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"One two three, one two three.." Mara said repeating the count, as the students danced in perfect timing to the beat. A retired dancer herself, Mara's career evolved into not only managing the ballet school, but also teaching the pupils and choreographing dance steps for the recitals. She walked passed them inspecting and correcting their moves. Approving and correcting the accuracy of each step. Every position, glissade, pirouette, releve and jete perfectly executed in time to the music played by Mara's dearest friend and talented pianist, Nakari. A retired music teacher, Nakari had been the music director for as long as Mara had been teaching. They were both older now, but playing the piano hadn't taken a toll on Nakari physically like ballet had done Mara.
"Okay class, that's it for today. We'll go over the choreography for the recital more next week. Have a great weekend and practice your positions. Especially those of you on pointe."
Mara exclaimed to the class as her students exchanged their dance shoes for street shoes, and gathering up their duffle bags and coats, taking their leave. Mara turned toward the piano exchanging smiles with Nakari as she walked towards her. "What are you wearing to the fundraiser this weekend?" She asked, looking at Nakari from over the top of the piano.
"Nothing too fancy. Just casual. And warm." Nakari replied.
"I can't decide on what to wear. Usually these functions call for something classy and formal. But this year's fundraiser being held in a barn? Its quite a departure from the usual formal setting."
"Not just any barn, a gentleman farmer's barn." Nakari quipped. "Just think L.L. Bean meets J.Crew." She suggested. "Besides I think the benefactors wanted to try something new, and casual. That way the patrons would spend less money on their outfits and have more money to donate." The two shared a chuckle.
"Sound strategy. Think the students will have the choreography down in time for the Christmas recital?"
"They always do. Don't worry. They have a terrific teacher after all. They'll be great, just like every year. Do you want to go over the arrangements?" Nakari asked, tapping the music sheets on the piano.
"No, after all these years you've got this. You'll be great, just like every year."
"What can I say? When you got it, ya got it." she teased, gathering up her music sheets and placing them in her tote bag, adding, "Well I'm gonna head out. Get an early start on the weekend."
"I think I'll stay and finish up some paperwork. " Mara said.
"Want me to stay and help? I don't mind. Goodness knows you have enough on your plate without taking on all the office work too."
"Nah, you go on ahead. It's not much. Just a few papers to file and a few files to send."
"Well, don't stay too late."
"I won't. I promise."
"See ya at the fundraiser."
"See ya."
Mara was ready to lock up for the night after filing, emailing, and making a few calls to personally thank the V.I.P contributors, reminding them about the fundraiser. Turning the key, she recalled how the academy was almost forced to lock it's doors permanently had it not been for the school's patrons. Their philanthropic efforts raising funds prevented foreclosure of the former town hall turned community center and getting it listed as a historical landmark. Annual events, like the one this weekend, keep the academy opened while ensuring the center could continue being used by the community for years to come. Heading home, Mara began wondering what she was gonna order for dinner and what she was gonna wear to the upcoming event.
The night of the fundraiser was cold. the clear skies sparkled with starlight. A dusting of snow brightly reflected the moonlight alongside the road she was driving on. The gentleman's farm was about an hour's drive outside of the city, just off an old curvy, country road. Mara's concerns about taking a wrong turn ceased when she turned into the long driveway to see all the parked cars near the barn. Seeing the other guests entering the barn, Mara was relieved she wasn't the only one wearing a warm preppy outfit. Once inside, she saw that it was not at all what she was expecting. The barn was renovated, paved, warm and used now to host events. Lighting the interior were repurposed old wagon wheels that had been converted into chandeliers, hanging from the beautiful rustic old beams. The space had been lavishly decorated for Christmas with lights, trees, giant candy canes, plastic reindeer, garland and wreathes. She noticed that a silent auction had been set up as she signed the guestbook. Multiple tables were lined up with various knick-knacks, deemed desirable collectables. Mara walked over to the tables, queueing up with other guests, perusing the many items presented for auction. So many tempting trifles left Mara wondering if she could afford to purchase any of them. At the far end of the space a table was laden with appetizers, snacks, positioned next to a wet bar. Just as her tummy rumbled a signal to head towards the snacks, she heard a familiar voice cheerfully call out to her.
"Mara, glad you made it."
"Glad to be here, Jaina.", Mara said exchanging a hug with the young lady, who at one time had been a student of hers. "Is your mother here?"
"Yes, here she is now." Jaina replied, her mom, former senator, Leia Organa, headed their way. Mara turned to face her.
"Hello Leia." Mara cheerfully greeted, hugging the friend and patron in a warm embrace.
"Good to see you, Mara." Leia happily replied, the embrace converting to hand holding.
"Where are the boys?"
"They decided to sit this one out. Han never was much for these kind of functions."
"Yeah, Jacen and Anakin decided to keep him company." Jaina explained.
"Usually they like coming out here to the farm, riding horses, relaxing. But they opted out since there would be none of that tonight." Leia explained.
"There are sleigh rides though." Jaina added.
"Do you come here often?" Mara queried.
" This is our family's farm." Leia clarified. "Welcome to Skywalker Ranch."
Before Mara could express her pleasant surprise, Nakari came alongside, exchanging salutations and hugs.
"How's the Christmas recital coming along?" Leia asked.
"So far so good." Mara said.
"I'm sure it will be a success just like last year. Have either of you bid on anything yet?" Leia inquired.
"Not yet , but the night's still young." Nakari replied.
Before the former senator could respond, Lando Calrissian joined the group. "Well, what have we here?" He asked with a smirk, taking Leia's hand into his and gently kissing it. The former senator greeted him and his wife, Tendra, air kissing her cheeks with a smile. "Great idea having a silent auction. I placed a bid for a little something Tendra's had her eye on all evening." he stated, as his wife, smiling, linked her arm around his.
"Well Tendra, I hope you get it. You know I've been meaning to ask you something , Lando." Leia spoke, linking her arm to his, leading them away.
"Have you eaten anything yet?", Nakari asked Mara. "The wings are to die for."
