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  1. In Memory of LAJ_FETT: Please share your remembrances and condolences HERE

Beyond - Legends After Her - Update 01/19/16

Discussion in 'Fan Fiction- Before, Saga, and Beyond' started by EmeraldJediFire, Jan 25, 2013.

  1. Briannakin

    Briannakin Former Manager star 6 VIP - Former Mod/RSA

    Registered:
    Feb 25, 2010
    I enjoyed Luke's musings on Mara and Melinda. But grrrr. I know you wouldn't do anything bad to Luke but Diana is annoying.
     
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  2. EmeraldJediFire

    EmeraldJediFire Jedi Master star 4

    Registered:
    Feb 23, 2012
    *Chuckles* well you're just going to have to grit your teeth and bare with me ok
     
  3. Jedi_Lover

    Jedi_Lover Chosen One star 5

    Registered:
    Nov 1, 2004
    I want to see a Melinda/Diana catfight! "He's my man!" Melinda yells as she pulls Diana's hair. "No, he's mine!" Diana counters as she pushes Melinda into a big puddle of mud that for some inexplicable reason is in the middle of the walkway of the city world of Coruscant. [face_laugh]

    Come on, you know that would be a wickedly cool scene! ;)
     
  4. WarmNyota_SweetAyesha

    WarmNyota_SweetAyesha Chosen One star 8

    Registered:
    Aug 31, 2004
    Awesome reflections and decision in the first scene. Woohoo jinkies! Melinda wants to see him every day now huh? [face_dancing] [face_dancing] Getting to be slightly like necessary :) :) Wowsers, literally ran into Luke, Diana did. [face_thinking] Eagerly awaiting more. @};- These regular updates spoiled me somewhat ;) I enjoy of many things the way you portray mature Luke =D= A perfect balance of all his endearing qualities with wisdom. [face_love]
     
    Gemma likes this.
  5. ccp

    ccp Jedi Grand Master star 4

    Registered:
    Apr 29, 2005
    Trouble trouble trouble.
     
  6. EmeraldJediFire

    EmeraldJediFire Jedi Master star 4

    Registered:
    Feb 23, 2012
    I particularly love this chapter, see if you can guess why:
    @Briannakin, Jedi_Lover, Jade_eyes, ccp
    .
    Chapter 14
    .​

    Diana stared at him for a few more minutes—that is until she realized she was staring-and took his offered hand. The man helped her to her feet and she stood uncertainly; this time getting a closer look at his face. He was good-looking from far away, but he was even more handsome up close. The holos certainly didn't lie..

    She looked into his blue eyes which regarded her questioningly.

    And there's something about those eyes.

    "Thank you." She said brusquely, casting a glance down at her fallen treats.

    "I'm sorry." He apologized noticing this.

    "No problem." Diana dismissed. "They're full of calories anyway and I should cut back." She reflexively ran a hand through her
    hair, tossing it. She examined him again. "You're Luke Skywalker, aren't you?"

    Luke gave a wan smile, raising his hand in a gesture of futility.

    "Guilty."

    She extended her hand again. "Well, may I say it's a pleasure then." It truly was. "Diana Landon. I'm a reporter with the Coruscant Times."

    The Coruscant Times was a non-visual publication. It was read like most holozines on datapads as to being watched on the HoloNet. It was very cutting edge when it came to reporting—and was perfect for beings who preferred to read their news.

    "Coruscant Times; I've heard good things about your news organization."

    "Thanks." She winked. "We do try out best."

    Luke could have sworn just then that the woman winked at him. Had she really done that? Who winked at this day and age? Or tossed their hair for that matter? Sure, he'd seen some young apprentices toy with their hair while talking to a young man at the Temple, and even Twi'lek women would let their lekku slide in flirtatious ways….

    But he'd never been flirted with in that manner—not for a good while. Or at least that's what it seemed like to him; he wasn't so old he couldn't read the signs, but...

    "I see," He said, unable to form another thought.

    She gave him dazzling smile, staring at him interestedly.

    "Let me get to the point." Diana said, brushing aside a lock of her long blonde hair. "I am doing a story on the Jedi—more specifically you, Grand Master Skywalker—and I was wondering if you would be good to grant me an interview with yourself."

    "An interview?" He repeated as if trying to digest the information.

    "Mmm-hmmm."

    His expression was absolutely adorable—and one didn't say that about a man Skywalker's age that lightly.

