Chapter Thirty-Seven
Mira

Anakin and I were in the ship, heading for Ryloth. It had finally been freed at last, but the victory felt bittersweet. I could sense his anger simmering just beneath the surface, a tension that pulsed through our bond like a live wire.

Every moment we spent together, I felt the weight of his frustration—both with the situation and with Jango. It was like a storm brewing, and I worried it would spill over. I wanted to comfort him, to remind him that we had won this battle, but the shadows of the past loomed large.

As we soared through the stars, I couldn't shake the feeling that our fight was far from over.

I turned to him, desperation in my voice. "Ani, please." I offered my hand, and he took it, sighing deeply.

"Just don't ever go to him," he said, his tone firm yet laced with concern. I blinked, taken aback by the intensity of his words.

Jango wasn't just an enemy; he was a complex figure in this war. He had given us the clone army, the soldiers who fought valiantly by our side—Rex, Cody, Fives, Echo—all the good clones who had become like family to me. I couldn't bring myself to hate him.

"Jango isn't like that," I replied softly, feeling the weight of my feelings. "He's a good man beneath it all. He's done so much for us."

Anakin's grip tightened on my hand, and I could sense his frustration. I knew he cared, but I also understood the tangled web of loyalty and love that surrounded us. It was a delicate balance, and I hoped we could navigate it together.

Anakin turned to me, desperation clouding his eyes. "I saw how he looked at you, how Obi-Wan looks at you. Hell, half the galaxy looks at you like they want you."

He sighed, and I could feel the weight of his insecurities pressing down on him. I reached up, cupping his cheek gently, wanting to reassure him. "They might want me, but I'm yours, Ani. Always and forever."

His gaze softened, and I could see the flicker of relief mixed with lingering doubt. I needed him to believe me, to trust that my heart belonged to him, no matter how complicated things got.

"I love you," I added, my voice steady. "No one else matters." I hoped my words would pierce through the chaos of his thoughts, grounding him in our bond. We were in this together, and I would fight for us, no matter the challenges ahead.

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We reached back to the corridor, and I felt a surge of determination. "Ani, I need you to go to my chamber for a moment," I said, a hint of urgency in my voice. "I want to wash up and change."

He hesitated, glancing at me with a mix of concern and curiosity. "Are you sure? I can help you—"

I shook my head gently, wanting this moment to be mine. "Just give me a few minutes. I'll feel better, and then we can talk."

Anakin nodded, though I could see the worry still etched on his face. "Alright, but I'll be right outside if you need me."

As he walked away, I took a deep breath, allowing myself a moment of solitude. I needed to gather my thoughts, to wash away the tension of the day, and remind myself of the love that anchored me. This was our fight, and I was determined to face it head-on.

I walked to my bathroom, closing the door behind me. I took a moment to breathe, letting the weight of the day begin to lift. I turned on the sink, letting the water run as I stripped down to nothing, feeling the cool air against my skin.

Once I stepped into the shower, I adjusted the temperature, turning it to hot. The steam enveloped me, and I closed my eyes, letting the warmth wash over me. I needed this—time to clear my mind and gather my strength.

As the water cascaded down, I thought about Anakin and the bond we shared. I hoped that once I emerged from this moment of solitude, I could reassure him of my love and commitment. We were in this together, and I wouldn't let anything come between us.

Once I had washed, I turned off the water and toweled myself dry, feeling refreshed. I stepped out of the bathroom, the steam from my shower lingering in the air.

I walked over to my wardrobe and searched for something more fitting for the moment. My fingers brushed against a beautiful dress—the color of satin silk, a soft pink that shimmered in the light. It was fluffy and elegant, perfect for lifting my spirits and reminding me of the beauty amidst the chaos.

I slipped it on, feeling the fabric flow around me like a gentle embrace. Looking in the mirror, I smiled at my reflection, hoping it would also bring a smile to Anakin's face.

With a deep breath, I opened the door and stepped out, ready to face whatever awaited us next.

As I stepped out, I found Anakin leaning against the wall, his expression softening into a warm smile when he saw me. He took my hand gently, and I felt a rush of comfort and connection.

"Ready?" he asked, his voice low and reassuring.

I nodded, and together we walked towards the common area. I could hear the faint sound of the news being broadcasted, discussing a bill that was still being presented before the Senate.

Anakin's presence beside me made the weight of the world feel a little lighter. I knew we'd have to face the political challenges ahead, but for now, I was grateful to be with him, sharing this moment as we prepared to dive back into the complexities of our lives.

As we approached Padmé's chambers, the soft glow of the ambient lights illuminated the elegant surroundings, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The door slid open, revealing Padmé standing there, her face lighting up with a radiant smile as she took in our presence.

"Oh my, you two look like you're glowing!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with genuine delight.

I couldn't help but giggle at her enthusiasm, feeling a rush of warmth and happiness. "Thank you!" I replied, my voice filled with a mix of bashfulness and joy. Anakin stood beside me, his expression softening as he took in Padmé's infectious spirit.

Padmé stepped forward, her arms open wide, and enveloped me in a warm hug. I could feel the kindness and support radiating from her, a welcome contrast to the chaos of recent events. Anakin joined the embrace, and for a brief moment, the three of us stood together, connected by the bonds of friendship and love.

Breaking the hug, Padmé stepped back, her gaze shifting between us. "So, what's the latest? I hope you're both ready for the discussions ahead."

Anakin nodded, his demeanor shifting slightly as he prepared to dive into the political intricacies. "We are, but it feels good to take a moment to breathe," he admitted, glancing at me with a reassuring smile.

Padmé's eyes softened as she looked at us. "Good. Remember, we're in this together." Her words resonated deeply, reminding me that no matter the challenges, we had each other to rely on.