As morning came, Anakin found himself awakening to the familiar scent of rain-soaked flowers and the cosy embrace that was Dormé's arms. Smiling in contentment, he studied her gently before letting his hand slip to her cheek where he did half circles with his thumb. He knew in that moment that he'd give up everything in a heartbeat if it meant keep Dormé by his side. He couldn't be certain how long he had spent watching the sleeping handmaiden but in truth, it didn't really matter either. Somehow, time seemed to stop when Dormé was near and Anakin found himself more than happy to lose himself in this timeless reality where only they existed.

It was not long before lethargy overtook her as well and Dormé fell into a peaceful sleep. In her dreams, Dormé's unconscious mind came alive, leading to visions of herself in ornate and expensive gowns, her left hand in Anakin's right, their strongest hands folding together symbolizing their growing bond, though such symbols were too complex for either of them to fully understand. Though she would not remember a single piece of her dream as she slowly roused to consciousness, she was left with the contentment she would soon realise would only be experienced when she was with her dear friend. She smiled sleepily, saying, 'Good morning,' though in truth it was well past noon.

As she opened her amber eyes the young prince couldn't help but smile shyly at her. 'Good morning,' he replied as he moved to give her a kiss before adding gently, 'hope you were able to sleep well.'

Dormé returned his kiss, smiling sleepily before sighing. 'Mhmm delightfully,' she replied, stroking his chest. It was then that her awakening eyes spotted the damage inflicted the night before.

The young prince tightened his embrace slightly as he caught sight of her sleepy smile. Her gentle purr and sigh floated across his bare skin like an unspoken promise. While her touch, once so electric, inviting, yet cruel at times, had now become soft and soothing. Despite the war wounds earned only a short time ago, Anakin could no longer feel the pain, as he was far too distracted by the beauty in his arms.

'Oh—Oh my—' she said, her eyes growing wide while her cheeks flushed in mortification. 'I'm sorry—I didn't realise—' There were spots which she supposed she might have drawn blood. Biting her lip in embarrassment, she gingerly touched the long trail of bloodied nail scratch marks that now decorated tanned biceps.

The Jedi prince tried his best to hide his pain but was unable to resist a hint of a wince as her fingers found the more raw regions of his wounds. 'It's all right, really,' he said sheepishly with a shrug not wanting her to know that he was now only too aware of all the wounds inflicted. 'It's nothing serious,' he added.

Despite his words, she saw and felt him wince, which caused her cheeks to darken in their already reddish hue. Now that she was more awake, she shifted slightly within his arms so she could properly kiss all of the places she wounded, as though her kisses were a magic balm to soothe the damage done.

It was not long before the simple gesture led to her embarrassment drifting away, as she kissed other uninjured places. In time, she would come to realise that there was no other way of spending time that she enjoyed more than being with her dear friend, whom she would later realise was her soulmate. For now, Dormé hoped he wouldn't mind her way of waking them both up.

Her lips were cool and soothing against his skin and soon the young prince was closing his eyes and basking in her presence, for he rather enjoyed this. However, what started off as a gentle gesture soon turned more than a little soothing, leaving Anakin to bear similar thoughts that reflected Dormé's impish smile.

Deciding it was only fair, he returned the favour, kissing her skin in turn, promptly taking things to the next level. For all intents and purposes, the complications of the night before was long forgotten leaving only a second chance to improve upon lessons learnt. To the young prince, this was the happiest moment of his life. His dearest friend and beloved shared his feelings. Now their life together was finally beginning.

---

It was evening when Anakin's mother quietly approached him, wishing to speak to him in private. Once alone, the empress faced her son and studied him with obvious concern riddled over her elegant features.

Furrowing his brow Anakin studied her back in curiosity. 'What's wrong? Is everything all right?' he asked softly, fearing the worst.

The older woman shook her head, sighing. 'Ani, I'm worried about you,' she began in quiet tones as

Anakin felt her gaze studying him closely. He had long since forgotten about the scratches that covered his exposed neck and collar bone. Nevermind the cut on his lip from when Dormé slapped him a little too hard. Nails, he had since learnt, held more than just aesthetic purposes. 'Why?' he replied his confusion now quite evident as Shmi gave a soft sigh.

'It's your friend Ani. While I have no intention of interfering with your personal life, when it pertains to outside politics, I must step in.'

Anakin frowned, already believing he knew where this conversation was headed. 'I know what you're thinking, but it's not like that. She is not my plaything, nor will she ever be,' he explained in cool tones feeling frustrated that his mother of all people would hold such a low opinion of him.

