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Chapter Text

Ahsoka Tano was nervous. She always got nervous during these rides with her social worker, a kind if somewhat distant man named Plo Kearns. She always hoped wherever she was going would be different from the other places she had been placed at.

They never were. And she was starting to lose hope that it would ever get better.

She was shaken out of her reverie when Mr. Kearns stopped the car.

“We’re here Miss Tano. The Skywalkers should already be expecting us.” He said simply. He always called her “Miss Tano”, insisted on it in fact. He told her that anything else would be “unprofessional”, as if that was what she cared about.

“Miss Tano?” Mr. Kearns said with some amount of concern in his voice. “We should go inside before we’re any later than we already are.”

Ahsoka sighed and moved to get out of the car. “I guess I should at least try and get them to not hate me.”

Mr. Kearns’ face softened, just slightly. “Miss Tano, I know you’ve had a rough time with some of your past homes,” she scoffed, rough was putting it lightly. “But I promise the Skywalkers will be different.”

“You say that every time.” Ahsoka muttered as she grabbed what few belongings she had from the back seat. Looking up at the Skywalker’s house for a moment, she allowed some small bit of hope to come to her.

Maybe this one would be different.

Padmè Skywalker looked up from her book as she heard a car pull into their driveway. Turning to her husband, she frowned as she made her way to the front door.

“Ani, they’re here, will you please stop pacing? We don’t want to scare her.”

Her husband, Anakin, sighed as he joined her in the foyer. He’d, understandably as far as Padmè was concerned, been a nervous wreck all day.

“I know, but I can’t help but feel a little worried, especially considering what that Kearns guy told us about the past places she’s stayed at.”

Padmè smiled as she gently laid a calming hand on her husband’s arm. Before she could respond to him though, a knock came from the door. Opening it, she was greeted by the social worker they had talked to previously, and a girl of about 15 carrying a backpack and a long rectangular bag. The girl, who Padmè figured must have been Ahsoka, rubbed her arm nervously and wouldn’t meet her or Anakin’s eyes. Taking careful note of that for later, she smiled and greeted their guests.

“Mr. Kearns, please come in.” The kindly social worker smiled graciously as Padmè gestured both he and Ahsoka inside.

“Thank you Mrs. Skywalker, I apologize for our lateness.” He spoke in an apologetic tone.

“Don’t worry about it Mr Kearns, Padmè and I aren’t exactly sticklers for things like that.” Anakin said in response, and Padmè noticed some tension leaving Ahsoka at his words. “Do you wanna come sit down for a bit, we’ve got plenty to drink for everyone.”

Mr. Kearns shook his head and politely said, “Thank you for the offer Mr. Skywalker, but I’m afraid I can’t stay for very long. There’s a few things to be finalized for Miss Tano but after that I’ll have to take my leave.”

“That’s perfectly understandable Mr. Kearns.” Padmè said before turning to her husband. “Anakin, why don’t you take care of that while I take Ahsoka up to her room.”

Anakin sighed good-naturedly. “Of course you leave me to do the paperwork. Alright, you give Ahsoka the tour while I sign whatever Mr. Kearns has here for me.” Mr. Kearns and Padmè both laughed and Padmè gently laid a hand on Ahsoka’s shoulder, the slight flinch she gave in response painting a picture the Padmè definitely did not like.

Ahsoka’s nervousness hadn’t faded after meeting the Skywalkers. If anything she felt more nervous after meeting them than she did before. They just seemed so… nice and no one had ever been nice to her for no reason, it all just felt too good to be true. She looked up as she heard Padmé’s voice.

“This one’s yours Ahsoka,” She said, pointing at the door in front of Ahsoka. Padmé then pointed at a door just down the hall, “and that one’s the bathroom, and right across the hall from that is Anakin and I’s room.” She turned and Ahsoka saw a concerned expression appear on Padmé’s face. “Ahsoka, are you okay? You’re shaking.” 

Ahsoka wrapped her arms tighter around herself, trying her hardest to fight off the anxiety she was feeling. She kept her eyes locked on the floor as she felt tears start to fall. It was all too much, she didn’t deserve this much, no one had ever done this much for her.