"Good, cause I'm famished." Mara replied, as she and Nakari headed to the table. They waved "Hi" to friends, and acquaintances while snacking from their plate of goodies. Chatting about all the who's who that were in attendance. Doubting if they had enough in their accounts to win any bids.
"Oh I may have chugged that soda too fast." Mara confided in Nakari.
"There's a restroom in the mudroom of the house." Nakari explained pointing in the direction of the house.
"I'll be right back."
"Ok."
Mara walked outside to the mudroom in back of the house. She opened the door, but there was no light on. While feeling around for a light switch, the door at the other end of the room slowly creaked open, revealing the shadowy silhouette of a man standing in the doorway, an axe dangling from his hand. Mara gasped, ready to use the self defense moves she had learned.
"Sorry if I startled you." The man earnestly apologized, turning on the light switch revealing an older man in a yellow Carhart coat and faded black jeans. His bright blue eyes gleaming in the light as he gazed upon her. "Just going to chop some more firewood."
"Oh, you gave me quite the scare." Mara said, relieved but annoyed. "Wrong holiday for that, don't ya think?"
The man nodded, chuckling, "Again, I apologize. Didn't mean to give you a fright. Enjoy the rest of your evening." The scruffy bearded man said, walking pass her toward the door Mara had just entered.
"Are you the caretaker?" she asked, curious to know who would be wielding an axe at a fundraiser event.
"Yeah, something like that." he replied with a smirk, exiting out the door. Mara found the restroom. Once inside, she quickly locked the door.
Back in the barn, Mara made a beeline over to Nakari who was conversing with Winter, Leia's personal assistant.
"Every thing ok?" Nakari asked, concerned with the look on Mara's face. Leaning in she quietly asked, "Did you not make it in time?"
"I made it in time, but I almost didn't, cause the caretaker gave me quite the scare."
"What happened?"
"The caretaker?" Winter queried.
"When I entered the mudroom, this mountain man entered from the house carrying an axe. Scared me half to death. Claimed he was going to cut some more firewood. When I asked if he was the caretaker, he said 'something like that'."
"Caretaker? The farm doesn't employ a caretaker." Winter explained. The puzzled look on her face mirroring the looks on Nakari and Mara's faces. "What did he look like?"
"He was somewhat taller than me," Mara began, "with shaggy, greying dark blonde hair, blue eyes and a scruffy looking beard."
" Oh, I know who you're talking about. That's Luke, Leia's brother. He lives here in the farmhouse. He's not really the caretaker, though he does take care of the property." Winter clarified.
"I didn't know Leia had a brother." Nakari admitted.
"Me either." Mara stated, relieved to learn he was supposed to be here.
"He's a bit of a recluse. Doesn't get out much. He usually avoids coming to events like this. Or any events really."
"A gentleman farmer slash hermit." Nakari said.
"What made him retreat from a social life to an anti-social one, in the country side?" Mara asked.
"A bad break up." Winter began. "He and Calista were together for years. Then, just when Luke was ready to propose, Calista broke up with him."
"Oh no."
"Cant imagine why." Mara snarked."
"Oh it wasn't like that." Winter began, "She said she needed some time to find herself. Luke was devastated. He said the city, and the various functions they used to attend reminded him of her and couldn't be around it anymore."
"That's why Leia's hosting this year's event in such an unusual location." Nakari surmised.
"Leia probably decided if he wouldn't come to the party, she'd bring the party to him. Trying to get him socializing again."
"In a way, it worked. We did interact." Mara remarked. The ladies shared a chuckle.
"Maybe not exactly what Leia had in mind, but its a start." Winter quipped. "Well I'm gonna go mingle with some of the other guests, which is exactly what Leia had in mind for me tonight. Gotta try to get every one donating. Don't forget to place a bid on something, bye."
"Bye Winter."
"Bye."
The ladies turned their attention to the auction pleasantly surprised to discover items they could afford to bid on. After placing their bids, they decided that it might be fun to go on the sleigh ride. Putting on their coats, they went outside, walking the path from the barn to where the horse drawn sleigh was waiting for its next customers alongside a stone wall bordering the yard. In the yard, on the other side of the wall, an older man was sitting next to a fire pit, keeping warm. Hello ladies, I'm Biggs and I'll be driving the sleigh tonight." The salt and pepper haired, mustached man explained.
The ladies exchanged pleasantries while taking turns shaking hands. "My co driver will be back shortly, then we can be on our way. In the meantime, help yourselves to something warm to drink." He said, motioning with his hand at two insulated food carriers placed on the stone wall. "One contains mulled apple cider and the other has hot chocolate."
"I think I'll have a mulled cider."
"Me too."
Both Mara and Nakari reached inside the carrier containing lidded cups of mulled apple cider. Savoring the warmth and flavor with their first sip.
"Mmm."
"It's really good."
"Isn't it? Luke really knows how to make a perfect mulled cider." Biggs stated. "Speaking of which, here comes my co- driver now."
Biggs mentioning that name gave Mara a sense of unease.
"Isn't that the name of the guy you thought was the scary caretaker?" Nakari whispered, leaning in to Mara to ask. Mara nodded, concerned. Watching Luke coming their way, left Mara wondering if they would ever be heard from again if they went on this ride. "I'm sure it will be fine." Nakari reassured her.
"Ladies, there's no sleigh ride safer in this state than riding with Luke and myself. Why don't you ladies climb on in and we'll be on our way shortly." Biggs instructed while helping the girls climb aboard. Getting seated, covering up with the warm blankets provided in the sleigh. Sipping their mulled cider while watching Luke place a few logs into the fire pit, and grab a hot cocoa before heading to the sleigh. He stopped in front of the horses, reaching a gloved hand into his coat and pulling out a carrot for each of the two large dapple greys, giving each one reassuring pats on the nose while they chewed their carrots. Climbing aboard next to Biggs, he recognized Mara from earlier. Gazing at her before speaking.
