Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters, who belong to Tamora Pierce. I make no money from this story.

An Evening with the Stars

She leaned on the balcony over the Rose Garden, once again ignoring the party behind her. Her long, wavy red hair tickled the small of her back as she leaned against the white marble rail, eyes trained on the stars. Their pale brilliance far outshone the fire of any gem…

"Running away from society again, love?"

She jumped, eyes wide as she turned and stumbled. A tall shadow separated from the dark space behind the balcony doors, and rushed to her. Strong hands gently steadied her, remaining to caress her shoulders even after she found her balance.

She sank onto the bench of the railing, the powder blue silk of her gown rustling around her. She cursed as she toed off her delicate, peep-toed sandals. She leaned over to massage her abused toes, muttering, "I hate these excuses for shoes." She raised her voice slightly as the shadow took over massaging her feet. "I'm going to end up spraining my ankles one of these days. Are you sure I couldn't have gotten away with boots? These skirts are long enough to cover them."

She blushed at the heat of his gaze, as he took in her gown. "Love, we both know you wouldn't be able to hide boots under that gown." His deep voice was amused. "You do look beautiful, though." His long fingers brushed her cheek softly as he sat beside her.

"What brought you out here?" Her voice was soft, her bright eyes turned to the man, whose form was still hidden in shadow.

"You."

When no further explanation came, she turned her eyes back to the stars twinkling in the late autumn sky. A sudden breeze whipped through the garden. She shivered involuntarily. A long arm wrapped around her shoulders, gently pulling her against his warm body. He turned, both hands now gently chafing her chilled arms and shoulders as he pressed a gently kiss into her hair.

"Mind telling me what's so captivating up there?" His voice was as gentle as his hands, but it was clear he would allow no evasive techniques. She remained silent, not looking at him. "Alanna." Those gentle fingers pressed her chin up until she looked into his eyes. "Just tell me, love." His eyes were pleading with her – she had to look away…

She stood, walking back to her previous position, grimacing at the chill of the balcony floor against her bare feet. He followed her, wrapping his arms around her from behind, kissing her temple. "So? Are you going tell me, or do we spend the evening out in the cold?"

She bit her lip, leaning back against him. "I just wonder if he'd approve of my decisions. He spent so long advising and guiding me. I just…wonder sometimes."

"Who, love?"

She nodded toward the sky, a smile spreading over her face. There, hanging in the sky, was the Cat.

"He'd be just as proud as I am to see what a wonderful queen you are, my love." Jonathan leaned down to kiss his wife sweetly. "We should go back inside before you lose your toes to frostbite." She turned back to the bright light of the Midwinter ball, still smiling – no, smirking – hoping Jon had forgotten about the dreadful shoes.

A/N: Just a small scene that popped into my head while stargazing. Reviews are appreciated. :D