tempest-sun

[tempest-sun]

just a little blurb of what’s to come 🤭

[tempest-sun]

Diamond in the Rough Chapter 07

Chapter 7: A Whole New Galaxy Part Two

Warnings: Soft smut w/o going into explicit detail

Words: 3,407

Summary: Your night goes from sour to sweet.

Ch. 01 - Ch. 02 - Ch. 03 - Ch. 04 - Ch. 05 - Ch. 06

Raia is quick to take your place on the stone bench as she watches you with bright golden ringed eyes seemingly confused by your willingness to go with a complete stranger. With a little nod of reassurance toward your faithful companion, you disappear behind the silver metal door.

The subtle scent of Mantellian lemons greet your senses intermingled with the quiet hum of cool, filtered air filling the cabin. The soft white lights illuminate the space giving you an opportunity to glance around. Looking to your left, is the cockpit containing four well worn red leather seats. Two of them are in front of twin consoles. A mirror for the co-pilot which gives the impression that this is a ship that can be easily flown by one person.

Either he stole this ship from someone or he isn’t flying alone.

While the first option seems the more likely of deductions, something is telling you that he isn’t flying alone. The only question is, where are they?

Continuing your curious observations, your gaze passes over the row of four seats with crash harnesses folded above them towards the turret at the opposite end of the ship. You notice that a cream coloured curtain is tied to the side of the opening to it. A makeshift door?

Your suspicion that this man isn’t flying alone is all but solidified when you spot the four identical bunks on either side of the aisle. Skimming over each of them, they are decorated with various posters from Clone War propaganda to provocative pin up posters of women of varying species. You don’t know who’s bunk is which but they appear to have a particular fondness for a specific emerald skinned Twi’lek woman with sultry eyes. It doesn’t faze you in the slightest, as long as this isn’t the stranger's bunk. Otherwise this may get awkward real fast.

“This is a big ship for one person,” you remark, turning your attention towards the stranger.

He has settled himself in one of the pilot's seats. The way he has one knee tucked up against his chest with his other leg stretched out on the floor. He glances up at the sound of your voice, familiar honey brown eyes staring back at you. Before you can open your mouth, a gonk droid bumps into you. You make a surprised sort of sound watching as it lumbers forward with a bottle and two champagne flutes on top of it.

“Um, would you like a drink?” The stranger offers. The accented lilt of his voice is more prominent now.

Squinting your eyes, you have a suspicion as to what is going on but you want to be sure before you accuse him of anything. Nodding, you plop yourself into the copilot's chair. “Thank you,” you take the offered glass.

“Where would you like to go?” The stranger asks, deepening his voice in an attempt to mask his true voice.

You contemplate the offer. You are seriously tempted to take this opportunity to run, to flee, to regroup somewhere else. Perhaps an allied planet that would support you in your cause… The only problem is that you are sorely lacking physical proof. It would be just your word alone and the way things look, you would just look like a jilted royal wanting to avoid a political match. Any sane person wouldn’t want to liberate your planet based on a flimsy accusation. Besides, there is also the fact that the longer you are gone the higher the likelihood that someone would come looking for you which is the last thing you need.

“Anywhere is fine.” You sigh, hating that you’re between a rock and a hard place.

“Tell me Princess, when did you last let your heart decide?”

It’s as if this stranger has read your mind. Unfortunately, you don’t have a simple answer to his question.

“You know, I have always wanted to see the moons around Quantxi,” you say with a rueful smile.

“That I can do.”

Your heart skips a beat and the butterflies that have made your stomach their home reawaken. You would know his shy smile anywhere. As he is focused on navigating the ship towards the atmosphere, you peer out the large windows watching as twilight skies melt away to the inky backdrop of space. Your eyes widen at the infinite number of stars puncturing the black canvas.

“Wizard,” you breathe.

“Pretty beautiful isn’t it?” The man beside you says softly. While you’re transfixed on studying what’s in front of you, he is stealing this moment to study the gentle curves of your face and the way your eyes are wide with a childlike wonder. He is transfixed and mesmerised by your beauty under the starlight.

“Yeah, it is,” you pull your eyes away to look at him. His natural features are beginning to resurface under his facade. “Tech.”

The man stiffens in his pilot seat. Trying to regain some form of composure, he coughs, deepening his voice. “I don’t— who is Tech?”

You give him a look daring him to continue with the charade. He sighs. “You are correct. It’s me.” He gives up trying to hide.

“Tech!” You are on your feet in seconds, launching yourself at him to wrap your arms around him in a hug. You pull away, cupping his actual face in your hands. “Why did you do this? Why did you lie to me?”

“I wanted to give you this,” Tech reaches into his breast pocket producing the necklace that you thought you lost.

You take it from him, studying it. It has been kept in pristine condition. Your eyes well with tears. “Where did you find this?”

“Outside of Cid’s,” he says. “I deduced it had sentimental value so I kept it.”

“Thank you,” you tell him, your voice thick with emotion. You hand it back to him. “Keep it. To remember me by.”

“Remember you?” Tech looks confused. “I don’t understand.”

Reaching for his hand, you place the necklace in his palm. “After tonight, we can never see each other. The Prince, he won’t allow it.”

“The solution is simple, do not marry the Prince.”

You shake your head, brushing your cheek from the errant tear that has escaped you. “I wish it were as simple as that but it seems the galaxy has other plans for me.”

“What do you mean?”

You shake your head more vehemently. You don’t need to burden him with your situation. Nor do you want him to be collateral damage from the days to come. You have to do this alone. For now though, you are going to allow yourself this one final night of true freedom. “Please just forget I said anything. I want to enjoy tonight with you. Please?”

Tech reads your pleading eyes, he nods in a silent assertion that he is not going to push the matter further. He doesn’t know what has you so scared but he is determined to find out as soon as he returns to Cid’s. In the meantime, if this is to truly be their last night together, he wants to treasure every single moment with you. Starting with the tour he promised.

“Did you know that Ord Mantell has fifteen moons in total orbiting it? Fourteen of them appear to be all centred around Quantxi, the largest moon in this system. Ancient texts claim that long ago when the galaxy was in its infancy, that Ord Mantell and Quantxi used to be intertwined as a super planet. Apparently, when they split, the pieces that used to hold them together formed the rest of the moons. Remnants of once a powerful bond, now destined to be reminders of what could be.” He rattles off while he steers the Marauder around each of the moons, careful to not get trapped in their orbits.

“What a sad story,” you remark. You truly had no idea that was the lore surrounding the planet you call home. You just assumed that they have always been there since the dawn of time. Maybe they were and your ancestors came up with the best explanations they could. Who truly knows though? In a galaxy full of force wielders, anything is possible.

“I didn’t mean to upset you,” Tech says looking down at the console in front of him. He has halted the Marauder, letting it linger in front of Quantxi.

You swivel your chair to face him. “I promise you, you have done anything but.” Reaching out, your hand rests on his wrist. Your thumb brushes against his buttery soft skin. “You know, for someone who has lived here their entire life, you’d think that they’d know that story. Let alone actually seeing them up close but I never had the chance. Until now. To which I am truly grateful to you Tech.”

You lean forward as if a magnet is drawing you to him. Your eyes flicker down to his mouth for the briefest of moments before returning to his eyes signalling your intentions. Wetting your lips since your mouth has suddenly gone dry, you close your eyes pressing your lips to his. You pull back when he doesn’t react. Maybe you misread the situation? “I’m sorry I—“

Tech promptly closes the gap between the two of you. Where there were butterflies in your stomach, there are now fireworks when he returns your kiss that is full of unspoken devotion and desire. It’s his turn to pull away. His cheeks and the tips of his ears are a light pink colour. “Wow,” he exhales, leaning back in the pilot's seat.

Now that you’ve had a taste of his lips, you’re eager for more. Walking over to him and standing between his spread knees, you caress his cheek fixing a strand of his light brown hair off his forehead. Searching his eyes, expressing to him with all the things words can’t say, you lower your lips to his once more chasing after the sweetness that is undeniably him. His large hands come up to caress your sides while his mouth moves with yours. Instinctively, you straddle his waist. Your legs on either side of his thighs and your hands on his shoulders for balance.  

Tech’s hands travel up your back urging your chest to press more closely to his. Through the thin material of his shirt, you can feel his heartbeat thrumming in time with yours. Tentatively, you slip your tongue in his mouth. Unlike your previous dance where it was a fierce battle of dominance, the two of you find a comfortable complimentary rhythm.

Underneath you, you can feel his cock swell. The sheer size of it causes you to gasp. Taking this moment of surprise, Tech sits up pulling you even closer to his chest. He dips his head towards the smooth column of your neck. Your eyes flutter shut when he manages to find that sweet, sensitive spot right above your pulse.

“Tech,” you breathily moan, your hands coming up to tangle in his short hair giving the locks a gentle tug. A low rumble of pleasure comes from somewhere deep in Tech’s chest setting your heart aflame. You can’t help but rock your hips in response, gaining some much needed friction against your core. Cupping his face in your hands again, you guide his lust blown brown eyes to look at you. “I want you.” You tell him.

Tech’s mouth goes dry, his Adam's apple bobbing as he swallows. For a split second, he questions if he is dreaming or has finally slipped into insanity hearing that you want him just as badly as he wants you too. Searching your face one more time and finding nothing but the truth, he cups your face as well. His thumb traces over your bottom lip. “I want you too.” He says at last.

A wide smile forms on your lips giving him a quick peck on his lips before you stand up. Tech stands up too. He pecks your lips before disappearing down to what you assume to be his bunk. He returns with a soft powder grey blanket and a few pillows. He stretches the blanket out on the cold floor of the ship. He puts out the pillows.

“I know it’s not like your bed at the palace but—“ Tech looks down at the makeshift bed with a sheepish look.

You put a finger to his lips. “It’s perfect,” you replace your finger with your lips. Lowering to the floor, you sit in the middle of the blanket. “Are you going to join me?” You tease reaching your arms out for him.

Tech is quick to settle into your arms capturing your lips. Leaning back against the pillows, Tech hovers above you. He supports his weight on his one forearm to avoid crushing you. His other hand comes up to trace your cheekbones with his thumb. “Are you sure about this?” He asks to check for any uncertainty you may have about proceeding.

“I’ve never been more sure of anything,” you tell him, craning your neck to kiss him. Your hands trail down to the buttons of his shirt. One by one, you pop them open revealing more of his creamy light brown skin.

Tech shrugs his shirt off, tossing it in the general direction of the pilot's seat. “May I?” He asks, his fingers playing with the thin straps holding up your dress. You nod touched by how much your consent means to him. Delicately, he pulls the straps down your arms until they are free. Leaning up, you help him shimmy the rest of the dress off you until you're lying nearly bare under him.

“Oh Maker,” Tech’s voice has a husky edge to it as he takes in the sight of your body with the soft glow of the moon bathing it. He knows that he could spend eternity studying your form, counting every freckle and any other perceived flaws that you think you have. To him, it doesn’t matter. They are a part of you and your beauty transcends any societal pressures of perfection. He lowers his head down, pouring all the love and desire in his heart into his kiss.

“I love you.” Those three words are not enough to encompass how you feel but somehow they are perfect all the same. You move your lips with his, falling back into that natural rhythm.

Your hands skim further down his body to the waistband of his pants. You struggle a bit with the snap, trying to undo it with no avail. Sensing your growing impatience, Tech's hand nudges yours out of the way, easily finding success with unbuttoning his pants. Breaking the kiss and leaning on his side, he removes his pants letting his cock spring free.

Your mouth hangs open in shock at how large he is not just in length but in girth. To think he has been hiding this the whole time… this is truly your lucky night. Eagerly, you shimmy your undergarments down your legs desperate to have him inside you.

“Tech, I need you,” you plead with him. “Please.”

Tech blushes at how needy you sound for him. He is flattered by the waves of desire that are radiating from your mesmerising eyes. He can’t deny you nor himself for another second. He reaches into the pocket of his pants, pulling out a packet of synthetic second skin. “Even though the statistics are not in our favour for offspring, we cannot be too careful.” He explains, rolling it over his member.

“I agree,” you say to him. The admiration you have for this man deepens from how carefully he has thought everything out. “Come here handsome,” you pull him back on top of you.

He obliges you, carefully slotting his hips so he can sink into your warm, inviting heat. Aligning his tip with your entrance, he eases in slowly his eyes never leaving yours lest he misses any sign of discomfort from you.

Even though he is a lot bigger than what you have been accustomed to in the past, it doesn’t hurt. In fact, he stretches your walls in the most delicious way and you know that after tonight you will be ruined for all other men. Your moans weave together in harmony when Tech fully sheaths himself inside you.

Resting his forehead on yours, Tech’s golden brown eyes anchor you to this moment as he begins to languidly thrust his hips. “Oh Tech, right there,” you moan, wrapping your legs around his waist to have him even closer and deeper.

Tech lets out a moan of his own. The way that your walls flutter and squeeze around him are driving him wild. He is embarrassingly close to his completion when he wants to drag your combined pleasures out for as long as he possibly can. Maintaining the lazy pace that he has set out with, he derives his pleasure from watching you face contort with bliss with each stroke of his cock.

Never have you felt pleasure to the degree that Tech is making you feel right now. Between the tender look in his eyes and the way he fills you, has you nearing your orgasm. “I’m close,” you whisper.

“Me too,” Tech admits.

He keeps up an unyielding steady pace. His face is buried against your neck. His erratic breathing against the shell of your ear is the only indication that his carefully kept control is ebbing away.

“Tech, oh Tech, don’t stop, oh maker,” you chant as he begins moving his hips faster. You surrender yourself to the wave of pleasure that washes over you. Stars bursting behind your eyelids as you cum around him.

Tech is quick to follow suit, cumming hard with your name on his lips. His chest steadily rises and falls as he catches his breath. After a few minutes, he slowly withdraws his softening cock from you and rises from the blanket. You whine from how empty you now feel without him. Tech removes the second skin sleeve, tying it off to prevent anything from spilling out, and walking to the fresher to get rid of it.

He returns with another blanket in his arms. Settling in beside you, he drapes the soft material over your bodies. You snuggle up to him, draping your arm around his torso. He kisses your forehead wrapping his arm around your back.

“You’re beautiful,” you say after a few beats of companionable silence, tracing the constellation of freckles that cover his chest.

Tech blushes. “No one’s said that to me before.”

“Shame on them then,” you tell him. You sigh. As much as you would love to stay in Tech’s arms, you have to return to the castle. You’ve been gone longer than you should have but you don’t regret tonight. Reluctantly the two of you eventually part and redress yourselves.

Back on the surface of Ord Mantell, Tech helps you back onto the stone balcony outside of your room. Raia chirps, prancing over to you. Purring, she weaves her little orange striped body around your legs happy that you’ve returned. You keep your eyes on Tech, studying him since it will be the last time you ever see him. “I suppose this is goodbye,” you say, painting a brave smile on your lips.

Tech’s thumb brushes over your knuckles. He too is reluctant to let you go. “Not goodbye,” he shakes his head. “But rather goodnight.” He lifts your hand up to his lips. “Goodnight Cyare,” he kisses the back of your hand.

Your cheeks warm and it’s your turn to be a blushing mess. “Goodnight Tech.”

With a final press of his lips to your hand, he lets you go. You watch as he steps back into the Marauder and flies away carrying your heart with him. The tears fall freely now blurring your vision until he is gone on the horizon. Sniffling, you look down at your faithful companion. “Come Raia, let's go in.”

Unbeknownst to you and Tech, your farewell was not as private as you assumed it to be. Prince Jafan is still awake at this hour, plotting the next step in his conquest. The Omicron class space shuttle out of the corner of his eye had distracted him. Watching the intimate farewell, a sinister smirk curls on his face.

Thank you Princess for making this all that much easier.

[tempest-sun]

Diamond in the Rough Chapter 06

Chapter 6: A Whole New Galaxy

Warnings: None

Words: 2,472

Summary: You get a surprise offer when a stranger shows up to the palace.