She flinched as Padmé pulled her into a gentle hug, and she felt the last bits of her composure break and found herself sobbing in Padmé’s arms. Ahsoka had no idea how long she stayed like that, wrapped in Padmé’s arms while she whispered reassurances in Ahsoka’s ear, but finally her breathing evened out and she got her tears under control again. She pulled away from the embrace, noticing out of the corner of her eye that Anakin had come up the stairs to where Ahsoka had had her breakdown. She kept her eyes on the floor, not wanting to see disappointment in their eyes.

“I-I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have done that, I can usually keep it together better than that-” Ahsoka was cut off as Padmè spoke in a gentle tone of voice.

“Ahsoka, it’s okay. You’re in a new environment, it’s normal for you to feel overwhelmed.” Ahsoka’s eyes widened slightly. Why weren’t they yelling at her?

“Y-you mean you’re not mad?” She saw Anakin’s gaze soften.

“Why would we be? Everybody’s got emotions, we’re not gonna be mad at you for showing them.” Ahsoka rubbed her arms nervously, still feeling like this was too good to be true. She jumped as Anakin snapped his fingers. “I know what can help with this. Whenever I got upset as a kid my mom would make me hot chocolate, and I happen to still know her recipe.

Ahsoka smiled. “Hot chocolate sounds great.”

Anakin sat down with a sigh next to his wife.

“She was out like a light when I went up there, must have been exhausted.” Padmè frowned as she cuddled into Anakin’s side. She was quiet in a way Anakin knew meant she was deep in thought about something. 

“What’s bothering you Angel?” He said, gently tilting her head up. He was shocked to find tears beginning to well up in her eyes.

“Ani, I think, no I’m almost certain that Ahsoka was abused by at least one of her previous caretakers.” Anakin’s eyes widened.

“What makes you say that? I’m not doubting you, I just want to know your thought process.” He amended quickly, hearing Padmè scoff quietly.

“That whole episode upstairs from earlier is what makes me say that Ani, she seemed completely shocked that we were treating her with basic kindness! All I did was show her where her room was! And don’t tell me you didn’t notice her flinching every time someone touched her!” Anakin closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He had noticed that, and he didn’t like the implications of their conclusions.

“So what do we do?” Anakin wished he didn’t sound so helpless, but he was way out of his depth. He felt Padmè’s hand touch the side of his face and he leaned into her, relishing the simple reassurance her touch always brought him.

“For now, we make her feel safe, welcome, and most importantly, loved here.” Padmè said in a gentle tone. “We can think about bigger ways to help once she feels safe enough around us to open up a bit more. But, ” Anakin recognized that tone, and the accompanying stern look on her face, “we can’t force her to do anything, that’ll only make it worse. So don't try to interrogate her like you have a tendency to do.” He nodded with a mischievous smirk on his face.

“Yes Angel, I’ll avoid the direct approach.” Padmè nodded, satisfied with his response, before cuddling back into him. “We’ll take it one day at a time, all of us.”

Padmè smiled. “All of us, together.”

Chapter Text

Barriss Unduli sighed to herself as she sat down for dinner with her mother, Luminara. School would be starting up again next week, which meant it was just about time for-

“Barriss, what classes have you signed up for this semester?” Time for that. The interrogation. Barriss fought down a sigh and prepared herself mentally for what was coming.

“I registered for Pre-Calculus, Anatomy, AP English, World Cultures, and,” she hesitated, “Art.” Barriss’s fists clenched in her lap as she heard her mother scoff.

“Come now Barriss, surely there were better options for your fifth slot.” Barriss’s eyes flicked downwards while Luminara continued her speech undaunted. “Coruscant High does offer several business classes, you would be better served taking one of those rather than wasting your time drawing pictures. You’re going to be starting your junior year next week Barriss, it’s important that you excel.” Barriss bit back a scathing reply, knowing it would only make things worse.

“I… I’ll think about it.” She wouldn’t. “I think I’d like to be excused now.” Barriss hated how small her voice sounded. 

Luminara sighed. “I suppose you may, I wish you wouldn’t waste food by eating so little though.”

“Thank you Mother.” It wouldn’t be the first time Barriss had skipped a meal. And she doubted it would be the last either.

Barriss curled up on her bed miserably. Her mother’s expectations were suffocating, Luminara demanded nothing less than absolute perfection from her. Barriss didn’t know how much longer she could take it without-

She stopped herself short before she could finish that thought. She had gone down that road once before, and she promised herself she would never do it again.

That didn’t stop her from casting a glance at the locked cabinet she kept her razor in before she fell into an uneasy sleep.