    Diana saw the hesitation in his face. Maybe she'd gone too far—she couldn't risk losing this interview; much less the potential story.

    "If you need time to think about it; maybe you can give me an answer later." She suggested.

    Diana extracted her datapad and beginning to type in her comm code. Word is Jedi had the ability to memorize things, so hopefully this would work.

    "Here's my comm code when you have an answer--that's my work number." She showed it to him. "Think you can remember this?"

    The Jedi Master looked at it before lifting his eyes to her. "I think so."

    Diana drew back. "Then, I think I'll take my leave; I'm sure you have important things to do. Thank you for your time, Master Skywalker." She turned to leave.

    "Wait."

    She stopped, wondering if he had made up his mind right away.

    "Look I really feel bad about your sweetrolls. Can I perhaps make it up to you?"

    Diana turned around and contemplated this; the look on his face was so open and honest. She set her lips and gave a shake of her head.

    "Thanks, that's very sweet, but I'm good."

    Luke nodded. "All right. If that's what you want."

    She nodded back and walked off once more.

    .
    Luke watched the woman leave; her long blonde hair shining brilliantly in the moonlight.

    He stood there perplexed. He honestly didn't know what to think of the woman. There was no doubt that she had been flirting with him, and it hadn't gone unnoticed that she had toned it down. She was very much a professional at her work; she hadn't approached him flirtatiously at first like he'd seen other women do, but retained her professional demeanor from the beginning.

    Interesting.

    It also hadn't gone unnoticed that the woman was strikingly beautiful with her blonde hair and hazel eyes. He had seen that much even in the light of the moon, in fact, he was sure that the moon did nothing to hide her looks.

    "Diana Landon…" He murmured then shook his head quickly dismissing her.

    .
    Luke arrived back at the Temple, his groceries in hand. He'd almost forgotten his errand because of his encounter with the blonde-haired reporter. He unpacked the groceries, looking at the chrono as he did. Two hours; good he still could have dinner ready on time.

    He started to cook the meal, seasoning the Dewback meat and chopping up the desired vegetables. He checked the sauce that was simmering on the cook top before placed placing the Dewback in the glass cooking pan. Next he added the vegetables into an oily mix into a sautéing pan. He checked the time again: an hour a half to go.
    .
    An hour and a half later, the meal was ready, Luke was busy setting up the dinner when his comm terminal went off. He pulled himself away from the preparations and answered it.

    Jedi Seha Dorvald appeared on the screen. "Master Skywalker, there's a lady here to see you. She says you're expecting her."
    Luke stilled for a moment; this would be the first time Melinda had ever entered the Jedi Temple he realized.

    "Yes." Luke said. "Admit her. Please inform Mrs. Rotham I'll be down in a bit."

    "Yes, Grand Master." The Jedi Knight bowed her head.

    He got off the terminal, biting his lip slightly and turned his head toward the table which was half set. He had to get that done before he could receive Melinda.

    Luke quickly finished the rest of the meal preparation, setting a bottle of wine out as a finishing touch. He then rethought this and put it in the kitchen. He didn't want to be too presumptuous, after all they were just friends and he didn't want to give her the wrong idea.

    He then stripped off the cooking apron and headed to the lift. Luke stepped inside and hit the button. He was grateful for the fact that Ben was staying out for the night; he didn't know why but he was suddenly very nervous. He felt like a young man who was skittish about asking a girl that he liked out.

    He scoffed at the sheer ridiculousness of the thought.

    Luke reached the lower level and stepped out of the lift only to come face to face with Valin Horn and Melinda herself. He stopped still, raising a questioning eyebrow at the younger Horn male.

    "Valin, what a surprise?" He said.

    "Yes, I saw Mrs. Rotham, waiting inside the Temple entrance and offered to walk her further inside."

    Melinda smiled. "Yes, Jedi Horn is quite the gentleman."

    Even though he was pleased to see Melinda again, he felt bad at the thought of her waiting down there by herself.

    He quickly dismissed this with an inner shake of his head. "Thank you, Valin." He said, turning to the Knight.

    "Pleasure is all mine, Master Skywalker." Valin bowed his head slightly then departed.

    Luke turned to Melinda, giving her a smile. He really was happy to see her. "Well, I hope it wasn't too much trouble getting here."

    "Not at all. I took an air taxi."

    "I should have come and got you." He said in passing. "Not very gentlemanly of me."