'I know, Anakin. You're far too noble for such things and that is why I'm worried,' she began again as her eyes flickered to the marks that decorated his tanned skin. 'Not everyone shares your views when it comes to...relationships and I fear that you may find yourself becoming involved with someone who— doesn't see you for who you really are.' The young man's expression turned stormy at this statement but he remained silent as his mother continued to speak obviously feeling the need to explain herself. 'It's not uncommon for someone who is of a lower status—'

'How dare you suggest Dormé is using me!' Anakin snapped cutting in as he glared in hurt frustration at the queen who furrowed her brow in sad concern. 'Whatever gave you such an idea? What has she ever done to make you think so poorly of her? Nothing! She has done nothing and you know it!' he snapped back in Huttese, fearing that his beloved might overhear.

The empress shook her head and frown as she moved her hand to the purpling welt on his cheek as she spoke up once more in more firm tones. 'Ani, look at yourself. You're covered in welts and scratches! The maids told me this afternoon that your room was barricaded! Just what are you getting yourself involved in? This friend of yours is starting to frighten me!'

The young prince jerked back feeling his cheeks light up on fire at his mother's statement and the realisation that his mother was aware of the cause of his wounds. 'You should tell the maids to mind their business. I do as I please and if they don't like it, well that's too bad,' he growled while glaring at her agitation. 'And for your information what I get myself involved in isn't any of your concern either!'

'She's not a courtier from our empire, Ani. This woman is a handmaiden who serves the Queen of Naboo, the very queen you are meant to marry in a few years! Do you have any idea how this is going to affect relations between our people and the Naboo? This isn't just about your feelings. This is about duty and responsibility,' she continued in frustrated concern as the Huttese dialect emphasized her agitation. 'The Naboo are already hesitant about joining the Coruscanti Empire and this is going to worsen matters. Nevermind the scandal this is going to create!'

'I don't care about scandals or what anyone else thinks! How many times much I remind you, I am not going to marry Padmé? I am the prince of the Coruscanti Empire. They will respect my wishes or I will make them pay!' Anakin hissed in fury.

'Only a tyrant speaks of such things! Anakin, I understand this troubles you and I'm sorry I have to bring this up, but you must take this into consideration. Even if your lady friend has innocent intentions, her very career and future would be placed at risk. Do you really want that? And what if her intentions—like so many young women out there seeking a better life—are nothing more than to ride on the coat tails of your position? She could ruin everything for you. Is that what you want? To be her plaything?' his mother snapped, trying desperately to reason with her headstrong son.

Finally losing his temper, he shouted in Basic, 'Dormé would never do that to me! She is my best friend and closest confident! I have every right to court whomever I want whether it be royalty or not! I'm not going to make Dormé hide in the shadows as my father had to, nor am I going to be forced into marrying Padmé when it's Dormé that's going to be my wife! You might be satisfied being married to someone you don't love because duty demands it, but you deserve better and so do I!' he shouted before falling silent as he realized he had crossed the line.

Though his mother said nothing in reply, the pained expression and silent tears that collected in her eyes spoke volumes leaving Anakin feeling utterly ashamed of himself. 'Anakin, you have no idea how much your father sacrificed to ensure your safety or how much he suffered—how much I suffered—for your sake. Nevermind everything that your brother and stepfather have done for you. You are only here, Anakin, because you are surrounded by people who are willing to give up everything for you. I cannot and will not stand by and watch you throw all of their sacrifices and hard work away on a flight of fancy, understood?' she concluded in soft but firm tones.

The young prince said nothing in reply but gave a weak nod.

'Good. Now take care. There is much weighing on your shoulders, far more than you realize,' she said finally. Reaching out, she gave his shoulder a gentle but firm squeeze before departing leaving the young prince alone with his shamed and confused thoughts.

---

Dormé enjoyed spending the bulk of the day with her friend before his mother requested his presence. She actually hadn't seen much of his parents at all, but then again, she hadn't exactly made herself available to them. Little did she know how this mistake would affect her future with them. When Anakin was called away to speak with his mother, Dormé went about packing up what little belongings she had with her, having a feeling they would have to leave soon to return to Naboo. As much as she wanted to stay, never wanting this holiday to end, she also knew just how much her mentor would yell at her if she was late.

Once she had finished, Dormé thought it wouldn't hurt to take a stroll around the lakehouse. She wasn't trying to find Anakin, but rather see whatever rooms she hadn't been in. The first was a second dining room, a salon, a few more bedrooms, a library she wasn't sure she had seen before, but then she heard familiar voices. As she slowly approached, she couldn't tell that they weren't speaking in Basic. But then she heard the queen say quite clearly: She could ruin everything for you. Dormé's mouth dropped open upon realisation that they were talking about her. Is that what you want? To be her plaything? Dormé balked. There was no way she would do such a thing to Anakin! How dare the queen think such a foul thing!

Before Dormé had a chance to take a step in the other direction, Anakin snapped back at his mother. She is my best friend and closest confident! I have every right to court whomever I want whether it be royalty or not!

Dormé agreed with Anakin and was thankful that her friend was standing up for her. But what followed would forever resonate with her, as much as she would deny it; she would deny in order to prevent heartache. …nor am I going to be forced to marry Padmé when it's Dormé that's going to be my wife!