A.N: Many many apologies for the length of time between Chapter 5 and Chapter 6. Between work and life responsibilities (and me being a bit of a perfectionist), I haven’t had the time to dedicate to writing. Now that summer is approaching, I will have more time to dedicate to bringing more content. For those that are still invested in this and for those that refuse to believe Tech is… you know… I hope you enjoy this chapter and I appreciate you for sticking around!

Ch. 01 - Ch. 02 - Ch. 03 - Ch. 04 - Ch. 05

As soon as you step out on the second floor landing, you immediately scan the crowd for Tech. You knew it would be impossible that he would be here but you can’t help hoping. You have to fight the frown from appearing on your lips when you don’t spot him. You’re so lost in this internal battle with yourself that you barely register Prince Jafan’s approach standing two steps below you with a smile on his face.

“Your Highness,” he says, bringing your knuckles to his lips.

“Prince Jafan,” You greet him hoping the soft smile on your lips is a sufficient mask as you let him lead you towards the ballroom.

With one more glance over your shoulder, you try to will Tech’s presence at the palace. Instead, you meet a pair of familiar brown eyes but they belong to an unfamiliar silver haired man with sharp features and a bullseye tattoo over his right eye. This time you can’t fight the frown that appears on your face.

This is what you get for allowing yourself to hope.

You allow Jafan to lead you into the ballroom, your body on autopilot. You look around the extravagantly decorated space. Apparently your mother has gone all out for your engagement ball. If your plan wasn’t already so precarious, you would be calling out her hypocrisy for this lavish spending when their people are struggling.

Your father’s crest hangs proudly on every second column of the ballroom reminding you of what you need to do. Especially when you realize that Jafan’s family banners are placed strategically on the columns in between.

He’s already taking over.

The thought makes your blood boil despite the jovial atmosphere that the band is creating. Their guests, nobles from across the Galaxy, funnel into the room. A festive buzz filling the spaces between the melody being played.

“Come, my pet, there are a few dignitaries that I would like you to meet,” Jafan places his hand on your lower back. You resist the urge to recoil from his touch, opting to nod and allowing it. You keep your head held high meeting these high ranking Imperial officers.

Time seems to pass at a Yavin snail’s pace with each introduction of those that the Prince is very obviously schmoozing. Your mind wanders away from the conversation of Imperial expansion to muse upon your fate and of course, Tech. You haven’t spoken to him in two days and you wonder if somehow you offended him or came on too strong. You don’t think you said anything out of turn but you’re worried that maybe he wants nothing to do with you.

Maybe he has a partner. Maybe he was just being nice. Maybe he just doesn’t want the headache that comes with you.

You wouldn’t blame him for thinking that way. An irritated sigh to your left drags you out of your musing.

“Sorry,” You say sheepishly. “What were you saying?”

Jafan’s thin lips twitch. You can tell he’s struggling to hold his annoyance in. His effort almost makes you giggle. “I was saying,” he says with a barely composed tone. “That General Dalton requested a tour and I will oblige him. If you don’t mind Darling.”

Yes! You internally cheer, placing a hand on Jafan’s cheek. “Of course, Dear, take your time. I’ll be here waiting,” your voice is tooth rottingly sweet. You remove your hand and look to General Dalton who is oblivious to the frostiness between you and your fiancé. “You’re going to love the palace. If you’re a patron of the arts, our gallery is my mothers pride and joy. You can say even more so than me,” you joke with a wink.

General Dalton laughs. “I do appreciate a fine mosaic,” he looks to Jafan. “You’ve got a keeper with this one. Make sure you hold on tight.”

“Oh I intend to,” Jafan smirks, something sinister lurking below the surface of those dark beady eyes. “Shall we, General?”

You keep the smile on your face watching them go. You never know if one of his advisors is watching for a crack in your facade. Once they are out of your eye line, you wave one of your handmaidens over.

“Your Highness,” Zio greets with a small curtsey.

“I need you to keep an eye on Prince Jafan during his tour,” you look around the room to make sure you’re not overheard. “In case he gets lost,” you add pointedly.

“I will,” Zio nods solemnly. She flits out of the room inconspicuously. You trust Zio, she is among the handful of people in the castle that you trust to be loyal to you and your cause.

Reaching for a flute of champagne to sip on, you watch the guests milling about the ballroom without a care in the world. A few of them have started to dance in pairs in the middle of the room. Your mother, with your sister at her side, talks to the various small pockets of Lords and Ladies. There’s no doubt she is trying to find a match for your sister.

Don’t worry, if things go to plan, you won’t have to marry a stranger. I got you—

“May I have this dance?” The man that you spotted from earlier with the bullseye tattoo above his right eye appears in front of you.

As the guest of honour you don’t have the luxury to say no to this stranger who is oddly familiar but you can’t quite put your finger on where you could have seen him before. It’s not like you to forget a face, especially one as unique as his.

“Of course you may,” you reply, taking the man’s arm as he leads you to the ballroom floor.

The man seems nervous because he keeps searching the crowd for someone. You glance towards where he is looking and you swear you see a thumbs up and a blur of platinum hair disappear into the crowd. The man shakes his head leading you to the middle of the dance floor. Your skirts swish around your ankles as you take your position in front of him.

The band strikes up the traditional melody for Mantellian Waltz. A dance you have done a thousand times before. Probably one you could do in your sleep. That is why you are surprised when the man places his hands in the wrong position on your body. You chuckle and take his wrists gently placing one hand on the middle of your back while taking his other hand with yours. You then lay your hand on his shoulder.

“Just follow my lead,” you say, stepping forward with your right foot. The man instinctively steps back. “It’s the same as any other waltz, just a bit more flourish.”

“In a traditional dance it is the male who should—“ the man begins before stopping himself mid sentence. “I should be leading this dance Princess. Not you.”

“Oh?” You can’t help the chuckle that escapes your lips continuing to lead the dance. “A stickler for tradition are we?”

“Not entirely,” he smiles wryly as if recounting a previous joke. “But it does not look proper for a woman let alone a Princess to be leading a dance.” It’s his turn to step forward this time causing you to stumble from the unexpected intrusion into your personal space.

You raise an eyebrow, looking incredulous that he is trying to push this. Stubbornly, you step forward to reclaim your lead before you retort, “Propriety is outdated. An old relic of the past is it not?”

“I’m afraid you do not have the luxury of holding such a notion,” the man says once again stepping forward causing you to falter.

He’s got you there. The little voice in your head pipes up. You’re not going to admit that to this stranger though. Your pride is on the line and you have a waltz to lead. “Perhaps through demonstrations such as these, we can change these archaic ideas.”

“Two people are not enough to change an entire system of traditions. Let alone in a single night. It’s statistically impossible.” The man steps forward again to lead the dance for the sake of decorum.

You are so taken aback by his continued arguing with you that you don’t pick up on the familiar vocal pattern poking through the façade. You also don’t register that you’re falling until you feel the cool marble floor beneath you. Humiliation burns your cheeks as a few gathered nobles now stare directly at you. You can hear the barely discreet snickers from some of your contemporaries as if they are echoing off the walls. Ignoring the proffered hand to help you up, you retreat out of the ballroom before anyone can discover the burning tears leaving scalding tracks down your face.

————————————————————————

Meanwhile, back in the ballroom, Tech feels his own cheeks heat up in embarrassment. He didn’t mean to make you fall, he was just trying to get you to see reason. He abruptly turns on his heel and strides out of the ballroom as well. However, he makes a sharp left towards the front door. He spots Omega with a silver platter of cubed honey treats on her lap. “Let’s go, we’re leaving.”

“Tech?” Omega puts the platter down, sneaking a few of the treats in her pocket before dashing towards her brother. Her slippers slapping against the floor. “Wait up! What happened?”

“Nothing. I may have made a few miscalculations, that's all.”

“What do you mean? I saw you dancing with the Princess, isn’t that what you wanted?” Omega snacks on one of the stolen treats looking at him curiously.

“Yes but I did not expect her to fall.”

Omega stops mid bite. “She fell?”

“A miscalculation on her part. She was supposed to let me lead.” He explains simply. “We should let the others know we’re  returning.”

Tech and Omega arrive back at the landing platform where an eager Wrecker is waiting. “So how was it?” He asks.

Tech doesn’t say a word and walks up the open ramp disappearing undoubtedly to his pilot seat.

“What’s with him?” Wrecker juts his thumb towards the Marauder.

“He’s upset because he blew it with the Princess,” Omega rubs the back of her head. “But, the night wasn’t totally ruined!” She digs into her evening bag producing a handful of the honey squares.

Wreckers eyes light up. “Are those…?”

“Yup!” Omega beams proudly.

The pair of them snack happily on the treats. “I have an idea,” Wrecker says, chewing thoughtfully. He strides onto the ship with Omega in tow. They spot Tech absentmindedly tinkering with his data pad. He always claims that there’s always something to fix but he would never admit that it’s an excuse to distract himself. “Tech! I solved your Princess problem.”

“I do not have a ‘Princess problem’,” a brief flicker of a frown appears on his lips.

Wrecker takes the data pad from Tech’s hands. He makes a noise of protest. Wrecker shakes his head. “If what our sister says is true… yes you do.”

“If you listened to our sister, then you would know I do not have a problem with the Princess. Not after tonight.” Tech reaches for his data pad. “Now can I please resume my work?”

Wrecker and Omega share a look. Wrecker holds the data pad out of his reach. “Not until you listen to my plan.”

Tech huffs leaning back in the chair with his arms crossed. “Fine. I’m listening.”

“Wow, you really are like Crosshair,” Wrecker comments. “Doesn’t he?”

“He just needs the toothpick to complete the scowl,” Omega giggles.

“What’s your plan?” Tech says with a small tone of annoyance. He just wants to sleep the serum off and forget all about you.

“To make it up to the Princess, you should take her on a tour of the planet!” Wrecker grins.

Tech, however, looks unimpressed. “This is their home Wrecker, they’ve probably seen it a million times.”

“But not in the Marauder,” Wrecker says slyly. “Bet you that your Princess has never been on a ship like this.”

Tech muses the probability of Wreckers statement. It is highly unlikely that you have been on an Omicron-class attack shuttle since your planet is not known for producing such a ship. The option of surprising you sounds slightly tempting but after what happened he doubts this would be a balm to the humiliation you felt.

As if reading his mind, Omega pipes up, placing a reassuring hand on his knee. “What have you got to lose Tech?”

“Statistically nothing but—“

“Then give it a shot!”

“Yeah!” Wrecker chimes in.

Tech looks between his brother and sister’s hopeful faces. His shoulders drop. “Alright, I’ll do it.”

“Yay!” They cheer.

“But first, we need to clean up in here.”

————————————————————————

Across the city, you are still in your outfit from the ball staring up at the moon with your communicator in your hand. Raia lays in a ball on your lap, her purrs soothing your frazzled nerves. You stroke her orange and black striped fur which calms you as well. You decided to get some fresh air before bed while hoping to hear from Tech. His voice alone could salvage this evening while you are still reeling from the audacity of the guy you danced with.

“Purreow?” Raia perks up looking towards the balcony edge.

“What the—?”

An unfamiliar ship rises next to the balcony rail. The door to the ship opens and the ramp extends towards you. Raia jumps off your lap and stands protectively between you and the ship with her back arched and her fur standing on end. She would be intimidating if she wasn’t so cute. Your chuckle is cut short when you realize who has appeared.

Speak of a womp rat and he shall appear.

“You again? You have some nerve showing up here,” you cross your arms across your chest. “What do you want?”

“I came to apologise and,” he takes a deep breath as if contemplating his next words. Especially when Raia growls. “Offer you a ride on my ship.”

“Easy girl,” you reach down to pet Raia.

You raise an eyebrow at the proposition, scanning the outside of his ship. You are tempted to take him up on his offer. His ship is not one you’re familiar with. You chew your bottom lip thoughtfully stepping towards him to get a better look at the ship.

Sensing your hesitation, he extends a hand to you. “Do you trust me?”

Your stomach flutters at the question. A familiar speech pattern that you’ve grown accustomed to coming from this stranger's lips.

Can this be? But how?

“Yes…” Cautiously, you slip your hand in his offered one, stepping up onto the ramp following him into the ship.

[tempest-sun]

A little snippet for the upcoming chapter of Diamond in the Rough ✨

[tempest-sun]

I just wanted to say how much I love your Tech Aladdin series <3 hopefully there’s an update soon!

I’m so glad you like it 🥺❤️ I am hoping to get an update out by Celebration! ❤️

[tempest-sun]

Not my usual post but in honour of Valentines Day tomorrow, I wanted to share a drawing that my wonderful friend Amy had drawn of an OC she made that was inspired by yours truly! I’m obsessed and it is too beautiful not to share ❤️

[tempest-sun]

I just wanted to say how much I loved your Tech Aladdin series :) I hope one day you might return to it, but I hope you’re doing well 🫶🏻

This message is so sweet and made my whole day 🥺❤️ I am hoping to get back to it soon!! 🫶🏻

[tempest-sun]

Forever and For Always Chapter 10

A/N: Well. Its finally here. I just want to thank everyone for their patience with me in waiting for this final chapter. Life got busy and I wanted to make sure this chapter was perfect and worth the wait. Without further adieu...

Chapter 10: The Happily Ever After

Words: 2,879

Warnings: None, just fluff. A brief allusion to childbirth but nothing is described about it.

Summary: The long awaited conclusion to Rex and Readers story… for now.

Ch. 01 - Ch. 02 - Ch. 03 - Ch. 04 - Ch. 05 - Ch. 06 - Ch. 07 - Ch. 08 - Ch. 09

5 Years Later

“Again, Daddy! Again!” 

Light-hearted giggles woven with the fresh summer breeze floats across the lake to the shore. You watch the scene in front of you from your spot on the spread out picnic blanket. 

“Again?!” Rex says with a deep rumbling laugh of his own. He stands waist deep in the cool water. He complies with the laughing child’s request and tosses him back into the lake. The boy, your oldest son Jesse, resurfaces with a smile on his face. He swims back to his fathers side.

“My turn! My turn!”

Cody, your second child, abandons the sand castle he has been building to join in on the fun. His blonde fluffy curls bounce with each step as he runs into the lake. You watch as he swims effortlessly over to his father and brother. Rex holds out his arms lifting Cody high into the air. After all this time, you are still amazed how strong Rex’s genetics are right down to the golden brown eyes that you love so much. Thus it was an easy choice to name your sons after Rex’s fallen brothers. It was the least you could do to honour them and what they’ve done for a galaxy that will never know their names.That way their memory will always live on.  

“Mommy! Mommy! Watch this!” Cody yells from Rex’s arms before he is tossed in the water. He resurfaces with a big grin on his face. 

Rex looks over his shoulder back at you. His tanned face is bathed in the soft warm rays of the summer sun hanging high in the cloudless blue sky. His eyes, no longer battle hardened, have several laugh lines surrounding them since you reunited all those years ago. That’s not the only change that Rex has made to shed his old life behind. His signature buzz cut? Grown out in golden ringlets that hang to his shoulders that he currently has tied in a loose bun on the top of his head. 

You shamelessly check your husband out. Your eyes skim down from his face to his body that has softened from having proper home cooked meals rather than strict calorie controlled portion bars. You didn’t think it was possible to fall more in love with him but everyday that passes proves that statement wrong. A familiar heat pools between your legs. If you weren’t already pregnant for the third time, you’d be begging him to put another gorgeous baby in you. 

Rex catches you staring, sending you a cheeky wink and blowing you a kiss. You blow one in return. You shake your head at his antics as he makes a show of reaching up into the air to catch your kiss on the breeze and then bringing his hand over his heart to lock it there. 

“My turn now!” Jesse sing-songs splashing Rex to get his attention.

You lay your palm on your swollen stomach hidden underneath a blue cotton sundress. You and Rex are set to be outnumbered by children in a few short weeks but you’re not worried at all. Parenthood has been a breeze so far and you couldn’t have asked for a better partner or father of your children. You thank your lucky stars everyday that you and Rex found each other. The sound of splashing breaks you out of your thoughts. You look up to see your three boys making their way back to the beach. Jesse and Cody’s puffed curls now lay flat and plastered down on their heads from the weight of the water. 