"Don't worry, I left my ax behind." he teased. Mara rolled her eyes as Nakari turned to her and giggled. Making Mara smirk. Luke turned around, giving Biggs a nod, the horses began pulling them on their way. Down the driveway, and onto a trail beside the tree line of the property. The scenery was beautiful. The tall pine trees still green, covered with a dusting of snow contrasting against the trees with bare branches. An indigo sky dotted with twinkling stars and a bright shiny moon hung over the tree line as the two large dapple gray horses kept a steady pace along the trail. It was all so scenic Mara forgot about worrying and enjoyed the view.
"So ladies, how are you liking it so far? " Luke asked, looking at them from over his shoulder.
"Its beautiful." Nakari stated.
"Nice. Not at all scary." Mara quipped.
Luke chuckled, replying, " I'm glad to hear it."
"I was just telling the girls that you made the cider they're enjoying." Biggs said.
"My brother in law taught it to me in hopes of expanding my palette. I'm partial to hot cocoa myself." Luke explained, holding up his cup to show the ladies. "We haven't been properly introduced yet. I'm Luke. Luke Skywalker."
"I'm Mara Jade."
"I'm Nakari Kelan."
"Nice to meet you both."
"So your Leia's brother?" Mara asked hardly listening when he answered, "I am". Too busy trying to wrap her head around the idea of Leia, the most cosmopolitan, sophisticated, uptown girl she knew, having a wild, wooly mountain man for a brother. They rode in silence for the rest of the ride, taking in the beautiful scenery and trying to process the juxtaposition of the two siblings. Finally the ride concluded, stopping at the same place it began. Biggs climbed down, holding his hand out to help Nakari exit out of the sleigh while Luke, doing the same, helped Mara out on the other side. Nakari and Mara both thanking the fellas for their assistance.
"I hope I made a better impression the second time around." Luke said to Mara.
"You do make a lousy first impression." Mara teased.
"You make a fascinating one." He countered, smiling admiringly with a twinkle in his eye. Mara looked away, shyly smiling.
"Goodnight." she said letting go of his hand.
"Goodnight."
Mara walked a few paces behind Nakari and Biggs who escorted her to the fire pit before relinquishing her hand and returning to the sleigh.
"Looks like someone had a lovely sleigh ride tonight." Mara teased.
"He was just being gentlemanly, that's all."
"Or maybe he was flirting with you. "
"Like how Luke was flirting with you."
"He did mention that I made a fascinating first impression."
Nakari made an ooh sound in a sing-songy voice while nudging her with an elbow. The two shared a laugh. Nakari began contemplating the idea of her and Biggs.
"Could you imagine, me a city slicker, dating someone from the country ?"
"You could do a lot worse."
"And have."
Just then, Jaina came walking up to the fire pit holding hands with her boyfriend, Jag.
"Hey lovebirds."
The couple waved their hellos.
"Did you guys enjoy the sleigh ride?" Jaina asked.
"Yes it was nice."
"We made it back in one piece." Mara remarked.
"Don't mind her." Nakari explained, adding "She mistook your uncle for an axe murderer."
"Oh he might be a little rough around the edges but underneath that scruffy exterior Uncle Luke is just an old softie."
"Besides, I doubt hot chocolate with marshmallows would be the preferred drink of an axe murderer." Jag quipped.
"You never know." Mara bantered.
"Will you be attending the Snow Ball ?" Jaina asked.
"Wouldn't miss it." Mara said.
"I've already picked out a dress," Nakari said, adding "and maybe, I might even have a date." she said glancing in Biggs' direction. Causing Biggs to smile at her in return.
"Remind me again, which one is the Snow Ball?" Jag asked.
"Its the fundraiser we'll be attending in two weeks. The money goes to a foundation that gives grants to various youth groups and programs."
"Like the ballet academy." Mara added.
"Yet another foundation whose board on which mom is a member." Jaina explained.
"Hey, Jaina, Jag, You two ready to go for a ride?" Luke called to them from beside the sleigh.
"We'll be right there Uncle Luke." Jaina replied. "It was nice seeing you, Mara."
"You too dear. Jag." Mara said.
"I'll put in a good word for you with Biggs, Nakari. "
"Thanks Jaina. Enjoy your sleigh ride." Nakari wished as the young couple went on their way.
"So you think Biggs will go with you to the Ball?" Mara asked.
"In a way. If I ask Leia to invite him to the ball, then technically we will be at the Ball together." Nakari surmised.
"That's one way to go about it. They should be announcing the auction winners about now. Lets go see if any of our bids won."
*********************************************************
"I'm so glad the tutus and tights arrived finally." Nakari said to Mara during their video chat.
"Right? With just a week to go. The dancers have made great progress learning the choreography. I think they could dance it in their sleep." Mara replied.
"I don't doubt it. Have the parent volunteers started arranging set pieces on the stage yet?"
"No, not yet. I have the volunteers scheduled to get the props out of storage and set them up on the stage after the ball. That way I have all week to get it perfectly arranged before the dress rehearsal. "
"Have you got your gown picked out for the ball yet?"
"Yep. That reminds me, I need to pick it up from the cleaners. What about you?" Mara said.
"I may have bought a new gown." Nakari admitted.
"Trying to impress Biggs?"
"Maybe. If he accepts Leia's invitation."
"I'm sure he will."
"I hope so. If Biggs and I do pair off, will you be ok. I dont want to leave you by yourself."
"I'll be fine. This isn't the first time I've been at one of these functions by myself. Might not be the last. You and Biggs have a good time. I better get off here now if I'm gonna get to the cleaners before they close. See ya at the ball."
"Bye."
