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Rey opened her eyes. The sunlight tickled her nose and she turned over to look at her sounding alarm clock. It was 6:45 a.m., making Rey roll her eyes and throw the blanket off her and towards her feet. She slowly rolled out of bed and sat at the edge of her bed for a moment looking out the window. After taking a deep breath she stood up and began to get ready for school. Backpack, pink cat-ear hoodie, and iPhone in hand she ran down the steps. Her adoptive father, Unkar Plott, was sitting on the couch, coffee mug in one hand and remote control in the other.
“Morning!” Rey said walking towards the kitchen.
“Mmh,” he replied. Rey sighed and made herself two slices of toast with butter. She began to eat one when she heard a honk. It was Rose waiting outside in her yellow buggy. Rey grabbed her breakfast and headed out the door.
“I have practice today, so I’ll be home later,” she called to Unkar who just nodded and continued watching TV.
“Morning!” Rose grinned cheerfully. She was leaning out of her yellow convertible with her head resting on her perched-up arm.
“Good morning,” Rey smiled back, “ready for the quiz?”
“Oh, yeah! My dad helped me all day yesterday. You?”
Rey thought about what it would be like to have a father that actually paid attention to her. She immediately discarded the thought and regret grew in her stomach. She was grateful for Unkar taking her in and providing for her. “Mh. Not really. But it’ll be fine, I’m sure.” She replied, walking around the car, putting her bag in the back, and sliding into the passenger seat.
“Exactly, you always manage to get like a B or something. Ready?”
“Yeah,” she nodded and took out her phone to check her messages while she finished her slices of toast. A few people from school commented on her latest Instagram post to which she responded. After doing the same on TikTok she looked up to see Finn waiting at the curb in front of his house. Rose slowed down and he jumped in the backseat. He wrapped his arms around both of them and pulled them in for a hug.
“Buenos dias, mis amigas! Y’all ready for today?”
Rey smiled and knew he hadn’t studied one bit. Finn was always overly cheerful when he tried covering that up. Rose gave her a knowing look, put the car in drive, and took off.
“We are,” Rose said, “And by the sound of it, so are you.”
“Aaah, y’know, I studied with Poe yesterday.”
“And by that you mean you and Dameron FaceTimed for an hour and of that hour you guys spoke about history for not even five minutes,” Rose smirked at him through the rear-view mirror.
“Ugh… yeah… pretty much.” He leaned back and rested his arms over the seat. “You know me too damn well.”

When they reached the school’s parking lot, Poe and Kaydell were leaning on Poe’s orange Jeep Wrangler 4xe already waiting for them. Rose parked in the lot next to them and the five friends greeted each other.
“So, you study as much as Finn yesterday?” Rey teased Poe. Poe gave Finn a confused look and then looked back at Rey.
“Ugh, probably equally as much, yeah.” He understood.
“Oh, yeah, good luck on your history test guys! I took that class last semester and it’s really not as bad as you’d think.” Kaydell explained.
“Wait, that’s right! You could’ve given us the answers.” Finn threw up his hands.
“Oh, c’mon, like Mr. Akbar would use the same answers.” Rose rolled her eyes.
“Well, I don’t know… maybe!” He shrugged.
Poe laughed and put his hands on Finn’s shoulder while they walked inside. Just as they were about to cross the street from the parking lot to the entrance of Hanna City Highschool a black Porsche 911 Carrera sped in front of them and came to an abrupt halt almost hitting the motorcycle and its driver coming around the corner.
Out of the Porsche window emerged a ginger head. “Watch it, asshole!” Armitage Hux yelled out the window before speeding off.
“Jesus!” Poe gasped. “You OK, dude?” He checked to make sure the person on the black Triumph was alright. He just lifted his hand a bit gesturing he was fine and drove off. She couldn’t see his face but Rey saw the multiple silver rings on each hand. Especially the large, silver skull ring caught her attention and she wondered who that could’ve been.
“Well, that got my heart rate up.” Finn put his hand on his chest.
“You know what they say, heart rate up once a day keeps the doctor away!” Poe walked towards the entrance.
“Who? Who says that?” Finn followed him inside. “Nobody says that, Poe!”
“Of course they do.” Poe smiled confidently.
“People need to chill,” Rose shook her head. “I hate it when they think just because they have a cool, expensive car they think they own the road and they’re capable of actually operating such machinery. Daddy can’t buy you skills, dummy!”
“C’mon,” Rey said smiling and shaking her head. “Gotta get to class, guys. Good luck on your art presentation today, Kaydell.” Rey yelled after her as they all parted ways for first period.
“Thanks, you too on your quiz!” She yelled back before she stepped into the art room.

They entered Mr. Ackbar’s classroom and took their seats. The quizzes had already been passed around and were face-down on everyone’s desks.
“You all already know the deal, sit down, no talking and no peeking until I say ‘start’.” Mr. Ackbar explained while everyone was still finding their seats. Rose sat in front of Rey, Poe behind her, and Finn to her right at the window. She stared at the sheet of paper and hoped she was prepared enough. Rose turned around and gave her two reassuring thumbs up. She smiled at her friends as to say ‘good luck’.
Armitage came in and sat next to Phasma all the way up front.
“Morning, sir!” He greeted their history teacher overly proper. Mr. Ackbar nodded and gestured to sit. He sat down, fist-bumped Phasma, and straightened the collar on his black polo shirt. Everyone was ready and waiting for their teacher to give the signal. Mr. Ackbar skimmed the room and sighed. At that moment, the door opened one last time and a large figure with black pants, black jeans jacket and long, black, wavy hair stepped into the room with a motorcycle helmet in one hand and his other holding on to the strap of his backpack. The tall, slim, yet unusually broad figure casually made his way to the back of the classroom and took a seat.
“Nice of you to join us after all, Mr. Solo,” Mr. Ackbar crossed his arms. Slouched in his seat, he just nodded. “Well, now that everyone is here, you may begin.” Everyone turned their papers over and began answering the questions. After a good ten minutes, Rey was about halfway finished. She looked up to see Ben Solo walking to the front of the classroom and laying his quiz down on the teacher’s desk. Mr. Ackbar looked up, slightly confused. “You done?” Ben gave him a slight nod and left the classroom. Rey turned to Finn who just shrugged and rolled his eyes and whispered, “probably blank”. She returned to her quiz and after about twenty more minutes she finished as well. Rose was the first of their group to finish and was waiting outside of the classroom. They compared answers from memory and walked to their next classes.

After the first two periods, the friends had separate classes and met up again in the cafeteria for lunch when fourth period was over. Kaydell joined them with a frown.
“Uh, oh. Art presentation didn’t go well?” Rose asked her.
“Not really… my partner didn’t show up…” She rolled her eyes. “Had to do it by myself.”
“For real?” Poe’s eyes widened. “Does that affect your grade at all?”
Kaydell shook her head. “No, but it still sucks. Especially, the questions part of the presentation y’know. Would’ve been nice to have backup, even if it’s just someone standing next to you. Anyway, how’d the quiz go?”
Finn and Poe complained about how the questions differed from the curriculum to which Rose argued that it’s supposed to be challenging. While her friends discussed the quiz, Rey looked up to see Ben Solo in line for a school lunch. He had a tissue pressed up to his lip which made her curious. He took his tray after the lunch lady filled his plate with mashed potatoes and gravy and walked over to an empty table. Rey caught herself staring at the large, dark figure sitting far across from her. His broad shoulders and arms were exposed by the black muscle shirt he was wearing. The many silver rings on both hands glistened whenever he moved his fingers. A scar on the right side of his face stretched from his clavicle up his neck to right below his eye. She wondered how he had gotten it. Her thoughts of the different scenarios were interrupted when he was joined by some other similarly dressed students which blocked her view. Rey turned her attention back to her friends who were teasing each other and talking about their weekend plans.
“So, we going to the lake house party this Saturday?” Poe asked.
“Oh, yeah! I need a night out.” Finn grinned.
“Oh, I don’t know,” Rose answered, “my parents have company this weekend and they’re probably gonna want me to help around the house.”
“Oh, c’mon, Rose! I’m sure your parents won’t mind! I’ll ask them.” Finn tried to persuade her.
“Oh, sure! That’ll be a definite ‘no’ then.” Rose smirked. “Rey, are you going?”
“I’d have to ask Unkar, but yeah I’m down if he says ‘yes’.” She shrugged innocently.
“Perfect!” Poe said, “Kaydell?”
“Yeah, if you’re driving.”
“See, we’re all going. Please, Rose. You have to!” Finn pleaded.
“If Rey goes, then maybe I’ll be able to persuade my parents.” She pressed her lips together and looked at Rey. “We’ll see what Unkar says.”
“OK.” Rey smiled back at her.
Rey felt someone behind her and looked up to someone towering over her.
“Hey, can I talk to you real quick?” A deep voice addressed Kaydell.
“Uhm, yeah. Sure.” Kaydell got up and followed Ben who still had a tissue pressed up against his lower lip.
“Oh, this oughtta be good,” Poe said keeping his eyes on them.
“Pff, he probably missed their presentation cuz he was too busy. Busy doing drugs.” Finn rolled his eyes.
“What, you think?” Rose asked with widened eyes.
“Well, yeah, that’s what these gang people do.” Finn lowered his voice. “I hear he’s in a gang now called the Knights of Ren.”
“Knights of who?” Poe asked. “Who the hell is Ren? Never heard of her.” He giggled.
Finn laughed and shook his head. “I don’t know, but I’m almost sure he is. The dude is trouble. Better to stay away from him and his friends.”
“Oh, that’s pretty biased thinking.” Rose lifted an eyebrow. “Please, that’s just your imagination going wild.” She turned to look at him. “I mean sure he’s a little scary looking… but that doesn’t mean he’s in a gang or let alone dangerous. Right?” Rose looked at Rey.
Rey shrugged. “He looks harmless to me.”
“What?!” Finn said surprised. “Harmless? Look at him, the dark clothes, the chains, the scar.”
“Finn, his scar - really? That's taking it a little far, don’t you think?” Rey crossed her arms. “Sure, he may be a little intimidating but you can’t judge someone by that.”
“Yeah, true. But still, he gives me goosebumps,” he replied.
When Kaydell came back everyone turned to her and waited for her to spill.
“Well?” Poe asked. “What’d he have to say?”
“Oh, he just explained why he couldn’t make it and that he was gonna make up for it.”
“Uh, huh and you believe that?” Finn raised his eyebrow.
“Yeah, I do. He really seemed like he regretted not being there and seemed sincere in that.” She shrugged. “We’ll see.”
“What was his excuse?” Poe asked.
“He only said he had a little situation to tend to which couldn’t wait.”
“Uh, huh, and you didn’t ask any further?”
“I didn't really feel it was appropriate. Also, I was a little afraid to ask.”
“See! Cuz it was probably a fight!” Finn threw up his hands.
“Oh, Finn, stop.” Rose shook her head.
“Anyway,” Kaydell continued, “we’re meeting up on Saturday to work on the project. Maybe I’ll work up the courage to ask him then,” she laughed.