    Melinda gave a slight frown. "Nonsense." She said dismissively then at the look on his face, she added, "I mean it. You fret too much over the silliest of things, Luke. I've been alive too long to stand on formality—even if I do work in the Senate."
    She laughed lightly. "Though, your chivalry is sweet; I do appreciate it, there are not too many men like you anymore."

    He smiled. "I'm glad to hear that." Luke offered his arm. "Shall we? Dinner is ready and I'd like to get to it before it gets cold. Despite what other people say, cold Dewback doesn't keep its flavor afterward."

    She laid a hand on his arm. "Agreed. Lead the way..."
    .
    .
    Note: This is the final written chapter...that means the updates won't be as regular from now on
     
  7. WarmNyota_SweetAyesha

    WarmNyota_SweetAyesha Chosen One star 8

    Registered:
    Aug 31, 2004
    Ooh, I liked the tone of the final scene, a lot! It feels like falling without saying it outright, yet. =D= It's great when you can imply or lead up to something momentous like that without over or underdoing it. =D= =D= Looking forward to #15 ;)
     
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  8. EmeraldJediFire

    EmeraldJediFire Jedi Master star 4

    Registered:
    Feb 23, 2012
    Thank you, I haven't started 15 yet, but since these chapter are only four pages long; it shouldn't take too long. I've finally decided on the outcome of their whole relationship so that's a positive.
     
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  9. Jedi_Lover

    Jedi_Lover Chosen One star 5

    Registered:
    Nov 1, 2004
    I still would like to see a cat fight between the two women. And while they are distracted I will make off with the Grand Master. If he doesn't come willingly I have a ysalamiri and a blaster set on stun.;) of course as soon as I have him in my airspeeder ginchy will probably run me off the airlane and snatch the Farmboy from me.

    Plot bunny! Just imagine a Star Wars version of the movie Misery. Or a non-slash version of Whisper Your Weakness.
     
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  10. ccp

    ccp Jedi Grand Master star 4

    Registered:
    Apr 29, 2005
    Great chapter
     
  11. Briannakin

    Briannakin Former Manager star 6 VIP - Former Mod/RSA

    Registered:
    Feb 25, 2010
    Great chapter. Dianna has nothing on Melinda.
     
  12. EmeraldJediFire

    EmeraldJediFire Jedi Master star 4

    Registered:
    Feb 23, 2012
    Yep..the next chapter is going to be so lovely..
     
  13. EmeraldJediFire

    EmeraldJediFire Jedi Master star 4

    Registered:
    Feb 23, 2012
    Yes, Diana truly has nothing on Melinda, this darling is a class act in a league of her own. She's a classy dame, and she makes Luke happy so that's a plus. So glad this chapter is well received I was looking forward to writing and posting the dinner preparation scenes...Luke is so cute when he's getting ready for a date.

    @ccp, Jedi_Lover, Jade_eyes, Briannakin
    .
    Chapter 15​
    .
    Jaina Solo-Fel stood off watching as her uncle and the woman known as Melinda met. She watched as their hands intertwined carefully and even further as Luke escorted her back into the lift. She hadn’t meant to stare so needlessly, but it had just happened. It was so strange, but so strangely comforting. It was obvious to her that they were enamored with each other—even if it wasn’t obvious to them.

    The casual way which they touch each other’s hands, the subtle way they looked at each other; it was there. She smiled ruefully.

    Suddenly, a hand tugged at her hand. Jaina looked down upon the dark-haired head of her five year old son, Jag Junior—or simply Jett do his energetic nature. Jaina had taken to calling him such after, one) due to said nature and all its mischievous propensities, and two) well Jaina hated having to call both her husband and son Jag. It was downright confusing as hell!

    “What is it, Jett?” She asked her son.

    He put his finger to his lips. “Secret.” He beckoned his mother to come down to his level.

    Jaina kneeled down. “What’s the secret, kiddo?”

    His father’s green eyes darted around. “I know something.” He whispered conspiratorially.

    Jaina spared a look to where her uncle had retreated. “About Uncle Luke?”

    “Nooo.” Jett dragged the word out.

    Jaina smiled wryly and she surrendered herself into playing along with her son’s game of ‘guess what’. “Okay, what then?”

    “Well…” He seemed to be contemplating this.

    “Does it have something to do with Uncle Luke in ANY way?”

    “I guess.”