“Mama! Did you see that? I flew so high.” Jesse plunks himself beside you, water droplets landing on your skin. 

“I sure did sweetheart. You’re getting better at your tricks,” you wrap your arms around his little shoulders, kissing his temple. 

“Can I have a snack? I’m hungry.” He crawls over to the orange striped beach bag. 

“Yes but only one, I don’t want you to spoil your dinner.” 

“But mama…” he begins to whine, giving you his best puppy dog stare.

“Listen to your mother,” Rex smiles, ruffling Jesse’s hair. “And get a snack for your brother too.”

“Hi baby,” you look up at your husband tilting your head up. 

“Hi Mesh’la,” Rex cups either side of your face, leaning down to place a peck on your lips. 

“Ewwww,” Jesse sticks his tongue out at the display of affection between you two.  

Rex makes a playful huffing sound and gives you another quick peck. He reaches for a towel, wrapping it around his waist.He sits down beside you putting a hand on your bump. “How’s baby?” 

“She’s finally settled, thank the Maker.” You groan, stretching your arms above your head.

“Mama, can you open this?” Cody asks, holding out the wrapped homemade granola bar in his little fist.

“Course I can,” You open it for him. 

“Thank you,” Cody sits with his back against your belly as he chomps into his snack. 

“You’re welcome, and good using your manners.” You look around Cody to see Jesse sitting in the sand with his unwrapped granola bar in one hand and his tiny red shovel in the other. You can tell he is getting frustrated by trying to dig without getting his food dirty.

“Lovie, come sit and eat.” You pat the free space beside you on the picnic blanket for Jesse to come sit.

Jesse pouts stubbornly. “I’m digging.”

“I know bubba. At least give me your snack so it doesn’t get sandy.”

Jesse takes a step towards you when a rustling in the foliage catches your attention. You put one finger up for him to wait. The sound is getting closer and is heading your way. Whatever is coming is taking measured steps and that can only mean one thing… Imperials. They finally made it to the Outer Rim.

“Get behind me.” Rex’s voice is dangerously low. He’s picked up on it too.  

Carefully, you get up from your spot on the blanket. Reaching for Cody, you guide him next to Jesse.You stand protectively in front of them. Your eyes only deviate away from the direction of the sound to see Rex reaching into the beach bag. He rummages through it before producing a familiar shape of black metal. 

You look at him incredulous. “You packed a blaster?!”

“I like to be prepared for things,” Rex shrugs, pointing the blaster towards the tree line..

“For the beach?! Where the kids could have grabbed it?!”

“It’s set to stun.”

“Like that makes me feel better.” 

“Mama, what’s happening?” Jesse asks from his hiding spot behind your legs. He is holding Cody’s hand.

“Nothing my love,” you turn to squat in front of your boys. “Do you remember what we talked about if there were bad people coming to talk to mommy and daddy?”

Jesse’s lower lip trembles but he puffs up his little chest trying to look brave for his brother. “‘Take your brother and run to Cut and Suu’s house’.” He repeats what you and Rex have told him to do in this scenario. 

You wish you didn’t have to say that to him but Rex made sure to have a contingency plan just in case the Empire came knocking. The two of you would hold off the Imps to give your children and your friends a chance to escape. You know your boys would be safe and loved with the Lawquanes.  

“My brave boys,” you kiss each of your son’s foreheads. “Remember that Mama and Dada love you very much.” You look over your shoulder. The sound of footsteps are agonisingly close now. “And we’ll always be right here,” You point to each of their hearts. “Okay?”

They nod with wide eyes. You kiss their foreheads again before turning back towards the clearing. You keep your hands behind you with your palms on their little chests waiting with baited breath for whatever it is to emerge from the thicket of trees.

“You should go too,” Rex says quietly, his head slightly turned to look at you over his shoulder. 

“If I go, you go. Till death do we part remember?” You raise your eyebrow reminding him that you did not take your vows lightly. 

“So stubborn even in the face of danger,” Rex shakes his head with a tight smile on his lips. His face turns into one of concentration again with his eyes narrowed down the barrel of the blaster.

The crunching of the underbrush becomes louder as whoever gets closer and closer. You take an instinctual step back. Any moment now. You wait for the inevitable platoon of stormtroopers in their white shiny plastic armour to appear with their blasters drawn. Ready to rip away all that you and Rex have built without any hesitation. 

“Woah woah woah!” A deep familiar voice rings out. 

Two familiar figures emerge from the edge of the forest with their arms raised above their heads. “Don’t shoot!”

“Stay where you are!” Rex yells. His blaster trained on two of his brothers. Under his breath, he says to you, “When I give the word. Run.” His commanding tone leaves no room for argument.

“Rex, it’s us.” Wolffe says carefully. His gaze locks on to your little family shielded behind Rex’s back. 

“Do you have your chips?” Rex moves to further shield you and the boys. 

“We had them removed!” Gregor answers with a queasy smile on his lips. “See?” He lifts up his black curls from his forehead. Sure enough, a crude pale thin scar on the left side of his head where his chip used to be is proof that he is telling the truth.  

“And you,” Rex cocks the blaster pointing it in Wolffe’s direction. “Did you remove yours?”

Wolffe wordlessly moves his hair to the side to show off the matching scar. 

You breathe out a sigh of relief, the tension melting out of your shoulders. Your family is safe. The Empire isn’t here. 

“Do we run now mommy?” Cody asks quietly.

You turn and crouch down to face them. “No, no my darlings. False alarm. We’re safe.” You ruffle their hair standing up. Suddenly a sharp pain in your side causes you to gasp. Not now. It’s too early.

“You guys are dikuts, you know that?!” Rex crosses the beach to embrace his long lost brothers.  

“Says the one who brought a blaster to the beach,” Gregor lilts. “And what do you know, we’re uncles now!” He gestures to your boys.

“Mama?” Jesse looks at you with concern written all over his little face. It’s your turn to give him a brave little smile.

“Daddy! Daddy!” Cody yells. His little hand is on your arm. 

Rex turns to see you almost doubled over, your contractions stabbing you like a dull knife knocking the wind out of you. “Y/N!” He runs to your side. “What is it?”

“The baby. She’s coming.” You grit out between clenched teeth. Another sharp contraction ripples through your body. 

“This soon? Okay, okay,” Rex looks around trying not to panic. He switches into what you like to call his ‘Captain Mode’. “Cody, grab the blanket, Jesse grab the bag.” He scoops you up in his strong arms. “Gregor, there’s a pink house at the end of the street. Tell the midwife it’s time.”

“You got it, Captain.” Gregor runs down the path he and Wolffe came from.

“And Wolffe, you remember Cut and Suu? They live next door. Shortcuts through there…”

“On it,” Wolffe jogs in the direction Rex had jutted his chin towards.  

“C’mon boys, hurry now.” 

————————————————————————

Even though you’ve done this twice before, you are still quite anxious for the birthing process. You don’t know what to expect because with each of your boys you had vastly different experiences. With Jesse, you laboured for 13 hours before he finally made his way into the world on a cold winter's day. Rex likes to joke that Jesse was too warm to leave. Cody’s birth on the other hand was quick and easy. You barely had time to lay down when not even quarter of an hour later he was in your arms. Now that you’re going to have a girl? You don’t know which way your daughter's birth is going to go. 

You lay on your bed, already changed into a thin nightgown that won’t restrict you when the time comes. Cody sits next to you laying his head on your belly. 

“Baby sissy is coming?”

“Not yet but soon,” you kiss the top of his curls. “Why don’t you go see daddy okay?”

Cody slides off the bed and he runs out of the room. Another painful contraction rips through you. You let out a groan. Rex enters the room quickly joining your side.

“I think it’s go time.” The midwife looks up from underneath the sheet after checking your level of dilation. “You ready mama?”

You turn your head to look at Rex. He squeezes your hand in reassurance like he has the past two times you’ve gone through this.

“You got this my love,” Rex kisses your knuckles. 

You nod and you focus on controlling your breathing as you begin to push. The birthing process passes by in a blur. You only return to reality when the piercing sound of your baby’s strong cry fills the room. You flop back down on the propped up pillows, relieved tears rolling down your cheeks. 

“Congratulations, you have a baby girl.” The midwife places your child on your bare chest. 

“She’s here,” you sob in happiness. “She’s here. Our baby.” 

Rex snips the umbilical cord and the midwife takes the baby to clean her up. She returns with the baby who is swaddled in a white cotton blanket. She has a tiny little tuft of blonde hair on the top of her head. Rex’s genes prevailed again. “Would you like to hold her?” The midwife asks Rex.

Rex nods with teary eyes holding his arms out for his daughter. The midwife gently places the tiny bundle in his arms. “Hi there,” Rex says, his voice thick with emotion. “It’s your Buir.” He looks away from your daughter’s face for a moment to look at you, tears freely falling from his eyes. “Thank you Mesh’la.”

You watch him gently rock your daughter, your heart full and bursting with love. The baby lets out hungry wails. Rex hands her back to you so you can feed her. “I should be the one thanking you, my love.” You give him a soft kiss. 

An insistent knock on the bedroom door sounds. “Mama, can I come in?” Jesse’s voice is muffled on the other side.

“Me too!” Cody chimes in. 

“Come in my darlings!” You say with a wide smile. 

Rex walks to the door crouching down at eye level with the boys who are trying to peak over his shoulder. “You have to be gentle.” Rex tells them before taking their hands and leading them to the bed. 

“Is that baby sissy?” Jesse climbs up beside you once you are done feeding her and have adjusted your shirt. He looks at the baby’s content face. “I love her.” He lays his head on your arm. 

You melt at his declaration. Cody climbs up on your other side. He looks at your belly. “How did she get out of your belly?”

Rex chokes on his water at his son’s innocent curiosity.

“That is another question for another time,” you reassure him.

Cody leans up and he doesn’t seem sure about his new sister when he looks at her face. 

“Gentle hands,” Rex reminds him when Cody reaches up to put a hand on his sister's forehead. 

“What’s she called?” Cody asks. 

You look at Rex. You both had tossed around a few ideas for names but nothing stuck. You look down at your daughter's face, only one name appears in your mind. “Daisy,” you murmur.

“Daisy,” Rex rubs your shoulder. “I think that’s perfect.”

A few days later, you and your family have settled into a new routine. The baby shower that was originally scheduled has now been repurposed into a celebration of the new addition to your family. Soft music plays from the radio. The smell of food cooking on the fire wafts through the open window.  

You join Rex on the stone stoop that overlooks your backyard. Rex wraps his arm around your shoulder tucking you into his side. The two of you gaze upon your little slice of paradise. Jesse and Shaeeah are wrestling with Gregor on the grass. All three of their infectious giggles punctuate the air. Cody sits on Wolffe’s lap asking him an endless stream of questions from “why do you look like Buir” and “what happened to your eye”. Wolffe patiently provides explanations that are age appropriate while Cody looks at him with wide eyed fascination. Suu sits with Jek at the picnic table laughing and talking amongst themselves while Cut continues cooking the meat that he and Rex caught.  

“I love you,” Rex says softly, pulling you out of your observations. He places a kiss on your temple sighing in contented bliss. 

“I love you too,” You tilt your head up to look at him. “Forever and for Always.”

————————————————————————

Taglist:

@ems-alexandra ; @loverofclones ; @citrusdoll ; @graciexmarvel

@flyingkangaroo ; @eternalwaffle ; @mrsct7567 ; @maximalblaze

@julsbvb12

[tempest-sun]

Forever and for Always (Rex x F!Reader)

You have been in a picture perfect albeit secret relationship with the distinguished Captain of the 501st Legion and you both could not be happier. The universe has other plans and it has been winding up, throwing a massive curveball that has the potential to change both your worlds. For better or for worse.

Rated: M (Mature) / E (Explicit)

Status: In Progress

Chapters

The Elephant in the Room (05.18)

The Crossroads (05.25)

The Confrontation (06.03)

The Flashback (06.19)

The Transmission (07.09)

The Truth (07.22)

The Sound Heart Break Makes (08.02)

The Brand New Start (08.06)

The Reunion (08.24)

The Happily Ever After (coming soon)

[tempest-sun]

It is with a great sense of pride that I can finally introduce my OC, Elara to the world courtesy of @kiros_art (instagram) ✨

[tempest-sun]

✨ Coming Soon! ✨

Fate and the Wretched, the story of my OC, Elara Kipp, as she manoeuvres her way through a tumultuous and ever changing galaxy during the reign of the Empire. Featuring an array of familiar faces and not so familiar characters…

[tempest-sun]

Forever and for Always Chapter 9

Chapter Nine: The Reunion

A/N: Last chapter before the epilogue! As always, I hope you all enjoy <3

Words: 2,104

Warnings: Smut (unprotected p in v but reader is already pregnant but wrap it before you tap it)

Summary: Reunited at last, you and Rex spend the evening getting reacquainted with one another after months apart.

Ch. 01 - Ch. 02 - Ch. 03 - Ch. 04 - Ch. 05 - Ch. 06 - Ch. 07 - Ch. 08

“Hello Cyar’ika.”

You close your eyes. No. No. This can’t be possible. It’s just a dream. Another torment. You’ll open your eyes and he’ll be gone. Just like every morning. 

You open your eyes again. The Captain who stole your heart a lifetime ago remains in front of you. He is just like you remember, although the months he’s been ‘dead’ have deepened the lines on his face. He is still devastatingly handsome though. 

Taking a few steps forward, you reach out expecting him to disappear in a wisp of smoke. You tentatively place a trembling hand on his cheek. “Is this real?”

Rex closes his eyes leaning into your touch. His hand covers yours. “Yes, this is real. I’m here.” The warmth of his hand anchoring him to you. 

He has a faint outline of a scar on the right side of his head, only noticeable where his blonde hair hasn’t grown back. You can’t imagine what might have caused such a wound. 

Your heart pounds in your chest at the thought of what he’s been through. You missed him so much and the thought of him in pain makes you sick. 

This is too much. 

“I— I need some air.” You manage, leaving the Lawquanes. 

Rex watches dumbfounded through the open window as you walk down the stone path towards your home. This is not how he envisioned your reunion at all. 

Suu puts a hand on his shoulder. “Give her a minute. It’s been a long day.”

“I’ve waited months for this. I don’t want to waste any more time.” Rex decides to follow you outside. 

He can see your silhouette under the streetlights illuminating the street. He hesitates when you unlock the door to your home expecting it to swish closed behind you when you enter. But, to his surprise, you’ve left your front door open for him. He takes it as a sign to enter your home ensuring that the door is locked behind him. 

You stand in the kitchen with your back to him. Your shoulders rising and falling with quiet sobs. You hear Rex’s heavy footsteps as he crosses the room to you. His arms wrap around you and he rests his chin on your shoulder. The scent of your skin welcomes him home. You bring your hands up to hold his forearms.

“I thought I lost you.” Your voice is barely above a whisper. 

“I know,” he laments with a sigh.

“The reports—they said—” you shake your head.

Rex folds you in his arms holding you against his chest. He strokes your hair mumbling words that he hopes will ease your mind at least for a brief moment. 

He had told Hunter that being dead in the Empire's eyes had its advantages. While that was and still is true, it cost him your grief and your pain. His vow to never hurt you shattered amongst the debris of his old life.

“I missed you,” you murmur, listening to the thrum of his heart. He’s alive, warm, and safe. 

“I missed you too,” he looks down at you. “I’m sorry I couldn’t get to you sooner.”

You cradle his face in your hands, searching his eyes. “You’re here now. That’s what matters.”

“And I’m not going anywhere,” his thumb traces your lips, butterflies dancing in his stomach. He kisses you like it’s the first time.

You stand on your tiptoes to press your body against his to deepen the kiss. You’ve longed for him. You need to feel his skin against yours just to prove you’re both alive. To prove that despite the universe's best efforts, Rex is here with you. 

