This Heart of Mine

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A/N1:Major AU story!

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A/N2: This is a Sequel to "Son Apart"

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A/N3: I do not own Star Wars.

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Chapter One:

"You look perfect, Leia." Padmé Naberrie Skywalker beamed at her daughter.

Leia Skywalker blushed slightly. "I know Luke was a little hurt that I chose not to wear this, but I wanted to use it for this day specifically, and keep it such a special gown."

Padmé touched her face. "I'm sure Luke will be just as surprised as your father was when you told him."

Leia looked down with a smile upon the home-made gown Luke had created by hand for his twin sister during his years on Trichi. It was still as gorgeous as the day he had gifted her with it.

It was of the purest white, made mostly with smooth fur that was silky to the touch. And then there were accents along the neckline and hem of longer fur that was softer than feathers. At the base of the bicep-length sleeves were little stitched designs and finally honey-colored wooden beads created a belt and then a random design upon the bodice.

To finish the look, there was an off-the shoulder, loosely ruched wrap that looked like a bow when it was cinched in the front by the wooden-bead ribbon that kept it together.

And to make things better, Leia's dress fit her figure perfectly.

Now she only waited for her brother and father to see her. Anakin was retrieving Luke, and now Leia was nervous about Luke's reaction. Finally, just as Padmé began to check Leia's hair once more, a knock signaled Anakin's return, and then the door opened.

Luke was ushered through with a slightly confused look upon his face, but he didn't argue. Instead he smiled for his mother, who had moved to position herself in front of Leia to block her from immediate view.

"Mother," Luke Skywalker greeted Padmé with a soft kiss to her cheek and a gentle hug. "You look lovely."

"Thank you, Luke." Padmé kissed his cheek in return and then stepped aside. "Leia wanted you to see something before the ceremony began."

Luke lifted his brow, following his mother visually until he caught a glimpse of white. His gaze found his sister... and Luke felt his eyes widen as a small gasp escaped him. There, robed in the very gown he had lovingly and painstakingly crafted just for her, was his sister.

He had given her the gown upon his return home five years prior, when they were both seventeen. Luke had been deeply disappointed when, instead of wearing it, she'd closeted the thing for the entire time.

When he'd asked her about it once, she'd told him she was saving it for a very special occasion.

Little had he known...

"Leia..." Luke breathed. "You look beautiful!"

Leia gave him a somewhat shy smile. "Now, are you still upset with me for waiting?"

Luke felt a blush color his cheeks, and he shook his head. "No, the wait was worth it. I am honored that you'd wear it on your wedding day."

Leia stood up and touched his cheek. "It's a gown befitting this occasion. I didn't want to belittle it by wearing it too often."

Luke gave her a careful hug, trying not to ruffle her perfect appearance. "Thank you. And Han won't know what to do when he sees you."

"Speaking of which, it's time to get into position," Anakin Skywalker spoke up. "The ceremony is starting in five minutes."

Luke offered Padmé his arm. "May I escort you to your seat?"

Padmé took his arm. "Thank you Luke."

Leia watched them go and turned to her father, who was looking at her lovingly.

"Ready?" she asked.

Anakin nodded, offering her his elbow, which she took. "I'm very happy for you, Leia. Han is a good man. I will admit it took me a little while, but he and I understand each other now."

Leia kissed his cheek, having to stand on her toes to do so, since he was so much taller than she. "I love you Daddy."

He touched her face in a fatherly fashion. "And I love you, My Little Princess."

Leia smiled at the nickname he'd given her when she was a child, and turned with him toward the door. When they arrived at the room for the wedding party to assemble, Luke had already lined up with the others.

He was Han's best man, escorting Winter Retrac Celchu— Leia's longtime best friend— who was her matron of honor. After that was Mara Jade on the arm of Lando Calrissian, a friend Han had introduced Leia to on their travels around the galaxy years earlier. Then there was Iella and Wedge Antilles, their final pair of bridesmaid and groomsman.

Acting as ring bearer was Chewbacca, and before him was a Jedi Youngling Leia had grown close to: Rosalie Grate.

