"So soon?" She asked. There was no point in trying to
hide her disappointment from him, after two years together
their link was so strong he could see through all of her
barriers.
"I'm sorry." He said kissing the top of her head. "Sometimes
it seems that the entire universe is plotting to keep us apart."
He could feel her struggle for control. He hated to leave her
again so soon. Qui-Gon held her close, stroking the soft
brown waves that fell down her back.
"How long do we have?" Lia's voice was almost lost in
Qui-Gon's robe.
"Twenty minutes." Lia stared up at him, her blue eyes
shining with unshed tears. Qui-Gon kissed her quick, his
heart aching. "I love you Lia."
"Hold me." She said, blinking hard. Strong arms enveloped
her, squeezing her close. Lia rested her head against his
chest, her arms wrapped around his middle. She was afraid
to let go of him, as if she were the only one who could keep him
safe. "Oh Qui-Gon," she sighed, "I love you so."
"Don't worry." He soothed. Qui-Gon felt lost. He knew Lia did
not like him to leave but she had never been so upset or so
fearful before. Unsure of how to comfort her best, he held her
tighter and sent all his love along their bond. Feeling Lia
returning that love relieved him greatly. She would be fine.
The minutes flew by and Lia knew it was time for him to
leave. She felt bad for making this goodbye difficult for him.
"You'd better go before Obi-Wan comes looking for you." Lia
whispered.
"I know." Qui-Gon said but made no move to release her. "Do
you want to walk me out?"
"I don't trust myself to today." She replied. "I couldn't stand
for
Obi-Wan to see me cry." She felt the rumble of his chuckle in
his chest.
Reluctantly Qui-Gon released Lia from his embrace. He framed
her face with his large hands, kissed her passionately, then hurried
for the turbo lift.
Lia smiled at him, her heart pounding as the door slid closed.
"I'll be careful." He said, then was gone.
Lia put a shaky hand to her mouth, willing herself not to cry.
"Be safe my love, and may the Force be with you." She said
aloud as a single tear trickled down her cheek.