After school, Rey and Rose walked across campus to the volleyball court for practice. Astraal-Talik was already waiting for them in the locker room. The 5’2 ginger with cute freckles sprinkled across her face seemed like a quiet, sweet girl but Rey knew how fierce she really was. She was often seen hanging out with the group of friends Ben was also a part of and therefore nobody dared to mess with her.
“Sorry, we’re a little late.” Rey apologized but Astraal-Talik waved it off.
“No worries. I haven’t been here long,” she said putting her beautiful, shiny, orange hair in a messy bun. After they all changed into their volleyball uniforms they quickly rushed out to the court where the rest of the team had been waiting on them. Daisy, the captain of the volleyball team, was showing off her splits to the other girls and swinging her long, blonde ponytail back and forth to show off her locks. Rey saw Rose and Astraal-Talik rolling their eyes in annoyance at the scene. Rey got along with everyone and didn’t mind Daisy’s attention-seeking efforts. She knew Daisy quickly felt threatened by other girls and was willing to go into offensive mode to intimidate them. It never bothered her because she recognized it was just a defense mechanism for someone that was very insecure deep down. The compassionate person Rey was never let her engage in any drama or catty interactions with their team captain. Astraal-Talik on the other hand didn’t take any bullshit from anyone.
“Well, well, there they finally are. Running late from a street fight, Astraal-Talik?”
“Oh, we’re being greeted by Satan’s secretary,” Astraal-Talik pushed back. “Go hug a land mine, Daz.”
“Wow, so aggressive.” Daisy raised her brow. “What’s it like being a thug?”
“What’s it like being ghosted for weeks on end?” Astraal-Talik asked knowing fully well about her and Ben Solo’s failed relationship. Her face dropped in astonishment and she then flipped her long, blonde hair, rolled her eyes, and walked away. Rose crossed her arms and smirked proudly.
“I don’t know what just happened,” Rose continued to smile, “but I enjoyed it!”
“It’s not really my place to talk about it. But, yeah… knowledge is power and I think her reaction just proved my point.” Astraal-Talik winked at them. “Let’s play!”

After practice, Rose drove Rey home and she immediately took a shower and then headed down for dinner. Unkar once again hadn’t prepared anything other than a sandwich for himself and was still sitting in his red recliner in front of the TV.
“You’re back already?” He kept his eyes on the screen.
“Ugh, yeah.” Rey opened the refrigerator scavenging for anything edible. “We finished earlier than expected. Also, just so you know I have ballet at 4 pm on Thursday.” She grabbed the leftover pasta from yesterday's meal, reheated it in the microwave, and headed back upstairs. Mid-stairs she dropped, crouched down and peeked through the railing. “Hey, uhm, there’s this par-, ugh, get-together on Saturday. A couple of people from school are meeting up at the lake house. Would it be ok if I-”
“Who all is going?”
“Just the usual gang, Rose, Finn, Poe, Kaydell, and everyone.”
“If you finish your chores and be back by 10, then fine.” He took a sip from his beer.
Rey thought it was better than nothing and didn’t want to seem ungrateful for getting his permission. “Oh, for sure. Thanks, Unkar!”
“Mmh.”
She ran upstairs before he could ask any further questions or even change his mind completely. After eating the leftovers, she painted her nails in a blush shade but her index and middle fingers in a periwinkle color, put on her cat-ear hoodie, and took multiple mirror photos. She looked through them, deleted most, and uploaded the one she liked most to her Instagram account. Just as she had posted it, Poe started a group call and they were joined by Finn, Rose, and Kaydell. The friends joked around, expressed their usual chaotic energy, and played Cards Against Humanity which intensified said energy.
“It’s getting late! Get off your phone!” She heard Unkar yell from downstairs.
“I gotta go, guys. See you tomorrow.”
“Alright. See you tomorrow!” Rose answered and left the call.
“Adios, mis amigos,” Finn waved.
“Love you guys. Hugs and kisses! Laters, gators.” Poe said and left the call as well.
“Talk to you tomorrow, Rey,” Kaydell smiled and left the call as well. Rey got ready for bed and slipped under the covers. She lay there a while scrolling through Instagram and responding to comments. One comment, in particular, surprised her. It was a fire emoji by @Kylo.Ren.K.O.R. She stared at her screen for a moment, then smiled to herself. She didn’t know why but it made her stomach flutter. She took a few minutes to think about what she would reply, and decided to post the tongue-sticking-out emoji. As soon as she hit send, he immediately liked her comment. She left it at that and went on to scroll through his account for a bit until she grew too tired to keep her eyes open.

Chapter Text

Ben stared at his phone which showed the most recent post of @Rey.Nobody. He was almost mesmerized by the cute, brown-haired girl in her light pink cat-ear hoodie and matching polka-dot pajama bottoms posing in her mirror that was decorated with fairy lights. She had always stood out to him with her almond-shaped, hazel eyes and light freckles sprinkled across her nose and cheeks. The opportunity of an encounter never came up. They only had one class together but he had never really engaged in conversation with her or her friend group. Then again he did skip classes a lot.

“Kylo, you want another beer, dude?” Vicrul asked who was standing in front of the open mini fridge in Trudgen’s apartment. Kylo was the name he chose when he was initiated into the gang. That was part of their ritual and code in order to keep a level of anonymity from other gangs and especially authorities. His brothers of the Knights of Ren had welcomed him with open arms when he had joined them two years ago and he really found a sense of belonging within that unit. Although they engaged in minor delinquencies ever so often, he never perceived the gang as criminals or a huge threat to anyone. Besides, he had no other choice than to join and stick with them after the fire. He knew they did business with drugs but he stayed away from that, and so far everyone had respected that. 

“Nah, I’m good. I think I’m gonna take off here soon anyway.” He drank the last sip of his beer and tossed the can in the bin next to the couch he and Ushar were sitting on. The air was filled with the dense smoke coming from Trudgen’s joint.

“You just got here.” Trudgen puffed and pulled Dalia, who was sitting sideways on his lap, closer. Dalia grabbed the blunt out of his hand, took a hit, and passed it to Ben.

“C’mon, Kylo. Smoke with us, you’ll be just as relaxed as me!” To emphasize the mellowing effects, she ran her fingers through her long blonde hair, then stretched her hands in the air and fell back on Trudgen who laughed and held onto her. “What’s so important that you have to leave us like this, anyway?”

“I have school in the morning.” He said unimpressed.

“So? Since when do you care about school?” She huffed.

“Unlike you, I actually wanna graduate,” he said gently rubbing his knuckles under his chin without breaking eye contact. She stood up, slowly walked over to where he was sitting, leaned over to him, and pushed him back with her stretched-out finger.

“Is that so?” She asked and sat on his left leg.

He tilted his head in slight annoyance. “Yes. Besides, I made someone a promise.” Her long, matt-black acrylic nail ran up his chest and up his chin, holding it in place. “And I always keep my word.”