You look up at him through your eyelashes, giving him a shy smile. “Take me to bed, Captain?”

“With pleasure,” he smiles, scooping you up into his arms bridal style. He carries you down the hall, sneaking in a few kisses to your lips.

The soft yellow glow of the lamp on your bedside table is the only source of light in your room. Rex as he gently sets you in the center of the bed. He supports his weight on his forearms so as not to crush you beneath him. His lips haven’t left yours except to release contented sighs. 

You reach to the side to shut it off but he stops you. “Leave it on. I want to see you.”

You blush under his gaze. His deft fingers slowly undo the tiny buttons on the front of your dress. It falls away from your body leaving you in just a thin pair of panties. You feel self conscious in this moment, hyper aware of every new stretch mark and pound gained since he’s last seen you. 

“Beautiful.” Rex sits back on his heels to drink you in with a tender smile tugging on his lips. That single word melts away your insecurities.

You sit up on your knees, untying the straps of your dress, tossing your dress to the floor. 

“You’re way too dressed,” you reach for the hem of Rex’s shirt. He raises his arms allowing you to peel it off him.  

You bring him back in for another heated kiss, your hand curled at the nape of his neck. His arm encircles your back, pulling your bare chest against his. His one hand encircles your breast giving it a gentle squeeze causing you to groan at the contact. Your arousal pooling between your legs. 

With your free hand, you unbuckle his belt and let it fall to the carpet with a small clink. You fumble with the button on his trousers.

“Let me,” he breaks apart from you to help in your quest to release him from the confines of his pants.

Your mouth waters at the sight of him bare underneath the fabric. A far cry from the protective layers he usually wears under his armour. His cock is already hard, a bead of pre-cum leaks from his tip. 

He moves to ease you to lay down on the mattress but you stop him with a hand on his chest. He pauses. 

“Let me take care of you, my love.” You guide him with your hands on his biceps to lay on his back. 

Rex acquiesces, stretching his long legs out. You straddle his lap, reaching between your bodies lining him up at your slick entrance. He nods in permission watching you sink down on his thick cock until he is fully seated inside your tight heat. Your moans harmonize with his at the sensation of your bodies reacquainting with each other. 

Maker, he is breathtaking when he’s underneath you. 

You caress his face contorted in pleasure. Rex leans into your touch. The look of love in his brown eyes is fuel to the fire ignited in your heart. You’ve never felt more like a goddess than you do right now. 

Your fingers trail across his chest, mapping out every scar, a sordid tale written across his bronze skin.

“These are new,” You frown. 

“Nothing I couldn’t handle,” he brings your hand to his lips kissing your knuckles. 

You know he’ll tell you when he’s ready. For now, you’ll enjoy this moment and how you feel. To temporarily forget the horrors of the War. You guide his hands that are entwined in yours to rest on your hips, gently rocking yourself on him. You place a steadying hand on his chest over his heart finding a steady rhythm savouring the stretch of him. 

“Rex,” you breathe.

“I got you ner Cyare.” He sits up, claiming your lips in desperation. His hand cradles the back of your neck, his other arm secure around your back holding you up. 

You wrap your legs around him gripping his broad shoulders. This new angle he has you in hits that special spot deep inside you. He swallows your moans as your tongues dance together. He thrusts his hips up and you throw your head back. Rex’s lips latch on your throat, trailing open mouthed kisses down to your collarbone. You circle your hips against him stoking the flames coursing through your veins. 

“Oh, Rex, right there,” you moan, your nails lightly scratching his scalp.

You feel him smile against your skin. A red mark blooming on the sweet spot of your neck where he had latched on. “Gonna cum for me Cyar’ika?”

“Yes, please, don’t stop,” you grind against him in tandem with his thrusts. Sparks explode behind your eyes as you cum around him. The burn in your veins consumes you completely. 

Rex fucks you through your orgasm, resting his forehead against yours. His thrusts become erratic and sloppy as he chases his own release. “I love you, Cyar’ika.” He pants, his warm breath against your lips. 

“I love you Rex. So much.” You punctuate your sentiment with pecks to his lips. 

“I’m close.” He groans, holding you tighter to him. 

“Let go for me, my love.” 

His thighs tremble beneath you as he thrusts into you one final time, his cum flooding your walls. The two of you stay wrapped in each other catching your breaths.

Your limbs are like jelly when he eventually eases out of you. The two of you lay on your sides facing each other. A part of you is terrified that if you move your eyes away, even for a second, he’ll be ripped away from you once more. 

“I went to your apartment you know,” Rex traces your cheek with his fingertips breaking the companionable silence. “Seeing it empty… I thought that I’d never see you again.”

You brush a tear from his cheek. “I’m sorry that I left. I shouldn’t have given up on you. On us. I’m so sorry.”

“That’s in the past now. I never stopped loving you.”

“Neither have I,” you lean forward to kiss him. 

You feel a sharp kick in your ribs. The baby reminding you that it’s here too. “Oof.” You groan. 

“What is it?” Rex looks concerned. 

You just grab his hand and place it where the kick came from. “Feel that?”

Rex’s eyes widen at the sensation of another powerful kick underneath his palm. “Is that?”

“Yes, that’s your son.” You smile proudly. 

“My son,” he says in awe. He adjusts his position so he is eye level with your swell. “Hello ad’ika.”

Another kick and you can’t help but laugh. “I think he likes your voice.” 

Rex smiles, caressing your belly as he talks to your child. “Your mummy and I are very excited to meet you, little one.”

Your heart swells, listening to Rex murmuring in Mando’a. There’s no doubt in your mind that your child is going to be so loved. Rex looks up at you, tears streaming down his cheeks. “Come here love,” you open your arms, enveloping him in them. 

He wraps his arms around your body and you hold him. “I spent so many nights dreaming of this,” he whispers. “Dreaming of holding you in my arms again. When Jesse told me about the baby… I tried to get to you, I’m sorry I left.”

“Hey, hey. Look at me,” you tilt his chin up. “You have nothing to be sorry for. You’re here. That’s all I care about, the rest of it is stardust.”

Rex leans up to kiss you softly. “I’m never letting you go again.” He vows. “Speaking of which…” he extracts himself from you, moving off the bed. 

You crack a smile watching him search for something. “What’re you doing?” You pull yourself up into a seated position pulling the blanket around you. 

Rex crouches down, rustling around in the pile of your mixed clothes not answering you. He rejoins you in bed as quickly as he left, sliding under the blanket so that it covers his lap. He turns to look at you with a serious look in his eye, producing a small black velvet box in his hand. He places it in your hand. 

“Rex? What—?” 

“Open it,” he urges, biting back a giddy grin. 

You gasp, when you see what’s inside. Nestled in foam is a delicate silver ring with a square sapphire resting on top. You cover your mouth with your hand, completely speechless. 

“Will you marry me?” He asks nervously.

You nod. “Yes, yes, I will marry you.”

Rex slides the ring on your finger. Cradling your face in his hands, kissing you with the promise of eternal devotion. You match his passion in a silent pledge of your heart and soul to him.

Sleep easily finds the two of you as you hold each other. Your dreams have finally come true.

————————————————————————

Taglist: 

@ems-alexandra ; @loverofclones ; @citrusdoll ; @graciexmarvel

@flyingkangaroo ; @eternalwaffle ; @mrsct7567 ; @maximalblaze

@julsbvb12 ; @literallydontlook

[tempest-sun]

Forever and for Always Chapter 8

Chapter 8: The Brand New Start

A/N: So… the initial plan was to have this chapter serve as an epilogue but after a lot of consideration (and a sleepless night) later, I have decided to extend this story. So I’m expecting that there will be at least two more chapters. This story is my baby and I want to do it justice in a way that not only I would be satisfied with but you, my readers, would be as well. Without further adieu, I hope you all enjoy this chapter! Cheers <3

Warnings: None

Words: 3,155

Summary: You’ve settled on a new planet adjusting to your life with the help of your new neighbours as you prepare for the impending arrival of your child. A familiar face from your past arrives.

Ch. 01 - Ch. 02 - Ch. 03 - Ch. 04 - Ch. 05 - Ch. 06 - Ch. 07

The smell of freshly cut grass and the perfume of the flowers growing in your garden drift in with the sunlight through your open bedroom window. Sleepily, you reach over to the right side of the bed only to find it empty. You open your eyes. The dream felt so real this time. 

A pang in your bladder urges you to get up to start your day. You sit up, tossing the covers off your body. Getting up has been more difficult as you near the end of your pregnancy. You manage to swing your legs over the edge of your bed pausing to catch your breath. You flex your feet on the plush carpet peaking out from under the metal frame of your bed. You push yourself up off the bed with one hand and the other supporting your lower back. 

You make your way into the fresher that is right beside your bedroom to relieve yourself and complete your morning routine. You wash your face with warm water taking in your appearance. Your skin has a healthy glow from the fresh mountain air and your hair is longer than what you’re used to.

Your stomach rumbles distracting you from plaiting your hair. A prompt kick to your ribs follows shortly after. You tie the end of your braid with a black band, exiting the fresher. 

“Okay Baby, what’re we gonna eat today?” You rest your hand atop your prominent swell, making your way down the short distance of the hall to the kitchen. 

Your new home is modest, smaller than your apartment on Coruscant actually, but it’s perfect for you and your small family. From the living room with a small fireplace to the kitchen that leads into a garden shrouded by thick shrubbery it was exactly what you were looking for. It’s still a work in progress though to truly make this house a home but you are satisfied with your work so far. All the memories from your old life decorate the walls. 

The only exception being a picture of you and Rex the night you both confessed your love to each other that sits in a frame on your bedside table. Once the baby’s room is completed, it will find a new home there. The bedroom you’ve chosen for the baby overlooks the garden. It’s the room that gets the most sunlight and beneath the window are bushels of daisies that you’ve nurtured as a reminder of your lost love. 

This room used to be Dyra’s when you first arrived on the planet but she’s gone now. It feels like yesterday since she’s left to pursue her own path. 

“It’s better this way.” She had reasoned, unshed tears shining in her eyes. 

You hugged her, hiding your own tears. “Please take care of yourself.”

She squeezed you tight. “I will.”

Reluctantly, you had let her go. For the second time in your life you watched your loved one disappear on a transport to never be seen again. 

It’s been an adjustment living on your own but the community here has been nothing short of warm and welcoming. By some miracle, the planet you settled on was not touched at all by the War that has ravaged and consumed countless others. The Empire hasn’t turned their attention to the planet either which makes it ideal for refugees from across the galaxy to settle on. It also doesn’t help that it is situated on the fringes of the Outer Rim bordering on Wild Space. It makes for a quiet existence to settle down and raise a family.

In your village, there are several families that have settled including your closest neighbours, the Lawquanes. You had been introduced to the family of Twi’leks, Suu Lawquane, and her children, Shaeeah and Jek when the Marshall of the planet first showed you around. You had become fast friends especially after Dy had left and she’s been so helpful with calming your nerves about your impending motherhood.

You two bonded during nightly swims at the lake that’s behind both of your homes. It became a habit of yours in order to be able to sleep through the night since you’ve discovered it soothes your restless baby. Conversation is easy and you trust her with any information that you reveal. However, you purposely kept the circumstances around leaving Coruscant vague when she asked where you were from. 

“What about the baby’s father? Is he going to join you as well?” She asked, treading beside you. 

You looked down at the shimmering waves under the pale light of the moon. You haven’t spoken his name out loud since you’ve arrived, let alone told anyone about him. “Um,” you avoid her blue eyes. “He was involved in the War and he—”

His name and status in bolded letters surface in your mind. You shake your head to erase it. “I’m sorry.” You can’t bring yourself to say anything more.

“Take your time,” she nodded sympathetically. “Even though those who have left us may not be here physically, they’re never truly gone in here.” She points to her chest. “And you’ll always carry a piece of him with you.”

You had appreciated her willingness to not push you any further. You’d talk about him when you’re ready. 

Over time, she told you about how her family left her home planet of Saleucami just as the Empire began locking down the planet. She shared the struggle to obtain indentichips due to her husband's prior work with the Republic. Like you, she has chosen to be vague and now that you think about it, you have yet to meet her husband, Cut Lawquane.

Currently, he is away with a group of others from the village on a hunting expedition. The stores have been getting low and you’ve been told that winters here are not to be taken lightly. That is something you’re not particularly looking forward to since it never snowed on Coruscant. 

Just another adjustment. You tell yourself as you wash the dishes you’ve used for your breakfast. 

You mentally run through the list of things you need to accomplish for the day. 

Suu is coming over in the afternoon to help you with assembling the furniture for the baby’s room that was delivered yesterday. You were anxious for Dev and their crew to return from their supply run but thankfully they were ahead of schedule. 

You get ready for the day opting for dark grey linen overalls and a matching tank top since you’ll be working in the garden. You’ve been neglecting it lately because of the effort it takes to get up and move between each patch of the fruits and veggies you’ve been growing. Any extras you harvest, you’ll take down to the market since you have to go there tomorrow anyways. 

Tending your garden takes longer than you thought and you’re clipping the weeds when someone clears their throat. You look towards the door and Suu leans against it. 

“What have I told you about working out in the sun too long?” She helps you up.

You brush your hands on your thighs. You stretch your arms. “I know but it had to be done.” You move to bend down to pick up the basket full of your harvest. 

“Let me get that,” she picks it up for you. 

“Thank you,” you say gratefully. She follows you into the house, setting the basket on the wooden table. “You hungry? I can fix up some lunch for us.”

“That’s okay, I had something with the kids before coming over,” she sits in one of the chairs. “Go ahead if you’re hungry.”

After a quick sandwich and a cool glass of water, you sit on the clay tiled floor of the baby’s room. The silver crib and changing table is going to go well with the soft blue paint that you chose for the walls. That is, when it is all put together.

“Suu, I think this piece goes with what you’re putting together,” you hand her the metal in your hand as you look at the instructions. 

“Can I see?” 

You hand her the data pad. You lean back on your hands, blowing a stray piece of hair off your face. 

“So have you thought of any names?”

You shake your head. “Not really if I’m honest. I’m going to wait until the baby comes but I have a few ideas…”

“Shoot,” She takes a sip of her water, deciding to take a break too. 

“For a girl, I was thinking of my mothers name,” you tell her. “But I’m still undecided.”

“What about for a boy?”

“Well, I’m thinking of naming the baby after their father. Rex.” 

“A good, strong name,” she compliments, a knowing smile on her face. “Either way, you’ll know when your baby is in your arms.”

“Hopefully soon,” you rub your belly. “Alright, we better get back to work before I lose motivation completely and the baby ends up sleeping on the floor.”

Suu chuckles handing you back the data pad. The two of you admire your hard work from the doorway. She had arranged furniture to your liking despite your protests to help. 

“At least let me give you some credits,” you tell her, shutting off the light to the room. 

She waves you off walking to the front door. “I’m not taking your money mama.”

“At least let me do something for you.”

“You do plenty with taking care of my womp rats when I’m away, so don’t worry.”

“Still. Thank you so much for everything.” You hug her.

“Anytime,” she pats your arm. “Have a goodnight!”

“You too!” 

Unbeknownst to you, Suu rushes home, the pieces of your past falling into place. She switches on the holocomm unit hidden in her closet that’s used for emergencies.

Immediately, the man on the other end of the transmission picks up. “Suu? Is something wrong?”

“Not at all Rex,” she smiles. “In fact, I have some good news.”

“Yes?” 

“I found her.” ————————————————————————

Rex was deep in hyperspace heading toward his next mission when Suu’s transmission came in. He was confused at first, his mind immediately jumping to the worst conclusions. He was not at all expecting the next words out of Suu’s mouth.

“I found her,” Suu reveals. “Y/N.”

Rex’s heart stops beating for a moment at the sound of your name. “Are you sure?”

He had scoured the holonet for any record or news of you but there was nothing. He had even risked going back to your apartment on Coruscant only to find it empty. It was as if you never existed. That thought strangely made him feel better. If there is no trace of you, that means that you and his child are safe off the Empire’s radar.

