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ARUNA WATCHED from the control room as the ship touched down, a slight smile on her face. She always felt a sense of awe whenever Senator Padmé Amidala arrived—her presence seemed to radiate strength, confidence, and unwavering grace. Despite being a Jedi, Aruna found herself admiring Padmé's ability to lead without wielding a lightsaber.
"You're smiling," Anakin commented, walking up beside her with that ever-present smirk. "Didn't know you were so excited to see politicians."
Aruna shot him a look. "Not just any politician. It's Padmé. She's... different."
Anakin's smirk softened slightly, a warmth flickering in his eyes. "Yeah, she is."
Aruna noted the way his expression changed—just a little—but it was enough. She felt a twinge of something unfamiliar, something she didn't like to admit: jealousy. It was subtle, like the faintest ripple in the Force, but there nonetheless.
She ignored it, turning her attention back to the hangar. "We should go greet her."
Anakin's casual grin returned. "Lead the way."
They descended to the hangar just as Padmé exited the starship, her diplomatic robes flowing behind her. Aruna straightened slightly, trying to adopt a more composed stance. There was something about Padmé's presence that made her feel like she needed to be at her best.
"Senator Amidala," Aruna greeted with a respectful nod, her voice more formal than usual.
"Aruna, it's good to see you," Padmé replied warmly, a genuine smile lighting up her features. She then turned to Anakin. "And you too, Anakin. I hope everything's been going well with the Republic's efforts here."
Anakin's expression softened further, his voice lowering in that tone he only seemed to use with her. "You know me—always getting things done. But it's good to see you, Padmé."
Aruna's eyes flicked between them, noticing the subtle change in Anakin's demeanor when he spoke to her. She couldn't help but feel a pang in her chest. There was something between them, a familiarity that made Aruna's stomach twist ever so slightly.
Padmé, ever the professional, didn't seem to notice—or perhaps she did and simply chose not to acknowledge it. "I came to see how I can assist with the Republic's efforts. The situation on Ryloth is growing more dire by the day."
Aruna quickly shifted her attention back to Padmé, pushing aside the gnawing feeling. "Your presence here will definitely make a difference, Senator. The people of Ryloth need all the help they can get."
Padmé gave her a grateful nod. "I'm just doing my part. But it's Jedi like you who are truly making the difference on the ground."
Aruna felt her chest swell slightly at the compliment, but she quickly masked her emotions with a more neutral expression. "Thank you, Senator. Coming from you, that means a lot."