Still holding his chin up, she raised an eyebrow, “You made us a promise, too.” 

“I don’t owe you a goddamn thing, sweetheart.” He nodded towards the others. “I’m loyal to them, as they are to me.” He slid his arms under her legs, raised her by standing up, and put her back on the ground. She only came up to his chest but she wasn’t easily intimidated by his large size. If she was intimidated then she hid it well, he thought. After a few seconds of staring up at him, she returned to Trudgen’s lap and let out a long exaggerated sigh. Kylo walked over to the door, picked up his helmet, and put on his black jeans jacket. “See you tomorrow, guys.” 

Ap’lek and Ushar waved from the couch, Vicrul and Trudgen nodded and Cardo pointed at Kylo yelling, “Adios, muchacho!” He smirked and opened the door to leave. 

Kuruk came jogging after him, “Kylo, wait! On Saturday there’s this party at the lake house near Ap’leks house. You wanna go?”

“A party? Nah, I don’t like large crowds.” 

“C’mon, it’ll be fun, plus I really need a night out. We could go swimming, skinny dipping -”

“What? You have no shame, bro.”

“Please, a lot of kids from school will be there.”

“I don’t know,” he rubbed his neck.

“Ok, look, Phasma is gonna be there and…”

“You want me to be your wingman.”

“Yes! I want you to be my wingman… please.”

He chuckled. “OK, fine. I’ll meet you there at 10-ish.”

“Yes! Thank you!”

“Wait why isn’t Ap’lek going?”

“He’s visiting his uncle that day.”

“Anyone else going?”

“Nah, they’re all out doing… stuff.”

“Stuff? Don’t they need us there, then?”

He shook his head. “They’re meeting up with Ren. I think they’re good.”

He looked at Kuruk for a moment, contemplating whether to further ask about this meeting but quickly decided he didn’t need to know. “Alright. See you at school tomorrow.”

“Yeah, see ya.” They bumped fists and he left. Kylo put his helmet on and swung one leg over his Triumph Bonneville T100 and drove off. On the way home, all he could think about was @Rey.Nobody in her cat-ear hoodie showing off her athletic figure.  

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When Rey got to school the next morning, everyone was already in class as she had been running late. Unkar hadn’t budged from the couch and there was no food left to make breakfast so, she had make a quick bakeryrun on the way to school. She slowly opened the classroom door to her first period and slipped in without their teacher noticing. Or at least she thought. 

“Alarm not go off?” Mrs. Yates, their Social Studies teacher said without turning away from the board. 

“Yes, ma’am. I’m sorry. It won’t happen again.” Rey apologized and slid into her seat.

“Well, since this never happens, I’ll let it slip.” She winked. Rey smiled back and nodded.

“It’s a good thing she likes you,” Finn whispered. Rey smiled embarrassed and tried eating her croissant as quietly as possible.

After second period, Rey had a free one and decided to do the one thing that relaxed her most next to ballet - visit the library. Getting lost in books was one of her many passions. They’re a way to escape the real world and dip into ones in which she found comfort and solace. She was able to travel places she knew she could never reach in life and explore so many wonderful places, cultures, and languages. After pulling out some fantasy novels and Gail Carson Levine’s ‘Writer to Writer’, she found herself in the Arts & Recreation section skimming the titles with her head tilted. 

“If you do that too long, your neck will stay like that.” A deep, smoky voice came from behind her. She looked back to see if she was being addressed and to her surprise Ben Solo was standing there, one hand in his pocket and the other holding two textbooks and his warm eyes resting on her.  

“Oh,” she said modestly, “hi.”

“Hey,” he said stepping next to her skimming the books in the shelf above her. He had a woody, spicy scent to him which she found to be quite pleasant. Now that he was in front of her, she got a better glance of the scar running from his cheek down to his collar bone but she quickly looked away when he began to speak. He pointed at her books, “What’s your mission?”

“Oh, uhm, these two are just some fictional novels I haven’t read yet. And this one is a guide to creative writing.”

“You write?” 

“Well, thinking about it.” She shrugged with one shoulder and turned back to the shelf. “I haven’t really started yet.”

“Ah.” He reached up to a higher shelf taking a book on art history. 

“You?” She asked looking at the silver iron-on pattern on his black jeans jacket resembling the visor of a helmet of some sort. 

“Oh, you know. Expanding my horizon.”

“Oh?” She pointed at his books. “Interesting pick.”

He held them up and sighed. “Research for an art project.”

“And here I thought you were an art history enthusiast.” She teased.

He let out a short amused exhale and glanced sideways at her slowly examining her face. “No. Just dutiful,” he winked.

“Gotcha,” she chuckled.

“Well, I’m done,” he said looking at the book he just pulled out. “See ya around, Rey.” She liked the way her name sounded when he said it. 

“Yeah, see ya.” 

“Oh, and if you ever do start writing something,” he turned back, “let me know, I’d like to read it.”

She smiled and looked after him. He wasn’t that scary, she thought, nor did she feel uncomfortable in his presence. Quite the opposite actually. 

The next two days, Rey noticed Ben didn’t show up to school which was confirmed by Kaydell as well. ‘Dutiful’ she thought… sure. The thought of something maybe happening to him crossed her mind. She remembered what Finn had said about him being in a gang or at least hanging out with members of one. Rey wondered if she should ask Astraal-Talik about him but quickly decided not to, as it wasn’t any of her business. Maybe he was just sick. 

Ballet practice was, as usual, incredibly relaxing. Of course, it was an exhausting and strenuous sport but she felt so at peace and in her element when dancing. Both Poe and Rose had offered to drive her to practice and back but she decided to walk home, that way she could stop by the bookstore on the way. 

“Ah, my most loyal customer!” Mr. Deshevio said as the bell signaled she was stepping into his bookstore.

“How’re you today?” Rey asked.

“Just dandy! How about you? How was practice?” He said pointing at her ballet outfit that she hadn’t changed from. 

“It was great, I was able to successfully dance en pointe today,” she answered proudly.

“Oh, I don’t know what that means, but that’s amazing!” He put both thumbs up to which she smiled. Rey walked around the bookstore and decided not to purchase anything, as the prices were out of her budget if she wanted to save up for some new pointe shoes. She looked out the window and saw dark clouds closing in. She said goodbye to Mr. Deshevio and just as she stepped out of the bookstore it began to drizzle. She still had a thirty-minute walk and began to pick up the tempo as the rain started getting heavier. She heard the low rumble of a motor slowing down next to her which made her feel a bit uneasy. When the vehicle neither stopped nor passed her she glanced to her left to see a black Triumph matching her pace. The driver was dressed completely in black and his helmet had a darkened visor hiding his identity. Nervously, she began to speed up. The black-clad driver flipped up his visor and revealed his identity. 

“Hey, need a lift?” Ben Solo shouted through the rain. She felt relieved to see Ben and not some stranger with who knows what kind of intentions. 

“Uhm, I think I’m alright,” she yelled back. “I don’t have far.” He turned off the motor and got off his bike. Without saying anything he took off his jacket, put it on her shoulders, and took off his helmet, reaching it out to her. 

“Oh, it’s really OK. You don’t ha-” Rey started but he shook his head.

“Nope, c’mon!” He said getting back on his bike and gesturing to get on. “I’m not gonna be responsible for you getting pneumonia.”

“I-” She looked at the road then back at Ben. It was getting a bit chilly in her light ballet outfit and the rain wasn’t going to stop anytime soon. “Oh, what the hell.” She put her arms through the jacket, swung her bag over her back, slipped on his helmet, and got on the back of the bike. What if he had bad intentions? What if he was gonna take her to some ally and-? Her thoughts spun wild but deep down she knew Ben Solo wouldn’t hurt her. For some strange reason, she trusted him. And she actually felt comfortable with him. Rey had a great sense of character when it came to strangers and with Ben Solo, she felt completely at ease. She wrapped her arms around his waist and was grateful she didn’t have to walk home after all. She wondered if he was able to see at all without his helmet in this rain, but he didn’t give her the impression of being bothered by it. She tapped him on the shoulder and gestured to turn right when her street came up. She repeated that when her house came closer. He slowed down and pulled up in their driveway. He turned the key in the ignition turned off the motor again and stood up for her to get off easier. She quickly took off his helmet and jacket and gave them back to him. 

“Thank you, Ben. That was very kind of you.”

“No problem, Rey. It was my pleasure,” he smiled. That was the first time she had ever seen him smile and thought it to be a warm and kind one. “Now hurry and get inside so you can dry up.” At that, she chuckled and waved to him before running up the driveway to the porch. She turned around to watch him drive off and was amused at the thought of people being scared of him. So far, he was nicer to her than most people were at school. She opened the door and Unkar was sitting at the table looking at multiple letters. Probably bills, she thought. 

“Who was that?” He asked without looking up. 

“A friend from school was kind enough to give me a ride so I wouldn’t have to walk home in the rain.” She said walking up the stairs.