“Yes, I’m sure,” she confirms, describing exactly how he remembered you albeit she is now heavily pregnant.

His eyes flicker to the ultrasound that he has hanging on the wall next to his bunk. Though he’s not a religious man, he would trace the shape of the baby with his fingertips praying to any Maker that would listen that he would see you again. Never would he have imagined that some higher power would take mercy on him and answer his prayers.

“I’m on my way.”

“I’ll send you the coordinates.” 

Dropping out of hyperspace, He sends a quick message to Hunter letting him know that he will not be making it to the rendezvous point. Hunter smiles knowingly and wishes him luck.

After burying his brothers and going his separate ways from Ahsoka, Rex had found his purpose again through helping people across the galaxy from the growing tyranny of the Empire. On each planet that he has helped, he would search for you knowing that he’d drop everything if he found you. Just as he is doing right now. 

He types in the coordinates into the navicomputer. No wonder he hasn’t come across you sooner. You’re on some backwater planet that he’s never heard of before. Rex engages the hyperdrive jumping back into hyperspace on the fastest possible course to get to you. 

The sun is already high in the clear blue sky when he lands in a hangar on the outskirts of the village. He left his armour on the ship instead opting for a simple tunic and trouser set. He puts a cloak on, pulling the hood up to conceal his identity. He doesn’t want to take the chance of being recognized and jeopardise his reunion with you. 

Slinging a rucksack on his shoulders and paying the hangar attendant, he sets off towards Cut and Suu’s home. She had suggested that he comes there first to work out a plan on how to best tell you the news. He agreed. He wants everything to be perfect. 

The village is surrounded and protected by an expansive forest of green spruce trees with a marketplace at its heart. Dirt roads spread outwards from it leading towards the stone houses that are spread out enough to allow for privacy from neighbours but not so far that they’re isolated from one another. Rex wonders which house is yours. Although he supposes that he’ll find out soon enough. Suddenly, he halts in his tracks, snapping his head towards the sound of your voice. 

All of the air is knocked out of Rex’s lungs when he spots you across the busy street. His dreams could never compare to the sight of you now. You look like a goddess, glowing in the late summer sun as you move from stall to stall a serene smile on your face. He wants to go to you, pull you into his arms, and tell you how much he’s missed you but he is rooted to the spot. 

No. It’s not the right time.

Putting his head down, he walks away using every ounce of his discipline as a soldier to do so. Narrowly missing being spotted himself when you turned around at the feeling that someone was watching you. You shook it off and continued with your business. 

Rex makes it to the Lawquanes knocking on the red painted door. 

“Uncle Rex!” Shaeeah hugs his legs when she opens the door. “Jek! Uncle Rex is here!” 

He enters the home behind the young girl, removing his hood. Shaeeah disappears to find her brother. 

Cut turns from his preparation of dinner. “Rex, old boy! Good to see you Vod!” 

The two men give each other a forearm handshake in greeting. “Cut,” Rex smiles. 

Suu emerges from their shared bedroom. “Rex,” she kisses each of his cheeks. 

“Suu,” he bows his head. “Good to see you in person.” 

“Likewise. I take it your journey was easy?”

“Yes, very much so.”

“Good because what we’re about to do will not be as easy.” She gestures to the couch. “Would you like a drink before we discuss?”

“Yes. Thank you.” Rex sits waiting until she joins him, sitting on the opposite couch. He gratefully takes the goblet of sweet wine from her hoping that the alcohol will calm his nerves. 

Suu sets her own goblet down. “So, I have invited her over to dinner tonight. I figured that it would be better to ease her into the surprise rather than spring it on her and cause early labour.”

He rubs his chin. “Does she suspect anything?”

“No, she thinks she’ll be meeting Cut for the first time.”

“She hasn’t met him yet?” 

“Nope!” Cut says from the kitchen. “We weren’t sure how she’d react, especially when we were beginning to piece together that she was in love with a clone. We just weren’t sure which one until today.”

“That makes sense,” Rex nods.

“Are you ready for this?” Suu leans forward, squeezing his hand. “We don’t have to do this tonight if you’re not ready.”

Am I ready? He asks himself. He’s dead, according to the Empire, what if you’ve moved on? What if he’s been so busy chasing the past that he hasn’t even considered your future? No. He’s come this far to not see this through. Every decision he has made has led to this moment. Seeing you today has solidified his decision. 

Rex takes another sip from his glass before speaking. “No, I’m ready.”

As supper draws near, the anxiety in the pit of Rex’s stomach grows. He had showered and had a small bite to eat which he is now focused on keeping down. He sits in the master bedroom on the bed, his hands steepled with his elbows on his bouncing knees trying to come up with what he’s going to say to you.

Suu knocks on the door before entering. “She’s going to be here any minute. Are you still doing okay?”

“Yes.” Rex whispers. He clears his throat. “Yes.”

“Don’t be nervous,” she begins, sitting beside him on the bed. 

“What if she’s moved on Suu?” He puts his face in his hands. “What if my return will do more harm than good to her?”

She takes his hands in hers. “Listen to me Rex. In the short time that I’ve known her, I can tell that you are the love of her life just as she is yours. The universe has gifted you with a rare second chance at happiness. Don’t waste it.” 

His heart clenches at the sound of a gentle knock on the door. 

Suu rises, patting his shoulder. “Showtime.”  She shuts the door behind her leaving Rex to ponder her words.

He lays back on the bed rehearsing what he is going to say to you. They had collectively decided to surprise you after you’ve had something to eat and you’re in a relaxed state. They had also decided that in order to prevent the surprise from being spoiled, the kids would spend the night at their friends house. 

Rex’s discipline is tested for the second time today when he hears you in the kitchen blissfully unaware of his presence. This time it takes more of his willpower not to rip open the door and reveal himself now. He withdraws his hand from the keypad returning to his perch on the bed.

It’s almost time. 

An hour later, right on cue, he hears Suu’s voice on the other side of the door. “Hold on, I have a surprise for you.”

Rex jumps up from the bed at the same time she opens the door to the bedroom. She gestures for Rex to follow her.

Taking a deep breath, Rex steps into the living room. She is sitting on the couch talking with Cut. Cut stops mid-sentence and gestures with his chin towards Rex. 

Time stands still when you follow Cut’s gaze. The smile on your face drops and is replaced with a look of shock as you stare at him. 

“Rex?” You breathe, getting up from the couch.

“Hello Cyar’ika.”

Next Chapter

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Taglist: 

@ems-alexandra ; @loverofclones ; @citrusdoll ; @graciexmarvel ; @flyingkangaroo ; @eternalwaffle

[tempest-sun]

Forever and For Always Chapter 7

Chapter 7: The Sound Heartbreak Makes

A/N: Here it is! Chapter seven of what was supposed to be a four-part mini series! I am still in disbelief that we are here at the “end”.

I want to take a moment to say a huge thank you to all of those that have stuck around and shown this story some love. I appreciate all of the likes, reblogs, and comments that you have provided me and left on this story so far. Thank you so so much <3 

Warnings: Just angst. Lots of angst.

Words: 3,270

Summary: You attempt to contact Rex to atone for your mistakes. The Galaxy hangs on the precipice as the Clone Wars come to an end.

Ch. 01 - Ch. 02 - Ch. 03 - Ch. 04 - Ch. 05 - Ch. 06

Back on Coruscant, you are back in your apartment after your failed attempt to catch up to Rex. Pacing in front of your living room window that overlooks the city, you press the button on your communicator that will connect you to Rex’s encrypted channel. The signal light blinks steadily, giving you hope that this time you’ll be able to hear his familiar timbre. Your hope is short lived when your communicator beeps indicating that the signal has been lost.

Where are you Rex? 

For the first time since you’ve known him, you have no idea where his latest mission has taken him. The technician at the hangar wouldn’t tell you since it was considered ‘classified information’. He took pity on you though at your crestfallen acceptance of his answer, supplying you with a general timeline of when the 501st was expected to return. 

Under normal circumstances, you could wait a few days but the anxiety that has seeped under your skin will not allow you to relax. You need to speak to him now. So, you press your communicator yet again.

Isn’t this what insanity is? Trying the same thing over and over hoping for a different result? 

You groan, tossing your communicator on the glass table. 

“Still no luck?” Dy asks, clad in a large bathrobe, towel drying her hair as she joins you in the living room. She clicks on the small HoloNet transmitter sitting on the counter. Soft music begins to play.

“No,” you flop down on the couch. “He must be somewhere where communications are either jammed or non-existent. Ugh.”

“Don’t worry love. He’ll be home soon.” She opens the cupboard, searching for a side to go with the roast you have in the oven. “Should we make gravy or…?”

A sharp, blaring alarm cuts through the air causing both you and Dy to jump. 

“We interrupt your regularly scheduled programming with breaking news. We have just received reports that the Senate Building is under attack. We repeat the Senate Building is under attack. Separatist forces under the command of General Grievous have breached the Senate Building. More information to follow.”

The music resumes again. You and Dy just stare in silent shock. 

Something unreadable crosses her face. “I’ll be right back.”

You watch her disappear down the hall, her bedroom door swishing behind her. You pad over to the oven checking on the progress of your roast trying to calm your racing heart. 

Maybe this means Rex will be home sooner than scheduled. You chide yourself for thinking that given the seriousness of this brazen attack.

The alarm blares again and you turn up the dial so you don’t miss a single word of the latest report.

The reporter sounds out of breath. “We are receiving reports that Supreme Chancellor Palpatine has been kidnapped from the Senate Building in a stunning and bold move by General Grievous. The Coruscant Guard urges all citizens to remain planetside to allow the Republic fleet to defeat the Separatists. More information to follow. May the Maker bring the Chancellor back safely.”

The transmission ends. Down the hall you hear Dy’s muffled voice talking to someone. She sounds agitated. You go back to stirring the gravy when she re-emerges in the kitchen.

“Everything okay?” You ask her, hoping your tone comes across as conversational. 

“Oh yeah,” she waves you off. “I remembered that we had a new guy start at the diner so I wanted to make sure he knew how to lock everything down.”

She’s never lied to you before but why does she feel the need to? You don’t like where this train of thought is leading you. 

“Hopefully this lockdown doesn’t last long,” you turn off the stove once the gravy is thick enough. 

“Either way, the war might be over sooner than we thought.”

You awake the next morning to Dy watching the news with rapt attention. She is in the same spot as she was last night. Her hands are clasped tightly in front of her lips. 

“After a dramatic emergency landing, we are receiving confirmation that the Supreme Chancellor has been rescued and is unharmed. According to a statement by the Chancellors representatives, he was rescued by the valiant Jedi Knights, Obi-Wan Kenobi and Anakin Skywalker, following a brief skirmish with Separatist Leader Count Dooku who was defeated at last.”

“I wonder what the seppies are gonna do without their leader.” You comment pouring yourself some juice. “If anything really.”

“Grievous will fill the role,” Dy shrugs, casually. Quickly, she says, “I’m assuming.” 

Right. 

She shuts off the news. “Since Skywalker is back, did you get a hold of Rex?”

“No. I tried it when I woke up but I think he has it shut off. The signal light wouldn’t turn on.” Your lips tremble. 

Maybe I did push him away for good. Maker, what have I done?

“Maybe he’s in a debrief?” She suggests.

“Maybe,” you say miserably. “Or he realised that it’s over and wants nothing to do with me.”

“I doubt that,” she tries to reassure you. “Just give it time. That’s all we can do. In the meantime, I’m gonna pop down to the diner.”

“Do you want me to come with you?”

“It’s okay, I have some other errands to run and I don’t want to hold you up just in case you can get a hold of him.” 

Her abruptness does nothing to quell your suspicions. You try to not let her tone hurt your feelings either. “You’re right, I need to shower anyway. Have fun!”

You wait for the tell tale swish of the front door to close. Giving her a few minutes of a head start, you follow her. You don’t doubt that she is going to the diner but something in your gut tells you that she’s hiding something. Particularly since the diner is closed for the day. 

But what are you hiding? What are you up to, Dyra?

You watch her from across the busy street. She looks to her left and then to her right unlocking the door quickly. She disappears into the diner not bothering to lock the door behind her not to turn on the lights. Moments later, a shrouded figure in a wool cloak approaches the door. They scan the door, quietly entering the diner as well. You narrow your eyes in suspicion.

If she won’t tell me. I’ll find out for myself.

Determined, you cross the street avoiding being hit by speeders. You open the door to the diner just enough for you to slip through without Dy and the mystery person to be alerted to your presence. You guide the door back into place, adjusting your eyes to the dimness of the room. You hear hushed voices coming from the kitchen. Tiptoeing behind the counter, you flatten yourself near the order window to listen in. 

“… thinking?! The plan was for next week!” Dy hisses. 

You raise your chin, peeking at Dy and the mysterious figure. They haven’t removed their hood but you get a glimpse of their profile. You didn’t know she knew a Neimoidian…

“The plan changed.” The Neimoidian says simply. “We only got word a few hours before it happened.”

“And you didn’t think to tell me?”

“Couldn’t risk it given your living situation…”

What is that supposed to mean?

“Has that prevented anything before?”

He waves her off. “Regardless, the war is almost over. You’ll have to pick a side eventually. Us or the Republic.”

You gasp. Immediately you clap your hand over your mouth, mentally slapping yourself for what could be a fatal error. A metal bowl clatters in the kitchen. 

Dy raises her voice in a sneer, “You, of all people, doubt my loyalty? After all I have done? All that I have risked for the cause?! I suggest you leave now.” 

You make yourself as small as possible, wedging yourself between the caf maker and the waste bin. The Neimoidian walks right past your hiding space, the bell to the diner swings wildly as the door slams behind him. 

“You can come out now.” Your roommate calls out.

You stand in front of the window staring at her in disbelief. “You’re a Separatist?”

Dy leans back against the chefs counter, crossing her arms over her chest. “Guess the loth-cats out of the bag.”

“I would say so.” You clench your jaw entering the kitchen. “Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why didn’t you tell me? I thought we were beyond secrets.”

“I wanted to tell you! I swear I did! But…” she shifts her weight from one foot to another. 

You cross your arms as well. “But what?”

She wrings her hands, pursing her lips. “You started seeing Rex. You were so happy, I just couldn’t bring myself to tell you.”

“Because you couldn’t trust me? Is that it? You were that worried that I would run to Rex and tell him ‘hey my roommate is a Separatist, come take her away’?!” Your voice raises with each question.

Dy rubs her fingers through her hair. “No! It’s nothing like that!”

“Then what was it like then?! I thought we were sisters!”

“We are!” Dy yells. You both face each other, your chests heaving from your outburst. She drops her shoulders. “I didn’t want you to get hurt.” Her voice shakes with emotion. 

You soften your gaze slightly. “That doesn’t change the fact that you have chosen to align yourself with them.” 

“I know,” she looks down at the floor. “What’re you going to do?”

You furrow your eyebrows together at the implication of her question. “I’m not going to report you if that’s your concern.”

“Thank you,” she visibly relaxes. “It means a lot to me.”

“Well,” you wring your hands. “Separatist or not, you’re still my best friend. I just hope you know what you’re doing.”

A few days later, you are tidying the apartment before bed when you see a flash of an explosion out of the corner of your eye. 

Another Separatist attack?

You watch in silent horror as the bright orange flames punctuate the thick plumes of smoke on the horizon where the Jedi temple usually lies. 

You inadvertently find yourself worrying after that little Padawan that Rex was fond of. Elara, you think her name was. You had met her once before when you’d dropped off some lunch for him as a treat. 

Watching him interact with her, letting her clamber over his shoulders and scamper around wearing his helmet, you realised how much fatherhood would suit him. He listened patiently as she animatedly told him about all the stuff he missed while he was away. That day she was bubbling with excitement because Master Yoda said that she’s going to be a great Jedi when she grows up, to which Rex wholeheartedly agreed. She scampered off towards the temple just as suddenly as she had appeared with Rex watching after her like a proud father. 

You rest your palm on the tiny swell of your stomach hoping that your theory will be proven true and Rex will be just as a good father to your child. 

