FINAL CHAPTER!!

Chapter 48

That evening as Anakin prepared to retire he felt the distance of their bond. He couldn't help but wonder what he may have done to provoke his Master today. Granted, he was behind on his Force training, but that was to be expected. Frantically, Anakin scanned his memory of the day, searching for an instance in which he may have behaved poorly, but he could find nothing. He paused outside Obi-Wan's sleep room, watching his Master read through Anakin's essay on improving intergalactic travel.

Obi-Wan sensed the young man and looked up, "Yes, Anakin?"

Anakin stepped into the room, hesitant, "Have I displeased you today, Master?"

"Today? No, why do you ask?" Obi-Wan looked genuinely surprised at the question.

"I... I just thought . . . " Anakin blushed, he felt like an idiot. "Nothing." His cheeks warmed and he was glad they were already slightly red from his recent shower so he could not be given away.

Obi-Wan could sense the distress Anakin felt and was pretty sure why. "Come, sit with me." He gestured toward a space on the sleep couch. Anakin complied and Obi-Wan continued, "You are still working to regain your faith and trust in the Force. I know this." He brushed a lock of Anakin's hair out of his eyes, "Granted, I find myself mildly frustrated at times and would have liked to pick up where we left off before Telos, but I am aware I am aware that is not possible and I do not hold this against you." He patted Anakin's shoulder encouragingly, "You need your rest. Try to get some sleep and we can go over your essay tomorrow before saber training."

Anakin nodded and Obi-Wan watched as his Apprentice left, pleased that he could still reassure Anakin. Garen had nothing to worry about, Anakin would not be without the love and affection he needed to succeed in life, or at least he would have the illusion of such.

Yes, his apprentice would do just fine.

At the door Anakin paused and spared a glance back as Obi-Wan went back to reading. He felt relief at Obi-Wan's words. He must have been imagining the rift, he assured himself. A warm feeling spread in his chest. He smiled and returned to his own room, knowing that his Master, his father, was nearby.

Everything was going to be just fine.

~ fin