She was awoken from her nap by a chime from her phone. Stretching her stiff muscles from the uncomfortable position she fell asleep in, she checked her phone to find that her principal, a jovial old man named Palpatine, had sent her an email.

Miss Barriss Unduli,

I hope this email finds you well, and that you have been enjoying your summer thus far. As we near the start of a new school year, I was notified that a new student would be joining us this year. As you are the student council representative for your year, and our new student will be joining the same class as you, I thought you would be a natural pick to guide her through an orientation of our facilities. I will be meeting with her and her parents on Friday at 10 am. Please let me know as soon as possible if you will be able to attend.

All the best,

Dr. Sheev Palpatine

Moving to her laptop, Barriss quickly typed out a response confirming that yes, she would be able to attend and would be happy to help with orienting the new student. Student Council was one of the few things her mother forced her into that she actually enjoyed, something she could excel at simply by being herself.

Stepping out of her room, Barriss found her mother walking towards her bedroom.

“Mother, Dr. Palpatine asked me to come give a new student an orientation at Coruscant High on Friday as part of my duties as the class representative.” Barriss said. Luminara smiled as she replied.

“Very well Barriss, be sure you don’t disappoint Dr. Palpatine. I’m glad he’s finally taking notice of your success as your class representative. Now, have you thought anymore about changing your art class to a business class to ensure you are better prepared for your future?” Barriss’s good mood faded at that. Of course Luminara couldn’t just be happy for her.

“Dr. Palpatine said the schedules were finalized yesterday, I won’t be able to change any of my classes for the semester.” Luminara’s eyes narrowed.

“How unfortunate. Next time we will have a conversation about your schedule before everything is finalized then, yes?” Luminara said while looking at her expectantly.

Barriss sighed. “Yes, Mother.”

Luminara nodded, seemingly satisfied. “Very well then, goodnight Barriss.”

“Goodnight Mother.”

Friday arrived quickly, and Barriss found herself actually feeling excited for once while getting ready. She grabbed a quick breakfast from the kitchen, thanking her lucky stars that Luminara had already gone to work, and headed to the garage where she kept her bike.

A quick bike ride later, and much cursing to herself about the heat, and Barriss had arrived at her school. Coruscant High, otherwise known to Barriss as the one place where she could actually be herself without fear. She smiled to herself as she walked down the hall to the administration offices and was greeted in the lobby by a familiar face.

“Hello there Barriss, what brings you here during the summer?” Barriss’s history teacher, a man named Ben Kenobi asked her.

“Hello Mr. Kenobi, I was asked by Dr. Palpatine to help with an orientation for a new student.” She replied with a smile. Mr. Kenobi smiled and waved her towards Dr. Palpatine’s office.

Upon entering, Barriss found she had been the last to arrive. Dr. Palpatine sat behind his sturdy oak desk, as usual, and in front of him sat three people that Barriss assumed were the new student and her parents. A man with tousled hair in an easygoing posture, an elegant woman with a kind expression, and between them was a girl about Barriss’s age with fiery curls, fidgeting nervously in her chair.

Dr. Palpatine looked up as she came in and smiled. “Ah, Miss Unduli, thank you for joining us.” The other three occupants of the office turned to her as he spoke before Palpatine continued, “Miss Tano, this is Barriss Unduli,” Barriss gave a shy wave to the girl who was now blushing the same color as her hair. “She is your class representative on the Student Council and has agreed to give you a quick orientation while I speak to your caretakers.” 

They stepped out into the hall, where Barriss gave a quick overview of exactly which classes Coruscant High had to offer. Turning to the new girl with a gentle smile on her face, she asked, “So, any questions Miss Tano?”

The girl’s face scrunched up a bit at the formal address. “You can just call me Ahsoka, I don’t need any of that ‘Miss Tano’ stuff.” 

Barriss smiled. “Ahsoka then. Do you have any questions on what’s offered here?”

Ahsoka rubbed her arm shyly. “Yeah, actually. What are your music classes like?”

Barriss held out a hand. “Come on, I’ll take you down to Mrs Kenobi’s office. She’s the head of our music program so she can give you a better idea of what it’s like.”

Ahsoka gave a soft smile as she took Barriss’s hand, and Barriss couldn’t place the warm feeling that bubbled up in her chest at the touch. Whatever it was, Barriss wanted to grab the feeling with both hands and never let go.