When you awake the next morning, the fire at the Jedi Temple appears to have burnt itself out. The cream coloured clouds that blanket over Coruscant blot out the usual clear blue sky leaving the city in an arid haze. 

You had turned on the HoloNet transmitter while you picked at your breakfast hoping for some news but there hasn’t been anything which is unusual given the circumstances. 

Maybe it’s a lot more serious than you thought. 

“Apparently, Chancellor Palpatine is making a speech today to address what happened. All citizens are urged to attend.” Dy scoffs. 

“What time?” 

“Midday.” 

“Let me get changed and we’ll go.”

A crowd has gathered in the courtyard outside of the Senate building to hear the Supreme Chancellor’s speech to address the events over the past couple of days. You and Dy stand side by side at the fringes of Coruscanti citizens waiting for much needed answers. Silence befalls the crowd when the holoprojector comes on. The blue, grainy image of a hooded figure looms over the crowd. 

“Is that the Supreme Chancellor?” someone whispers but is immediately shushed.

The hooded figure begins to speak.

“Citizens of the civilised galaxy, on this day we mark a transition. For a thousand years, the Republic stood as the crowning achievement of civilised beings. But there were those who would set us against one another, and we took up arms to defend our way of life against the Separatists. In so doing, we never suspected that the greatest threat came from within.”

You furrow your eyebrows in confusion, listening to the Chancellor spin the tale that it was the Jedi who were conspiring with Count Dooku and were the ones who fabricated the Clone Wars to covertly destroy the Republic. 

Out of the corner of your eye, you notice the red armour of the Coruscant guards standing around the crowd. To keep the crowd from getting too unruly? To root out Separatists? You cross your fingers that it’s the former. 

Palpatine continues to explain that there was an insurrection at the Jedi Temple last night but not to worry because the loyal Clone Troopers were there to prevent any further violence by the Jedi. Not only did they squash the Jedi’s plans on Coruscant but also on the planets they were stationed on. A sinking feeling causes your heart to drop at his next words. 

“The remaining Jedi will be hunted down and defeated! Any collaborators will suffer the same fate.”

You glance over at Dy who’s face drains of colour. Collaborator. Sympathiser. Traitor. It doesn’t make a difference in this new Empire.

“We need to get out of here,” Dy says in your ear. 

You shake your head. “We can’t,” you tilt your head towards the blocked avenues of escape. “Not yet.”

There is a mixed reaction amongst the crowd at the declaration that the Republic will be reformed into the Galactic Empire under one law, one language, and one “enlightened” ruler in office for life with a successor being appointed by the previous ruler. In addition, there will be appointed governors across the galaxy stationed on senatorial planets to prevent corruption which you can’t imagine the senators inside the senate building are too pleased about.

“Let the enemies of the Empire take heed: Those who challenge Imperial resolve will be crushed.” 

You shiver despite the heat of the day at the newly self-appointed Emperor Palpatine’s menacing promise. You listen as he implores the crowd that it is their Imperial duty to spread the word of this new Empire through joining the new Imperial Starfleet. But what about the clones?

“The clone troopers, proudly wearing the name of Imperial stormtroopers, have tackled the dangerous work of fighting our enemies on the front lines. Many have died in their devotion to the Empire. Imperial citizens would do well to remember their example.”

You stand on your tiptoes watching two of the  Corrie guards unveil a 60” x 20” clear screen with blue Aurebesh scrawl on it.

In Memoriam. Your heart lurches. 

Emperor Palpatine's speech concludes with the promise of ten thousand years of peace starting today. The holoprojector shuts off and the crowd slowly begins to disperse discussing what they’ve just heard. Like a magnet pulling you in, your feet carry you towards the memorial.

“Excuse me,” you push past a couple standing just in front of the screen. You scan the list of names desperately. Please be alive. Please be alive. Please—

COMMANDER REX. 501st DIVISION. DECEASED. 

No. No. No. No. No. 

The world stops spinning, suspending this horrifying moment in time. Your mouth goes dry. Your ears begin to ring. You blink a few times, willing the name to change. White hot tears burn your lower lashes when the 

I need to get out of here. 

You turn and weave your way blindly through the now chanting crowd. 

Safety, Security, Justice, and Peace! 

Safety, Security, Justice, and Peace! 

Safety, Security, Justice, and Peace!

You break through the swarm of bodies emerging on the sidewalk. You dash down the street oblivious to the strange looks that you’re surely receiving. You stumble into an alleyway, your legs threatening to give out. You slump against a concrete wall. 

This isn’t real. 

Head spinning, you drop to your knees. You clutch your chest, a scream ripping out of your throat. 

“Not my Rex. Please.” You sob. “Maker please, not him.” 

You think back to the last conversation you had with him. The hurt in his eyes from the spiteful words on your tongue meant to protect him. How you wish you could take it back. Rewind time to fold him in your arms and keep him safe, warm, and loved. If only you had told him about the baby…

The baby.

A torrent of tears pour down your face at the realization that Rex will never know about your child. You had allowed yourself to dream of settling down once the war was over in domestic bliss. Instead, you were rewarded with your heart and hope ripped away at the dawn of this new era. 

Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.

You bring your knees to your chest hugging them. You bury your face in your knees so no one can see you cry. You screw your eyes shut against the sudden intrusive thought of Rex laying dead, cold, and alone somewhere. 

No. No. No. This is just a silly nightmare. When I wake, Rex will be here. Alive. Warm. Safe.  

You’re going to go home and he is going to appear in your doorway like he has a million times before. He’ll have a huge warm smile on his lips, his warm brown eyes will sparkle with adoration and love that’s solely reserved for you. You’re going to tell him the news and be a family.

Family. You were going to be a family. 

You hear footsteps approach you but you don’t look up. Maybe they’ll think you’re a vagrant and will go away. They don’t. 

“Hey.” Dy’s voice is gentle. “There you are.”

You just nod looking down at your tear soaked lap. 

She doesn’t say anything further. There’s not much that she can say that will bring you comfort now. What she can offer is quiet companionship as she sits beside you rubbing  your back in soothing circles. 

After a while, she breaks the silence. “We have to leave Coruscant.”

No. 

“Leave?” You turn your head to face her.

She nods solemnly. “You heard the speech. We’re not safe here.”

“We can’t.” You shake your head vehemently. We can’t leave, Rex is going to come back. He’s going to come back to me.  

“There’s nothing left for us in Coruscant anymore.” Dy murmurs gently. 

In your heart you know that to be true but it doesn’t make accepting it any easier. You swallow the lump in your throat. You know leaving is for the best. For all of your sakes. You have to protect the precious piece of Rex that you have left. 

You and Dy choose to take the last transport of the day leaving Coruscant and all that you’ve ever known. All of your memories packed in a small silver suitcase at your feet. You stare out the window watching the skyline change to ink as the transport ascends higher and higher.

You bring the pendant around your throat to your lips. “Goodbye Rex,” you whisper to the stars as you make your way into the great unknown.

Next Chapter

Taglist:

@ems-alexandra

@loverofclones

@citrusdoll

@graciexmarvel

@flyingkangaroo

@eternalwaffle

[tempest-sun]

Dominating Fives

Pairing: Fives x Fem!Reader

Rating: Mature/Explicit (minors DNI!)

Warnings: light BDSM (spanking, bondage, choking, etc) and mommy kink. Everything is consensual and discussed beforehand.

Word Count: 3,175

Summary: Fives has been under a lot of stress lately and you have the perfect idea on how to offer him some relief while fulfilling your own fantasies.

You find yourself waiting for your boyfriend with the lights off. Instead, the candles you’ve strategically placed around your living room and kitchen burn steadily. The aroma of vanilla calms your nerves for what you have planned for when Fives gets home. The keypad beeps and the swish of your front door signals his arrival. 

“Babe, I’m home!” He calls. You can hear him taking off his armour, setting each piece down with a gentle thud. 

“In here!” 

You can hear the pad of his feet on the carpeted floor as he walks down the hallway. “Babe, you won’t believe what me and the boys did— woah,” he stops dead in his tracks. 

You pulled out all the stops for your plan to take control for the night. Your outfit is no exception. Fives licks his lips as he drinks you in. His eyes trail from your black stilettos, up your stocking clad legs,  lingering on your black lace panties and matching corset before admiring your beautiful face. You had settled on a smokey eye and a red lip with your hair tied up to showcase your hard work. 

“Hi baby,” you give him your best sultry look. 

“Holy Kriff, babe, you look—wow,” he approaches you. “Wait, it’s not our anniversary is it?” 

You chuckle at his worried expression. You place a palm on his cheek. “No, I just wanted to surprise you.”

His face lights up again. “Consider me surprised but babe why?”

“I mean, I can change if you want…” you tease. His eyes widen as if to say ‘don’t you dare’. You laugh. “I just figured that since you have been so worked up lately that you let me take the reins tonight.” 

He groans, his cock stirring in his pants. “What do you have planned?”

You grin wickedly. “A magician doesn’t give away all their secrets do they?” You run your hands up and down his chest feeling the heat of his skin underneath his blacks. “But first, our safe word?”

“Domino.”

You hum approvingly. “And the colour system?”

“Green for keep going ; yellow for a break ; red for a full stop.” He says, his hands fidgeting. “Can we begin?” 

“Since you’re so eager. On your knees, soldier.”

Fives can’t drop to his knees fast enough. He looks up at you with lust filled dark brown eyes. You smirk down at him. “Good boy.” 

“Kriff Mesh’la,” he reaches for your hips.

You tut, smacking his hands away. “No touching unless I say so. Understood.”

“Yes.” He nods.

“Yes what?”

“Yes mommy,” he smirks.

“That’s more like it,” you cup his chin in your manicured hand. You lean down, hovering your lips a few centimetres above his. He closes his eyes expecting you to close the gap. “Get undressed and wait here.” You say instead.

He scoffs watching the sway of your hips as you walk down the hall to your bedroom. He peels off his blacks, tossing them onto the couch, resuming his previous position on his knees, leaning on his heels.

You emerge moments later, with a large box in your hands. “Naughty boy,” you quirk an eyebrow at him squeezing his cock. “Did I say you could touch yourself?” 

“No,” he drops his head shamefully. “Sorry mommy.”

You set the box down on the coffee table. Opening the lid of the box, you contemplate what to take out first. Calmly, you remove the black faux leather riding crop from its case. “On your hands and knees.” You instruct. 

“But—” Fives gulps. A flood of arousal causes his cock to twitch against his stomach. 

“That’s 10,” you tap the crop against your open palm. “Want 10 more?” 

He shakes his head complying with your order. You walk over to him tracing his perfect, taut ass with the flat part of the crop. “Colour?”

“Green.”

You smile. You land an experimental swat on his ass cheek. “Count baby.”

“One,” he hisses.

Thwap! Thwap!

“Two, three,” he grits when you smack the other cheek with two particularly hard swings. 

Thwap! Thwap! Thwap!

You alternate your swats landing blows on each of his asscheeks. Once you complete doling out his punishment, Fives is whimpering and moaning. You admire your artwork of red marks littered across his golden skin. “Perfection.” You put the crop down so you can kneel in front of him. Cupping his face, you wipe the tears from his eyes. “You did so good, baby. Still green?”

“Kriff, yes.” 

You kiss him softly on his lips. “Now I want you to sit on that chair and put your hands behind your back.” You help him up. You clench your thighs together at the sight of his cock swinging between his legs. The tip of it is swollen and red with pearls of precum that you can’t wait to get your lips around it for a taste. That is, only if he continues to be a good boy. 

He gingerly sits on the silver metal chair. He complies with your request to put his arms behind his back, clasping his hands together. You step forward with blue silk ribbons. 

“What do you plan to do with those Mesh’la?” His question laced with arousal.

“One of these is for your wrists and the other is for your eyes.” You begin wrapping his wrists in silk.

“Flimsy silk has never stopped me before,” he smirks.

“Rip these and,” you tighten the knot binding his hands together. He sucks in air between his teeth. “You won’t get to cum. Understood?” You double check the knot.

“Understood,” he says solemnly. 

You place a quick kiss to his jaw. “Keep this up, and you’ll surely get your reward.”

Fives bucks his hips up when you nibble on his earlobe to punctuate your promise of a reward.

You drape the silk fabric around his eyes, securing a knot at the back of his head. You come around to the front of the chair. 

Fives is a sight to behold when he’s surrendered himself to your mercy. His broad, strong chest heaves in anticipation for your next move. His long, thick legs are spread wide for you to settle between them. You begin to lightly drag your nails along the skin of his thighs gradually inching towards where he is aching for you to touch him. 

“Babe,” he whines low in his throat. Your fingers ghosting near his heavy balls. 

“Yes my love?” You lay your head on his inner thigh looking up at him. 

“Please…”

“Please what baby? Use your words.”

“Please touch me.”

“What a polite boy,” you hum, licking your palm and giving him a slow tug. 

“KRIFF!” He moans loudly. You bring your hand up to his tip, your saliva and his pre-cum mixing together to ease each stroke you give him. “Just like that,” his breathing becomes irregular. You know he’s close but you’re just getting started so you stop. He lets out a cry of protest. 

You smack his cock and he lets out another loud moan throwing his head back. 

Oh. He liked that. Noted. 

You cup his balls and give them a squeeze. “You don’t get to cum, until I say you do. Got it?”

“Yes mommy,” he nods. 

“Such a good boy for mommy,” you praise him rising to your feet. “Let’s see how good you truly are.” 

From the box, you produce your favourite toy. A blue silicone bullet that he had bought you to keep you company while he was away. You had cleaned and sanitized it before you put it away so you wouldn’t be tempted to use it before tonight. You wanted to be as pent up as he was so you both can release your stress together. You flick it on, the buzz of the vibrations is the only sound in the room.

“Is that—?”

“Mhm,” you grin. 

“Oh,” he breathes when you take the blindfold off him and he sees it in your hand that’s hovering right above the skin between his balls. 

“Colour?” You ask, batting your eyelashes. 

He just nods, his mouth going slack.

“I need to hear you say it baby.”

“Green,” he whispers. You press the vibrator against his sac. He almost cums right then in there but before he’s about to, you switch it off. 

“That’s twice you’ve almost cum without my permission,” you bite your lip. “I guess you don’t want your reward after all.” 

“I do!” He whimpers, sweat beading down his chest.. “I swear I do!”

“Prove it then,” you meet his eyes that are black with the flames of uncontrolled desire. “Since I’m feeling generous, if you can control yourself then I may be convinced to let you cum. Deal?”

“Deal.”

You flick the bullet back on, pressing it this time against the base of his cock. Since he has been such a good boy thus far, you decide to swirl your tongue around his tip as a treat. Your name tumbling out of his lips reverberates around the room. You release his tip with a ‘pop’ and remove the vibrator from his skin. He growls in frustration. 

“What did I say about being good?” You tease him. 

“Please, Mesh’la, Mommy, just let me cum please.” Him begging is music to your ears.

“Don’t worry baby,” you coo. “Mommy is going to take good care of you.” 

You perch yourself on his thigh, dragging your wet clothed heat over the corded muscle. You hold out your hand in front of his mouth. “Spit.”

He obeys, watching as you take his spit and begin tugging on his cock at a lazy pace. “Oh kriff, this is so hot.” He moans. 

“Yeah? You like this baby? You like when I stroke  your cock?” 

“Yeah,” his breathing quickens in tandem with your strokes. “Don’t stop. Please.”

You lean against his torso continuing your ministrations until he cums without warning. A guttural roar ripping from his chest. You watch as thick ribbons of hot cum paint his stomach, chest, and thighs. You work him through his orgasm, shuddering under your touch.

He watches you through a post orgasm haze as you lick your fingers clean before climbing off his lap.

You undo his bonds, rubbing the slightly chafed skin from his desperation to clutch your body to his own. 

“And here I thought you were a good boy.” You shake your head. 

“What?” His eyes widen in shock. He gasps. “I thought… I mean.. I didn’t…”

“I didn’t give you permission to cum now did I?” You tsk, shaking your head. “So much for your reward.” 