Then the music began and the procession started, with Leia's heart beating a little faster after the departure of each new pair until, finally, the ring bearer and flower girl were out. The music shifted once more and Anakin lifted his brow at Leia, who nodded.

They walked the aisle calmly and slowly, with Leia's gaze fixed on Han Solo, who stood ready to receive her with a beautiful look upon his face. Leia could see the warm love he had for her, and it made her feel whole.

At the steps to the altar, Anakin kissed Leia's forehead and handed her off to Han before he sat next to his wife. Then the bride and groom faced the holy man, and the ceremony began. Leia didn't really hear much of anything until the time came for their vows, so focused was she on Han and how cleaned up he was, and handsome he looked.

Han went first, taking Leia's ring from Chewie and holding it just off her ring finger.

"Leia, I can't forget the first time we met: you were such a little firebrand, and I will admit that back then I was dubious that you could accomplish your task. But then you surprised me: you never gave up, and you achieved your goal. I love your grit and determination. You are perfect in every way, and I vow to cherish you every single day. I will remain faithful to you; always and without complaint. I will protect and comfort you, hold you in sickness and health, and listen to all you have to say. I couldn't ask for a better wife than you. I love you."

Leia's eyes were wet when his fingers slipped her ring into its rightful place. Then it was her turn, and she mirrored Han's pose as she spoke.

"Han. You are an amazing man, and at first I couldn't stand you... but then you surprised me too. You showed me that underneath your tough exterior was a gentle, kind man who taught me that it's okay to be vulnerable sometimes. You reminded me that I'm human. You have been a source of strength and comfort for me, and I will strive every day to be the same for you. I will honor and cherish you, hold you in confidence and I will remain yours, and only yours. Through the good and bad, we will face each day together. I love you."

Once his ring was set the officiator said a few more words and then finally he spoke the ones Leia had been waiting for.

"You may kiss the bride."

Han's famous lopsided grin appeared and he wasted no time in doing just that. Leia saw fireworks when his lips pressed to hers as her husband for the first time. She wrapped her arms about him, and they only broke apart when air became a necessity.

Han took her by his arm and they turned as one to their audience.

"I present to you Mr. and Mrs. Solo!" the holy man announced to thunderous applause.

Leia felt her heart bursting with joy as Han walked her back down the aisle and toward the huge hall their reception would be held in.

00000

Luke Skywalker, Jedi Knight, gazed upon his sister, Leia Skywalker, as she danced with her husband Han Solo in their first couple's dance. She was resplendent in the gown he had created for her during his time on Trichi, and the two looked and felt truly happy, for which Luke was glad.

Han had turned out to be one of Luke's closest friends, and he enjoyed the times he and Han had together. Now, though, Luke saw him more as a brother-figure. And he couldn't be happier that Leia had married the man. They were perfect for each other.

From his seat at the table reserved for family, Luke listened idly as his parents chatted away. Luke allowed his eyes to wander the cavernous ballroom, taking in the multiple sets of double doors leading to balconies situated at even intervals around the room.

The ceiling went high above their heads to arch in flying buttresses that looked like they belonged in a religious building. But though the space was grand and highly polished, the room was not nearly as beautiful as the two most important women in his life: his twin sister and his mother.

Padmé wore a lovely gown of a soft red, while her hair was curled and set into an intricate style that she'd use on a big day in the Senate.

Luke heard the DJ call for all couples to join the dancing, and Anakin promptly stood, offering Padmé his hand. "May I have this dance, Milady?"

Luke smiled softly when Padmé grinned and accepted, leaving him at the table with Chewbacca.

Speaking of which...

Luke turned to the Wookiee. "Hey, Chewie, are you going to visit your family on Kashyyyk while they're gone?"

[I had thought of it, but I'm not sure,] Chewie answered.

"You should. Go see your wife and son." Luke felt a light turn on when he realized how the Wookiee had said that. "If you need a ride, I'd be happy to take you. I'd love to see the wroshyr trees again."

Chewie tilted his head thoughtfully, and then harned. [I would also need a way back.]

"I can do that also," Luke assured him. "You need time with your loved ones too, my friend."

[Thank you Cub,] Chewie said with a ruffle of Luke's hair.

Luke chuckled. "Any time."

