It was unusually quiet as I stood on the towering balcony of my elegant apartment building absently gazing out at the dizzying array of traffic; the constant activity which exemplified Coruscant. I moved one hand to rest lightly against my rounded belly and felt life stirring within; the most precious sensation I had ever known.

As I stared out at the cityscape I found myself wondering the same thoughts which occupied my mind every moment of every day; when he would return? It seemed an eternity since I had last seen him; felt his arms protectively around me; his strength. Before I met Anakin, I'd never realized how truly alone I could feel; his absence was, at times, unbearable.

And then, there had been the rumors; rumors that he had been killed. A part of me tried to reason those fears away. If he were injured or in danger, wouldn't I know somehow? Wouldn't I sense it?

But my heart only knew the worry and pain of having him far from my side.

"Excuse me, Milady."
I turned as the tall golden droid approached. "We've just received word that Master Ani and Obi-Wan Kenobi are on Coruscant."

Relief swept over me in a rushing torrent. I laid my fingers on the droid's arm, steadying myself against the sudden faintness which threatened to cause my legs to buckle beneath me.

"My lady...?"

Concern was evident in 3PO's tone of voice; his free arm reaching up to offer additional support.

"I'm alright," I assured him, allowing the droid to escort me into the living room. "I'm just so... so thankful." I sat quickly sat down upon the sofa, not trusting the trembling of my lower limbs.

"Can I get you something?"
The droid added, still not certain that I was well.

"Just some water, please."
As the droid left to fulfill its task, I rested my head against the softness of the cushions. Tears of joy coursed unbidden down my pale cheeks.

He was home!
He was safe!

And, I knew that he would come to me as soon as his duties permitted.

I was proud of him; so proud of his dedication to the Republic and his duty, even if those duties oftentimes kept us apart. It was odd; I had never imagined my life this way; being married, yet keeping that marriage a secret, but I would not have it any other way. I would have sacrificed everything to be with him.

I could not wait to hear the sound of his voice as he softly spoke my name. Or to see the special light which shown in his eyes, as I gazed up at him. And, there was so much I longed to tell him; share with him the wonderful news of the life our love had created.

But, would he be pleased...?

Or would he see the baby's existence as an added burden and responsibility..?

My thoughts were interrupted as the droid returned carrying a silver tray upon which sat a glass of water and sandwich.

"You haven't eaten much lately, milady." It remarked, watching as I took a small sip of the cool liquid, ignoring the sandwich.

"I know," I replied with a gentle sigh. "I just haven't had an appetite."

Glancing up at the droid, a weary smile crossed my features. "Please, 3PO.

I'd like to be alone now."

Without another word, the droid set the tray upon the table and left the room.

My private physician assured me that my appetite would return. He also warned me of the sudden changes in mood I might experience. For the sake of the baby, I tried to still the doubts which sometimes assailed me; it was normal, the doctor had assured.

I closed my eyes and began humming a soft lullaby for the child which rested beneath my heart.