    “You guess?” She stared at him.

    “It’s…a secret.”

    Jaina had to stop herself from sighing.

    “Ben… Uncle Luke…”

    “Ben and Uncle Luke what?” Jaina asked.

    Getting information from this child was like pulling teeth and it took all her calm while she attempted to.

    “Wedding.”`

    “Wedding?” Jaina repeated confused. “What wedding?”

    “I dunno.”

    Those were Jett’s famous words.

    She sighed, knowing she wasn’t going to get anything further information out of her son. She got up from her knee and took his hand once more. “C’mon, let’s go find your Cousin Ben…maybe we can figure out what you ‘dunno’.”

    “Hmm...” He tilted his head to the side. “Kay.”

    She sighed. I’ve really got to teach him about not eavesdropping period.
    .
    .
    “After you.” Luke gestured as the door slid open.

    Melinda stepped inside, glancing at the small reception area. Luke stepped in beside her.

    “This is the anteroom,” He explained. “After this is my office and after that my personal quarters.” He held out his hand. “Come, I’ll show you.”

    Melinda touched his hand faintly before following through the second door further into the Grand Master’s chambers.

    “You handle all your work here I then?” She asked gently.

    “Yes, most of the administrative stuff; things having to do with the general running of the Order is sort of my domain.” He gave her crooked grin then waved his arm. “I handle complaints, inquiries, procedural matters, financial matters, and general curriculum and principals this Order is built upon.”

    “That’s all tall order, Master Skywalker.”

    He smiled at her deliberate pun.

    “Well, I do my best.” He cocked his head to the side, eyeing her.

    Melinda stopped at the desk, running her fingers along it and looking at the datadiscs.

    “There’s so many of them….” She commented. “Are you sure it’s all right for me to be here tonight,” She touched one. “You look like you’re so far behind.”

    “Sadly, it’s always like this.”

    She examined them a bit more then looked to his face. “I suppose that’s one of the prices to being the Grand Master, isn’t it?”

    “Yes, but I don’t regret it, Melinda. It is who I am, and who I was meant to be.”

    Melinda laid a careful hand on his. “I’m glad to hear that.”

    Both of his brows rose. “You are?”

    “Yes, I like that in a man; one who knows where his convictions lie.” She tore her gaze away. “Now, I believe you said dinner was ready. I wouldn’t want all your precious effort to get cold.”

    Luke flashed her a winning smile.

    “You’re right.”

    They remained silent for a moment more before they entered his private quarters.

    “Welcome to my home.” Luke announced as they stepped through the doorway. He turned to her, gesturing, “May I take your coat?” He asked, indicating her outerwear.

    “Of course,” She began to unbutton the coat, and with her companion’s help shrugged it off. “Thank you.” Melinda murmured, watching as he hung her coat up in the entranceway closet.

    Once Luke was done hanging up Melinda’s coat, he directed her further into the apartment. Melinda survey her surroundings, taking in what appeared to be the livingroom area. Grey flow form sofa, glass tables, and little personal touches dotted here and there in the otherwise clean room. Luke seeing she hadn’t joined him at the table stopped pulling out her chair.

    “My wife was the interior decorator in our home.” He said, noticing the way she eyed things.

    She turned at the sound of his voice.

    “After Mara died, I didn’t touch much of the apartment; I left everything pretty much as it had been. When I had been exiled most of it was put in storage and then Master Hamner took over my chambers for a short time.” He ran his hand over a marble time piece. “I tried to get it looking like it had been before. I think I did a decent job.” He smiled sadly.

    “It’s beautiful.” She commented and from the look in her eyes, Luke could tell she meant it.

    She turned her gaze back, her eyes catching site of something. Melinda crossed over, stepping down into the livingroom. She spotted a holo on the nearby mantle place and went to examine it; gingerly touching it.

    “May I?” Melinda asked, turning her head over her shoulder.

    “Go ahead.”

    She nodded and picked the holo up carefully off the mantle.

    It was of a woman with fiery hair and green eyes; she had a subtle smile on her lips and was dressed casually in a forest green tunic with black pants. Beside her stood a man with blonde hair and blue eyes (Luke) dressed in darker clothing. He had his arms wrapped around her waist from behind and was beaming intensely.

    “This is your wife?”

    “Yes,” He approached her carefully, hanging back. “That’s my Mara.”

    “She was very beautiful.”