Then he stood, excusing himself, and wandered toward the back of the room, feeling the need to get out of the denser populated areas of the hall. Once he had achieved his goal, he relaxed, much more comfortable.

That is, until a familiar voice spoke near him out of the blue.

"Hello Luke."

Very few people could sneak up on him like that, and most of them were either at the Jedi Temple or on the dance floor. That left one person.

"Hello Mara." Luke turned his head... and lost the ability to breathe.

Mara was resplendent in her bridesmaid dress of a medium grey. It fell gently to the floor in a simple drape while the capped sleeves covered just the curves of her shoulder. Said sleeves met a V-neck that accented her bust line wonderfully. The back was sheer save a flowered appliqué that matched the decorated bodice. She wore a simple pair of earrings and necklace, and carried a hand-held purse.

As for Mara's hair, it fell in loose curls to drape invitingly over her shoulders and down her back. And her gorgeous emerald eyes only completed the entire ensemble.

Luke had of course caught a glimpse of her when he'd lined up with Winter for the wedding procession, but he'd not really gotten a close look. Until now.

"Mara..." He somehow managed not to squeak. "You look amazing."

Mara's face lit up with a smile, and Luke felt his insides warm. Force this woman was amazing in every way!

No, stop it! You're only friends. Nothing more. Luke told himself.

'Then why do you look at her like she's your soul mate?' His inner voice asked him mockingly.

Go away.

Luke refocused in time to hear Mara's next comment.

"Thank you."

Luke stood awkwardly for a moment. He and Mara had indeed grown close as friends in the five years they had known each other. They often sparred together or worked on other Force related issues. They had even been sent on missions together, and Luke secretly knew those had been the best missions of his career in the Jedi Order.

Finally Mara spoke again. "Your sister looks wonderful tonight."

"Yes, she does," Luke agreed softly, shifting his gaze toward the woman in question. "I've not seen her so content as when she's with Han."

"Neither have I," Mara remarked.

When another somewhat strained silence descended, Luke cursed himself for being awkward, remembering that Mara loved dancing. He was only good at it because he'd attended a good number of social functions his mother— a senator— was habitually invited to.

Turning to Mara with a slight bow, Luke held out a hand. "Would you like to dance?"

Mara's surprise was evident, but she accepted his hand and he led her to an open space on the dance floor. He took her hand and waist and waited for her to position herself. Then he led her smoothly in an Alderaanian waltz.

Luke didn't miss the way Mara loosened up, or how her countenance brightened as they moved together, and it was impossible for him not to feed off of that. Luke also loved the feel of her in his arms in a non-training setting.

She wasn't pressed against him in a combat move or an exercise routine: she was moving fluidly, gracefully, with him in a much more intimate setting. Luke was enjoying himself so much that he stayed on the floor with Mara through a number of dances before he began to once more feel the pressure of too many people.

He needed some fresh air, and he wanted to get out of the throng of bodies. And... what wasn't inviting about a quiet moment alone with Mara? That though startled him, but he kept his emotions tightly controlled.

Mara noticed his discomfort, though, and smirked mischievously before leaning close to his ear. "You know, dancing is a fine tool for being sneaky. We've passed several sets of those balcony entrances as we danced. I'm sure we could slip out one if we passed by again."

Luke grinned at her, showing teeth. "I like the way you think, Mara."

She snickered. "I know. Let's go."

Luke obeyed without qualms, leading Mara as she'd suggested until they were able to slip outside onto an unused terrace. Luke didn't release her hand immediately, though. He instead escorted her to a bench out of view and sat her down before he let go and seated himself beside her, remaining a respectful distance.

"That was a really good time, Luke," Mara told him. "I didn't know you were such a good dancer. You've been holding out on me."

Luke shrugged. "You can thank my mother. She sent me through lessons so I'd not embarrass her at political gatherings."

They shared a chuckle and then fell into a brief companionable silence. Luke broke it first.

"How did your last mission go?"

Mara shrugged lightly. "It was not very involved. Basically a brush-fire type of dispute: someone was angry because the other didn't listen to their views. Once I got everyone to stop shouting each other down and actually listen, things went pretty smoothly."