Wife? Dormé wondered in surprise and downright shock. As her heart began beating faster and her breath caught in her throat, she spun to the side so that her back was against the wall. Her eyes darted back and forth as she processed this. This was incredibly serious, far more serious than she had imagined and it was overwhelming to consider.

...my wife! she heard him exclaim once more.

It wasn't possible. It couldn't be possible. How had this happened? Why? Thoughts of all the reactions from people regarding such a proclamation flooded her thoughts. The hallway was spinning and she collapsed.

Alone with his thoughts, Anakin found himself replaying his mother's words in his mind and was unsure what to make of it all. Before he was able to play it all out in his mind, the young prince sensed the maiden's presence nearby and immediately feared she overheard the harsh words spoken. This too soon faded away as he picked up on her panic and felt his own heart race in concern. Swiftly, he turned on his heels and rushed to where he could sense her in the hopes he could find out what was wrong. What he stumbled on instead was the unconscious form of his friend and beloved now limp on the floor.

'Dormé!' he said in fear as he rushed to her side, lifting her up in his arms. His eyes darted around the room looking for the source of her condition though he felt no threat. In the back of his mind, he had a guess that it had something to do with the discussion, but this made no sense to him and so it was discarded. Instead, he believed it to be due to the high altitudes of their location and the intense humidity that was part of the atmosphere, though both conditions were managed through the environmental controls of the lakehouse.

Carrying her to the nearest quarters, Anakin gingerly laid her onto the bed and tried his best to use the Force to revive her. His skills in healing, however, were limited to say the least and with his own fears running away with him, it did little to help. In the end, he tracked down one of the servants to help him. Fortunately, the older woman was familiar with fainting bouts and unaware of the real reason for Dormé's collapse, believing the young woman had spent too much time outdoors. Anakin was too beside himself with fear for his beloved to be of any use and instead only watched as the old lady used a small chunk of smelling salts to revive the young maiden.

'I'll alter the atmosphere controls of this room to aid her breathing, Your Grace,' she said gently as she waved the powerful rock under Dormé's nose. 'There's no need to be working yourself into a mess, Sir. She's going to be all right. It happens often up here,' she concluded to the nervous young prince who nodded noncommittally as he watched Dormé with obvious concern.

First her friend was defending her to his mother, then he was saying he was courting her, which was a shock to be sure, but what followed floored her. He said he was going to marry her. Certainly that wasn't possible. He had to have only said that to his mother to anger her and prove a point. Certainly, he didn't mean it...But try as she might to convince herself that it was all a joke, Dormé found herself unable to do so. Panic set in and before she knew what hit her, she was unconscious. In her dreams, she was in a large throne room surrounded by people who pointed at her and talked about her as though she couldn't hear what they were saying. She spun around, looking for an escape, but it seemed there was no way out. The circle of onlookers drew closer and she didn't know what to do. It was then that she awoke, inhaling deeply. Looking around, she didn't know where she was or how she got there. 'Anakin?' she queried softly.

Anakin sighed in relief as the young maiden came to.

The old servant gave a confident smile as she moved to adjust the atmosphere controls of the room. 'Just make sure she doesn't over exert herself when she's outdoors and she'll be fine, Your Grace,' she added kindly before moving to depart knowing that her work was done here.

Anakin however barely heard the old woman's words as he moved quickly to Dormé's side and took a seat at the edge of the bed. 'It's all right. I'm here. Everything's going to be fine,' he said softly as he moved to touch her cheek gently. 'You just fainted, that's all. The servant says it's because of the atmosphere and humidity here,' he further explained, feeling proud that he was correct in his assessment after all. 'It's nothing serious,' he added quickly hoping to alleviate her fears.

She fainted? Dormé heard something from a servant saying that she was outside. Clutching her head, she couldn't recall being outside, but she remembered the group of people surrounding her. Luckily, as she recalled the true reason for her collapse and didn't mention anything from her dream.

As she moved to sit up, the Jedi Padawan moved to help her, as he didn't want her strain herself despite the fact she wasn't injured. He could feel her awkwardness and curiosity and was uncertain how to take it. Before he had a chance to ask if she was all right or perhaps even what had happened Dormé began to speak once more.

Trying to get a grasp the situation, Dormé reached to touch his hand which rested on her cheek. 'Anakin, did you—' she began, but stopped herself, biting her lip.

The young prince gave a reassuring and relieved smile as she reached up to touch his hand. As she began to speak, he studied her with a curious but patient expression obviously wanting to know what she wished to discussed but not about to pressure her either.

Slowly, she sat up, feeling as though this room was claustrophobic. Her curiosity wouldn't let the question linger. 'Did you—Do you—I mean... I'm sorry, I have to confess that I heard you—speaking to the queen...'