    “She was.” He sighed heavily. “Mara was the brightest spot in my life; sometimes I use to wonder how I could be so lucky."

    Melinda turned to eye him once more.

    “I’m sure luck didn’t have anything to do with it; it was kismet wasn’t it.”

    He smiled. “So you’re a believer in fate.”

    “I believe in soul mates yes.”

    She eyed the dining room table, noticing the unlit candle sticks and the meal set upon the table. “But, we can discuss that later,” She turned back and put the holo on the mantle. “I don’t want that lovely meal you cooked to get cold.”

    They walked back to the table and Luke stood by the chair, waiting for Melinda to take her seat before taking his own. He removed the cover off of their plates and dinner soon commenced. As they ate, Luke noted the way Melinda would handle her utensils, the graceful way she would eat. When Melinda stopped eating for a bit to look at him, he quickly returned his attention to his own meal.

    He really didn’t want to be caught staring like some obsessed stalker.

    “This is delicious.” She grinned. “You must let me in on your secret.”

    He smiled shyly. “It’s really nothing; just follow the directions.”

    She admonished gently, “You’re being far too modest, Luke.”

    He responded good-naturedly. “I am, what I am.”

    Melinda’s eyes seemed to light up in agreement as she lifted her fork once more. “It would seem so.”
    .
     
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  14. WarmNyota_SweetAyesha

    WarmNyota_SweetAyesha Chosen One star 8

    Registered:
    Aug 31, 2004
    =D= :D :D Jaina's son is just cute!!! And the talk before and during dinner. They're apparently quite taken with each other. :)
     
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  15. Briannakin

    Briannakin Former Manager star 6 VIP - Former Mod/RSA

    Registered:
    Feb 25, 2010
    Aw! Jett is so cute! Kinda takes after his paternal grandfather :p

    I loved tha talk before dinner, I can't wait to see what after dinner holds.
     
  16. Jedi_Lover

    Jedi_Lover Chosen One star 5

    Registered:
    Nov 1, 2004
    Very nice. I like Jett. [:D]
     
  17. ccp

    ccp Jedi Grand Master star 4

    Registered:
    Apr 29, 2005
    Very nice
     
  18. EmeraldJediFire

    EmeraldJediFire Jedi Master star 4

    Registered:
    Feb 23, 2012
    Jedi_Lover, ccp, Briannakin, Jade_eyes

    I'm so happy you're all enjoying it. I had a feeling you would enjoy the dinner scene...well before dinner..and after dinner will be even better..I can't wait!

    Sent from my Kindle Fire using Tapatalk 2
     
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  19. EmeraldJediFire

    EmeraldJediFire Jedi Master star 4

    Registered:
    Feb 23, 2012
    First of all, before we start this chapter...I'd like to give an extra big thanks to my beta reader, Jedi_Lover. She helped me out SO much to make this chapter perfect. And big thanks again to all my readers: @Jedi_Lover, @ccp, @Briannakin, @Jade_eyes
    .
    Chapter 16​
    .​

    Melinda watched Luke from beneath her lashes, very much aware that he had been casting what he thought to be surreptitious glances at her. It was apparent that he was trying to be a gentleman, but very much wanted to look at her. She gave him a brilliant smile before lifting the glass of wine to her lips.

    Luke returned her smile wordlessly.

    She took a sip of her wine and set it back down. Melinda cleared her throat and engaged him dead-on. “Now, are you going to tell me what’s going on?”

    “What do you mean?”

    So he was going to play that kind of game.

    “Well, let’s see. You’ve been eyeing me for the past minute and every time I look at you, you find something to be fascinated with—like your napkin—or start commenting on the food. Now, I’ll admit it is endearing, but you needn’t have to do that. We’re both adults, both have been married, raised our children. I think we’re way beyond the silly games of youth.”

    Luke nodded slowly and put down his fork. “You’re right. I’m sorry…I guess I’m just a bit nervous is all.” He smiled and began to toy with his napkin. “I haven’t exactly had a woman in my home for a long time; first time I’ve cooked for another woman since Mara.”Luke explained. “It’s all brand new feeling to me.”

    Her face softened into a mask of understanding. “I understand. One never forgets one’s first love, I certainly won’t.” She paused, looking into his eyes. “I was in your position years ago, when Charles died. I was a mess; I was still quite young and had three young children to raise. I was so beside myself; and I was angry with everything. I started even to blame Charlie. I didn’t think I could ever get over him…I thought there would be no one else.