“How was practice?” She was surprised he took an interest in her and came back down the stairs excited to share her accomplishments of the day.

“Uhm, it was really good today. We practiced new moves and I even managed to-”

“Oh, good. Hey, can you go grocery shopping tomorrow? You can have the car.”

She sighed. “Sure.”

“Also, since you’ll have the car tomorrow can you go by the shop and have them look at the wheel bearings?”

“Yeah.”

Rey took a shower, ate a slice of toast for dinner, and worked on some homework. In bed, she checked her messages and scrolled through Instagram for a while until @kylo.ren.k.o.r’s recent post showed up. It was a shirtless mirror selfie showing off his pecs and abs. She would be lying to herself if she said she wasn’t impressed. She stared at the photo for a while, looking at his rings, silver chain necklace and the scar which reached all the way passed his collar bone. It was much longer than she expected. She liked the post and commented a single yellow heart emoji before scrolling through the rest of his account. He liked her comment and responded with a wink emoji. She scrolled up his page and clicked on the message button. 

‘Hey. TYSM for the ride today. That was really nice🦋.’

‘No need to thank me. If you ever need another ride, lemme know.  😉 ’

‘Haha OK. Thx ☺️’

‘No, I mean it  🤨 . Don’t hesitate!’

‘Thank you, Ben!  💛 ’

‘ 😝 ’

At that, she smiled, turned off the lights, and fell asleep. 

Chapter Text

Ben sat on the edge of his bed and inhaled the morning breeze coming from the open window. His apartment was small but he didn’t need much as he wasn’t home all that much anyway. He licked his lips and tasted iron. His middle finger brushed his lower lip. When he pulled away he found a smear of bright red blood which he quickly rubbed away with his thumb. The scab must’ve dried overnight and busted open again while he was sleeping. It had been a week since Tasu Leech had sent one of his guys to jump him in the men’s restroom at school. Fucking Kanjiklub, he thought. They trespassed and entered a school, no less. Hanna City High was clearly in Knights of Ren territory. They had to pay. Even though Ren, himself and a couple of others of the Knights had gone to Nar Kanji to square up and negotiate, it still left him concerned about Kanjiklub honoring the treaty. He looked at his alarm and realized he was late – again. 

While getting dressed, the bruises on his ribs made themselves noticeable. The four-hour ride home the day before didn’t exactly help with the pain relief. He especially felt it when Rey had put her arms around him when he drove her home. Good thing she didn’t notice him wince, he would not have been able to explain that without lying. Lying was definitely something he tried to avoid at all cost. He hated lying and being lied to. He knew other ways to keep certain private affairs undisclosed. He slowly slipped his leather jacket on to hide the scratches and bruises and left for school. 

Ben walked through the empty hallway of Hanna City High before opening the door to their history class. Mr. Ackbar was handing out the graded quizzes as he walked in. Strangely enough, their history teacher didn’t comment on his tardiness, he just gently set Ben’s quiz down on his desk and gave him a look he couldn’t quite interpret. When he looked down, he saw the A- in red ink scribbled across the sheet. He quickly slipped it into his backpack and leaned back into his chair. He looked over to Rey whose hazel eyes were already looking in his direction. Her eyes looked down at his backpack and with her chin subtly pointing towards it. He knew what she was asking so he just squinted, crinkled his nose, and slightly shrugged with one shoulder. When she smiled a bit he nodded in her direction to soundlessly ask about her results. She made sure they weren’t being watched, looked back at him, and cupped her hand forming a C. He pulled his eyebrows up a bit, rolled his eyes, and flipped his fingers towards his shoulder gesturing to ‘forget about it’. At that, she half-smiled and shrugged. He decided not to skip any classes today. He needed to take it easy today anyway.

It was already 4:35 pm when he got to Aridena’s apartment. He put the key in the lock but she had already opened the door.

“Finally, where the hell were you?” She asked putting on her Mos Eisley Diner’s waitress apron.

“Sorry.” He said gently closing the screen door behind him. 

“He hasn’t been fed yet and he needs a bath, too.” Aridena put her long black hair in a ponytail and grabbed her keys, wallet and phone. “I’ll be back by 11-ish.” She kissed his cheek as she walked towards the door. “Are you staying the night?”

“Well, if you’re only getting back at 11… -ish, then, yeah probably.” He set his own keys and phone on the round wooden dining table.

She smiled but then furrowed her brows. “What happened here?” She asked pulling his chin down towards her and looking at the cut.

“It’s nothing, I was a little clumsy is all.”

She pulled up one eyebrow in disbelief. “Right, Kylo Ren was clumsy. Sure.” 

He pulled away and crossed his arms. “Yeah, it happens. Now, go, go I got it here.”

And with that, she was gone. 

He opened the door to Kenton’s room who was playing with his red fire truck and green bulldozer. The two-year-old looked up at him with his big brown eyes that he inherited from his mother. “Hey, kid.” Ben walked over to him and he was already stretching out his chubby arms to him. He picked him up and hugged him. “How was your day, little man?” The toddler clapped his tiny hands together and laughed. Ben smiled and walked to the kitchen, Kenton babbling on in his arms. He fed and bathed him and then went over to the couch, put him on his chest for a nap while he himself watched TV. He remembered his own father doing that with him when he was Kenton’s age. His father, Han, said the rhythm of the heartbeat relaxed a child. So far, he was right. His phone vibrated and when he reached for it to mute it he was surprised to see Rey had messaged him. 

‘Hey 😄🦋’

‘Hello there😉’

‘So, Poe and I were just talking… more like arguing 🙈🙈🙈’

‘ Lol did you win? ’

‘Not exactly 😅 It was actually about u’ 

‘Oh 🤔?’ 

‘ Please settle this for us. What motorcycle do you drive? ’

‘That’s what u were fighting about? 🤨’

‘Well not fighting… we just have heated discussions sometimes 🤣🙈’

‘ Ah. A Triumph Bonneville T100 ’  

‘ I KNEW IT! ’  

‘🤣🤣🤣 lol’

‘So yeah to answer your question, yes I won! 😍😍’

‘ Haha good 👌🏽 Is he thinking about getting one? ’

‘No, we were just talking about you and he said you drive a Suzuki 🤗’

‘WHAT?! I’m offended. 😑’

‘😂😂😂😂 oh no’

‘Nah jk 😋😋 it’s all good’

The screen door opened and the front door was being rattled. Ben jerked up and held onto the sleeping child to avoid him waking up or falling. He looked over to the inside pocket of his jacket where he left his gun. This part of the neighborhood wasn’t exactly a gated community. But, to his relief Kuruk came bursting in.

“Ah, what a sight!” He teased. 

“Hey, man.” Ben took Kenton off his chest and perched him up on his left side with Kenton’s head resting on his shoulder. He walked over to the fridge and checked to see what beverages were inside. “You want a Coke or a Mountain Dew or something?”

“You got beer?” Kuruk walked over to the couch and took off his boots.

“There’s no alcohol in this house.” He pulled out a cold Mountain Dew and handed it to him. 

“Thanks.” He took the beverage, opened it, and began to sip with relish. “So, what’s for dinner?” 

Ben looked at him from the side and smilingly shook his head at his boldness.

“Well, y’know since you’re taking on the role of a part-time housewife,” Kuruk stretched out his hands towards Ben with his palms open, motioning them up and down to to point out Ben’s appearance, “I thought dinner would be part of the job description.”

“Ha.” Ben rolled his eyes. “Well,” he went back to the fridge, “chicken and gravy.”

“Oh, sweet!”

“At least that’s what it says on Kenton’s jar of baby food.” 

“What? Oh...” Kuruk caught on. 

Ben chuckled to himself. “I guess we could order pizza or something. Order whatever you feel like.” He walked over to him and stretched out Kenton towards him. “Here, I need to pee like a brewery horse, take him.”

“Oh, no! I don’t do that baby stuff.”

“Jesus, just take him for a minute.”

“Put him on the couch or something, I’m not gonna start with that, that’s your responsibility, not mine.”

“For fuck’s sake, he doesn’t bite!” Ben laid Kenton on the couch and while he walked to the bathroom he yelled back, “you’re no help, you know that?”

“I’m not the one who signed up for this!” He yelled back.

When Ben came out of the bathroom Kuruk had already ordered at Little Caesars. 

“I didn’t necessarily sign up for it either,” Ben said, stern. “At least I’m being responsible, unlike you.” 

“Hey, dude I didn’t mean it like that. I’m sorry.”

Ben looked at his fellow brother of the Knights of Ren and was surprised at his apology. Then again, he wasn’t surprised. Kuruk had always been forthcoming and gave him the sense that he had his back. “Don’t worry about it.” He waved it off. “It is what it is.” Kuruk looked at Kenton and then back at Ben, got up, and began cleaning the table top and setting the table. Ben knew that was his way of expressing his penitence. Ben was grateful for Kuruk’s effort to help and empathy for that matter. After dinner, they watched a movie and put Kenton to bed. Kuruk fell asleep on the recliner with a bag of Doritos in one hand and a can of Coke in the other. Ben checked his messages and saw there was an unread message from Rey. 

