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THE SUN was beginning to set over the Republic cruiser, casting a warm golden light across the conference room where Aruna sat with Senator Chuchi. The atmosphere was quieter than usual, a welcome reprieve from the chaos of the ongoing war. They were surrounded by holo-projectors displaying maps and strategies, but the usual intensity of their discussions felt subdued.
Chuchi studied Aruna closely, sensing the weight of something heavy resting on her shoulders. "You've been quiet lately," she said, her tone gentle but probing. "Something on your mind?"
Aruna let out a slow breath, running a hand through her hair as she leaned back in her chair. "It's... complicated," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's about Anakin."
Chuchi's eyebrows raised slightly, a knowing smile creeping onto her face. "I had a feeling it might be. He has that effect on people."
Aruna chuckled softly, though her heart felt heavy. "It's more than that. Things have been... different between us. He's been so intense lately, and I can't help but feel drawn to him."
"Is that a bad thing?" Chuchi asked, leaning forward, her expression earnest. "You care about him."
"I do," Aruna replied, her tone turning serious. "But we're in the middle of a war. He has responsibilities. If I let myself fall for him..." Her voice trailed off, the weight of her unspoken fears hanging in the air.
Chuchi nodded in understanding. "You're worried about how it might affect him, or how it might affect you."
Aruna nodded, her hands fidgeting in her lap. "I can't be a distraction. He has enough on his plate already without me complicating things further."
"But what if you're exactly what he needs?" Chuchi countered gently. "Anakin is strong, but he's also struggling. Maybe he needs someone to ground him, to remind him of what's worth fighting for."
Aruna paused, considering her words. She had seen the burden of responsibility that weighed heavily on Anakin's shoulders, and she had always admired his strength and dedication. But she also understood the darkness that loomed over him, the fears he kept buried deep inside.
"I don't want to be a liability," Aruna said finally. "If I become involved, what happens if I can't be there when he needs me? Or if I can't handle the pressure?"
Chuchi reached across the table, placing a reassuring hand on Aruna's. "Love isn't a liability. It's a strength. And if you two are meant to be, it will find a way. You can't control every outcome, but you can control how you feel."
Aruna searched her friend's eyes, feeling the warmth of support radiating from her. "What if he pushes me away?" she asked softly, the fear creeping back into her voice.
"Then you'll have to show him that it's okay to let someone in," Chuchi replied, her voice firm but kind. "We all need someone to lean on, especially in times like these. You can't let fear dictate your feelings."
