Chapter Text
If Uncle Owen ever asked how they had gotten into this mess, Luke would have responded that technically it was Aunt Beru’s fault. It was supposed to be a regular trip to the general store, picking up some blue milk and other foodstuffs. Luke hadn’t even been planning on accompanying his aunt. However, seeing Biggs Darklighter again had reinvigorated his desire to join the Imperial Academy. He had hoped that he could convince his aunt to let him apply, knowing if she agreed, Uncle Owen could be persuaded to give permission.
“And its not like I won’t ever come back,” Luke continued as his aunt continued to browse the hubba gourds. “I’ll visit every chance I get.” Just because he was itching to explore didn't mean he wouldn't miss the people who raised and loved him.
Beru gave him a soft smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I’m sure you will, but you know that’s not what we’re concerned about.” There was an edge of sadness in her voice.
Luke sighed, running a hand through his hair. “I know it’s dangerous, but what’s life without danger?” It was a weak joke; it was the only thing he could think to say at the moment.
“A long one,” Beru deadpanned. Despite himself, her nephew chuckled. She shot him a sympathetic look. “I make no promises, but I’ll talk to Owen.”
Luke’s eyes lit up and he kissed his aunt’s cheek, feeling overcome with elation. “Thank you.”
“Don’t thank me yet,” Beru said wryly, giving his arm a squeeze. “You know how stubborn your uncle can be. Not to mention protective of your well being.”
“And you’re not?” Luke teased.
“Always,” Beru responded as she placed the gourd in her bag. “Nonetheless, I want you to be happy. And if being a pilot instead of a farmer makes you happy then I will support you.”
Luke beamed at her. “I meant what I said about visiting every chance I get.”
“You better.”
While Aunt Beru paid for their foodstuffs, Luke went outside to start the landspeeder. As he stepped out of the store, he noticed a brown-haired girl standing nearby.
The first thing Luke immediately noticed about the girl was how out of place she seemed. She was wearing a dress made of white silk, far too fancy for anyone to wear on Tatooine, let alone Anchorhead. Her hair was done up in two elaborate braids. She kept glancing around as if she was searching for something or someone.
Luke knew it was none of his business, but he also knew that he was not the only one who would come to the conclusion that this girl was clearly foreign and alone. It wouldn’t be long before someone tried to take advantage, either rob her or capture her for more nefarious purposes. He wouldn’t be able to live with himself if he didn’t try to help her.
It's getting dark soon. And she doesn’t look like she has anywhere safe to go. With that thought in mind, Luke walked over to her. “Excuse me, miss?”
The girl whirled around to face him; her eyes narrowed suspiciously. Her hands disappeared into her sleeves. Luke stopped a few feet away from her, raising her hands to show her he was unarmed.
“Do you need any help?” he asked.
The girl studied him for a few moments, not relaxing her stance. “No. I’m fine. I’m just looking for an old friend.”
“Are you sure?” Luke questioned. He wasn’t sure what it was, but something about her demeanor made her words ring false. “Because if you want, you can come home with me."
She shot him a disgusted look. “I have a boyfriend.”
Luke blinked in confusion. Then his cheeks tinged pink when he realized the unintended implications of what he had just said. He spluttered in embarrassment. “Oh no! I wasn’t---I mean you are very pretty. But I didn’t—.”
He almost jumped out of his skin when a soft hand landed on his shoulder. He had never been more relieved when he saw that Aunt Beru materialized next to him. “What my nephew is trying to say is, if you would like, you can stay with us for the night. Then you can find your friend in the morning.”
The girl’s gaze bounced between them, scrutinizing their expressions for a hint of deceit. She let her hands drop to her side and she relaxed slightly. “I would never dream of imposing in any other circumstances, and I swear I will pay you---”
“Don’t give it another thought, child,” Beru interjected gently. “Our homestead is your homestead. I’m Beru Lars and this is my nephew, Luke.”
“Leia,” the girl replied, her lips curving up into a smile.
“Nice to meet you, Leia.” Luke extended his hand, hoping that she wouldn’t hold his earlier awkwardness against him.
Leia took his hand and shook it. “Likewise, Luke.” She sounded a touch warmer than she had minutes ago.
Luke let out a sigh of relief as Beru led the way to the landspeeder.