Chapter Text

Ahsoka hummed a quiet melody while her fingers glided across the battered keyboard that was among her few possessions from previous foster homes. The hinges were stiff and scratchy and the stand was extremely wobbly but playing never failed to calm her anxiety, even if it was only a temporary escape more often than not. A soft knock on her bedroom door broke her focus, the harsh dissonance of a missed chord sounding in her earbuds as she looked up.

“Come in.” She said simply while turning off her keyboard. Anakin entered, a suspiciously wide grin on his face.

“Hey Snips, ready for orientation?” He said with way too much excitement for Ahsoka’s taste.

“Orientation?” She said, head tilted in confusion.

“For school Ahsoka, your principal wanted to meet with the three of us before the new year started.” School. Right. Just when she was starting to settle in too. Anakin must have noticed her mood change, because Ahsoka saw his gaze soften as he sat down on her bed. “What’s wrong Ahsoka?”

Ahsoka shrugged helplessly. “I just- I never fit in at school.” She looked down at the floor. “It was just another place that I wasn’t good enough for.” She couldn’t bring herself to meet his eyes, even as he spoke to her softly.

“Can I give you a hug Ahsoka?” She nodded and leaned into his touch. It felt nice, especially when she was expecting it. “It’ll be better here, Ahsoka. I promise.” Anakin smiled at her as they separated. “Besides, Dr. Palpatine’s been the principal since I was in school, everything’s gonna be fine.”

Despite the surge of anxiety welling inside her, Ahsoka still managed to give a cheeky smirk. “Well if he was your principal, he must really be ancient.”

Anakin put a hand over his heart and chuckled good-naturedly. “Ouch, Snips, right where it hurts.” He stopped in her doorway on his way out. “When you get ready, come down to the living room. We’re supposed to be meeting him at 10, okay?” Ahsoka nodded, still grinning at him as he left.

After much effort trying to wrangle her curls into submission - she finally settled on a headband to at least keep them out of her eyes - Ahsoka, Anakin, and Padmè eventually made it to Coruscant High. After getting stopped by a friend of Anakin and Padmè’s - someone named Ben Kenobi - and wrangling a promise that he would come by for dinner next week, the trio found themselves in Dr. Palpatine’s office.

“Ah, Anakin, welcome back! I always knew I would be seeing you here again, but I confess I didn’t expect it to be so soon.”

Anakin smiled and gestured to Ahsoka, who suddenly felt like she was under a microscope as Dr. Palpatine’s gaze focussed on her. “Well, Padmè and I became Ahsoka’s foster parents about a week ago, so she needed to be enrolled in a school close by.”

Dr. Palpatine nodded. “A wise decision Anakin, she’ll be well taken care of here. Miss Unduli should be arriving shortly to show Ahsoka around the school, and get her acquainted with what we have on offer so she can register for classes this semester.” A quiet knock on the door caused Dr. Palpatine to look up with a smile. “Ah, Miss Unduli, thank you for joining us.”

Ahsoka turned and barely managed to keep her jaw from dropping as she saw the angel that would be her tour guide for the day. She looked to be a bit shorter than Ahsoka, standing in the doorway with practiced elegance that reminded Ahsoka of a fairy tale princess. Bronze skin framed by smooth, shoulder length black hair in a simple yet elegant style, though oddly she wore a long sleeved shirt despite the sweltering heat.

She was gorgeous .

Ahsoka could practically feel the smirk Anakin was giving her as she managed to get her racing mind under control long enough to follow her guide - she managed to get the name “Barriss Unduli” through her mind - out into the hallway.

After explaining to Ahsoka what classes Coruscant High had - along with little tidbits on who taught them - Barriss turned to Ahsoka with a smile that made her knees weak.

“So, any questions Miss Tano?” She said in a voice that was frankly unfairly pretty.

Ahsoka made a face at the address. It reminded her too much of Mr. Kearns for her taste. “You can just call me Ahsoka, I don’t need any of that ‘Miss Tano’ stuff.” 

Barriss smiled at her and Ahsoka felt her brain short circuit. “Ahsoka then. Do you have any questions on what’s offered here?”

Ahsoka rubbed her arm as she worked up her courage. “Yeah, actually. What are your music classes like?” 

Barriss held out her hand, and Ahsoka thought she might actually combust from how hard she was blushing as she took it. “Come on, I’ll take you down to Mrs Kenobi’s office. She’s the head of our music program so she’ll give you a better idea of what it’s like.” 