    “I couldn’t see living past Charlie, not in that way anyway. Of course, I had well meaning family members and friends; all who couldn’t stand to see me so unhappy. They insisted much like your sister did after a few years that I see someone; my father was adamant on it because he was of the mind that my children needed a father figure. Most importantly he was of the thinking that my sons needed a father. He among all couldn’t understand why I was being so staunch about it.” She gave a weary shake of her head. “I can still hear him berating me to this day, ‘Melinda, don’t be so pig-headed, you have to do what’s right for your children if not for yourself. You need a man around the house.’

    “He thought I was being selfish where the children were concerned, but the truth was I was considering them the most. I couldn’t subject my children to strangers just because I was lonely or because my father thought it was best. What would that have taught them…that any man could replace their father easily for them or me?

    “My father was a persistent man however; he surprised me one evening by setting up a date between a young banker and myself. I know I could have openly refused at the time, but I didn't want to insult the man, it wasn’t his fault. So, I agreed to attend a theater performance with him. It was just far too awkward though---it was halfway through the first act when I came to my senses. I excused myself and never looked back. She sighed. “After that, the incident with the banker I told my family and friends that I wouldn’t be seeing anyone.

    “So, you have no need to be sorry, Luke. You are simply experiencing the same thing I was feeling back then; you are acting as you heart dictates. No one can fault you for that. Just know that I am your friend; I am here when you have need of me.”

    “Thank you, Melinda, for understanding.”

    “No, thank you, Luke…”

    He cast her a curious glance.

    Emotion filled her voice. “I just never thought that at my age that somebody would still want to look at me. It’s very flattering.”

    Luke raised an eyebrow. “You’re not old Melinda.” He pointed out. “Neither of us is….certain people—my son being one of them—might perceive us that way,” He grinned. “But we’re not ready for walkers and hoverchairs yet.”

    She smiled back. “Now, you’re starting to get it, Master Skywalker.”

    “I learned from the best.”

    “Flatterer.”

    “No, just being honest.”

    “Another trait I admire in a man.”

    “When you grow up as a moisture farmer…you become a little bit humble.” He said and picked his fork back up. “Now, shall we continue the dinner,” He locked gaze with her. “I’ll keep your words in mind, Melinda.”

    She gave a gracious nod and they resumed their meal.

    “You’ve never said, but did you go to some sort of finishing school?” Luke asked.

    “Why do you say that?”

    “It’s just the way you hold your bearing, the way you speak, move; besides my sister and a few others you don’t see it very often. Then again, Leia was a princess and Winter grew up in the same circle. Others I know are politicians.”

    “Politics had a bit to do with it, but hardly a lot. I was never a Senator or heaven forbid Chief of State."

    Luke laughed. “Why do you say that?”

    “Dearie, trust me the last thing I’d want is to hold a position like that. I’ve seen the inside, back-biting and stabbing all around. Oh, it might not seem like it because the Galactic Alliance is more refined but there are still beings that wage political wars against one another. No, I stay out of the main limelight. I’m more of a damage control person then a politician.

    “But to answer your first question, I did attend a young ladies finishing school.” She seemed to regard that fact as humorous. “My family was very influential, and my father insisted I know how to be a proper young lady. Truthfully, that has no influence on my current acts; growing older did that. We all get a bit wiser and act better with age don’t we?”

    He nodded. “I like to think I’m far removed from the reckless Rebel pilot—again as much as Ben would disagree, so yes I agree with that statement.”

    They finished the meal, Melinda moving to pick up her plate.

    “Uh-uh-uh,” Luke gently scolded. “I’ll get that.” He picked up her plate and his and carried them into the kitchen.

    “What have I told you about that?” Melinda called back, standing.

    “You’re a guest in my home.” Luke responded, his voice slightly muffled. “I won’t have you doing anything other than relaxing while you’re here.”

    “Oh, very well.” She started to walk back to the livingroom.

    Luke exited the kitchen and cleared away the rest of the dishes before coming to join her once more. Melinda was once more examining the mantle, looking at the various holos. Many of were of him and Mara, or of Mara and Ben, some were of them all together.

    “You were very happy.” She commented as if feeling him approach.

    “We were.” Luke picked up a holo of him and Mara. “When Mara and I realized how we felt about one another, it was strange and at the same time exhilarating.” Melinda turned to face him. “We’d played at being friends for so long, it was if we’d had a bucket of cold water dumped over us—then again that might have been because the water was swirling up around us.”