At first, he was confused by her jumbled words and questions but as she further admitted to overhearing his discussion, Anakin felt his cheeks begin to burn. She always did have a way of catching him completely off guard and this time was no different. He wanted to apologize for his mother's harsh words. 'It's all right, it's not like we were really quiet about the argument anyways,' he said figuring she was feeling sheepish about overhearing the conversation, unaware of her true feelings on the matter. He had no idea that she felt the need to placate his affections. In his mind, this was real and he couldn't have been more relieved.

'…and I just, I have to know if what you said was true.'

With a sheepish look, he bowed his head slightly before shyly meeting her eyes. 'Would it bother you if I said yes?' he softly asked, feeling as though his entire universe hung on the balance of her reply.

It was hard enough getting used to the idea that he wanted to court her, let alone that he was interested in marrying her, but despite his tentative querying reply, she refused to believe he was serious about that part. Dormé shook her head in reply. 'No, it's just, I'm surprised,' she admitted. Apparently, at least for the time being, the prince had romantic feelings for her. Her eyes fell to her hands momentarily.

Her remarks sent a wave of relief through him and the young prince couldn't resist a sheepish grin as he glanced down briefly before return his gaze back at her. 'I'm sorry, this wasn't exactly how I wanted to bring up the topic but—' he gave a shrug then as he shook his head noting her eyes on her hands now.

Dormé hoped he wouldn't tire of her too quickly. She decided to take advantage of it for as long as she could. After all, it wasn't every day people gave her such attention. It would not be that much longer before her heart recognised her feelings for him, but it would be a rude awakening and possibly too late. If she were any other girl, she would think he was smothering her, that he was moving too fast and a bit unrealistic, but she was young and soaked up the affection as someone who never received it. In her life, everyone wanted something from her, first her parents who wanted the money from her work at the factory, then being in the service of the queen, meeting Moteé who wanted to use her as something to make fun of, but Anakin... Anakin never seemed to want anything from her, but to give her friendship, gifts, and now his heart. Though it probably wouldn't last, she wanted to enjoy it while she could. Fuelling his fantasy would eventually become the best decision of her life.

Despite having to leave for Naboo soon, Dormé placed her hands on his cheeks and kissed him, unaware that she would have to get used to the wary, disapproving looks from more people than just his mother.

Anakin soon slipped his hand to her waist and the other to her long hair before returning her kiss fervently. This is real, all of it, his thoughts whispered as he tightened his embrace around her. No more dreams and wishing: she really is mine and I am hers!

Dormé was enjoying the presence of her best friend, though thinking on this new revelation that he liked her as more than a friend, she wondered between kisses, 'What do I call you now?' Obviously there had been a change in their friendship and she wanted the proper term so she could brag about it to everyone she knew. 'Since...we're...more than friends...' The slight hint that she hadn't thought of a change prior to this moment ought to raise red flags with Anakin.

The young prince was equally content to bask in his beloved's presence and was currently playing with her hair as he shared kisses with her when she spoke up, giving her a lopsided grin, thinking that she was teasing him. Though her words should have been an obvious clue that she was unaware of their status before the revelation, Anakin was still convinced she wasn't serious. 'Well Anakin would be nice for starters,' he teased before adding with a mischievous smile. 'Though I rather like the sound of boyfriend, myself.' However, even as he spoke, he could feel her emotions through the Force and slowly began to realize that there was more to her statement than just teasing. 'You did know what I meant when I said I wanted you to be my girlfriend right?' he asked in almost wary tones. He couldn't help but wonder if she truly understood what his gestures from the night before signified.

Dormé giggled at his teasing before going on to further explain her question. Though Dormé had heard of the terminology of 'boyfriend' before, she never really had a chance to learn what it truly meant in Basic. When she translated it into her native dialect, it merely meant 'male friend'. Thinking this was just a game they were playing, that he was feigning the uncertain tone in his voice, she pushed him back on the bed, giggling, 'Anakin, I thought you said we're courting now and you wanted to marry,' she said, not taking any of this seriously at all.

Anakin grinned at Dormé's laughter but soon realized she was far more serious in her words than he initially thought. Deciding to look into this matter further the young prince tried to question the matter further. However, Dormé, like Anakin moments ago, believed he was just teasing and laughed it off and pushed him back onto the bed to which the young prince complied with fading amusement. Her words only solidified his concerns and soon his expression grew concerned. 'Yes of course,' he replied in more seriously. 'That's what I meant when I said I wanted you to be my girlfriend,' he continued as he studied her intently. 'That's why I kissed you...' he added softly as he couldn't help but wonder just what she thought they were before this point.

Dormé raised an eyebrow at Anakin's oddly serious behaviour and his further remarks. Anakin had said she was the most confusing person he ever met, but she would have to argue that if anyone was in competition for the most confusing award, he would certainly be a close second. She laid half on top of him putting her hands under her chin which rested on his chest as she studied him curiously. She also wasn't intelligent enough to realise there was a communication error between them in regards to the status of their relationship. He looked like he was concerned and she didn't know why, so she smiled and said, 'I'm glad you kissed me.'