‘ So, you going to the Lake House tomorrow too? ’

It showed she was last active three hours ago. She was probably asleep by now but he responded anyway. 

‘ I wasn’t planning on it… but Kuruk persuaded me. You? ’

He put his phone next to him but it vibrated seconds after he put it down. 

‘Yeh, Kaydell, and the others persuaded ME. 😋🙈’

‘Well, if we’re both going reluctantly we can pout together 😝😏’

‘Haha, deal! 😂😂😂😂 Btw I don’t think I know Kuruk?😬😬’

Ben sent a video message of Kuruk’s current position. He was still asleep with chips and Coke can in hand and his mouth wide open.

‘This handsome fella,’ he added to the video.

‘ Hahahaha is he actually sleeping like that ? ’

‘Nah, I’m pretty sure he’s dead. ☠️’

‘😂😂😂😂😂😂 omg!’

‘ But yeah he goes to our school. I don’t think you have any classes with him tho ’

‘ Nope, but I have seen him at school though! ’

‘ You’ll meet him tomorrow then’  

‘ Yes absolutely!  ‘

‘ Alright, Ima go to bed ’  

‘OK Ben, good night! See you tomorrow 🦋’

‘G’night! See you there. 😉’

Ben stayed a moment longer on the couch thinking about Rey. Now, he was actually looking forward to the party. He was never eager to go to any party, he just didn’t like those scenes. But, now that Rey was going he wasn’t as reluctant anymore. The door unlocked and Aridena came in. 

“Hey, how was work?” He whispered. She rolled her eyes and sighed. He got up and took the bags she was holding out of her hands and set them on the table and began putting away the groceries. 

“Oh my god, how is he staying like that without pouring the drink or dropping the chips?” She covered her mouth to avoid laughing too loudly.

“He’s been like that for the past half hour at least.”

“Wow.” She crossed her arms, smiled, and shook her head before turning to Ben. “How was everything?” 

“Good, we had pizza and Kenton was really good today. Just really tired, he napped longer than usual and I put him to bed earlier, too.”

“Let’s hope he doesn’t wake up in the middle of the night, then.”

Ben nodded in agreement and walked over to Kuruk. He gently slid the can and bag of chips out of Kuruk’s hands and set them on the coffee table next to him. “I’m just gonna let him stay there.”

“That’s fine.” She smiled. She turned to the bedroom and began taking off her apron, shoes, and jewelry. “You coming?” He looked at his phone to check the time which showed well past 11 pm. He rubbed his face and then followed her.

Chapter Text

Rey spent all day at the shop having maintenance done on Unkar’s car. Her heart almost dropped to her feet when she saw the bill. There was way more damage than just the wheel bearing. She paid up and knew Unkar most likely wouldn’t reimburse her. His go-to excuse was ‘she lived under his roof, therefore she had to help out where it was necessary’. When she got home she hurried to finish the rest of her chores so she could go to the party. As usual, her friends were on call while they were getting ready. When Rose was done, she took off in order to pick Rey up on time. Finn and Poe stayed on call while Rey quickly finished her makeup, packed her things and then hung up before running out. Unkar was fast asleep on his recliner when she dashed out of the door. Rose pulled up in her yellow buggy and Rey hopped in. They drove about half an hour to their destination. The lake house was a large estate in a log-home style build adjoining a private beach with direct access to the lake. Party lights were hung all around the roof and throughout the backyard where there were already people enjoying their Saturday night. The Lake House was sold to the city after the former owners had left under mysterious circumstances and it became a local watering hole for high school and college students. The mayor claimed the city needed a safe event space for kids, so the Lake House was bought and revamped for party purposes and other events. Kaydell, Finn, and Poe hadn’t gotten there yet, so they decided to wait. While they did so, Rey looked around to see if Ben’s motorcycle was parked anywhere. She couldn’t find it but was still getting a bit nervous thinking about seeing him. It was more excitement than anxiety. Their friends arrived around ten minutes later and they all went inside. Poe wore his favorite brown leather jacket with a black loose-fit shirt underneath. Finn had on a black hoodie and was clearly amused at Poe’s choice of outfit. With his finger Finn reached over to Poe’s v-neck and tugged at the fabric. “What’s this? What’s happening here?”

“Poe has a deeper neckline than all of us put together,” Rose teased.

“Jealous?” Poe grinned back clearly not bothered by the teasing.

“Actually, yeah a little bit,” Kaydell giggled.

Poe bent over a bit shaking his shoulders back and fourth. “If you got it, flaunt it.” Rey laughed and covered her stomach while Finn put his hands to his knees shaking his head and wheezing from laughter. They all walked inside and Rey recognized a lot of kids from school and was excited to have a nice evening out. Two hours had gone by and Ben was still nowhere to be found. She knew he hadn’t arrived yet because she checked the entrance every time someone entered. Maybe something came up or he changed his mind. She walked over to the couch where Kaydell and Finn were sitting deep in conversation with some kids from school. She took out her phone and opened Instagram.

‘Hey, I can’t find my pouting buddy 🥺,’ she texted him. She noticed he was active and a second later he answered.

‘I think I found him… look behind you 😋’

Rey looked up and over her shoulder to see Ben Solo standing in the door frame of the back entrance with two of his friends. They were all dressed similarly: all-black shirts and pants and dark jeans jackets with patches of a red and black symbol she couldn’t quite recognize. His wavy, raven hair was pushed back but a few strands rebelled. Some kids near them cleared the way and seemed uneasy about the trio that had just walked in. His two friends walked over to where the beer and other alcoholic beverages were being handed out in red Solo cups, but Ben walked straight to where she was sitting. She smiled at him and subtly waved. He leaned down, resting his elbows on the backrest of the couch and held out his hand. She put her hand in his and shook gently. His large hands were calloused yet soft and warm and engulfed her own hand completely.

“Hope you didn’t start without me,” he smiled.

She shook her head smiling, “I would never.”

“Good,” he winked. “You don’t have a drink?”

“Oh, no. I’m not that big of a drinker,” she shrugged. “Plus, I have to get up early tomorrow.”

“I see. Well, they have other beverages here, I’m sure,” he looked over his shoulder to where Kuruk was taking two cups off the counter. “I’ll go look.”

“Oh, uhm-,” she started but he already turned around and was headed towards the counter.

“What did he want?” Finn asked concerned.

“He just came over to say ‘hi’.”

“OK, but why?”

“Why not?” Rey looked at Finn and then Kaydell who had turned her attention to them now too.

“What’s Ben Solo doing here?” Kaydell asked quietly. “I’ve never seen him at one of these parties. At least not since-,” she looked around. “Since, y’know,” she said with a cautious expression.

Rey furrowed her brows. “Uh, no I don’t.”

“Well, since what happened two years ago.”
“What happened two years ago?” Rey asked looking back and forth between Kaydell and Finn.

“Oh, that’s right. You had just moved here when it happened. There was a f-,” Finn was interrupted by Rose who handed him another drink over his shoulder.

“Guys, look who showed up!” She nodded towards Ben and his two friends. “I know of a certain someone who’s gonna be super happy about that,” she said rolling her eyes. Rey understood that someone to be Daisy who still wasn’t over him, at least according to Rose. Before anybody could say anything else, Ben was already on his way back with his friend, who she now knew as Kuruk.

He handed her the red cup, “there ya go. One peach ice tea.”

“Thank you,” Rey smiled at him and took the drink.

“One disgrace, you mean,” Kuruk added.

“Excuse me?” Rey looked at him, confused.

“Ignore him,” Ben said, “he doesn’t believe in drinking non-alcoholic beverages.”

“Well, of course not. It’s just not right. Not at a party at least,” he looked at Rey and put out his open hand, “no offense.”

“None taken.”

“Rey, right?” Kuruk stretched out his hand, “Kuruk!”

She shook his hand, “Yeah! Nice to meet you in person… and awake.”

“What?” Kuruk looked confused.

“Oh, nothing,” Rey looked up at Ben who was trying to hide a smirk. Finn took the drink out of her hand and sniffed it. Everyone raised their eyebrows.

“What’s this?”

Eyebrows now furrowed, Rey took it back, “ice tea.”

“Oh, yeah and what else?” Finn looked at Ben suspiciously.

“I didn’t slip her anything if that’s what you’re getting at,” Ben said with a stern look.

“Just checking,” Finn said with narrowed eyes.

“Wow,” Kuruk said, “paranoid much?”

“You can never be too careful,” Finn kept his eyes on Ben.

“Kay,” Kuruk raised his eyebrows and looked at Finn and then Ben whose expression was neutral. Ben wasn’t easily intimidated.

“ANY-way,” Rey said giving Finn a look, “this is Finn, Kaydell and Rose.”

“Kuruk, Ben,” Kuruk pointed at himself and then Ben.

“Yeah, no we know Ben,” Finn said with a slight annoyance in his voice, “we have history together.”