Mara arrived to the Snow Ball via taxi, wearing her favorite dress. A floor length, long sleeved, form fitting black velvet dress with a grey merino wool wrap on her shoulders. She entered the building, signing the guest book before mingling with the crowd. She walked along the large round tables looking for the place sitting with her name card. She was pleasantly surprised to discover she would sitting at the same table as Leia, her husband Han, Biggs and Nakari. Normally she and Nakari would sit with the regular Joes and Janes, and not at the table with prominent benefactors like the Solos . She wondered if Jaina and Jag had gotten bumped to another table so Biggs and Nakari could sit together. Everyone at the table exchanged their pleasantries, and it wasn't long before the waiter was placing dinner plates down on the table, even leaving one at the empty seat. Mara wondered who else was planning to attend. Mara was enjoying herself as they ate and chatted. The food was delicious and the conversation was engaging. But she almost did a spit take when she saw Luke stroll up to the table, wrapping his arms around his surprised sister's shoulders from behind, giving Leia a kiss on the forehead when she looked up at him.
"Luke! I was beginning to wonder if you had changed your mind about coming. We would be honored if you would join us." Leia remarked tenderly clutching Luke's arms.
"Han, Ol' buddy!"
Mara stared, mouth agape, at Luke shaking hands with his brother in law. Gone was his scruffy mountain man look and instead was a neatly coiffed, trim-bearded man in a dapper tux. To her surprise, he cleaned up rather well. Who knew there was a good looking man underneath that scruffy exterior.
"We could use another guy like you at this table. Could be just what this get together needs." Han remarked as Luke shook Biggs hand before sitting down.
"You remember Mara and Nakari?" Leia asked. Luke nodded yes, exchanging hellos while shaking hands with each lady. Lingering a little longer holding Mara's hand, admiring how lovely she looked in that dress.
"From Jaina's dance academy, right?" Luke recalled, finally relinquishing her hand.
"That's correct." Nakari said.
"I recall attending a couple of her recitals when she was younger."
"Jaina was one of my most gifted students." Mara boasted.
"Not surprising, but talent without training is nothing. No doubt she had an excellent teacher to help hone her talents." Luke complimented.
"Thanks but I cant take the credit for her natural ability." Mara countered. The dinner banter continued as some big wig took to the podium, thanking the benefactors for donating, listing the various recipients of the grants and having the musicians commence playing music. People began getting up to dance in the center of the ballroom once the music began.
"Would you care to dance?" Biggs asked, standing up and offering his hand to Nakari.
"Yes, thank you, I would." She replied, placing her hand in his as he led her to the dance floor. Shortly after, Luke excused himself, wandering off into the crowd.
"Didn't think the kid would ever attend one of these things again." Han said. "Good thing you decided to invite him."
"I didn't invite him. He asked me if he could come."
"He asked to come?" Han asked.
"Yes."
"After all these years. I wonder what made him decide to attend?" Mara questioned, causing everyone sitting at the table to look at her with a "really?" look on their faces.
"What?" Mara asked, puzzled.
"He came to this event, for the first time in years, in hopes of getting to know you." Leia revealed.
"Me?"
"Yes. He finds you intriguing. I think he is smitten with you. After the auction, he practically grilled me and Jaina for information about you."
"Me? I told him off. We barely spoke after that."
"Well you must be one heck of a conversationalist, because somehow, Luke has returned." Han noted. The music had changed to a slow song, perfect for a slow dance. As if on queue Luke returned to the table.
"Mara," he began, "May I have this dance?" He asked, offering his hand to her. Mara contemplated accepting his invitation, but she was saved by the bell, in this case, her phone's ringtone.
"Excuse me, I have to take this."
Luke tried to hide his disappointment behind an agreeable smile.
"Hello? This is she. What? No, it what? How much damage? Well at least no one got hurt. Thanks for alerting me." She said ending the call, visibly upset.
"I'm sorry, I think I need to get some fresh air." She explained. She quickly got up and left the table.
Before Leia could ask if she was ok, Mara was gone.
"I'll go talk to her." Luke said, taking her wrap with him.
Luke found Mara outside standing at the top of the stairs, leaning against a column of the landing, staring off into space.
"Mara, are you alright?" He asked as he walked up to her.
Under normal circumstances she would've cracked a joke about how it figures that an axe murderer would show up at this moment, but she was too upset. She rubbed her arms for warmth, regretting leaving her wrap inside.
"The storage place, where we keep our set pieces, called to tell me there was a fire. All our set pieces, gone."
Luke placed her wrap around her shoulders, covering her arms. Keeping her warm was the least he could do to comfort her. He wanted wrap his arms around her as well, but figured it might be too forward.
"Thank you." She spoke, just loud enough for him to hear.
"You're Welcome. Were the items insured? Maybe they could be replaced?"
"They were insured so they can be replaced. But with the dance rehearsal next week, and the recital shortly after, there's no way the replacements would arrive in time." she explained with a heavy sigh. Just then, Nakari and Biggs joined them. Mara turned to her as they embraced.
"What's happened?" Nakari queried, Mara explaining to her friend, exasperated with the situation. "We will pull our resources and hopefully, the kids won't have to dance the recital on a bare stage." Nakari assured her. "Mara, we will figure something out, we always do."
Mara nodded, saying "If you don't mind, I just wanna go home, cry a little and start searching for a way to replace what's been lost."
"Sounds like a plan. Let me take you home." Nakari offered. "I drove my car."
"Okay." Mara agreed, turning to Luke and saying "Sorry. I'll have to take a raincheck on that dance."
"I look forward to it." Luke agreed.
" Thanks for a lovely time. I'll call you." Nakari said to Biggs as he and Luke watched the girls walk away down the stairs.
"Wish there was some way to help them." Biggs said.
"There might be a way to do just that." Luke said, continuing, "C'mon Biggs, I've got a plan."
Mara had spent the last 24 hours calling and surfing the net, trying to find someone or someplace with set pieces that she could purchase or rent at the last moment. She was frustrated, and exhausted. It felt hopeless but Mara had no intention of giving up. But she did feel the need to take a break, a snack break to be precise. Eating all her stressful feelings with some chips, gingerbread cookies, and chocolate bon bons. Her phone began to ring. She didn't feel like speaking to anyone but made an exception, since it was Nakari.
"Hey Nakari."
"Hey Mara, You are never gonna guess who has offered to help with replacing set items."