Ahsoka smiled as Barriss led her down the hall. Maybe this school wouldn’t be so bad after all.

Meeting Satine Kenobi was a far cry from the other attempts Ahsoka had made of being in an actual music class instead of just teaching herself. She appeared to be a kind and fair, if somewhat strict, woman with quite a bit of passion for music. Ahsoka wasn’t quite sure how it happened, but by the end of the impromptu meeting with Mrs Kenobi and the drum major for the school’s marching band, a fiery senior named Kaeden Larte, Ahsoka had found herself a place in the marching band. With some encouragement from Barriss, Ahsoka oddly enough was looking forward to it. It felt… nice to be not just included, but to feel like she was wanted.

She and Barriss eventually made their way back to the administrative office to finalize Ahsoka’s schedule.

“So you’re going with World Cultures, Algebra II, Language and Composition, and Instrumental Music?” Barriss asks her with a smile that Ahsoka has already burned into her memory, and at Ahsoka’s nod Barriss leads her back into Dr. Palpatine’s office where Ahsoka finds the meeting with her caretakers is wrapping up.

“Ah, there they are!” Dr. Palpatine says jovially. “Did you enjoy your tour?”

Ahsoka nodded. “Yes, Barriss was a great guide.” She tried to keep her blush down, but Anakin and Padmè’s expressions told her she was less than successful. 

Barriss handed Palpatine the sheet of paper with Ahsoka’s schedule on it with her own blush. “Well, my effectiveness as a guide aside, we did manage to get a schedule sorted out.”

Palpatine nodded as he looked at the paper thoughtfully. “Yes, this seems to be in order.” He looked up at Ahsoka before continuing, “If you’ll stop by the front desk on Monday morning, Mr. Amedda will give you your final schedule.” Ahsoka nodded, and they were politely ushered out of Palpatine’s office.

“Barriss, wait!” Ahsoka called after the older girl, who turned to her with a curious expression.

“Yes, Ahsoka? Did you need something else?” Barriss said with a gentle smile.

Ahsoka found herself blushing again as she replied. “Yeah, I wanted to get your number so that we could talk outside school.” At Barriss’s raised eyebrow she hurriedly added, “B-but if that’s weird to you it’s not a problem I just really appreciated you helping me today-” She cut off at the sound of Barriss giggling. 

“I’m sorry Ahsoka, I shouldn’t tease. Yes, we can exchange numbers, I really enjoyed being in your company today.” Barriss said, getting her giggles under control. Ahsoka smiled as they swapped numbers, both of them promising to text later as they went their separate ways.

Ahsoka was still smiling as she walked down to where Anakin and Padmè were waiting, and Ahsoka groaned mentally as she saw the knowing looks on both of their faces. After they all piled into the Skywalker’s car, Anakin looked at Ahsoka through the mirror.

“So Snips, wanna tell us about your new friend?” He said, and Ahsoka laid her head against the seat and groaned as Anakin and Padmè both laughed.

But even through the teasing, Ahsoka smiled, finally feeling like she had found a place where she belonged.

Chapter Text

“Barriss! Wait up!” Ahsoka called as she hurried after her friend, nearly running her over when Barriss turned around suddenly. Barriss grabbed her arms to keep them both from falling over and Ahsoka was suddenly acutely aware of how close their faces were.

“Yes Ahsoka?” Barriss said, amusement clear in her voice. 

Ahsoka cleared her throat as she stepped back, “W-well, I was wondering if you wanted to come over for a bit? Maybe study for that test in Mr. Kenobi’s or just hang out for a while? Maybe play some board games or something, I’m sure Anakin and Padmè have something and-” She cut off as Barriss started giggling. “I’m rambling aren’t I?” She said, suddenly self-conscious.

“Perhaps just a little bit.” Barriss said, getting her giggles under control. “I’m sorry I shouldn’t laugh at you, and I’d love to come over for a bit, give me a few minutes to let my mother know. Are you sure your foster parents will be alright with it?”

Ahsoka nodded enthusiastically. “I’ll give Anakin a call just to make sure but he and Padmè both said any of my friends were more than welcome to come.” 

Barriss muttered something that Ahsoka didn’t quite catch as she stepped aside to call her mother while Ahsoka did the same, pulling up Anakin’s contact in her phone. After a few rings, Anakin picked up and she could hear the noise of machinery in the background.