“Hey, Ben,” Kaydell peered over Finn to greet him to which he nodded.

“Hey.”

In that moment, Armitage Hux and Gwen Phasma walked in the front door. Hux straightened the collar on his dark gray polo shirt and tugged on the tied sleeves of the black sweater covering his shoulders while scanning the room. They spotted the group and eagerly made their way over to them.“Well, well,” Hux put his arm around Ben who looked at where he placed his arm, wrinkled his nose and then slowly turned to sternly look back at Hux, “who do we have here? I haven’t seen you in a while, Solo. What’s been keeping you from coming to school?”

“This,” Ben said bluntly and unimpressed. Hux frowned at his remark.

“Ah look, it’s the Scooby gang,” Hux looked at Rey and her friends.

Kuruk turned his full attention to Phasma who was now on the dance floor, “see ya!” The music playing compelled her to dance and Kuruk eagerly made his way onto the dance floor to join her.

Poe came around the corner and stepped next to Ben who still had Hux’s arm around his shoulders. “What’s up, Huggs! Aren’t you gonna go dance?”

“Oh lord, no! I can’t see myself swinging my hips and shoulders to that sorry-excuse-for-music and enthusiastically gyrating my pelvis.”

Ben moved out from under Hux’s arm, “and the world heaves a collective sigh of relief,” he said. Poe smiled, amused at that remark and Rey quickly put her drink to her mouth to avoid laughing.

“I’m sensing a little bit of hostility,” Hux said waving his hand in a circular motion at Ben.

“Awe,” Ben made a sarcastically apologetic look at him, “am I that transparent?”

“No, it’s that obnoxious Chandrilan charm that makes you so … ornery,” Hux sneered at him.

Ben smiled at that remark, “oh, Armitage,” he squeezed Hux’s shoulder, “you always bring people so much joy. Y’know when you leave the room.”

Hux gave him a look that made Rey turn to her friends who were all patiently awaiting his response.

Hux looked behind him, “oh, look! People that are actually worth talking to,” he smiled sarcastically. “Well, I’m off!”

“Totally,” Ben said but Hux had already gone and wasn’t within earshot anymore but Poe did and burst out into gleeful laughter.

“And here I thought you and Hux were buds,” Poe took a sip from his cup.

“What?” Ben looked surprised, “Nah. I don’t hate him, I just don’t particularly like him.”

“Hmm.” Poe looked at him pensively. “No love lost,” he chuckled. “I don’t think I know your friends. Do they go to our school?”

Ben looked back at Kuruk who was dancing with Phasma and Trudgen who was talking to some of the jocks. “Kuruk does, yeah. Trudgen graduated last year.”

“What’s that patch?” Poe poked the back of his jacket. “You like a part of an elite chess club or something.”

Ben smirked at him, “No, fencing.” Poe’s face revealed that he appreciated Ben’s humor.

“Ah, right, right. I always took you for a serious, intimidating badass. Never thought you’d be a classy, rich bitch!”

“Yeah, yeah,” he nodded, “well, you also thought I drive a Suzuki. So, what do you know?” Ben covered a smile by taking a sip of his drink. Poe couldn’t resist anymore and snorted in amusement. Rey knew Poe always kept a humorous demeanor with whomever he spoke to even if he didn’t like the person, but she knew he was genuinely enjoying this interaction with Ben. She looked over to Finn who wasn’t as amused. She knew of certain stories regarding Ben, his friends and what kind of … situations they got themselves into. But, Rey always made up her own unbiased opinion of people and felt Ben deserved that approach as well. Besides, she thought, that’s all they were… stories.

When Trudgen shouted at Ben and gestured to come over, he looked at Rey. “I’m gunna go see what he wants,” he said and nodded to Poe, “I’ll see you later.” He turned on his heel and walked away.

“Huh, he’s actually kinda… chill,” Poe watched Ben walk away before looking back at his friends. “What?” He asked when Finn gave him an annoyed look. Finn disapprovingly shook his head and continued talking to Rose and Kaydell. When Poe looked at Rey she shrugged and took a sip.

Later, Finn and Rose made their way to the dance floor but it got too crowded inside for Rey’s liking. Poe joined her in stepping outside for a bit. Some kids were swimming in the lake, others were standing on the back porch in conversation, while a smaller group of people was sitting around a bonfire. Among those sitting at the fire was Ben, Trudgen, Kuruk and, to Rey’s surprise, Astraal-Talik. Poe sniffed the air, “ooh, I know that smell!” He rubbed his hands together. Rey looked over to Trudgen who had a cigarette in his hand, or at least she thought it was a cigarette. And Poe’s reaction confirmed her thoughts. Rey was excited to see Astraal-Talik and walked over to greet her. She got up right away and hugged her very tightly, much longer than Rey had expected of her. To her surprise, the reserved and laid-back Astraal-Talik was unusually chirpy and when she got a glimpse of her eyes and dilated pupils, she realized what was going on. She looked over to Ben who was sitting quite relaxed in a lawn chair, staring into the flames. She wondered if he, too, was high. She didn’t approve of drugs, especially knowing her parents had been killed due to overdosing, at least that’s what Unkar had told her.

“Come, come, sit with us!” Astraal-Talik ushered her to a lawn chair next to Trudgen. “Poe, here’s a seat for you too,” she pointed at a rectangular barrel of hay. They both sat down and listened to Kuruk and Trudgen’s heated discussion. Trudgen noticed them approaching and turned to Rey, reaching out his hand and offering her the joint. Rey was surprised by his offer but quickly turned it down by shaking her head.

“Oh, c’mon, it’ll relax you!” Trudgen smirked at her and continued to push.

“No, thank you. I don’t smoke,” Rey answered.

“Well, there’s always a first time,” he grinned.

“No, really,” she shifted away in her seat. “I’m a dancer. I can’t afford to mess up my lungs.”

“Ah, that’s no excuse! I’m sure-,”

“Trudgen!” Ben’s voice boomed from the other side of the fire.  

Trudgen looked back at her, “fine, fine! I’m just tryna make everyone calm and relaxed.”

“Ha. Rey would never smoke with us,” Kuruk chimed in, “she’s a good girl. Too prim and proper for that shit.”

“Well, maybe that’s her problem,” Trudgen coughed.

“What makes you think she has a problem?” Ben shifted forward and rested his elbows on his knees, hands folded.

“Dude,” he threw up his hands, “just trying to help everyone lighten up. Including you, Grumpy.” He teased Ben. Ben exhaled and raised his eyebrow amused. “Hey, Poe! You’ll smoke with us right?”

“I thought you’d never ask!” Poe winked at him.

“YES! There we go!” Trudgen clapped. Astraal-Talik looked at Rey and rolled her eyes and offered her a can of Minute Maid that she took out of the cooler on which she was sitting. Rey smiled and took the ice-cold drink. Ben’s friends were a bit pushy yet surprisingly funny and she was enjoying their conversations. Poe was clearly enjoying himself as well. She chuckled and took a sip.

“Oooooh my GOD!” A girl’s voice squeaked coming from the water. Two girls with long, blonde hair in colorful bikinis came running out of the water and up to where they were all sitting. One of the girls she recognized to be Daisy, the other one squealing with joy looked very similar to Daisy but a bit older. Their bronze bodies glistened in the light coming from the fire and party lights. Rey saw Ben’s demeanor change and he almost looked annoyed.

“Well, who’s the luckiest girl in the world?” Daisy made an exaggerated surprised face and rested her hand on her chest.

“Not your mother,” Ben mumbled to which Poe let out a surprised hoot. He glanced at Astraal-Talik who was trying to hide a grin.

“Kuruk, Trudgen and… Ben Solo,” Daisy put one hand on her hip batting her eyes at Ben, “this is a nice surprise seeing you all here.”

The other other girl made her way to Trudgen. “Why didn’t you guys say you were coming to this?” She asked.

“Eeeeeey, there’s my favorite girl,” Trudgen said while she hugged him from behind. She kissed his cheek before walking around him to find a seat on his lap. “It was a spur of the moment decision,” he replied. She wrapped her arms around his neck and began passionately kissing him.

“Omg, Dalia! You’ll have to excuse my sister,” Daisy said addressing Rey and Poe, “she can be such a slut!” She laughed and slapped her sisters thigh.

“Takes one to know one,” Ben mumbled taking a sip of his beer. Daisy huffed but ignored his comment. Rey raised her eyebrows and Poe carefully turned to her widening his eyes. Rey caught Astraal-Talik furrowing her eyebrows at Ben subtly gesturing to not make a scene.

“So, what are you all up to? Something fun I hope,” she raised an eyebrow looking at the group in minor disgust, “and not just sitting around and staring into the flames,” Daisy said arrogantly.

“We were conversing,” Kuruk said rolling his eyes, “ y’know a little thing cultivated people do. Ah, you wouldn’t know anything about that,” he waved his hand toward her and took a sip from his drink.

“You better be nice to my little sister,” Dalia kicked Kuruk in his calf making him spill his drink a little.

