Part 45 (2/2)

”Home. ” said Anakin. ”That's got a nice ring to it. ” He was smiling broadly, a hint of mischief in his eyes and a sense of excitement, quickly tamped down. And then the smile faded. ”So, Obi-Wan. We survived another one. ”

Not all of us.

But that wasn't Anakin's problem. With a wrenching effort, he pulled his mind from the pain and loss that were crouched ahead in the shadows, waiting. Inescapable.

”Yes, we did, Anakin, ” he agreed. ”By the skin of our teeth. ”

”Yeah... ” Anakin shook his head. ”Y'know, I'm starting to think we need a new hobby. ”

He was tired, he was sad, but still...

”Trust me, Anakin, ” he said lightly, ”on that score, you'll get no argument from me. ”

And then they grinned at each other. No need to say more.

”Ken.o.bi!” Master Windu shouted from the corridor. ”Have you forgotten what best speed means?”

”Oops, ” said Anakin, and extended his hand with a flourish. ”After you, Master Ken.o.bi. ”

”No, no, Master Skywalker, ” he replied. ”I insist. After you.

Side by side, they walked out of the room.

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