He grabs your wrist. “Please, mommy, forgive me. I’ll be your good boy. Whatever you want.”

“Don’t worry baby, you’ll get every opportunity to make up for this but first you need to be cleaned up.”

You sink to your knees, proceeding to lick every drop of his cum from where it has landed on his skin. The salty, tangy mixture of a job well done dances along your tongue. Every time you swallow it’s like a badge of honour. 

You can feel his cock twitching and growing harder again as you maintain eye contact with him. He watches as you meticulously clean his release from his skin. 

“You’re so beautiful, you know that,” he brushes his thumb across your cheekbone. 

“Don’t try to suck up to me. It won’t work,” you grin.

“ARC Trooper honour, it’s the truth babe. Get used to it.”

“Tell me one more time?” You stand. 

“I’ll say it a thousand times, scream it from the rooftop, you are more beautiful than any sunset, sunrise, and meteor shower combined.” 

“Nice try Romeo,” you kiss his lips. “But I’m not done with you yet.” You lean down to whisper in his ear. “Be a good boy for mommy and put this on for me.” You hand him a collar that has his name stitched on it.

His eyes sparkle, fastening the fabric around his throat. A perfect fit that’s not too tight to restrict his airways but enough to remind him of his submission. You clip a silver chain to the front of it. 

“Follow me baby,” you begin to lead him towards your room. 

He grabs your waist pulling you flush against his chest, preventing you from walking any further. You can feel his cock, hard again, sliding against your ass. He nuzzles the column of your neck with his nose. “You smell so good babe,” he peppers kisses down your neck, reaching around to cup your breast.

You moan, letting yourself get lost in his touch. A quick but sharp bite to your shoulder snaps you out of it, remembering that you’re in control tonight. You reach behind you and grip his cock giving it a harsh tug. He growls against your skin. “Nuh uh babe. I’m in control tonight. Or have you forgotten?”

“No ma’am,” he says, his cock pulsing in your hand. 

You give him another tug before releasing him, not saying anything leading him to your bed. “Sit.”

He sits on the edge of your bed waiting expectantly. 

You pace in front of him like a predator would their prey. “You were a little naughty earlier… but I know a way you can make it up to me.”

“Anything you want.”

“Anything I want? That can be dangerous, baby.” You smirk. “I want to ride your face until I’m satisfied. Think you can do that for me babe?”

He groans. “Oh kriff yes.”

“Lay back,” you release the chain. You hook your fingers in the waistband of your panties dragging them down your legs.

“I want to smell you,” Fives states from his position on the bed. “Please.”

“So he does have manners,” you toss your panties on his chest before joining him on the bed. 

He brings your damp panties up to his face and takes a deep inhale. “Who knew my girl would get so wet from being in control.”

You grin at that. This has long since been a fantasy of yours and the fact that he is enjoying it too just adds to your arousal. You crawl up his body, pausing only to press your core against his cock. He shifts his hips up for more friction. “Not yet Soldier, Patience.”

“I swear you’re trying to kill me,” Fives leans back against the mattress. “But there’s no way I’d rather go out.” 

You look down at him. Your core is now hovering over his lips. “Still okay?”

“Yeah sweetheart. Now get down here.” 

If he insists. You lower yourself down on his mouth, balancing your weight on your knees on either side of his head. He gives your folds a few gentle kitten licks before he grabs your ass pulling you firmly down so he can latch onto your pussy. 

It’s your turn to moan loudly, his nose bumping your clit just right. “Fives! Oh kriff!” 

He buries his face into your cunt, sucking and slurping like a man dying of thirst and you’re his salvation. 

“Choke me,” he mumbles. “Please.”

You reach for the chain that’s beside his head, winding it around your palm. “Tap my thigh three times if you want me to stop.” 

He nods, continuing to devour your cunt. The bristle of his goatee on the sensitive skin of your lips burning deliciously as you tug. He gasps. His hand that’s holding your panties flies down to his cock. He taps your thigh three times and you immediately release the leash. 

Drops of sweat course between the valley of your breasts pooling in your corset as heat begins to lick your lower abdomen. Your panties lay at the base of his cock when he grabs your ass encouraging you to grind faster. You grip the headboard, chasing your impending orgasm. “Fives! I’m close!” 

“That’s it babe, kriffin’ use me. Soak my face.”

“FIVES!” You scream, your thighs trembling around his head and your vision goes white as you gush on his tongue. 

“You taste so sweet Mesh’la. Better than any dessert.” He laps up your cum. You slide down his body. He leans up for a kiss. You oblige, tasting yourself on his lips. “Have I earned my reward now?” He tilts his tongue between your bodies.

You peer down at his thick cock, standing painfully hard. “I think you have.” You sit up, positioning his cock at your entrance. 

His pupils are blown and with a hazy, wrecked look on his face. “Please baby,” he whimpers. “Please fuck me.”

“Since you’ve asked so nicely.” You sink slowly down on his cock until he’s fully seated in you.

Both of you moan loudly at the pleasure of finally being connected. He holds your hips still, trying not to cum early and spoil this moment.

You look down at your boyfriends face that’s contorted in pleasure. You know he is refraining so you can have your pleasure too. You decide to reward his thoughtfulness. You lean down and whisper in his ear. 

“Be a good boy and cum for me.”

Fives lets out the filthiest yet beautiful moan, releasing and shooting hot ropes of cum deep inside you. Tears roll down his cheeks from the culmination of all the stimulation you’ve given him.

You cum at the sensation of him filling you up so good with a gentle kiss on his lips. “You’ve done such a good job for me,” you coo, brushing an errant curl off his sweat coated forehead. “Filling me up so good.” You carefully extract your limbs from him. “Don’t move.”

“Couldn’t if I tried,” he jokes, his voice hoarse still coming down from his high. 

You walk into the fresher using it and cleaning yourself off. You grab a cool washcloth and two glasses filling them with water. You return to your bedroom. 

Fives is still laying there in the middle of the bed where you left him. His chest rising and falling as he catches his breath. You hand him a glass of water and join his side.

He props himself up to sip from the glass watching as you gingerly clean him up. “What have I done to deserve you?” He scratches your scalp. “That was incredible, babe. I don’t think I’ve ever cum that hard before.”

“I’m glad you enjoyed yourself,” you set the cloth aside leaning up to give him a sweet kiss, settling against his side. “You deserve it with all the stress you’ve been under.” 

He gives you a wicked grin. “So, you’re saying that I should be stressed more often if this is what I’ll get?”

You laugh, looking up at him. “You’re ridiculous, you know that?”

He meets your eyes. “That may be true but it’s my cum leaking between your thighs. So it’s a win-win really.”

“That is true,” you run your fingers through the light brush of his chest hair. He lets out a rumble at your touch. 

“Good thing I have shore leave for a few days,” he tells you, flipping you on your back. “Because it’s my turn now Cyar’ika.”

[tempest-sun]

Forever and For Always Chapter 6

Chapter 6: The Truth

Warnings: Canonical violence but nothing is described in detail

A/N: Throughout this chapter, I have woven bits and pieces of dialogue from the episodes of "Old Friends Not Forgotten" (TCW 7x09) and "Phantom Apprentice" (TCW 7x10) as they were necessary to establish the story I was trying to tell in this chapter. In no way, shape, or form do I claim ownership of these pieces of dialogue. These lines do not belong to me and were not written by me. Full credit goes to Dave Filioni who wrote these episodes. 

Words: 2,448

Summary: The 501st comes to the 212st aid. Rex is desperate to get home to you but fate has other plans.

Ch. 01 - Ch. 02 - Ch. 03 - Ch. 04 - Ch. 05

Aboard the Star Destroyer, Rex stands with his arms folded across his chest. His face, illuminated by the blue glow of the holotable, is an inscrutable mask, studying the schematics of the bridge that the remaining members of the 212th Battalion are currently pinned down on. General Skywalker is on the other side of the table outlining his plan of the rescue. The tension between the two men hangs heavy in the air but no one dares to question it.

Tap. Tap. Tap. Tap.

Beside him, Jesse is tapping his foot on the steel floor distracted by something that is not General Skywalker’s briefing of the rescue plan. His lips are pursed tightly together like he is trying to prevent what’s on his mind from being revealed. Rex makes a mental note to ask Jesse about it later. 

“…and then when Artoo gives the signal, we’ll surprise the Separatists.” General Skywalker gestures to underneath the bridge. “There is a jet pack for each of the men.”

“Very good General.” Rex says, wanting nothing more to get this mission over with and back to you.

“Dismissed.”

Rex and Jesse stride out of the briefing room to rejoin the 501st. 

“Want to share what’s on your mind vod?” Rex asks. Out of the corner of his eye, he notices Jesse tense. 

“I’m not really sure it’s my place,” Jesse’s fingers thrum against the hard plastoid of his chest piece where the ultrasound is nestled. “But I feel like you deserve to know.”

Rex furrows his brows. “Deserve to know what?” 

The doors swish open, the 501st already lined up facing their Captain patiently awaiting their orders. Jesse shakes his head. “I’ll tell you later.” He promises. 

They arrive on Yerbana’s surface in the nick of time getting into position under the bridge. Rex’s muscles burn from staying suspended horizontally and he knows his men are feeling it too. Artoo reappears, giving the much needed signal to go ahead as planned. With the combined might of the 501st and the rest of the 212nd, they make quick work of the Separatist battle droids for another easy victory for the Republic. 

Rex lands on the bridge, standing amongst the destruction once the smoke has cleared. He can tell by the slump of Commander Cody’s shoulders that the victory is a hollow one. Rex whistles in familiar greeting walking up to his Vod.

“Jet packs huh? They trust you with that?” Cody teases. 

Rex chuckles. “Don’t be jealous that I got to test the new prototypes first.”

The two men clasp each other’s forearms in a silent expression of relief. “Jealous of you? Never.” Cody looks over his shoulder towards the transport General Kenobi is boarding. “Looks like we’re heading out.”

Thank the Maker. Rex thinks to himself, climbing into the transport. Maybe we can finally go home.

Back on board the ship, General Skywalker approaches Rex with a sheepish look on his face. “Hey Rex?”

“What is it General?” Rex’s tone is clipped. He doesn’t bother with eye contact busying himself with polishing his jetpack.

Anakin rubs the back of his head. “I know I’m the last person on this ship you want to talk to–”

“You got that right.”

“But, I wanted to be the one to tell you that Ahsoka’s coming back.”

His head snaps up at the mention of his friend. “She is?”

“She should be here in a couple hours along with Bo-Katan Kryze.”

“Why?”

“They’ve requested our help to take back Mandalore from the Sith Lord, Maul.”

Rex looks skeptical. “What about the treaty?”

“Guess they’re desperate.”

“Sounds like it.”

An awkward silence descends upon them. Anakin clears his throat. “Look Rex, I made a mistake interfering in your business and I’m truly sorry. If there’s anything I can do to fix things…”

Rex puts his hand up. “Respectfully General, you’ve interfered enough. Until things are resolved between me and Y/N, I cannot accept your apology. Now if you’ll excuse me, there’s something I want to do for Commander Tano before she arrives.”

“Understood,” Anakin murmurs. “You’re dismissed.”

Rex doesn’t look back as he strides out of the hangar towards the paint supply closet knowing the perfect way to welcome Ahsoka back to the 501st. 

The hangar is uncharacteristically quiet as the men focus on customising their helmets with orange and white paint.  

Rex dips his own brush into the jar of orange pigments, painting over the jaig eyes on his helmet. The measured brushstrokes soothing him from the swirl of conflicting emotions he currently feels surrounding Commander Tano’s return. A part of him is undoubtedly happy that he can see her after all this time but another part of him is steeped in cynicism. 

This mission to Mandalore is just another hyperlane block in his quest to get home to you. He reprimands himself for that train of thought. This is my duty, what I was bred for. Here I am being selfish when the people of Mandalore need my help.   

He glances over at Jesse who is humming to himself. Focused on meticulously painting his own helmet without covering the Republic insignia. Oh yeah. 

“Jess?” Rex nudges him with his boot. 

Jesse looks up. “Yeah?”

“What were you going to say earlier?”

“Okay, so,” Jesse sets his helmet down on the crate beside him. His right leg bounces as he looks around to make sure no one can eavesdrop on their conversation. “You know the other day when I went to pick up the results of my physical, right?”

“Sure…?”

“Well, you’ll never guess who I bumped into.”

“Who?” 

Jesse is about to answer when General Skywalker’s voice comes through Rex’s comm. “We’re on our way down.”

“We’ll talk more about this later.” Rex says regretfully, rising to his feet. “You heard the General. Positions!” He orders the rest of the company. 

The crudely orange painted helmets of the division of the 501st line up in four neat rows. Rex takes his rightful position at the front of his men standing with two rows on either side of him. He is abuzz with anticipation of seeing his old friend. He holds his own painted bucket under his right arm watching as the door slides open. 

The scene is familiar as General Skywalker and Ahsoka Tano appear in the doorway. He is relieved to see that she looks the same since the last time he saw her. He was worried about her being alone in the galaxy even though he knows how capable of a warrior she is. 

“Company! Attention!” 

Rex is undoubtedly happy to see his former Commander. He wants to ask how she’s been, what she has been up to, and the reason why she’s back. Their reunion is short lived however at the sound of the ship’s alarm blares across the ship. 

Obi-Wan rushes into the hangar. “Anakin, Rex, prepare all forces. We’re jumping to hyperspace immediately.”

“Yes Sir. Men, with me.”

Adrenaline courses through Rex’s veins as he dashes around the hangar. He shouts orders for his men to ready the transports. He is in the process of checking on each squadron in their respective transports when Ahsoka joins his side.

“Rex, a moment?”

“Yes, Commander?” He smiles down at her. 

“The plan is back on. You and I will be headed to Mandalore with half of the 501st. While the others will go with Anakin to Coruscant.”

Oh. He manages a grimace. “Okay, I’ll check in with Vaughn and Jesse to let them know that their transports will be coming with us.”

She nods. “Very good, Commander.”

Rex stops in his tracks giving her a puzzled look. “Commander?”

“You’ve been promoted. It’s been a long time coming if you ask me.”

Promoted. Rex never envisioned it would happen like this. He envisioned some ceremony that he would reluctantly attend that would only be tolerable with you at his side. Maker, how much has changed in such a short time. 

Capturing the docks was the easy part of this mission to Mandalore. All that is left is to make sure Maul doesn’t leave the city of Sundari. Bo-Katan and her Mandalorian followers split off to capture Prime Minister Almec leaving him and Ahsoka with the difficult task of capturing Maul. 

Rex sent ahead Captain Vaughn and his men to survey the undercity for any potential secret passageways that Maul could use to flee. He also sent Jesse with a team down to investigate Entry Point C for any covert entrances to the palace. Uneasiness settles in Rex’s bones with each minute that passes that he doesn’t hear from either of them. 

As if on cue, Vaughn’s voice cuts in. “Commander Rex, this is CT-0292. I think we have something.”

The tunnel system underneath the city is cold and damp with a smell that Rex does not want to identify as he traces Ahsoka’s signal. He checks the red light on his vambrace. He rounds the corner to see two of Maul’s acolytes clad in red and black armour. He raises his blaster, shooting one of them in the back. One of the men he is with shoots the other one. The element of surprise is to their benefit with Ahsoka blocking the blow from Maul’s dual ended lightsaber.

“No. Not Yet.” Maul growls, lifting his hand. Using the force, he picks Rex up by the neck, throwing him across the room slamming into Ahsoka. Taking advantage of their dazed state, Maul escapes further into the tunnels with two of his remaining followers in tow.  

“C’Mon.” Ahsoka urges as the two of them race after them. 

Their chase is fruitless through the winding tunnels. Maul once again has slipped through their fingers. 

Back in the throne room, Ahsoka and Rex reconvene with Bo-Katan. 

“Well?” She looks at them expectantly. 

Ahsoka shakes her head. “We lost him in the tunnels.”