“Dude! What the hell?” He wiped his hands on his jeans and put down his drink.

“Or else you deal with me. And him,” she pointed at Trudgen whose eyes had turned to small, puffy slits yet he smiled agreeing with her. Kuruk just rolled his eyes and continued wiping off his pants.

“Exactly,” Daisy crossed her arms, “don’t mess with us!”

Astraal-Talik smiled, shook her head and took a sip from her drink.

“I was being nice,” Kuruk argued back, “considering.”

“Considering what?” Daisy put her hands on her hips with a challenging stare.

Kuruk glared back at her for a moment before looking over at Ben who was leaned back, elbow resting on the armrest of his chair with his thumb and index finger placed under his chin, showing no reaction.

Kuruk looked back at her, “oh, never mind.”

“I didn’t think so,” Daisy raised her chin proudly. “Now, who’s gunna offer me a seat?” She looked around with an innocent smile and then rested her eyes on Ben’s lap. She pointed towards him, “Ah, I found one-,”

“Tali,” Ben said patting his thigh, “didn’t you wanna fill me in on tomorrow?”

“What?” Astraal-Talik looked at him, “wha-, what’s tomorrow?” She asked with a dazed look. He raised his eyebrow a bit and she understood. “Oh, yeah, I can just sit over here and tell you about,” she pointed in his direction with a small pause, “uhm,… tomorrow.”

“There,” Ben said gesturing towards the now free seat next to Rey. Daisy hid her disappointment with an insincere smile when Astraal-Talik sauntered past her. Astraal-Talik put her hands on Ben’s knees while she whispered something in his ear. She then turned around and slumped down between his legs onto the ground,

“Daz, you can have my seat. I’d rather sit on the floor anyway, the grass is so fluffy,” she said said rubbing the ground next her and looking genuinely fascinated. “I don’t think I’ve ever felt anything so soft.” Rey giggled, her hand covering her mouth. Poe leaned into Rey whispering an amused ‘wow’. Daisy sat down next to Rey without a word and didn’t think it was necessary to look at her either when Rey greeted her with a ‘hey’. She just turned her attention to her sister who began bad-mouthing some of the girls sitting on the porch railing.

“Hey!” A boy yelled out from the kitchen window. “Do y’all want any s’mores?”

Dalia began to laugh dismissively, “s’mores? What’re we twelve?”

Astraal-Talik who was occupied with poking at Ben’s shoes jumped up with her arms stretched over her head, “YES! That sounds amazing.” She ran up the porch steps almost tripping but was caught by Rose who had just stepped outside. Astraal-Talik pushed some loose red strands of hair back, laughed at her clumsiness and opened the screen door. When Rose approached their circle, she looked around surprised at who Rey and Poe were sitting with.

She leaned in between them and whispered, “hey, I have to be home by twelve… I promised my dad. I wanted to ask of you guys wanna play a round of Cards Against Humanity before we leave?”

“Yeah, sure, Rose.” Rey stood up and brushed off the hay on her legs.

“I’m down,” Poe smiled.

“You guys wanna join a game of Cards Against Humanity?” Rey asked the others.

Dalia and Daisy both snickered. “No, we don’t wanna play your game,” Daisy sneered.

Rey shrugged and looked at Ben if he’d accept the offer. He subtly shook his head and said, “maybe later. I’m good for now.”

“Ok,” she smiled. And with that she followed Rose and Poe inside.

Chapter Text

After multiple rounds of Cards Against Humanity, the group of friends couldn’t bare anymore laughter and decided it was time to go. Finn and Poe wanted to enjoy the party a while longer but the girls decided to drive home with Rose.

Rey went back outside to where they had left Ben and his friends earlier. She looked around but the fire had burned down to glowing embers and nobody was outside anymore. She walked back inside and found Astraal-Talik nipping at a piece of pizza.

“Y’all leaving already?” She asked Rey.

“Yeah, Rose has to get back by midnight.”

“Alright,” she hugged Rey, “well, tell Cinderella I said ‘bye’ and see y’all on Monday.”

“OK, I will,” Rey smiled, “oh, have you seen Ben?”

“He left a while ago. He got a phone call and they all just up and left,” she shrugged, then narrowed her eyes and stopped chewing, “why?” She asked.

“Oh, no reason,’” she said coyly and caught up to the others waiting in Rose’s car.

Rose was humming the melody to Havanna by Camilo Cabello sounding from the radio, and tapping her fingers on the steering wheel to the rhythm. Rey looked in the right side-view mirror and saw Kaydell staring at her phone that lit up her face and bouncy, blonde curls.

“Kaydell?” Rey asked.

“Mhh,” she answered, eyes still locked on her phone.

“We got interrupted before. You were telling me about what happened two years ago?”

Kaydell looked up and her eyes moved over to Rose. “Oh, you mean the fire?”

“There was a fire?” Rey’s eyebrows jerked up. Rose shifted in her seat and sighed.

“Ugh, yeah… Rose?” Kaydell asked cautiously. Without taking her eyes off the road, Rose just nodded with a sorrowful expression. “So,” she began, “there was this old, abandoned event space behind the paper mill over on Mothma Avenue. Kids would hang out there all the time… y’know for partying, drinking, taking drugs, getting laid and stuff like that. Well, two years ago a bunch of kids from our school went to meet up there one night… three guys and two girls.” Kaydell paused for a moment looking at Rose whose fingers were now clenched onto the steering wheel. “One of those girls was Paige.”

“My sister,” Rose whispered.

Rey’s eyes widened and Kaydell continued. “Paige, her friend Anyah, Ben Solo and two other guys. They must’ve been so drunk or high that they didn’t notice the flames. But, the whole building burned down with them in it… Ben was the only one that survived.”

Rey clasped her hands over her mouth in disbelief. “Oh my god,” she said putting a hand on Rose’s arm. “I’m so sorry I asked, Rose, I didn’t mean-,”

“It’s not your fault, Rey. You didn’t know.” She gently patted Rey’s hand that was still holding onto her right arm. “Besides, you probably would’ve found out one day.”

“I didn’t even know you had a sister,” Rey said softly.

“I don’t talk about her,” she sighed. “It’s still too painful.”

“A lot changed after that,” Kaydell added. “The families of the two boys moved away, Anyah’s mom committed suicide and her dad became an alcoholic. Ben changed for the worse, too… he started hanging out with really shady people, moved out of his parents’ house, constantly skips school,” she sighed. Rey listened silently. “A lot of people in town blame him, they think he started the fire.”

“Woah,” Rey put her hand on her chest.

“I honestly dont believe that, though. Some people need a scapegoat to process their grief I guess…” Kaydell shrugged and shook her head disapprovingly.  

“I don’t believe that either, to be honest,” Rose agreed. “Nobody knows what happened. Ben… he’s dark, mysterious and does a lot of shady stuff but… I don’t think he’d do something like that.”

“Yeah,” Kaydell nodded, “and now he, y’know, may or may not be in a gang. I don’t know, it’s probably best to just stay away from him and his friends.” Kaydell watched Rey closely while saying those last words.

Rey caught on, “Kaydell-”

“I’m just saying. I see how you look at him. You’re intrigued by him… He’s tall, kinda cute, has gorgeous hair… I get it. But, maybe just be careful, OK?”

Rey knew her friend meant no harm and was only looking out for her. “I will.”

“OK,” Kaydell exhaled, pleased with her answer.

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ren walked around the tied up man in the chair wiping his hands on a kitchen towel. The man tied up in the chair had streaks of fresh blood staining his blonde hair, his eyes were barely visible through the swelling and his face was covered in cuts and bruises. Ben kept his eyes on him as their boss slowly walked past Ushar and himself, reaching for a picture frame. “You have a beautiful wife,” Ren analyzed the photo while pushing his wavy, platinum hair back. “You know, I saw her the other day at, uhm,” Ren snapped his fingers at his men, urging them to remind him.

“Arralute Atelier,” Kuruk answered him and Ben saw fear wash over the man’s face.

“Yes, exactly. I think I might just give her a visit,” Ren sneered.

“No, please. Not my wife,” the bloodied man pleaded. “I’ll give you the money, I swear. I just need a few more days.” He slumped back in his chair, “just give me another chance.”

Ben had his arms crossed in front of his chest. “We already gave a you an extra two days last time. That wasanother chance,” he frowned.

“Where’s our money, Elton?” Ren let the picture frame tumble to the floor and glass shards shattered all around them.

“I swear I don’t have it, but I will in two days,” he wimped. “I just need two days.. please.”