"Who?"
"Luke."
"What, he knows someone who has set pieces?"
"No, he is the someone with items we can use as set pieces."
"How so?"
"Remember all the Christmas decorations in the barn at the silent auction?"
"Yeah."
"He said we could use those and any other decorations he had that could help."
"Really?"
"Yes! Isn't it great?"
"Wow, he is a real lifesaver."
"As opposed to an axe killer?"
"Perhaps I was mistaken. I'll go over there first thing in the morning, see what he's got."
"Tell him I said thanks."
"I will, bye."
"Bye."
Mara pulled into the long drive way of the Skywalker Ranch late in the afternoon, after spending all morning on the phone with the storage facility's insurance company. Their representative had surveyed the damage and was going to write a check to pay for it. That, plus the money from the academy's insurance would guarantee that next year's sets would be new and spectacular. But for this year, the academy would use items donated by the Skywalker Ranch. Mara was anxious to see what items they had available that could be used for the recital. Getting out of the car Mara jokingly hoped this wasn't some ruse to get her out here alone and hack her into pieces. Walking towards the front of the house, Mara was greeted by Luke, opening the front door and stepping out to meet her.
"Hi Mara, glad you could make it."
"Hello Luke."
"Let's go take a look at the holiday decorations you might want to use for the recital."
"Okay."
"The shed where we keep stuff is this way. Just beyond the stables."
"Lead the way." Mara said, following his lead. "So the horses that pulled the sleigh at the fundraiser, is that where you keep them?"
"Yes. Would you like to see them?"
"Sure."
Walking up to the barn, Luke slid the stable doors opened, gesturing for her to enter inside. Mara was surprised that it was heated inside. It was well lit and the aisle was paved. The dapple greys watched the two humans approach them. Luke began to pet one on its nose. Mara was impressed with how big they were, and how beautiful.
"May I?" Mara asked, holding her hand near the other horse's nose.
"Sure. Don't worry, they like it." He explained, while petting his horse. "See, nice and gentle." He instructed.
"They're beautiful."
"Aren't they? Don't tell the other horses," he whispered, "but these two are my favorites." he admitted.
"I take it your niece and nephews like to ride?"
"Not as often as they used to when they were younger, but they love riding whenever they come here to visit."
"I just never pictured Leia being a country girl."
"She isn't. See, our mom died when we were born." Luke began.
"You mean you and Leia are twins?" Mara inquired.
Luke nodded yes, before continuing. " Our father was unable to care for us. So we were adopted. Divided up between our metropolitan godparents and our country uncle and aunt. She grew up in the city and I was raised here on the farm."
"Hence the different maiden name."
Luke nodded yes. Mara began shaking her head, surprised she and Luke had something in common.
"What?" Luke asked at seeing her shaking her head.
"I was adopted too."
"Really?"
Mara nodded yes, adding, "I was more of a ward than a daughter. Wielded like a secret weapon whenever the old man needed to sway people's opinions about him. But he gave me a place to stay, a good education and encouraged my dancing."
They stood in silence for a while petting the horses before they exchanged shy glances and smiles. Then Luke, looking over her shoulder out the window, noticed it was beginning to flurry outside.
"We better get going to the shed, before it starts snowing any harder." He said, leading her out the stable doors and to the shed. Luke unlocked the shed door for Mara walk inside. It was large space crammed full of various decorations and such for all kinds of events and occasions. The Christmas stuff was at the front and there was plenty she could use.
"How are we gonna get it to the community center?" she asked, the logistics having slipped her mind.
"Biggs has a box truck he said we could use. Leia volunteered Anakin and Jacen to help load and unload everything."
"Does Biggs work here on the farm?"
"No. He's my neighbor from the next farm over. We've been friends since we were kids. We lend things to each other if need be. He lent me the sleigh the other night too. "
"Will using his truck be added to the overall rental cost? Maybe insurance can cover the cost."
"There's no charge. Think of this as volunteer work. Besides I can always write it off as a donation. "
"That's very clever, and kind. Thanks."
"Just pick out what you would like to use and we'll load it up later this evening for delivery tomorrow."
Mara walked along pointing out the various trees, giant candy canes, toy soldiers, plastic deer, wreathes, garland, lights and other decorations for Luke to set aside. She could hardly contain her relief, feeling like a kid in the candy store. Luke was making a much better impression this time around. When Mara finished, Luke offered to walk her to her car, which she graciously accepted. Luke opened the shed door to a white out. The smattering of flurries had become a full on blizzard. With all the things in the shed piled up blocking the windows, they hadn't noticed the change in the weather.
"Oh no, how am I gonna drive home in this weather?"
"You can't. You're gonna have to wait it out here. Quick lets go inside." Luke said, taking her by the hand and leading her to the house. Under any other circumstance she might consider Luke audacious for holding her hand, but she welcomed his warmth and his body buffeting the windy cold while she walked closely beside him.
"Let me take your coat." Luke offered, once they were inside the house.
"Thank you." Mara replied, slipping out of her coat for Luke to hang up in the closet. "You have a lovely home." Mara stated, looking around at the lovely décor.
"Thanks. This is the original part of the house." Luke explained, hanging up his coat as well. "We built the newer addition after Leia's brood kept expanding. Please, have a seat," Luke said gesturing to the TV room, "make yourself at home."
Mara went into the Tv room, taking a seat on the large emerald green couch. It was so plush and comfortable.
"Would you like something to drink ? Coffee, hot cocoa or a hot apple cider? "
"Coffee would be nice, thanks."
"You can turn on the tv and see when this storm is gonna let up, if you'd like, while I make our drinks."
Mara reached for the remote, turning on the local news. The meteorologist, who's forecast hadn't predicted a blizzard, didn't think it would let up any time soon.
"I don't think Jacen and Anakin are gonna make it out here this evening." Mara observed.
