The Shadows Star: Book 2

16: Your Old Friend

As Anakin and Obi-Wan drove back to Padmé's apartment, the tension in the air was palpable. Obi-Wan, ever perceptive, sensed the unease radiating from his Padawan and decided to address it.

"Anakin," he began, his voice calm and gentle, "you seem troubled. What's on your mind?"

Anakin hesitated for a moment before he finally let out a sigh, his voice filled with uncertainty.

"Master, it's about Sombra. We had a... disagreement."

Obi-Wan nodded, encouraging Anakin to share his thoughts. Anakin recounted the argument he had with Sombra, the jealousy, and possessiveness he had been feeling, and the way he couldn't stand to see another man getting close to her.

"Master, it's not just about the mission. It's about the way she acts like it doesn't matter how I feel. And tonight, there was that Twi'lek guy, and he was just too close to her."

Obi-Wan listened attentively, his expression understanding but cautious.

"Anakin, it's natural to care for others, especially when you share a bond like yours with Sombra. But you must remember our teachings. Attachment can be a path to the dark side."

Anakin's frustration simmered beneath the surface as he attempted to explain his perspective.

"I know that, Master. But it's not just attachment. It's... It's different with her. I can't just stand by and watch her put herself in danger."

Obi-Wan placed a hand on Anakin's shoulder, his voice filled with empathy.

"Anakin, I understand your concern, but we must find a balance. Sombra is her own person, and she makes her own choices. We cannot control her actions, nor should we. Relationships complicate things. Trust in Sombra's choices and abilities. She's grown into a strong, independent, and capable young woman."

Anakin nodded, albeit reluctantly. He knew Obi-Wan was right, but the turmoil in his heart remained. "It's just... I can't bear the thought of losing her," he confessed, his voice a whisper.

Obi-Wan's hand landed reassuringly on Anakin's shoulder. "Then don't. If you continue down this path, you will lose her completely. So change your course before it's too late. Perhaps not tonight, but find a moment to speak calmly."

Anakin nodded, his heart a tumultuous sea. As they drove on, the weight of his feelings for Sombra and the intricate knot of their situation hung heavily in the air.

Obi-Wan entered the apartment with Anakin trailing behind him. He noticed Sombra on the balcony, her figure silhouetted against the city lights. Anakin moved forward, but Obi-Wan gently placed a hand on his arm, signaling him to stop.

"Anakin," Obi-Wan whispered, "why don't you go get some rest? I'll stay with Sombra for a while."

Anakin's gaze lingered on Sombra for a moment before he reluctantly nodded. He gave a longing glance toward her and then disappeared into his room.

Obi-Wan approached Sombra on the balcony, his presence calm and reassuring. "Mind if I join you?" he asked softly.

Sombra turned to him, her eyes carrying a mix of emotions. "Not at all Obi," she replied, her voice tinged with a hint of sadness.

Obi-Wan leaned against the balcony railing, looking out into the cityscape. "So, anything weighing on your mind?" he said gently.

Sombra sighed, her shoulders slumping slightly. "He told you."

Obi-Wan looked at her with understanding. "Yes, he did. It is a master's responsibility to help his Padawan. But, I am not here as a master, but as your old friend. Right now, I'm just your Obi, and I'm worried for you little one. You both care for each other a great deal, I'd hate for that to be lost."

Sombra hesitated, her gaze shifting away. "I know he cares, but I refuse to be treated like I'm weak or some sort of karking damsel in distress."

"Language."

"Sorry, Obi. I've trained harder than anyone to get to where I am. I refuse to have my character and decisions questioned by someone who barely knows me."

Obi-Wan placed a hand on her shoulder, offering comfort. "Sombra, I understand your feelings. Anakin has held on to his memories of you and it has blinded him from seeing how you've grown. I know he has many other reasons to want to protect you, especially now."

Tears welled up in Sombra's eyes as she looked at Obi-Wan. "I don't want to lose him," she admitted softly, her voice breaking.

Obi-Wan's gaze softened, and he pulled her into a gentle embrace. "You won't lose him, Sombra. But it's also important to find a balance. You and Anakin have been apart for ten years. With your reunion, there will be times when you don't fully understand each other, despite the bond you share."

Sombra clung to Obi-Wan for a moment, her emotions overwhelming her. "I just... I don't want to push him away."

Obi-Wan held her close, offering reassurance. "You won't, Sombra. Anakin's feelings for you run deep. Give him time, and he'll come around."

Sombra nodded against Obi-Wan's shoulder, her tears dampening his robe. At that moment, she felt a sense of comfort and guidance from one of the few people she respected. The complicated feelings between her and Anakin were still there, but with Obi-Wan's words, she felt a glimmer of hope that they could navigate through them together.