Chapter Seventy-Nine

Anakin

I was lounging in my suite, a soft smile on my face as I thought about Mira having fun with Satine. Their laughter echoed through my mind, a pleasant reminder of the bond they shared. Just then, Obi-Wan burst in, his expression strained and eyes wide.

"Anakin!" he exclaimed, chest heaving as he struggled to catch his breath.

I stood up, instantly alert. "Master, what's wrong?"

"It's Mira! She's gone!" he said, the panic in his voice sending a jolt of alarm through me.

I chuckled, shaking my head, trying to ease the tension. "Master, it's alright. She's out with Satine; they're safe."

Obi-Wan seemed to relax slightly, but I could still see the concern etched on his face.

"Still," he replied, his tone firm. "We should check on them. I don't like the idea of either of them being unguarded, especially not in these times."

I nodded, feeling a surge of protectiveness. "Right, let's go."

Together, we moved quickly through the corridors, my mind racing with thoughts of Mira and Satine. Whatever danger lurked in the shadows of Mandalore, I would do everything in my power to keep them safe.

-

We followed the trail of Mira's Force signature, a comforting presence that guided us through the bustling streets of Mandalore. As we turned the corner, the warm glow of a restaurant came into view. My heart lightened at the sight, and a smile crept across my face as I saw them.

Mira and Satine were seated at a cozy table, both looking beautiful and carefree. The laughter that bubbled up between them filled the air, a soothing balm amidst the tension of the day. I exchanged a knowing glance with Obi-Wan, who wore a subtle smirk.

"See?" I said, my voice laced with relief. "Nothing to worry about."

Obi-Wan chuckled softly, his earlier concern dissipating as he observed the scene. "Indeed. They seem to be enjoying themselves."

I couldn't help but admire how radiant Mira looked, her laughter infectious. It was a stark contrast to the worries we had just moments ago. "Let's not interrupt," I suggested, a sense of peace washing over me. "They deserve this time together."

But even as I spoke, an inexplicable urge tugged at me to ensure that they were both safe. As much as I wanted to let them have their moment, my protective instincts were hard to quell.

"Should we at least let them know we're here?" Obi-Wan asked, tilting his head toward the entrance.

I nodded, torn between wanting to keep a low profile and the need to check in. "Alright, let's just say hello."

With that, we approached the restaurant, ready to join them in their moment of joy, but also keeping a watchful eye on the surroundings.

Mira looked up, sensing our presence even before she saw us. Her eyes lit up with joy, and a warm laugh spilled from her lips. "Obi, Anakin! What are you two doing here?"

Her laughter was like music, and I couldn't help but smile wider at the sight of her. The warmth radiating from her felt as familiar as the sun on my skin. I stepped forward, brushing my fingers against her cheek before gently resting my hand on her belly.

"You should really be taking it easy, Mira," I teased lightly, my tone laced with concern. "You're pregnant, after all."

She rolled her eyes playfully, but the smile on her face remained, undeterred by my words. "I'm fine, really! Satine and I were just enjoying some time together. You know, girl talk and all that."

Obi-Wan stood beside me, his demeanor more relaxed than it had been earlier. "You do seem to be having a good time," he observed, a hint of a smirk on his lips. "But I think we should keep an eye on you, just to be safe."

Mira waved a dismissive hand, but I could see the glint of mischief in her eyes. "You worry too much. Besides, it's not every day I get to spend time with the Duchess."

Satine, who had been quietly enjoying the moment, chimed in with a soft laugh. "I promise you, they're safe here with me. Plus, I wouldn't let anything happen to my dear friend."

I exchanged a glance with Obi-Wan, relieved but still a bit wary. "Alright then, we'll join you," I said, unable to resist the pull of their laughter any longer. "But only if you promise to take it easy, Mira."

Her eyes sparkled with mischief. "Deal! Now, sit and enjoy the evening with us."

As we settled in, the atmosphere shifted, filled with laughter and camaraderie. I felt a sense of normalcy wash over me, a welcome relief from the weight of our responsibilities. For this moment, it was just us—friends enjoying an evening together, and I intended to savor every second of it.