"I better call them and let them know to stay put till the weather and road conditions improve." Luke said. Mara tried not to think about the fact that she probably was gonna have to stay put until the weather and road conditions improved too. Was she gonna have to spend the night, here in the same house with Luke? While he was on the phone with his nephews, she decided to call Nakari and inform her of her plight.
"Wow, that was fast." Nakari teased over the phone.
"Its not like that. I would go home if I could but with the weather like it is, I'm stuck."
"So the weather outside is frightful?" Nakari teased, singing the verse of a certain song.
"Don't start," Mara playfully chided.
"But the fire is so delightful," Nakari continued their playful banter.
"The fireplace is not even lit."
"Since you've no place to go,"
"Nakari," Mara whispered-screamed, not wanting Luke to overhear.
"Alright, okay." Nakari conceded, with laughter. "If you want, I could call Biggs and ask him to stop by and check on you."
"Nah I think I will be ok." Mara said stealing a glance at Luke who had finished his call.
"Call me tomorrow, and tell me how things turned out."
"I will. Bye."
"Bye."
Luke walked over, handing her a cup of coffee.
"Thanks."
"You're welcome. The news report any change in the weather?"
"The storm won't let up until sometime late tonight."
"Well you are more than welcomed to stay the night."
"I wouldn't want to impose."
"It wouldn't be an imposition at all. You can sleep in Jaina's room. You can borrow a pair of her pajamas ." Luke offered.
"Doesn't look like I have much choice, does it?" Mara asked looking out the window at the snow coming down.
"Do you like chili? I can make some of my famous chili."
"Yes."
"Good, you'll love mine."
While Luke, excited about his impromptu dinner date, went to the kitchen to make chili, Mara sipped her coffee and wondered what she had gotten herself into.
Sometime later, the chili was ready. Luke placed her bowl on the end table next to where Mara was seated on the couch. He sat down on the other end of the couch, wanting to give her some space. That way, he could see the look on her face once she took a bite of his chili.
"mmm, delicious." Mara complemented.
"Thank you."
After supper Luke made some popcorn for them to snack on while they watched an old Christmas movie. The weather reports breaking in from time to time explaining what they already knew, that the weather wasn't gonna let up anytime soon. Just when the movie was almost over, the power went out, leaving them sitting in the dark. Luckily Mara's phone was nearby. She picked it up and turned on the flashlight, holding It upwards between them. Both of them shyly smiling.
"I will get some candles out of the cupboard. I'll be right back." Luke said, turning the flashlight of his phone on. 'Its as if mother nature is trying to set us up on a date', Mara thought to herself. Luke was back with a box, setting several candles around the room. He set the box down, reaching in to pull out a lighter to light each candle. Both of them trying to ignore how romantic their setting had become. He reached into the box and pulled out a battery operated radio. He turned the knobs 'til he found the right frequency.
"At least we can stay updated on the weather." He said. Mara turning off her phones light. Luke then turned his attention the fireplace, lighting it and stoking it to get the flames going. He stood up brushing the dirt from his hands. The man on the radio telling them what they already knew about the weather, before playing Nat King Cole's Christmas song. Luke and Mara once again exchanged embarrassed looks as they chuckled.
"Could I take you up on that raincheck?" Luke proposed.
"You wanna dance with me , here, now?"
"May I?"
Mara clicked her tongue and shrugged. "Okay." she agreed. He took her hand in his and spun her into his arms. They began to slow dance, nervously chuckling at the situation. They swayed in time to the music, nice and slow, with plenty of space between them.
"Apparently Jaina isn't the only skillful dancer in the family."
"I've been known to balter about on occasion."
Mara chuckled at his modesty. "Impressive."
"I wish we could've danced like this at the ball." Luke admitted.
"This would've been preferable to that phone call."
"You looked so beautiful in that black dress, I just wanted to sweep you off your feet. I even requested a song for us to dance to, if you said yes."
"So that's where you disappeared to?"
"Yep."
"I'm flattered." Mara said before Luke twirled her out and back again, holding her a little closer than before.
"You cleaned up pretty good yourself." she complemented.
"Thanks."
Mara beginning to feel flush decided to steer the conversation to something else.
"I noticed you havent put up any decorations yet."
"I don't put up Christmas decorations anymore. Usually I go to Leia's and Han's for Christmas. They decorate plenty there." He explained, spinning around with her, swaying slowly while pulling her closer still, leaving no room between them. The song concluded, leaving Mara and Luke standing there, embracing, staring into each other's eyes, their faces in close proximity. Close enough to consider kissing, but Mara reconsidered, concerned it was too soon. "I'm sorry," she said pulling away from his embrace, "but I'm feeling tired. I think I'd like to turn in."
"Sure, of course. Sorry."
"No. no, you're fine. I probably just overdid it today."
" Okay. I'll show you to Jaina's room."
Luke picked up two candles, leading Mara upstairs to his niece's room.
"Here it is." Luke said, handing her a candle and opening the door for Mara to step through. "The bathroom is right across the hall. I'm going to go check on the horses one last time before I turn in and bring in more firewood. Goodnight Mara."
"Goodnight, and thanks."
Luke awkwardly nodded at Mara as she closed her door, waiting till she heard his footsteps in the distance before locking it. Not that she was worried about what he might do so much as what she might be tempted to do. No matter how charming he was, with those blue eyes and that beguiling smile, she didn't think she should rush into things. Mara began opening drawers until she found pajamas she thought might fit. The top was tight in the bust area but she would make do. Peeking out of the curtain she could see snow still coming down and Luke trudging through the snow, on his way back from the stables. Mara closed the curtains back hoping he hadn't seen her. Getting into bed, she tried to make sense of how she was feeling. Admitting that this could become more than just a friendship. Luke, the scary caretaker, of all people, made her feel like maybe she could find romance again. Something she hadn't considered in a long time. Mara tossed and turned, trying to get comfortable under the covers and with her burgeoning feelings, when nature called. Grumbling while climbing out of the warm covers, she turned on her cell phone's flashlight, making her way to the door. Unlocking it and stepping into the hallway, she startled Luke who was making his way to the hall closet, flashlight in hand.