Dormé's reaction caused Anakin to furrow his brow as he felt his mood growing dark. Suddenly his mother's words echoed in his thoughts and he felt a chill run down his spine as she smiled and admitted that she rather enjoyed their kiss. 'I don't think you understand what I'm trying to say,' he began once more. 'Or why I even kissed you in the first place.' The now confused and doubting prince continued, 'That wasn't meant to be a simple gesture of amusement Dormé it was meant to be a sign of deep affection. I wouldn't have kissed you, if I wasn't serious about my feelings for you,' he admitted as he shifted and tried to move so that Dormé was resting beside him rather than on him.

'I know,' she replied, matching his tone. Though she wasn't aware of it at the time, she knew how he felt about her and that he was telling the truth. After all, he hadn't ever lied to her before.

'As I said before, you are not and never will be my plaything.'

When he shifted so that she was beside him, she fiddled with his Padawan braid as he spoke. At his final words, she grinned again. 'I'm glad to hear it. Or I would be very cross with you.' Dormé found him to be very amusing.

Dormé's lack of seriousness to the discussion at hand was beginning to annoy him and while normally he would enjoy her playing with his Padawan braid it was just irritating him now. Quickly he moved her hand away and sat up. 'Echuta. If you're not going to take this seriously, then neither will I! Forget I even brought it up,' he snapped as he sat up and moved to depart.

Dormé was very confused and didn't know what to make of his reaction. First he was saying he wanted to marry her and was telling her how much he liked her, the next, he was saying she wasn't being serious enough and that she was irritating. Dormé knew he would get tired of her at some point, she just thought it wouldn't be so soon.

'And Padmé says I'm irritating. At least I know when to be serious,' he muttered under his breath.

The mention of the queen made her feel like she was so small, reminding her that he was a prince and she shouldn't even be allowed to address him by his first name.

Anakin frustrated, hurt and completely confused was about to storm out the door for some fresh air and a chance to clear his head when Dormé spoke up forcing him to stop in his tracks.

'Do you mean lusua when you were saying 'girl friend'? Or did you mean like kian?' she asked, trying to confirm if he meant friend or lover, having a feeling it was the latter and feeling a bit embarrassed at the misconception.

Blinking, Anakin whirled around to face her once again as he opened his mouth to speak only to close it again. Lusua? Kian? He raised a brow and shook his head. He had no idea what either word meant. 'By the Force, you thought when I said I wanted you to be my girlfriend I meant as in a friend who was a girl,' he breathed feeling every bit the youngling he was acting like moments ago.

'Yeah,' she said softly when he confirmed what she had thought originally, that he had merely called her a female friend.

His cheeks immediately lit up on fire as he glanced away in disbelief upon realizing that he just made a complete and utter ass of himself before his beloved. 'Dormé, I'm so sorry...I didn't know. I didn't realise...I thought...Force! Forget what I thought...This is my fault I should have been more clear,' he continued unaware that he was rambling on as he ran a hand through his spiky hair, looking very much like he wanted nothing more than to have the ground beneath him swallow him up whole.
'I didn't realize,' he murmured suddenly more than a little aware of how bad his outburst had to have appeared to her. '...It's just...I'm sorry I over reacted I have no excuse for my behaviour,' he added in shamed tones as his eyes remained lowered. Never in his life had he ever wanted anything or anyone as he wanted Dormé's affections and friendship. Though he was far from understanding what it was like to be truly in love he did understand the difference between lust and proper affection. It was because of this that he felt the desperate need to prove to himself to Dormé that his feelings were real. However, he still had a long way to go and much to learn and this was just one of many examples of this.

'Which was why I was asking what I should call you now,' she admitted quietly, though she took a tentative step towards him. She had been only joking around when she asked the first time, but somehow he was able to make what was light-hearted into something far more serious, however, he seemed to have a tendency to do that. This, she decided, was why they were friends. She didn't know why she should care as doomed as any friendship would be, but there was something that made her care about him.

Anakin felt a rush of shame at her soft confirmation and her timid reaction. He couldn't explain it, but Dormé always had a way of stripping him of all his pride and confidence leaving behind nothing more than the vulnerabilities that in reality was the root of his arrogance. Her admittance only added to his guilt and soon he couldn't meet her gaze anymore as his eyes flickered to the floor. 'I don't know what either term means but whatever one stands for courting or being a couple is the one I meant,' he admitted knowing fully well he was stating the obvious but feeling the need to express it all the same as his cheeks burned an even deeper shade of crimson.