“Hey Anakin! I was hoping to have Barriss over for a bit, I know you and Padmè said I was fine to bring people over but I just wanted to make sure…” She trailed off, not sure where her thoughts were heading.

“‘Course Barriss can come over, I’ll pick up something extra from Dex’s on my way back from the shop in case she stays for dinner.”  

Ahsoka smiled. “Thanks Anakin, see you at home!” She said, hanging up the phone and heading back to where Barriss was finishing up her phone call.

“-Yes Mother, I’ll see you when I get back.” Barriss said, hanging up the phone with a frustrated sigh. “All clear on my end, lead the way.”

Ahsoka beamed as she and Barriss mounted their bikes, Barriss following behind as Ahsoka started down the familiar route home.

The two girls stowed their bikes in the garage, and Ahsoka was surprised to see that Padmè’s car was already there. 

“Didn’t you say Padmè was a lawyer?” Barriss asked.

“Yeah she is, not sure why she’s home already.” Ahsoka said with a small frown. The door was expectedly unlocked, and sure enough Padmè was in the kitchen making a snack. Ahsoka’s frown deepened when she noticed that Padmè looked pale. “Hey Padmè, everything okay?”

Padmè nodded, smiling at the two girls. “Yes everything’s fine, just been feeling under the weather today.” She turned to Barriss, who was awkwardly standing to the side. “And you must be Barriss, it’s nice to meet you. You’ve been nearly the only thing Ahsoka could talk about since she started school.”

Ahsoka blushed. “W-we’ll be up in my room, Anakin said he was gonna stop by Dex’s for dinner.” And hopefully I can get there before I explode from embarrassment. Padmè nodded, a knowing smile on her face as Ahsoka pulled Barriss up to her room.

“W-well, this is it, home sweet home right?” Ahsoka said nervously, suddenly feeling self-conscious about the lack of organization and her battered keyboard resting against the wall.

Barriss just smiled. “It’s lovely Ahsoka, very you.” She said, no hint of malice or sarcasm in her tone. “Is this what you learned piano on?” She asked, looking at Ahsoka’s keyboard.

Ahsoka rubbed the back of her neck nervously. “Y-yeah, I found it dumped outside a thrift store and when I asked the clerk he said they couldn’t make it work so I was welcome to it. I fixed it up a bit, used YouTube to teach myself how to play.” She frowned, memories coming unbidden to her. “None of the music teachers at my past schools would take me in the program, there was always some budget concern or my grades weren’t good enough or I was too much of a trouble maker or some other excuse. Mrs Kenobi was the first one to take the time to teach me properly.” 

She tried not to flinch as Barriss laid a hand on her shoulder. “Well clearly they didn’t want to see what Mrs Kenobi clearly sees in you, she wouldn’t have put you on the field if she didn’t believe in your abilities.” Barriss said, giving Ahsoka a small smile that sent flutters through her chest.

“Just wish I could figure out what’s tripping me up, I don’t wanna screw up my part while performing.” Ahsoka said, eyes on the floor.

Barriss looked thoughtful for a moment. “I know I’m not a musician but maybe I could help you. I just need to know what you’re having issues with.”

“A-are you sure? I don’t wanna trouble you with my issues or anything.” Ahsoka said nervously.

Barriss shook her head. “I’m your friend Ahsoka, it won’t be any trouble at all to see if I can help you if you’re struggling with something.” She said, and Ahsoka would do anything to keep that smile pointed her way forever.

Sufficiently worn down, Ahsoka set her keyboard up, wincing at the squeaks from her stand. She took a deep breath, trying to ignore the fact that her best friend who she definitely did not have a crush on was watching her, and started to play. Her fingers were gliding across the keys, the chords and rhythms almost second nature to her until her part in the big percussion feature came along. She tried to power through the complex section but her fingers wouldn’t cooperate with her brain. The harsh dissonance sounded mocking to her ears, and she threw her head back in frustration.

Barriss frowned thoughtfully. “Ahsoka I think you’re getting in your own head a bit. You focus so much on the first mistake that you lose your focus and make more mistakes.”

That… actually made a lot of sense. She was very critical of herself, maybe she did end up getting in her own head and snowballing one mistake into losing her rhythm for the entire piece.

“I… I never thought about it like that.” Ahsoka said honestly.

Barriss smiled encouragingly. “Try again, but don’t worry about making mistakes. You’re just playing for me, and I probably won’t even notice if you mess up.”