"Geez, gotta get use to having someone in the house." he said, with his hand on his chest.
"Oh, excuse me. Just headed to the bathroom." Mara apologized, trying to stifle a laugh. "Not so great when it happens to you huh?" she said as they both shared a laugh.
"Definitely the wrong season for that. I guess we're even now." He stated, adding, "I was coming up to get a blanket and to offer you one." He said opening the hall closet. Reaching inside, he pulled out a blue, fluffy warm looking feather down comforter.
"Wait one sec." he added, giving her the comforter and going into his room. He came back with another blanket, pillow and a tee shirt. She gave him a bewildered look. "Oh, I'm just sleeping on the couch to keep an eye on the fireplace. I thought this shirt might be more comfortable for you." He explained, holding out the shirt. "Its clean."
"Thanks" she replied taking the shirt. A few seconds of awkward silence passed between them before exchanging "goodnights", and retreating to their destinations in the house. Some time had passed for each of them as they lay awake staring up at the ceilings, warm and snug, making peace with their feelings before nodding off to sleep.
The next morning, Mara woke up to the smell of bacon. Unable to resist the delicious scent wafting from downstairs, she yawned, sat up and stretched, deciding to follow her nose to the kitchen. When she got downstairs she saw a plate consisting of an omelet and bacon, waiting for her in the kitchen.
"Smells delicious."
"Help yourself." he offered from the tv room. She took a bite savoring the taste. After a few bites she looked over at the tv room where Luke was doing yoga.
"You practice yoga?" Mara asked, surprised.
"Yes. helps keep me flexible. You should try it."
"Oh the stretches we do for dance class keep me very flexible."
"Really?"
"Yes." she countered, proceeding to get down on the floor opposite him, doing her stretch routine. Luke accepted the unspoken challenge, showing off the advanced positions that he could do. Encouraging each other to try the other one's position. Finishing her routine, Mara decided to finish her breakfast. Luke joined her in the kitchen pouring a cup of coffee for her and making a hot cocoa for himself. Mara reached for the cup and noticed a little stiffness in her neck and shoulder.
"Hurt yourself stretching?" Luke asked.
"No, I must've slept on it the wrong way." She replied, rubbing where her neck and shoulder met.
"Here, may I?" He asked, beginning to rub her neck and shoulders once she nodded yes. Luke's fingers deftly applying the right amount of pressure in just the right spot. Delightfully easing away the pain and tension. To her embarrassment Mara accidentally let out a contented moan. Which only seemed to encourage Luke's actions. She could feel herself getting flush but she didn't want him to stop. Biting her lip to keep from moaning again, loudly.
"Feels like you're holding a lot of tension in this area. You've probably been under a lot of stress lately, but you can relax now. With the decorations, the recital is sure to be a success." He assured, brushing her hair aside, gently pressing his thumbs further up her neck. Eliciting another moan from Mara, relaxing completely in his hands. Not only was he massaging away her stress he was massaging away her concerns about rushing into a relationship. Mara turned around to face him, his agate grey eyes staring adoringly into her peridot green eyes. His hands slowly moving up her neck to tenderly hold her face. They both leaned in, until their lips touched, soft and sweet. Intensifying as they lingered. A wave of warmth flowed through them, feeling so right, in a way neither of them had imagined experiencing again. They embraced, kissing passionately, oblivious to the electricity coming back on. The house phone began to ring. Luke had no intention of stopping what he was doing with the beautiful woman in his arms, deciding to let the answering machine take the call.
"Hey, Luke." Biggs voice spoke over the answer machine's speaker. "Just calling to make sure you survived the storm." He quipped. "If the roads are in good shape maybe we can load up the truck and head over to the dance school. Did your power go out too? I probably should've tried your cell phone instead, being as you're probably out checking on the horses." Biggs prattling on proved to be a distraction, rousing the lovebirds from their reverie. Smiling, they touched foreheads together, listening to Biggs drone on. Luke was gonna have a serious talk with him next time he saw him. Mara figured Nakari asked Biggs to call and check on them.
"Well I should examine the roads to see if they're clear before he sends the Calvary to ascertain my whereabouts." Luke explained. "I'll take one of the horses. Come with me."
"I don't know how to ride a horse."
"That's okay. We can ride double."
"Won't that be a strain on the horse?"
"Not if we're careful. Join me?"
"Let me get dressed." Mara agreed.
"Good. I will get the horse ready. See you outside."
Mara got dressed, put on her coat and boots venturing outside to meet Luke. He was standing at the end of the snow covered walkway petting a dapple grey horse. Turning to face her he gestured for her to come over.
"Is this of the horse I was petting yesterday?" Mara asked.
"Yes, this is Artie. Artie, this is Mara." Luke introduced as the horse looked at Mara, his big black eyes peering at her through long eyelashes.
"Hello Artie."
Luke stepped up the mounting block and straddled the saddle. He leaned over the side, reaching his hand down to help Mara up. She hesitated for a moment, nervous about riding for the first time.
"I'm really going to hate this, aren't I?" she asked voicing her apprehension.
"Don't worry Artie is gentle. We will take it nice and slow. Nothing will go wrong." Luke promised, stretching his hand out to take Mara's arm. With a deep breath, Mara stepped up the mounting block, reaching out and grabbing Luke's arm as he helped hoist her onto the back of the horse. She was glad her stretch routine kept her flexible.
"Hang on." Luke instructed. Mara clasped his waist. Gently tapping Artie with his heels, he directed the horse down the driveway, at a slow and easy pace. The farm looked picturesque all covered in deep fluffy snow sparkling in the sunlight. It was so quiet and peaceful, beneath a gray sky. The sound of Artie's hooves clomping through the snow was the only sound they heard as they headed to the road. Artie's breath quietly swirled out into the air along the way, adding to the beautifully serene scenery. At the end of the driveway, they surveyed the main road discovering that it had been plowed, sand scattered over it.
"Well I guess you'll be able to go home soon since the roads are plowed." Luke said sounding somewhat disappointed.