Dormé watched him, clutching her hands in front of her, as though trying to hold on to herself, or more specifically her heart. No one could or ever would reach her in this way and be able to affect her so deeply, despite the walls she had created in response to her childhood. 'Are we...all right then or do you not want to be with me anymore?' she asked tentatively. She didn't like feeling as though she was on thin ice with him and wanted to go back to be comfortable like she was before. She wanted security, but was also afraid to count on anyone.

Her tentative question stirred him from his despairing thoughts and shyly meeting her gaze he nodded slightly. 'Dormé, I never want to leave you,' he admitted quietly, 'I'm sorry for my behaviour of before, for making you believe that I felt otherwise. I'm just so used to— I mean,' he glanced away a he furrowed his brow feeling embarrassed once more.

Dormé knew what he was going to say once he began, but didn't interrupt. Though she felt he was being rather silly about this mix-up, the last thing she wanted was to ruin their friendship over a silly misunderstanding. It was heartening, upon reflection to understand his hesitancy and slight stumbling over words when he was apologising for kissing her the first time. Now that she understood his true affections, it made everything different, though Dormé had yet to discover if such feelings for Anakin or anyone for that matter existed within herself...or more specifically that she could allow herself to recognise such feelings if and when they came.

You see me as a person, not royalty, or a prophecy in the making, he thought to himself before waving a hand as he shook his head. 'I'm just going to stop before I say something else stupid that ruins what little time we have left together,' he concluded with an embarrassed smile as he wished he could just backtrack and erase his words and actions of before.

She couldn't help snickering when he dismissed whatever else he was going to say because she had to admit she found it cute. However, she wasn't ladylike enough to censor her snicker, nor to even cover her mouth as most people knew they ought to in polite society. But after the first escapade off Naboo with the prince, Dormé hadn't consciously considered him a prince though many people were eager to remind and correct her. Since that first outing, he had been Anakin to her, no titles, no prophecies, just Anakin.

Anakin blushed deeply at Dormé's snickering but sensing she wasn't mocking him, the young prince gave a sheepish smile as he found his courage to lighten the mood. He loved how Dormé wasn't like the other courtiers or the noble women. Her mannerisms though considered inappropriate by high society were endearing to Anakin and in truth filled him with admiration. Dormé knew she wasn't perfect and was comfortable with that. The young prince wished he could say the same, but the more he spent time with Dormé the more he saw his flaws and the more awkward it left him. Though he was cocky and though he was arrogant, it was rapidly becoming nothing more than a ruse to mask his insecurities. 'Perhaps its just best we pretend this language problem never happened and just go from there,' he added sheepishly wanting to lighten the mood and wishing he knew of a better way to undo the damage he had just caused.

She grinned. 'My thoughts exactly,' she said, leaning in to kiss him.

He slipped his arms around her waist, but before he could take their kiss to the next level, a servant arrived informing them that soon they would be departing. At the suggestion of following his parents' cruiser, he nodded in agreement not wanting to join his parents as it would interrupt precious moments with Dormé. Once they were alone, again he gave a wistful sigh. 'Of all the things my brother has taught me, I wish that turning back time could be one of them,' he said as he slipped a hand to her cheek.

As much as she would come to adore that wistful look on his face, his words made her laugh. 'So that we can fight about absolutely nothing again? Or so that we can damage more furniture?' she teased, giving him a playful squeeze.

Dormé always knew how to lighten the mood and this time was no different as she burst into laughter causing Anakin's mood to shift and grow mischievous. 'Well I can think of far more...inviting things to do than fight or destroy things unless of course you'd rather do that,' he teased with a lopsided grin before growing a bit more serious. 'I guess we should get ready.'

At his remark about getting ready, she shook her head. 'I've already packed what little I brought with me.' Dormé winked at him.

He sent her another bratty grin before pulling her close as he leant in to give her a passionate kiss. 'Good, because frankly, the last thing I want to do is pack,' he murmured as he slipped his hand to her hair deciding that he couldn't think of a better way to prepare for departure than enjoying some time with Dormé.

His kiss made her incredibly reluctant to leave Delaya, despite the fact it was already well into the evening here and his parents were already departing for Naboo. Breathing him in as she wrapped her arms around his neck, returning his kiss, thoughts what they were supposed to be doing melted away. Dormé hardly considered her responsibilities and duties, her mentor's increasing displeasure for every moment she was late, or her duties to the queen. All the mattered right now was that Anakin and she were far too overdressed and this needed immediate tending to.

It wasn't long before Anakin's thoughts of departure became nothing more than a distant memory as their kisses took a more passionate turn. With Dormé time moved of its own accord just as everything became nothing more than background distraction to the universe that was made entirely of her and him. As such it wasn't long before the young prince found himself completely losing track of time only to eagerly bask in his beloved's presence once more. Fortunately, no furniture was destroyed, but time was running out and when reality finally returned to the young prince his parents had long since departed for Naboo.