Luke nodded. "Well, I'm glad you're back. I've missed my sparring partner."

Mara turned a sly gaze his way. "You missed me, huh?"

Luke wagged his eyebrows. "Well of course, who else is going to try taking me down after I've bested her?"

Mara laughed. "You know me too well sometimes."

Luke snorted. "I learned my lesson well: never turn your back on Mara Jade."

She was grinning widely at him, and Luke only then saw her shiver slightly when a cool evening breeze passed them. His breath hitched when the light wind fluttered her hair just so.

Force she's breathtaking... Luke thought before he could stop himself.

Shaking his head, Luke removed his overcoat and offered it to her, draping it gently over her shoulders.

Mara presented him with a soft smile, pulling it closer. "Thank you."

"Of course," Luke replied.

Another quiet fell, and this time Mara spoke. "I hear there is a new obstacle course in the Jedi Temple being constructed. It'll be open next month, and I thought we could test it out together... if you want."

Luke allowed a feather-light smile to touch his lips. "I'd like that."

"Good."

He realized he was thirsty and so he stood. "I'm going to grab a drink. Would you like one?"

"Please." Mara nodded.

"Alright."

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Mara watched him go with a warm feeling in her bosom. She knew— had known for a year now— that she was in love with Luke. But for some reason, he seemed hesitant to return those feelings. There were times she thought she saw something in his gaze or countenance, but he covered it up so swiftly each time that she never knew for sure.

Mara wasn't ignorant to the fact that he had spent a good amount of time alone on Trichi, but she knew that something deeper had happened to him.

Something related to his heart. But what?

Mara's train of thought was interrupted by the soft tread of feet, and she glanced up to find Leia approaching.

"Hi Mara," the brunette greeted her.

"Leia." Mara accepted the one-armed embrace from her friend. "Lovely reception you've got going in there."

Leia smirked. "You can tell that from out here, can you?"

Mara rolled her eyes. "You surely saw Luke and I participating in the ritual dancing of these events."

Leia sobered. "Yes, I did. And if I may be bold... I also saw the way you two were looking at each other. Even if Luke didn't realize he was doing so."

Mara hesitated, not sure where the other was going with this.

"Is that a bad thing?" Mara asked slowly, eyeing Leia warily.

"No," Leia shook her head. "But I've also noticed your feelings for my brother. I wanted to tell you that there is a reason Luke hesitates."

Mara pulled away. "Are you sure this is something you should be telling me?"

"He won't do it, so yes." Leia sighed, looking down. "Luke was married before, when he was on Trichi... and his wife— ex-wife— turned out to be a fraud the whole time. She played and used him, openly she broke his heart more than once, and then literally stabbed him in the back."

Leia looked to Mara. "That is why he is afraid. So please, if you really do have feelings for my brother— and I think you do— then please be patient with him. He has such a tender heart... sometimes I wonder if he will ever let go of the past."

Mara felt uncomfortable. "I... thank you for telling me, but I really think that should have come from him..."

Leia bit her lip. "I'm not sure he would have come out with it."

Mara frowned. "He would have in his own time. When he was ready to."

Leia shifted. "Perhaps. Well, Han and I are going to be leaving soon, so I just wanted to say goodbye for now; and thank you for being here for me."

Mara nodded quietly. "Be safe, alright?"

Leia chuckled. "We're taking the Falcon. I think safe is a moot point."

Mara grinned. "Yeah, well, if you two get bored on the flight out, there's always something to fix on that bucket of bolts."

Leia and Mara shared one more laugh before Leia left with a wave.

Only then did Mara sigh deeply, thinking over what Leia had said. She stood, moving to the railing and looking out over Coruscant's night. She didn't know how long she stood there lost in thought before she felt Luke's presence again.

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Luke hesitated when he saw her, only speaking as he reached her side. "Mara, are you alright?"

She turned her head toward him and nodded. Yes, she was. After the time to think she had come to accept his past, and she wasn't about to hold it against him.

"I was just thinking, is all." Mara took his proffered drink and nodded her thanks.

Lifting her glass, Mara proposed a toast. "To best friends."

Luke smiled gently and clinked his glass to hers. "To best friends."