Ahsoka nodded, and started playing again, letting herself get lost in her music.

Anakin stepped inside, a pair of to-go bags from Dex’s in his hands. Setting the food down, he turns to the living room at the sound of his wife’s voice.

“You better have gotten my favorite Ani.” Padmè said, sitting up on the couch where she had been resting.

Anakin laughed. “Only the best for you Angel, where’s Ahsoka?”

“Upstairs with Barriss.” She said, breaking into the food. 

Heading up the stairs, he heard the sounds of Ahsoka’s keyboard from down the hall. Finding the door open, he gave a knock on the doorframe.

“Hey kiddos, got some food downstairs for you guys. Ahsoka I got your usual for you, and there’s a club sandwich for Barriss since I’m not sure what you like.” He said, leaning against the doorframe.

“Perfectly fine with me Mr. Skywalker, thank you for thinking of me.” Barriss says as the two girls get up to head downstairs.

As the four of them eat, Anakin takes note of the longing expression on Barriss’s face as she watches the easy banter between Ahsoka and the Skywalkers. He also notices her nervously looking at her phone each time it buzzes with a text message. As soon as Barriss finishes her meal, she immediately stands to leave.

“Thank you for the meal and for hosting me here for the afternoon, but I really should head home. I’ll see you tomorrow Ahsoka!” She says, almost running for the door.

“Y-yeah sure, see you then Barris!” Ahsoka says with a frown as her friend heads out the door.

Anakin frowns. “Her home life isn’t the best is it?”

Ahsoka looks down. “I don’t think so. She won’t tell me anything, but I don’t think she and her mom get along too well.” She says. “I don’t know what to do to help her though.”

“I know Snips, just make sure she knows she can confide in you and that she’s always welcome here alright?” Anakin says, to which Ahsoka nods before excusing herself and heading up to her room.

Anakin met Padmè’s eyes, and silently they both agreed that they would do whatever they needed for the girl who they were quickly coming to view as a daughter and the girl who had clearly captured her heart.

Chapter Text

Barriss could feel her mother’s glare on her back as she shut the door. Sure enough, she was in the kitchen cleaning up from dinner, glare firmly pointed at Barriss.

“Barriss.” Luminara said, Barris wincing at the ice in her voice. “When I let you go to your friend’s house to help her study, when did I tell you to be home?”

Barriss looked down as she subconsciously tried to make herself look smaller. “You said to be home by dinner, mother.” She said quietly.

Luminara’s gaze sharpened. “So explain why you are arriving home half an hour after dinner.”

“We… we lost track of time.” Barriss said weakly, hoping Luminara didn’t press her.

“Hm. Lost track of time. Are you sure you were studying and not wasting that time you ‘lost track’ of?” Luminara said sharply. “You need to focus on your studies, not spend time with your head in the clouds drawing pictures or cavorting around with that girl. I certainly don’t want people to get the wrong idea about your… proclivities, you understand?” She said, her voice harsh.

Barriss’s eyes were locked on the floor. “Y-yes mother, I understand.” She said, barely above a whisper.

Luminara nodded sharply. “Good. One day you’ll realize that this was for your own good, that I expect the best of you.”

If that were true, then why is nothing I do ever enough for you? Why am I never enough? Barriss thought as she went to her room wordlessly.

The door shut behind her, offering some measure of comfort and privacy as she threw herself on her bed and let the tears flow freely. Her eyes flicked to her cabinet, but before she could shut down or entertain those thoughts, her phone buzzed. She half expected another snipe from her mother, but instead she was greeted to a message from Ahsoka.

Ashla: Hey Barriss! Everything okay?

She winced, remembering how she practically ran out the door.

Barrissta: Everything’s fine, sorry I ran out on you.

Ashla: No worries! Are you sure everything’s okay, I know how your mom can be.

Barrissta: She wasn’t super happy that I missed dinner but it’s not a big deal, I don’t want to bother you with my issues.

Ashla: I remember someone telling me that it’s not any trouble to help a friend who’s struggling.

Barrissta: Not quite what I said, but since you’re being stubborn about it. 

Barrissta: She just always has to have something to criticize about me and what I do. Even when I do put my best into what she thinks I should, there’s always something wrong. It just feels like nothing I ever do can be enough for her.

Ashla: Your mom sounds like some of the people I used to live with. 

Ashla: Nothing’s ever gonna be good enough for someone like her, but you know what? Her opinions shouldn’t matter. What matters is if you’re enough for you , and I can say for sure that you’re enough for me. 