---

It was not long after their return to Coruscant when it seemed that everyone knew about the change in Dormé's relationship with the prince. There were many factors that made it almost impossible for people to be unaware, the primary one being that the prince bragged about her and their relationship. It didn't help that neither one of them were extremely secretive about it either...as they were quite shameless in their displays of affection. Though Anakin still insisted he wanted to marry her, she didn't take him seriously, especially after the way his mother and father seemed to treat her after that revelation. She wasn't ignorant to the fact that they weren't sincere when they pretended to be nice to her. That was a skill she learnt at a very young age, however, how she treated what their son believed to be incredibly serious, as casual, his mother thought the worst of her. Such ill opinions of Dormé would only increase in time.

People thought she was a social climber, only interested in the prince for his wealth, that she wanted power, loved the attention. His father wasn't the only one that thought it was only a phase for Anakin, that he would grow out of it. Many people were jealous of Dormé and doubted either of them really liked each other that much. Most people doubted Dormé since she treated it casually and when asked, she was dismissive, unaware that it was because she was afraid.

'Well aren't you glowing,' Moteé remarked when Dormé returned to the handmaidens' quarters living area. Yané and Ellé were playing a game.

'I don't know what you mean,' Dormé said, still thinking on Anakin and innocent to the true meaning of the question. Unlike the prince, she lacked the physical marks of their encounters.

'Everyone's been talking about your little holiday to the prince's lakehouse on Delaya,' Moteé prompted. 'Now you have to share!'

The other girls' ears perked at this. Eager eyes and ears were turned towards Dormé. Yané and Ellé stopped their game to pay attention. Dormé flushed because of the amount of attention she was receiving. She was unprepared, but after a few years, she would become quite used to this. Looking around at their eager eyes, Dormé resigned and began telling them from the beginning what she did, however, she didn't get very far before one of the girls interrupted.

'Did you kiss?' Ellé asked.

'Yes,' Dormé replied matter of factly as if it had been expected

The younger girls squealed and this confused Dormé who looked to Moteé with a raised eyebrow. It didn't take too long before Dormé figured out what sort of details the girls were after. With this in mind, she further elaborated and told them everything.

However, Dormé did not tell them anything that might embarrass the prince or herself. Later, she spoke more candidly with Moteé for advice and to get a few tips, which she was eager to implement, but then, unfortunately, Dormé was hit with the fact that she hadn't sadness that she would not be seeing him for who knew how long. In fact, it hit her that she had been so caught up in their farewells that she had forgotten to ask when he would next be on Naboo. With much regret, she was soon lost in thought about the pirnce and all the conversations and experiences during their short stay at the Delayan lakehouse.

---

Anakin upon his return was eager to share the news of his relationship with Dormé to everyone and anyone. Kei and Mikel of course were one of the many to learn of the details -and of how he obtained his 'battlescars'- which left them in viewing Dormé with some trepidation and fear. After all who ever heard of anyone wanting to court a woman who could leave your body looking like it had been on the frontlines instead of in their bed? But Anakin seemed proud of this so they let it be and chose instead to tease him for taking so long to properly court her.

In time, everyone on Coruscant was aware of the young prince's current love interest. It was the gossip of courts much to his parents' dismay and obvious concern. Though no one took it seriously, for it seemed like only yesterday that Anakin was professing his undying devotion to Amidala. Unfortunately, while the young prince was aware of the rumours he remained unaware of how these views were reflecting on the public's view of Dormé. While Anakin was a renowned for his spoiled and immature behaviour, people still viewed him with an air of fondness. Most of this was due entirely to his step-father who held the love of the people for his almost democratic rule. As such, all the blame for the relationship was placed on Dormé who was regarded as a street urchin or worse who was corrupting the young prince. This was something the young prince would discover in time and the price the gossip-mongers would pay in turn would prove to be fatal.

Anakin having already happily bragged to his colleagues at the local Jedi temple of his new relationship, only to get into a heated discussion with his brother about why it isn't appropriate to discuss such personal things with the public was soon preparing to depart for Coruscant once more. However, while he preferred the bustling cities of his step Father's imperial capital world, his heart was heavy at the realisation he would soon be leaving his love. The thought was despairing to say the least as already he missed her immensely, but it wasn't until he remembered that he hadn't made plans with her about a future visit that Anakin found himself racing through the hallways that would take him back to Dormé.

Never one who felt the need to respect others or their duties, the young prince had no qualms about rushing into the training room where the young handmaidens were practicing. Moving through the groups of young maidens swiftly Anakin eyes flickered frantically about searching out the one he sought until finally his eyes settled onto her petite form. 'Dormé!' he cried out before rushing towards her and moving to steal an eager kiss as he momentarily forgot the true reason he was here.

Dormé was in the middle of her lessons when she heard Anakin calling her name. Suddenly the last thing on her mind was diversion tactics as she hurried toward the fray, or in this case, her boyfriend. She hadn't expected to see him today, but she most certainly wasn't complaining. She passionately returned his kiss, forgetting that they weren't alone and that she was in the middle of class.