    “Water?”

    “Yes, let’s just say it was one of results of my reckless persona back then, but on the other side, I got a wife because of it—but I think that’s a story for another time. I can’t monopolize the entire conversation after all.”

    Melinda was frowning, obviously not pleased by this.

    “Tease.” She muttered, then turned to look at the mantle once more. “Oh, what’s this?”

    She reached out and touched a crude pottery dish.

    “What’s what?” Luke spotted what she was referring to. “Oh, that’s Ben’s. He made that for his mother in art class.” Luke picked it up gently. “He was so proud of it; he had this enormous grin on his face.”

    Melinda’s eyes lit with recognition after studying it. “Oh! It’s an ashtray.”

    Luke grinned. “Figure it out that fast. Impressive.”

    “Well, I do have three children of my own.”

    “True.” He ran his finger along detailed indents on the lip. “It took us awhile to figure it out though; believe me we were confused. It’s not like we smoked. But, Mara was happy with it. I can still see the joy in her face…anything he made was like a masterpiece to her.”

    “She must’ve been very proud of him.”

    “Oh, she was….” He put the ashtray back. “I remember her telling me, ‘Luke, don’t you dare say a word.’ I hadn’t even opened my mouth—though it probably had to do with how I was looking at it. Mara sat there marveling it and praising Ben, she was experiencing something only she could comprehend.” He shook his head ruefully “I can still see the glow in those green eyes and the smile on Ben’s face.”

    “Must’ve been a sight”

    “It was.” Luke agreed the stopped. “Wait, I think it’s around here somewhere.” He walked over to a bookcase and crouched down, sorting through books and datadiscs. “Found it.” He announced and brought out with a box-like item.

    Melinda cocked her head curiously. Luke found his way back beside her, his blue eyes radiating with joy.

    “Mara liked to take holos constantly. Whenever, Ben made something or did something it was captured either way.” He propped up the lid and sorted through it before pulling out a filmsiplast with an image on it. He angled the flimsy so she could see it. “This is when Ben made Mara the ashtray.”

    She looked at it with interest

    In the holo, Mara Jade Skywalker sat on the floor cross-legged; a small red-headed boy was sitting on her lap. He was wearing an enormous grin, his head leaning against his mother’s shoulder, blue eyes shining. His mother’s arms were wrapped lovingly about him, and in his smalls hands he was cradling the ashtray.

    He was a perfect mix of his parents; she hadn’t been able to see it before but she could see it now. He had his father’s blue eyes and his mother’s fiery hair.

    “He loved her so much…and she him.” Luke murmured, and Melinda looked to him. “And I love them both.”
    .
     
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  20. WarmNyota_SweetAyesha

    WarmNyota_SweetAyesha Chosen One star 8

    Registered:
    Aug 31, 2004
    Emerald, that wasn't exactly the ending I was expecting after dinner [face_laugh] [face_mischief] Of course, you know that ... LOL But =D= =D= it fits! @};- :) :) Melinda's confidings and empathy and Luke's happy sharing of holos -- very nice. I can feel the genuineness of their friendship, the comfortableness. It's so great they don't feel rushed or pressured from within or without to make their relationship go where it's not going, at least not yet ;) [face_thinking] [:D] !!
     
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  21. ccp

    ccp Jedi Grand Master star 4

    Registered:
    Apr 29, 2005
    Excellent.
     
  22. Briannakin

    Briannakin Former Manager star 6 VIP - Former Mod/RSA

    Registered:
    Feb 25, 2010
    Exelent. I like the idea of them just being close friends.
     
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  23. EmeraldJediFire

    EmeraldJediFire Jedi Master star 4

    Registered:
    Feb 23, 2012
    I honestly believe there's something more than they both want to admit...they say they're friends, but there is something more
     
  24. WarmNyota_SweetAyesha

    WarmNyota_SweetAyesha Chosen One star 8

    Registered:
    Aug 31, 2004
    Happy wriggles! LOL :D
     
  25. Jedi_Lover

    Jedi_Lover Chosen One star 5

    Registered:
    Nov 1, 2004
    Very nice. This chapter really turned out well. I like Melinda. If that Diana tries to butt in I want to see a cat fight...in a pool of jello...and Luke watching while wearing a speedo. ;)
     
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