Ashla: You’re the best friend I’ve ever had, and if your mom can’t see how amazing of a person you are that’s on her. 

Barriss was smiling brightly despite the tears that still poured down her face, warm feelings she couldn’t place blooming within her. Ahsoka really thought she was amazing?

Barrissta: That- that means a lot to me Ahsoka, thank you.

Barrissta: I’ll see you at school tomorrow, good night!

Barriss was still smiling as she pulled out her sketchbook. Drawing always helped settle her thoughts and emotions, and right now that was something she desperately needed. The tension drained out of her as she drew, her thoughts often drifting to Ahsoka, the girl who somehow managed to become her closest friend in a matter of weeks. The way she seemed to know exactly what to say to make Barriss feel better, the serene smile on her face as she played piano, the butterflies she felt when Ahsoka turned that smile towards her-

Barriss stopped suddenly as her thoughts screeched to a halt. Looking down at what she was sketching, she saw her best friend’s face staring back at her and the pieces suddenly put themselves together. 

So that’s what that feeling is.

“Barriss, I say this with love but you are the single most oblivious person I have ever met.” Riyo Chuchi, the student council president, said with exasperation. “You two are head-over-heels for each other and you’re the only ones who haven’t figured it out yet.”

Barriss frowned at her friend and mentor. “Surely it’s not that bad…” She said, trailing off when Riyo shot her a side-eye.

“Barriss, Kaeden has been complaining for weeks about you and Ahsoka dancing around each other. It is that bad, and you should absolutely ask her out.” Riyo said bluntly.

Barriss immediately shook her head. “I don’t think that’s a good idea. I don’t want to risk our friendship if she doesn’t feel the same and…” Barriss sighed, “I doubt my mother would allow me to be in a relationship with her even if we both wanted it.” She said, looking down at the floor.

Riyo sighed. “Barriss, you can’t put your own happiness on hold to try and make your mom happy when she clearly has impossible standards.”

Barriss nodded. “Ahsoka said something similar last night, I just… I don’t think it’s a good idea. Not right now.”

Riyo shook her head. “Alright, I’ll let it go for now but… just think about it, okay? This is the happiest I think I’ve ever seen you and I don’t want you to let something like this go because of your mom. That aside,” she said before Barriss could say anything, “I do need to ask you about something for student council.” She said, continuing once Barriss nodded. “Ms. Ti needs somebody to do a write up on the marching competition at the end of the month for the school paper, and you’re the best person I’ve got for that.”

“And I’m sure you have no other reason for asking me right after what we just talked about.” Barriss said dryly.

Riyo winked at her. “Of course not, I would never do something like that. Now, are you interested or should I ask someone else?” She said with a mischievous sparkle in her eyes.

“No that won’t be necessary, I’ll get Ms. Ti the write up the Monday after the competition.” Barriss said quickly. “Just have to figure out how to get my mother on board…”

Getting Luminara on board ended up being surprisingly easy, though she wasn’t exactly enthusiastic about the idea, the fact that Barriss was doing it for student council was enough for Luminara to allow her to go. Though not to provide transportation, and since she doubted Mrs Kenobi would allow her to travel on the bus with the band, she was pursuing another option. 

Ahsoka smiled at Barriss as she approached. “Hey Barriss, what’s up?” She said, and Barriss felt her heart flutter at Ahsoka’s smile.

“Hello Ahsoka, I need a favor.” She said, continuing when Ahsoka prompted her. “I’m doing a write up for your competition, but my mother won’t drive me there. Are your foster parents going? And if so do you think they would mind giving me a ride?” She asked, shuffling her feet nervously.

Ahsoka thought for a moment before pulling out her phone. “I know Anakin and Padmè are going, I’ll ask if they can take you but I don’t think it’ll be a problem.” She said, quickly typing something in her phone. A few moments later she smiled eagerly, and Barriss felt her heart rate speed up again. “Yep, they’re more than happy to drive you, they just need your address.”

“I’ll be cheering for you.” Barriss said with a smile after the relevant information was exchanged.

Ahsoka blushed. “Th-thanks Barris. I’m glad you’re gonna be there.”

“Me too.” Barriss said quietly as the girls parted ways Once Ahsoka was out of earshot, she leaned against the wall with a groan as she tried to get her blush under control. “Oh I am in so much trouble.”