Some of the other girls had stopped their lessons as well to watch and talk about them in hushed whispers.

Tightening his embrace around her, Anakin allowed himself to become lost in her kiss. He loved how wonderfully easy it was to do so.

'Would you care to explain the meaning of this your grace?' came the chilly voice of one of the elder handmaidens who swiftly approached the couple. The young prince barely even registered Lady Tamé's words and it wasn't until she placed a heavy hand to his shoulder did he even remember where he was. Reluctantly drawing back from his kiss the young prince gave the older woman a withering look as he also then remembered the reasons for his being here.

'You need not worry I'm only here to say good-bye to my girlfriend,' he snapped in equally chilling tones. 'Now if you'll excuse us a moment of privacy would be appreciated,' he continued in his best courtly voice to which Tamé raised a brow and folded her arms marking her disdain over the situation. However, because of her rank she knew better than to push the matter as she had come to learn how fruitless it was to bother and thus returned her attentions to the handmaidens motioning them to return to their training.

Dormé was quite disappointed when she was brought back to reality by the swordmistress's displeased tone. Dormé's eyes never wavered from Anakin. Though she was sad to hear that he was coming to say goodbye, she found she liked hearing him refer to her as his girlfriend, though she knew it wouldn't last.

Anakin had since returned his attentions to Dormé and was giving her an apologetic look. 'I wanted to stop by because I have to go soon and well...I wanted you to know when I'll be back. I was going to tell you before but I sorta forgot,' he concluded with a sheepish smile.

Her expression fell until he said he forgot to tell her earlier. 'I sort of forgot too,' she admitted, slightly blushing as she recalled why they forgot. 'So you're coming back...tomorrow? ...the day after?' She couldn't help but express her eager hope to see him soon. She also feared that he would change his mind about her or something. She weaved his Padawan braid through her fingers.

The young prince felt his cheeks warm as well at Dormé's blush but it didn't erase the pride that danced in his eyes. He was so happy to know Dormé was eager to see him again but was saddened to know that it would be some time before it would come to pass. With her fingers, lingering through his braid and his own hand against her cheek the young prince could only shake his head as he gave a reluctant sigh. 'I only wish,' he said softly as his expression grew serious. 'But it's probably going to be a couple of weeks before I'll be able to come back. The joys of duty,' he said as he rolled his eyes obviously not eager to depart.

'A couple of weeks? That's like forever,' she sighed, though she knew they both had their training and other duties to attend to. It didn't prevent her from expressing her reluctance to let him go. If she did, how did she know he wouldn't change his mind?

'But I promise you I'm going to return as soon as I can,' he said in sincere tones before leaning in for another kiss.

Moteé glanced over at the pair unabashedly, not particularly caring whether Tamé yelled at her or not. Though she had much more experience than the younger couple, she couldn't say anyone every looked at her the way the prince was looking at Dormé, leaving Moteé in denial about her jealousy of Dormé.

Part of Dormé wished she could go with Anakin. This fantasy didn't have a real destination in mind, just that she would go anywhere with him, however it was a scary thought and she forced herself to stop thinking about it and focus on their kiss goodbye.

Tightening his embrace, he didn't care that the room was filled with people or the fact the elder handmaiden was most displeased by this interruption. All he recognized was his need to share these last moments with his love, to assure that this wouldn't be the last time they would see each other and to let her know all that weighed on his heart. But words could not fully speak how he felt and so all that needed to be said was portrayed through his kiss. It would become a means of silent communication that Anakin would never fully understand and yet would never take for granted. As much as he would rather remain with Dormé, the young prince reluctantly drew the kiss to an end and slowly withdrew from her arms. It was only two weeks, he reminded himself, though two weeks may as well be two million years to the young man. 'Take care, Dormé. I will not be gone long and I'll be sure to keep in touch,' he murmured as he gently touched her cheek and gave her a sad smile.

Dormé reached up to touch his hand which rested on her cheek. As he drew it away, she gave his hand a squeeze before releasing it. She couldn't find her voice to say anything at his parting words. She knew she should say something. He was leaving and she couldn't muster the courage to say anything.

'I'm going to miss you,' he concluded in sad and soft tones before quietly moving to depart. To say good-bye was just too final and so he refrained.

A simple 'I'll miss you too,' would have done quite nicely, but she couldn't bring herself to form the words, so she watched as he departed, unaware that she did so with a heavy heart.

Her gentle touch both warmed and tore at his thoughts leaving the young prince feeling even more sorrowful about parting ways with her. It seemed like only minutes ago he had shared his first kiss with her and now he was being forced to part ways. Her silence spoke volumes and though she didn't speak a word, so much was spoken and as he turned to walk away he couldn't resist glancing back to steal one last look at the one who would always hold his heart.