The Shadows Star: Book 2

28: The Lake Retreat

As they left the home, bags in hand, Padmé led them to a river where a man in a small boat awaited. He smiled kindly and bowed to them, "Hello, Milady Padmé, Miss Sombra. I am happy to see you both again. Everything has been prepared to your specifications, Milady. Is there anything else you may need before we depart?"

The three exchanged glances and then turned to the man, shaking their heads in unison. Padmé stepped into the boat, "Thank you, Paddy, but I think we have everything."

Anakin followed, reaching out to take Sombra's hand as she boarded. She sent him a smile and a whispered thank you. She settled beside him, while Padmé took a seat next to Paddy. The boat gently pushed away from the city and began its tranquil journey.

Sombra marveled at the breathtaking beauty that enveloped her. The lush green meadows contrasted with the snowy peaks of the mountains. Tall reeds swayed gently in the breeze, and the water's surface sparkled like a carpet of diamonds beneath the daylight.

The warmth of the sun kissed her skin, and she leaned back to soak it all in, taking in a deep breath of the fresh air. Through the Force, she felt the heartbeat of the planet, the way the trees danced in the wind, the animals frolicking in the fields, and even the powerful rush of the waterfalls. Not wanting to keep this blissful feeling to herself, she reached out to hold Anakin's hand.

To her pleasant surprise, he intertwined his fingers with hers and sensed her guiding him. "Close your eyes, Skywalker. Breathe it all in, do you feel it?"

He focused his mind on the world around him, feeling her presence guiding his senses. "I see the river, the schools of fish, the jungles... I feel the sun warming the planet, the coolness of the shade. It's all..."

"...balanced," Sombra finished for him. Their eyes opened, and they shared a knowing smile, a deeper connection formed between them.

The boat continued to glide smoothly through the water, creating delicate ripples that danced across the river's surface. As they rounded a bend in the river, the Lake Retreat came into view, nestled amidst the natural beauty of Naboo.

Its facade boasted intricate carvings and graceful archways. Vines and colorful blooms cascaded down the walls. Sombra couldn't help but be struck by the retreat's idyllic setting. She had fallen in love with the home from the first moment she had seen it all those years ago. When strategizing their plan, she made sure that this home would be a part of it.

As the boat gently glided to a stop at the retreat's docking area, Paddy stepped out and helped Padmé onto the dock with her belongings. As Sombra stood up, Anakin eagerly jumped out and reached out to assist her once more. She chuckled, "You know, I can get in and out of boats myself, Skywalker."

He grinned, offering a playful reply, "Oh, I'm sure you can. But Obi-Wan made sure I would be a perfect gentleman, and I plan to live up to his training. What kind of gentleman would I be if I didn't offer my hand to a remarkable woman like you?"

As they continued walking, she kept her arm linked with his, a detail that didn't escape Anakin's notice as he beamed at the close contact. Approaching the entrance, Sombra's excitement became palpable. Padmé awaited them in the parlor, wearing a knowing grin at their newfound closeness. Paddy entered with a plate of fruits for them to enjoy.

"Miss Sombra, I remembered your love for them and made sure to restock the pantry," Paddy said, his eyes twinkling with a hint of mischief.

Sombra's eyes widened as she saw the plate, which included a yellow, star-shaped fruit that had been her obsession during her previous visit. She couldn't contain her delight. "Paddy! You absolute saint of a man, I could kiss you! But it's been so long, how did you even remember?"

The kind-hearted man blushed and chuckled, "You were quite the young girl all those years ago; it's hard to forget such a kind soul."

Sombra smiled, took a slice of the fruit, and savored the sweet and acidic flavor that captured her senses. As Sombra relished the familiar taste of the exotic fruit, Anakin watched her with a soft smile. He could see the genuine joy in her eyes, and it warmed his heart.
"Looks like someone's enjoying themselves," he teased playfully.

Sombra glanced at him, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "You have no idea how much I adore these fruits. They're like a taste of sunshine," She picked out two more slices and walked over to him, "Here, you have to try it!"

Anakin chuckled, appreciating her enthusiasm. He held the fruit and sniffed it quizzically.  He took a bite and was taken aback at how sweet the fruit was, the sour flavor making its appearance. It reminded him slightly of a meiloorun and a grape. His smile widened and Sombra laughed, "I told you! They're amazing!"

Padmé, who had been quietly observing their interaction, couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth seeing her dear friend so ecstatic. It was a rare sight, and she cherished these moments of respite amidst the chaos of politics.

"Well, I'll leave you to it then. I will go back to the main house. As I mentioned before, everything is prepared for your stay. No staff will bother you while you stay. If you need anything, please let me know." Paddy, pleased to have brought some joy to their day, discreetly withdrew from the room, leaving the trio to enjoy their fruits and the tranquility of the Lake Retreat.

The parlor was bathed in the soft, golden glow of the afternoon sun, casting a warm ambiance over the room. Sombra leaned forward out a window, a contented sigh escaping her lips. "This place is as beautiful as I remember it."

"Well I'm glad, Som," Padmé chuckled. "Now I am exhausted. Could you show Anakin to his room? I had them prepare your adjoining room," she rushed out mumbling, "If you want anything to eat, the pantry should be stocked."

"Wait what?" Sombra yelled after her, but she was already too far. Sombra let out a deep breath, "I swear, no oath included this."

Anakin walked up behind her and held their bags, "I'm ready when you are."

Sombra sighed in defeat and smiled at her friend's obvious attempts. "Follow me, blue eyes."