing right in front of him Obi-wan couldn't help thinking that jumping was the best way to solve his problems.
Anakin caught the glance that Obi-Wan gave towards the railing and the abyss beyond it. He nodded in agreement and took Obi-Wan's face in his hands. His jaw stung and his depth perception was off because of his inability to use his right eye. Despite this he managed to not miss as he kissed Obi-Wan gently.
He pushed the slightly shorter man towards the railing as they kissed. It was gentle and full of love as he tilted them over the railing. When he pulled back Obi-Wan looked at him with his eyes full of longing. Nodding again Anakin gave them the final push that sent them over the railing and plummeting to the ground.
On the way down Anakin held Obi-Wan's head against his chest. He saw the man's tears fly above their heads and he began to cry as well. The wind knocked the breath from his body, his limbs wanted to fly apart and slow his fall, but Anakin kept a tight hold on the man he loved. Both men felt the ground growing closer. They were running out of time.
Obi-Wan leaned his head up and kissed Anakin gently. Their lips locked and Obi-Wan felt Anakin's message through the Force.
"I love you."
"I love you too, Anakin. Forever and ever."