"Yeah though you still need to clear your driveway."
"I'll hitch the plow attachment to the Ford pickup and clear the way." He said, gently guiding Artie to turn around and go back the way they came.
"Why didn't we just plow our way to the road in the truck?"
"Last time I did that I got stuck in a snowy ditch. Had to go back, get the horses, hitch them to the truck to pull it out of the snow. Its just less hassle this way."
"Hmm." She said, finding his explanation acceptable, leaning her head on his back while hugging him closer. Luke smiled to himself when she snuggled closer. He wished it didn't have to end. Luke hoped when she left, she would want to return and share another kiss. At the house he carefully helped her dismount from Artie. "I actually found that relaxing." Mara admitted. "It was my pleasure. Maybe we can do that again sometime." He offered, dismounting and walking Artie back to the stables. Mara waited in the house while he attached the plow to his pickup. Taking his time so Mara would have to stay a little longer. Finished plowing the drive, Luke escorted Mara to her car. Mara started the car, letting the engine purr while Luke cleaned the snow and ice off her windows. Rolling down her window, she said,
"Thanks for giving me shelter during the storm. You made me feel right at home." She said.
"You're welcome and you made it feel like home." He replied. They said their goodbyes and Mara rolled up her window and drove away.
Luke was a good as his word, riding into the city the next day with Biggs in his box truck, full of Christmas decorations to set up prior to the dress rehearsal. His nephews, Jacen and Anakin assisting Mara and the volunteers with putting the decorations on the stage. The guys even stuck around for the dress rehearsal later in the day to help move decorations around so the dancers could dance about safely and with ease. When the dress rehearsal concluded, Jacen and Anakin waited to give their uncle a ride back to the ranch, since Biggs offered to take Nakari home. Sitting in the idling Land Rover they watched their uncle saunter towards them with Mara after she locked the center's doors for the night. The couple trying to make their time together last a little longer.
"I really appreciated you and your family and Biggs helping us today. You were a big help. I don't know what we would have done without you." Mara said.
"It was our pleasure." Luke replied.
"Thanks." She said, giving him a kiss on the cheek. "Will I see you at the recital?"
"Wouldn't miss it for the world." He said taking her hand and kissing it.
"Goodnight."
"Goodnight." He said, watching Mara get into her car and leave him for the second time in a week. He walked to the Land Rover, noticing his nephews beaming at him through the car's windows. Happy to see their uncle starting a new relationship.
"Look at you happy and in a relationship again." Jacen said from the driver's side, once his uncle opened the car door.
"Just goes to show ya, it's never too late to find love again." Luke boasted while getting in the passenger seat.
"What made you decide to take a chance with Mara?" Anakin asked.
"There was something about Mara, when I met her, that wouldn’t let me fear taking a chance again, with her."
Jacen and Anakin exchanged impressed glances in the rear view mirror. Smiling, Jacen drove out the parking lot.
It was the night of the recital and backstage was a whirlwind of activity. Mara, Nakari, volunteers, students and their parents all bustling about getting costumes fastened, with safety pins if need be. Making sure pointe shoes were properly broken in so they fit just right. Getting the dancers makeup just so and perfectly pinning hair buns just about into the dancers scalps. Doing a head count every so often to make sure everyone was accounted for, or was on their way. From time to time Mara peeked her head out to see the audience slowly filling up the seats, relaxing a little when she saw Jaina, Leia, Biggs and Luke. Luke gave her reassuring smile which she returned before retreating behind the curtain to the controlled chaos of backstage. In no time the curtain opened to reveal the stage beautifully arrayed with the Christmas decorations from the Skywalker Ranch. The audience didn’t seem to mind the new set pieces, too enthralled by the talented ballet dancers skillfully executing their artistic routines. Each segment gracefully performed perfectly to Nakari's flawless piano accompaniment. The last segment concluded, the dancers took their bows while the audience applauded. Mara came out on the stage last, giving the principal dancer a small bouquet of flowers and thanking the audience. She couldn’t help noticing Luke was no longer in his seat as she surveyed the crowd. She tried not to think about it, gesturing towards Nakari, thanking her as she bowed to the audience, before taking a bow of her own. Standing up again, Mara saw Luke out the corner of her eye, heading towards her from backstage with a bouquet of pink roses in his hands. She graciously accepted them from him, with a peck on his cheek. Inhaling their lovely scent deeply as he gestured towards her before clapping his hands. Eventually the curtain closed on another successful Christmas recital.
Luke opened the door for Mara, exchanging salutations as she entered the farmhouse. Closing the door before opening the closet and taking Mara's coat to hang up.
"You look great." he commented, admiring how the emerald green turtleneck sweater dress she was wearing accentuated her curves.
"So do you." She countered, admiring his white cable knit sweater with faded green jeans. She looked around to see a large Christmas tree in the tv room and lighted garland hanging throughout the house.
"You decorated?"
"I hope you like it."
"It's lovely."
"Come on everyone is already seated." he said leading her to the dining room where friends and family were gathered. Leia, Han, their three children, Jag, Nakari and Biggs were all seated at the table. A grand, delicious looking Christmas feast was spread out on the large table. They stood there admiring the ham, turkey, and various side dishes and desserts.
A chorus of "Wait, wait, wait." from everyone stopped Luke and Mara from going to their seats.
"What is it?" Luke inquired.
"Why, what's the matter?" Mara asked, puzzled. Everyone began pointing up above Luke and Mara at the mistletoe hanging over their heads. Luke and Mara began to turn red, upon seeing it, sharing a chuckle. The guests encouraging them with chants of "Kiss, kiss, kiss!". Holding hands and facing each other they kissed sweetly for all to see. The guests applauding the lovebirds. The gathering satisfied, Luke pulled a seat out for Mara to sit at the table, before sitting down next to her. Passing the entrée's around the table, chatting and listening, the warmth of the Christmas season could truly be felt. Everyone hoped to keep this feeling all year round.
The End