Bo-Katan pinches the bridge of her nose, exhaling slowly. “Okay. Here’s what we’ll do. We’ll inform General Kenobi of our progress and figure it out from there. All I know is that we cannot let him leave the planet. No matter the cost.”

Rex’s mouth is set in a grim line agreeing with her statement. But how many more brothers will be sacrificed in order to succeed in capturing the Sith Lord? 

While Ahsoka speaks with General Kenobi privately, Rex’s mind dwells on his fallen brothers. Not just the ones he’s lost today, but the ones he’s lost since the beginning of the Clone Wars.

Mixer. Redeye. Waxer. Hardcase. Tup. Fives. And now Vaughn. Their names on an endless list of dead clones. 

His comm beeps. “Commander Rex. Come in Commander.”

“I’m here Trooper. What’s your status?”

“We were ambushed by the Mandalorians and Maul. You best get down here right away.”

“We’ll be there soon. Hold on.”

“Yes Sir.”

Rex doesn’t know what he expected when he stepped off the ladder at Entry Point C but it was not the news that Jesse had been taken alive as Maul’s prisoner. His mind races with the possibilities of how far Maul will go to extract as much information as he can about Ahsoka. He clenches his fists at his side during Almec’s interrogation to see if he could shed some light on Maul and Jesse’s whereabouts. Unfortunately, he is assassinated by Gar Saxon before they have a chance to find out.

Rex stands next to Bo-Katan and Ahsoka. Appalled that despite their help and the amount of casualties amongst the 501st, Bo is still disdainful of their presence on Mandalore.

“...you will get your opportunity to lead.”

The doors to the throne room open, revealing Maul casually sitting on the throne. His arm draped over his propped up knee. “I agree.”

Rex’s eyes immediately zero in on Jesse kneeling on the floor, left vulnerable, stripped of his armour and left in his protective black bodysuit. They have to play it just right, any false move can end in disaster…

“My Lady, is that anyway to treat your rightful ruler?” Maul seethes, suspending Bo-Katan in the air. He lets her linger there before unclenching his fist. She crumples to the ground. Rex and Ahsoka rush to her side

“And now, as a show of good faith, I return your comrade in arms to you.” 

Maul gestures with one hand and the binders around Jesse’s wrists clatter to the floor. Jesse looks towards his captor. 

“I can’t very well leave a child without their father could I?” Maul’s lips curl in a cruel smirk. “That is if you survive what’s to come.” He tosses the square photo in Jesse’s direction. 

Jesse gingerly clutches it in his hand, rising to his feet.

“Run along. There you go, back to your brothers.”

Jesse crosses the room to Rex, his eyes downcast and full of remorse.

Rex places a gentle hand on Jesse’s shoulder. “Are you alright Jesse?” 

Jesse shakes his head. “I’m sorry Commander. I couldn’t help it.” He winces. “I told him everything.”

“It’s okay,” Ahsoka reassures him, knowing that there’s nothing he could have done to combat Maul’s cruelty. “Rex, get him out of here.”

Jesse limps beside Rex through the corridor.

“Father huh?” Rex breaks the silence. He gestures to the photo Jesse has clutched against Jesse’s hand. “Is this what you have been trying to tell me?” A proud smile on his lips. 

“Actually,” Jesse stops in his tracks. He grins down at the black and white photo. “You are.” 

Rex stands dumbfounded as Jesse hands him the photo. His heart skips a beat when he reads your last name and the date printed at the top of the photo. With shaking fingers, he traces the outline of the small head and upper body of his child currently growing inside of you.

“H-how did you get this?” He finally manages. 

“Y/N and I bumped into each other at the clinic.” Jess says. “She was in a rush and didn’t realize she dropped it. I wanted to tell you but things just happened so fast.” He claps Rex’s back. “Nevertheless, congrats Vod.”

Rex nods in acknowledgement, tears springing to his eyes. I’m going to be a father.

He briefly glances up at Jesse. “I… had no idea. If I did—”

An explosion in the courtyard interrupts what he was about to say next. The windows lining the walls of the hallway shatter in their frames. Rex quickly tucks the photo away in the same safe pocket where he kept his favourite photo of you that has since been lost to him. He slides on his helmet, more than ready to finally end this siege of Mandalore.

Don’t worry, Cyar’ika. I’ll be home soon. 

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[tempest-sun]

Forever and For Always Chapter 5

Chapter 5: The Transmission

Warnings: None

Word Count: 2,403

Summary: Rex acts on Cody’s advice and someone discovers your secret. 

Ch. 01 - Ch. 02 - Ch. 03 - Ch. 04

Now, let’s go fight for your girl.

Those seven words from his Vod repeat on a loop in Rex’s mind giving him courage as he rounds the corner towards the café where he first met you. A part of him hopes that you will be there waiting, sipping on a mug of your favourite caf, a smile on your lovely face. He misses your smile and longs to see it again. Rex isn’t a religious man but he is praying to every Maker who will listen that he is successful in the fight to get you back. 

Rex pauses outside the glass door entrance of the café. The signage in the window is still flipped to closed. In his haste to investigate your change of heart, he forgot that it is still the wee hours of morning. A flicker of movement inside gives him hope. With trembling hands, Rex pushes open the door relieved to hear the bell above the door trill. 

“Sorry, we are still closed—” Dy looks up from counting the credits in the till. “Rex, what’re you doing here?”

“I’m sorry to intrude but I needed to talk to you.” He rubs the back of his head sheepishly.

“It couldn’t have waited until later?” She crinkles her nose. “After you showered? No offense but you smell like a Florrum brewery.”

Rex shakes his head. “This can’t wait.”

Dy sighs. She’s heard first hand from you, affectionately of course, how stubborn he could be. 

“Sit. I’ll brew up some caf. Maker knows you need it.” She places a thin caf filter into the metal tray pouring a generous amount of a high concentrated caf grounds in. Sliding the metal tray in place, she presses a red button to allow the brewing process to begin. The first drops of caf drip into the insulated pot. 

Rex sits on one of the red plastic stools lining the edge of the metal countertop. Wringing his hands, he asks the question he’s been dying to ask since he entered the café.  “H-how is she?”

“She’s holding up,” Dy says carefully, pouring the freshly brewed caf into a mug for him. “I know you want answers but I can’t betray her confidence.”

“Please,” Rex catches her wrist gently, releasing it when she doesn't turn away. “Help me understand.”

Dy purses her lips studying the clone in front of her. The lines on his face have deepened from the frown that’s made residence on his lips. His brown eyes are bloodshot with dark circles under them is further proof how much your breakup has affected him. She drops her shoulders wanting nothing more than to clear up this whole mess. For both your sakes but she can only do so much without betraying you while also helping Rex find some closure. 

“I’m not the person you should be asking,” she leans on the counter on her forearms. 

“You know she won’t answer my calls.” Rex looks confused at her suggestion. 

“Not Y/N.” Dy drops her voice despite it only being the two of them. “I shouldn’t be saying this but because I love you both… you’ll need to ask General Skywalker about what happened.”

“General Skywalker? What does he have to do with it?” Rex sets the half empty mug down on the counter. 

“Y/N didn’t and wouldn’t say much beyond the fact that General Skywalker implied that she was the reason you were injured.” Dy reveals. “Had to pry it from her after I calmed her down.”

Oh Cyar’ika. Rex clenches his fists, anger bubbling in his heart. “She doesn’t believe that, does she?”

Dy places her hand on his wrist. “I tried to tell her otherwise but she wouldn’t listen to me. You know how she is once her mind is made up.” 

Rex nods agreeing with her but he also knows how effective the General can be in his intimidation tactics. He gets up abruptly. “I have to go.” He reaches for his credit bag. 

Dy puts her hand up. “It’s on the house.”

“Thank you,” Rex says, turning to leave. He stops remembering the other reason he came to the café. “Dy?”

“Yeah?” She puts down the coffee pot. 

Rex extracts the necklace from his pocket. “Can you make sure she gets this?”

Dy gives him a reassuring tilt of her head. “Of course, but where are you going?”

“There’s someone I need to speak to.” 

~

The journey from the café to the barracks passed Rex by in a blur. He strides across the shiny granite floors, his focus strictly on the figure of the Jedi Knight he is looking for.

“General Skywalker,” Rex barely keeps his voice professional as he calls out in greeting.

Anakin smiles. “Ah Rex! Glad to see you’re back on your feet—” He doesn’t have to use the force to recognize Rex’s simmering fury. “Rex? Are you okay?”

“What did you say to her?” Rex balls his fists at his side. 

“Say to who—?”

“Y/N.”

“Oh, yeah, Y/N,” Anakin takes a deep breath, deciding not to bother with being coy. “Look, I only told her that the relationship you had is not realistic in the long run…”

“So you decided to take it upon yourself to intimidate the woman I love and scare her away?!” Rex seethes pointing his finger at Anakin. 

“Rex, you have to understand that I only did it to protect you,” Anakin tries to reason. “At least until the war is over and legislation passes so you can live your life however you want.”

“With all due respect General, my personal affairs are none of your business to interfere with.”

“But it is my business, Rex. Especially when it comes to yours and the 501st’s well-being and efficiency,” Anakin gestures around him. “Especially in light of what happened on that last mission.”

“That had nothing to do with my ‘efficiency’ and you damn well know that!” Rex snarls.

Anakin’s features soften. “Rex, you need to calm down.”

“Don’t kriffin’ tell me to calm down!” Rex shouts. A few clones turn to look towards the pair. “You may have just cost me the love of my life due to your misguided perception of events.”

Anakin places his hand on Rex’s shoulder, reaching out with the force to quell the fire of the captain's rage. “I know it doesn’t seem like it but this is for the best. You need to just let her go.”

Rex shrugs the General’s hand off his shoulder, giving him a scathing look. “If it was the Senator, would you be able to ‘just let her go’?”

“Now that’s different.” Anakin crosses his arms, his clenched jaw ticking. 

”Do tell,” Rex challenges.

“Well, for starters Padmé, I mean the Senator and I— we— uh,” he stammers. 

“Anakin, come in, Anakin.” Obi-Wan’s voice interrupts whatever explanation Anakin would try to come up with to justify his actions. 

“I’m here,” Anakin replies. 

Rex scoffs. Saved by the bell. 

“I just got word that we are to be dispatched to Yerbana to aid Cody and the 212st effective immediately. Where are you?”

“I’m here at the Barracks with Rex.”

“Excellent. We leave on the hour. Be ready.”

Rex gives General Skywalker a look that says ‘this discussion isn’t over’ before walking out of the barracks with Anakin in tow. 

———————————————————————— 

You find yourself back in Doctor Minez’s office. After the stress you’ve been under for the past week, you’ve decided that it is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to yours and Rex’s unborn child. 

Rex. 

Last night’s events come flooding back to you in vivid detail. The pain etched on Rex’s face after you lied to him about not loving him anymore torturing your mind. In a bid to stay calm and to soothe yourself, you rub your subtle bump with your hand. Despite everything, you wish Rex was here. He would know the exact thing to say to reassure you and keep you calm. He has an uncanny ability to do that. It’s one of many reasons why he is such a good man and why he would make an excellent father.

“Good afternoon, y/n,” Doctor Minez walks into the office gently closing the door behind her. “How are you today?”

You smile at her from the examination bench. “I’m okay, and you?”

She sits opposite you on a durasteel chair. “Busy, you’re lucky you came in when you did. Now what can I do for you?”

You clear your throat. “I was wondering if you could check to make sure the baby is okay? Um, I’ve been under a lot of stress this week and I just want to make sure everything is fine.”

“Of course I can,” she smiles kindly. “Let’s go do another ultrasound to make sure. Follow me.”

You lay on another examination table with your shirt bunched up under your breasts and a cold translucent jelly smeared on your stomach. You wait in anticipation, staring at the black and white picture on the screen. 

Thump thump. Thump thump.

You nearly sob in relief at the sound of your baby's heartbeat. You settle for a laugh, covering your hand with your mouth.

“There we are,” Doctor Minez pats your knee. “Nice strong heartbeat and from what I can tell, your baby is developing beautifully.”

“That is such good news,” you grab a tissue from the desk, wiping the excess jelly off, and fixing your shirt back down in its proper place. You stand, planting your feet on the ground. “Thank you for seeing me on such short notice.”

“Anytime hun. I’m going to schedule you for another check up in approximately three weeks, just to make sure everything continues to progress the way that it is supposed to. Okay?” She hands you the updated ultrasound photos. 

You take them from her. “Yeah, that sounds fine.”

“And try to avoid any unnecessary stress too.”

“I will. Thank you again Doc.” You leave the ultrasound room, walk past the reception area, and out of the maternity wing. You smile down at the photos in your hand not paying attention to where you are going. Oof. 

You look up to the solid mass that you just bumped into, paling when you see that it is Jesse. He grips your biceps to steady you. “Y/N, what’re you doing here?”

You shake your head, bending down to pick up the scattered ultrasounds that you dropped. “I, um, I have to go. I’m sorry.”

“Wait! You dropped something!” You can hear Jesse call your name but you’re already in the lift.

Avoiding stress. Right… 

You’ve managed to calm your anxiety by the time you walk in the door of your apartment. Inside, you can hear the muffled sound of Dy singing along to the radio. She must be home from work. The door swishes closed behind you as you walk into the kitchen.

“Hey!” she greets over her shoulder. “How was your appointment?”

You set your keycard in the glass bowl on the island. “It was good! Baby is healthy, thank the Maker.”

She leans against the counter. “Speaking of the baby– I saw Rex today.”

Your eyes flicker up to her face. “You did? When?”

“He stopped by the café this morning.”

You nod, your mouth feeling like you’ve swallowed cotton. “How– how is he?

Dy looks as if she’s choosing her next words carefully. “He’s seen better days.” She taps her foot on the linoleum. “Look, please don’t get mad but I may have told him why you were upset.”

“You did what?” You rub your temples suddenly feeling lightheaded. 

“If you were in my shoes, you would have done the same especially with the way he looked. He’s devastated.”

“You think I don’t know that?!” You shout, your voice trembling. You lower it down to a whisper. “It killed me to do that to him but I had to. To save his life.”

“I’ve told you, Rex’s accident was not your fault.”

You chew the inside of your cheek. “There’s something else.” Taking a deep breath, you tell her the full story of what General Skywalker said to you at the hospital.

Dy’s features are pulled together in confusion. “Decommissioning? What is that?”

“I don’t know,” you pull your arms tight around yourself. “From the General’s tone and Rex’s reaction to the word when I asked him about it before… I can’t imagine it’s a good thing.”

“Especially since Clones are considered property of the Republic…” Dy says in realization. “It all makes sense now. Why you had to keep your relationship a secret.”

“Everything I did, it was to protect him.” You brush a tear away. 

“I know, and he knows that too,” she goes over to her purse, producing the delicate silver chain with the small heart shaped pendant dangling in the middle of it. 

It feels like a lifetime ago that Rex gave this symbol of his love to you. You extend your hand with your palm up. “Where did you..?”

“He wanted me to give it back to you.” She squeezes your wrist in reassurance. “You both knew the risks that came with being together and yet you fell in love anyway. If he’s not ready to give that up then why are you?”

She’s right. This war could be over tomorrow for all you knew and Rex would be free. So why waste any more time? 

You push away from the kitchen island, reaching up to fasten the necklace around your neck where it should’ve stayed from the beginning. “I need to borrow your air speeder.”

“Finally!” Dy grins, sliding you the keys. “Now go fight for your man!” 

You arrive at the hangar bay in record time barely shutting off the air speeder before you’re dashing inside. The hangar is mostly empty save for a handful of technicians repairing GAR ships.

One of the technicians glances towards you. “Ma‘am? You can’t be in here.”

“Sorry, I’m looking for Captain Rex. Is he here?”

“Actually, you just missed him,” the Technician points towards a Venator-class star destroyer that’s rapidly ascending towards orbit.

You bring your hand up to your pendant as you watch the ship carrying the love of your life become smaller and smaller until it disappears from view completely. You don’t want to come to terms with the fact that you may have been too late.

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