Author's Note: Well, this is it – the last chapter. I want to thank all of you so much for taking the time out of your day to read my writing. I think I have the best readers and reviewers in the world! Hope you enjoy this chapter – and hopefully you'll join me when I get around to penning the sequel (soon, I hope)… Yep, you talked me into it! And to any of you over in London – my thoughts are with you and your country. Please, stay safe.

DRESSING ROOM - THREE WEEKS LATER, ONE HOUR BEFORE FINAL PERFORMANCE

Closing her eyes, Padme visualized their final routine, trying to ignore the fact that her stomach was fluttering with nerves. As a droid hurried by, she felt the silky skirts of her gown brush against her legs. Looking down, she smiled softly, enjoying the deep green color they were given this week. In her opinion, it was the color of good fortune.

Absently, she tucked a strand of hair behind her ears, pleased the stylist had elected to leave it down. Anakin loved her hair when she let it flow freely. She knew he also preferred her without the stage make-up, but she couldn't help that. Once again, the effect gave her features a romantic glow and she knew she was nearly unrecognizable - especially when compared to the formal, straitlaced Senator the public was used to seeing.

Suddenly, she heard a commotion as Anakin emerged from his dressing room. Catching his annoyed expression, she asked, "what's wrong?"

"The sparkles are back," he said glumly, pointing to the shiny pieces on the hem of his tunic. Immediately, be began picking at the dark green fabric, his fingers working quickly.

Biting back a laugh, she just nodded sympathetically and returned to her thoughts, tracing every step of the routine. She knew it seemed silly after all they had been through, but she found she really wanted to win the competition. They had worked so hard and the time together had been so treasured. She just wanted to finish it out on a right note - the perfect end to what had been one of the most wonderful times of her life. Either way though, she would be happy - after all, she had Anakin by her side. What more could she ask for?

BACKSTAGE - MOMENTS BEFORE FINAL PERFORMANCE

Feeling a hand coming to rest of their shoulders, Anakin and Padme turned and found themselves looking into the face of a smiling Obi-wan Kenobi.

"Hello!" he said. "Are you ready for the final performance?"

"I hope so, " Padme replied, returning his smile. "I'll just be glad to get through it." Looking over at her husband, she suppressed another grin as she noticed the way he was standing, trying to keep the light from reflecting off the shimmery areas of his costume.

"Well, I think you will do just fine," Obi-wan confided. "Masters Windu and Yoda are also looking forward to your performance. We have a wonderful seat - right in the front row!" The color drained from Anakin's face as he absorbed his Master's words. Oh no. No, no, no!

Turning to go, Obi-wan continued, "We don't expect either of you to return to the Temple until tomorrow. Enjoy your last night in the spotlight - may the Force be with you."

Automatically, Anakin replied, "And may the Force be with you, Master." Watching as the Jedi disappeared through the side door, he exhaled, his breath rushing from his lungs in a relieved whoosh. At least Obi-wan hadn't noticed his costume. Thank the Force for small favors...

Suddenly, he saw his Master's head peeking through the doorway. With a mischievous grin, Obi-wan called, "Oh yes... I meant to tell you - nice sparkles!" And with another quick grin, he disappeared through the exit.

MAIN STAGE - FINAL PERFORMANCE

Seeing the lights dim, Padme took Anakin's hand as they hurried on stage. Facing the audience, she put a hand on her hip as she felt Anakin come up behind her. Reaching up with her other hand, she placed it against his cheek and smiled when she felt him kiss her fingers gently. I love you...

Hearing the show's theme music, they listened as the announcer's voice boomed through the theater, "Welcome back to our final performance on Dancing with the Star Wars. This next couple has clearly won the hearts of countless fans across the Galaxy! It is my honor to introduce them for their last dance... Liri and Kaide!" Immediately, the spotlight was activated and they could feel the warmth on their skin.

As the beautiful, slow music started, Padme eased her hand down and reached around for Anakin. Here we go... Feeling her hand meet his, he easily turned her towards him and they began to move. Seamlessly, they faded into the rhythm of the swirling music, their feet gliding across the floor. The entire world ceased to exist as they simply gave themselves over to each other and the music. Reaching the end of a complex series of spins, Anakin lowered Padme into a perfect Bend, her hair brushing the floor. You're beautiful.

Hearing the music start to speed up, they recognized it as the cue to start the last half of their routine. Quickly, he brought her back to her feet, his eyes laughing as he saw her playfully start to walk away, her feet dancing across the floor. Before she could get too far, he grabbed her hand and acted chagrined as she pulled free again. Throwing a smile over her shoulder, she gave him a sultry wink before spinning away. I don't think so. This time, he tangled his fingers in her skirts as she twirled, the material peeling away just as it was intended. As she came out of the spin, she pretended to be shocked by the shorter skirt she was now wearing. A laugh escaped his throat as he tossed the discarded fabric aside, and this time, she came willingly into his arms. Okay, you win. The audience began to applaud.

Smiling at each other, they flew through the fast paced steps as the music built and increased in volume. Their fingers tangled together as they went through the sharp turns, Padme's fair flying behind her at every move. As she came out of the last turn, Anakin easily lifted her off the ground, continuing to spin until he let go and she twisted gracefully through the air, landing lightly on her feet. Perfect. Working her way towards him, she came to a stop mere inches from his body, her head tilted up as their gazes met, drowning in each other. Moving as one, they swept towards the middle of the dance floor and she was in his arms as the last strains of music faded out.

BACKSTAGE, THREE HOURS LATER

"Oh my! Congratulations!" Threepio cheered, his arms flailing with excitement. Artoo happily whistled his agreement.

"Thanks, Threepio," Padme said, handing over the trophy. Anakin added, "We couldn't have done it without you." Looking pleased, the golden droid clutched the gleaming prize as he walked away, Artoo rolling along behind him.

Glancing around at the shrinking crowd, Anakin turned to Padme, his eyes gleaming, "Well, we don't have to report to the Jedi Council until tomorrow afternoon."

"Hmmm..." she responded playfully. "Whatever shall we do? Perhaps we should practice our lifts some more, I bet I could get Threepio to give us some pointers."

Shaking his head, Anakin just laughed and said, "No, no - I think I've had enough dancing for awhile."

"I suppose that's true," Padme agreed. Starting towards their dormitory, she innocently asked, "Does that mean you're tired of all the aspects of this competition? Because I still have a certain Shahyo costume hanging in my closet-"

The poor housekeeping droid never saw what hit it as the young couple raced by, anxious to face their future.

Very, VERY anxious indeed.

-FIN-