Ren raised his hands dramatically in the air, “alriiiight.” He placed his open hands over his chest, “we usually don’t give second, second chances, but,” he clapped, “I’m feeling generous today. And I have someone else to… visit tonight.” He looked at his black Breitling watch. “Twenty-four hours, Elton. That’s all I’m giving you.” The man winced and scrunched his face in pain while Ren paced behind Ben. “That money better be here or Kylo here,” he placed his hands on Ben’s shoulders and gently squeezed, “will grace you with another visit. And trust me he won’t be as gentle as me,” he sneered as he swerved back in front of him. “Isn’t that right big guy?” Ren patted Kylo’s chest with the back of his hand before squatting opposite their victim. Elton looked up at the young man standing at about 6’3 with wide, strong shoulders and a piercing glare. He winced and gave them a drowsy nod. Ren reached to the back of his belt, bringing forth a long, shiny blade. He held it to Elton’s chin and raised his head forcing him to look into his eyes. “Twenty… four,” he whispered, “and not one minute more. Your wife depends on it.” He grinned showing his perfect teeth. “If you don’t deliver or you try to run… your precious Elaine will bare the consequences. Capiche?” Elton inhaled and wheezed a ‘yes’. “Good.” Ren walked out of the room followed by his men, except Ben.

He stayed a moment longer looking at the battered man hoping he wouldn’t have to do anymore damage than this. “Don’t waste anymore of my time,” he growled before closing the door behind him.

Kuruk sat next to him in the backseat of Ushar’s black Mercedes, looking out of the tinted window. Ren looked back at them from the passenger’s seat. “You two did good today.” The two young Knights accepted the praise with a modest nod. “So, back to the party?”

“Nah,” Kuruk answered, “I need to change and shower.” He pulled his shirt down to look at the blood stains.

Ushar laughed as he slowed down to stop at an intersection. “Why do you think we always wear black, dumbass. Can’t see blood on black,” he winked.

“I know, but either way I know it’s there, plus I just wanna crash,” Kuruk rubbed his face.

Ushar looked at Ben in the rearview mirror, “home or Ari’s?”

Aridema had taken Kenton to her mother’s house for the weekend, so he replied with, “home.” After they dropped Kuruk off, they pulled up to the building complex of his small apartment.

As he opened the door, Ren uttered, “wait!” Ren waited for him to close the car door again. “I have a couple more jobs for you this week.”

“During the day?”

“Yes.”

Ben sighed, knowing he had already been absent in school far too many times this month. “Is there anyway I could do these jobs after school?”

Ren paused. “I’d rather it be done during the day.”

“Isn’t there anyone else that could do it this week?”

“I could do it, boss,” Ushar interjected. “Let the kid catch up on his absent days.”

Ren turned all the way around in his seat, facing him. “You may be young but you’re proving to be one of my strongest and fiercest men. And a valuable asset to the Knights of Ren. I think you could really make something of yourself within the brotherhood. Why waste your potential on school?”

Ben looked out of the window pensively. He didn’t really have a ‘grand purpose’ and felt aimless in a sense. His only goal or motivation to show any effort for the brotherhood was so he could continue to care for Ari and the kid. That way they stayed protected and financially provided for. “I wanna graduate, sir. Get a good job, so I can give Ari and Kenton a life they deserve. Without struggle.”

“We provide for our own, Kylo. For you and for your family. You don’t have to worry about money,” his boss reassured him.

“I know that. I meant, I want an occupation, something valuable to do with my time and not just drink and smoke all day until you order the next target or supply run,” he explained.

“I’ve been telling you to get into the business. That’ll be a good occupation for you,” Ren pushed.

“With all due respect, sir, I told you I want to stay away from the drugs.”

“I know, I know. Well, it’s still too fresh in your mind, I can see that. But, maybe one day you’ll get over what happened and you’ll come around.” Ben didn’t want to comment on that and so he just nodded. “Anyway, Ushar has a point. We don’t want to draw too much attention on you. It’ll be easier once you graduate, I guess… or drop out, whatever comes first. Now, get outta here. We have to get going,” he gestured him to leave.

“You guys don’t need me?”

“Nah, we got this,” Ren put up his hand. “You’ll hear from me soon enough.”

“See ya around, kid,” Ushar said before driving off.

Ben made his way up the stairs to the third floor. Once he was inside, he immediately took off his clothes and hopped in the shower. He let the warm water wash away the dirt and exhaustion of the day. When he was finished he didn’t bother to put on any clothes and hopped straight into bed. He checked his phone and saw he had multiple missed calls from Astraal-Talik and some unread messages he replied to before messaging Astraal-Talik back. Just as he was about to put his phone back down, a message notification from Rey popped up.

It read. ‘🥺🥺’

‘You OK?’ he texted back.

‘I am. Are you?’

‘Yeah, why?’

‘Cuz when I wanted to say goodbye you were already gone 😅😅

‘Oh, I’m sorry 😢 something came up and I had to leave right away. 🙈🙈

‘I hope nothing serious?’

‘Nah, a friend needed help with something urgent but nothing bad. 😉

‘Oh, ok good. 🥰🥰

‘I promise, next time I’ll look for you and say bye. 😇

‘ 😂😂😂 OK. 😘 I’ll hold you to that promise.’

‘ 😏😏 good.’

‘Sleep well, Ben 🦋 .’

‘You too, Rey 💙 .’

Chapter Text

The shop was empty and Rey leaned over the counter with her chin resting on the back of her hand. Outside of the window she could see people shuffling by, dodging the rain drops. She sighed and looked over to the door to make sure the ‘open’ sign was on. This is gunna be a long day, she thought. Unkar had urgent business to tend to, so she had to take over his shift in the pawn shop. Luckily, she brought a book along to kill the time. She couldn’t wait to dive into George R. R. Martin’s Fire and Blood which she still hadn’t been able to start reading since picking it up on their trip to visit Unkar’s relatives last month.

She unlocked her phone to check her messages and to see if a certain tall, hot-tempered someone had texted. She had no new messages but read active underneath Ben Solo’s icon in their chat. So, she typed a “morning🦋”.

Instantly, a “Good morning 😃” popped up.

“What’re you up to?”

He began typing but then all of a sudden her phone began to vibrate and her screen showed an incoming video call from @kylo.ren.k.o.r. Her eyes popped wide open, her heart fluttered a bit and her hands began to sweat, “oh my god.” She got a better grip on her phone. “Shit,” she breathed and swiped up to accept the call.

“Hey,” he said while eating a bowl of cereal. He was shirtless but had on a silver chain necklace dangling above his chiseled chest. His wavy, black hair was disheveled and it seemed he had just gotten out of bed. All she could see behind him was a small kitchen setup with a tiny window above the sink.  

“Uhm, hi,” she gave him a shy smile.

“Whatcha doin’?”

“Oh, uhm, I…” she looked around, making sure there was nobody in the shop, “am currently at a pawn shop.”

“Ah,” he said. “What’re you pawning off?”

“My time.”

“What?” He stopped eating and looked at her.

 She giggled. “I’m filling in for Unkar at his shop today.”

“I see,” he continued eating. “Who’s Unkar?”

“My adoptive father.”

“You’re adopted?”

“Yup.”

“Huh. So, like always, or?”

“No, since I was about ten.”

“Oh, ok. Wow,” he said taking the bowl and slurping the rest of the milk.

“What’re you up to?” She asked trying to get a better look at his surroundings.

“Oh, uhm, just ate a bowl of puffins,” he said setting the bowl back down and putting his hands on his thighs, “and then I don’t know. I was supposed to go downtown with a friend, but he canceled. What about you? How’s the rest of your day look like?”

“Well, work,” she waved her finger in a circular motion, “and then chores and practice later.”

“Practice?”

“Yeah, I dance ballet,” she explained.

“Oh, fancy,” he raised his brows. “I heard that’s supposed to be rigorous.”

Rey tilted her head and smiled. “It can be.”

“Soooo,” he overlapped his arms on the table giving Rey a better look at his defined biceps and shoulders, “wanna get lunch later?”

“Oh,” she said surprised, “uhm, well, I have another two hours until my break, if you wanna come to the shop?”

“Sure, I’ll bring something. What do you like?”

“Since I have practice later, maybe something light.”

“Mhkay,” he nodded slowly, “I’ll bring something… light, then.”

“OK,” she grinned, showing her dimples.

“Cool, just send me a drop pin and I’ll see you later.”

Rey nodded, “see you then.” The call ended and she held her phone to her chest for a moment smiling and still surprised about that unexpected interaction. Only two customers had come in since the phone call and she was able to read the first three chapters of her book. She heard a motorcycle pull up in front of the entrance and she recognized Ben’s black denim jacket. He got off, removed his helmet and pushed his hair back. After hanging the black helmet on the handlebar, he slid his backpack over his shoulder and set it on the saddle. He took the backpack by the top handle, bit into his glove slipping it off his hand and opened the door to Unkar’s Pawn Stop. The bell announced his arrival and Rey smiled at him, excited to see him.

She extended her arms onto the counter waiting for him to approach. “Welcome.”

“Hey,” he said his deep, dark eyes sparkling. “Hope you’re hungry.”

“I am,” she crinkled her nose making her freckles dance. He set down his backpack on the counter and took out a brown paper bag containing what she assumed to be their lunch.

“I realized on the way over here that I didn’t even ask if you were allergic to anything,” he reached into the brown bag.

“Oh, just nuts.”

“Fuck!” He said with a shocked face. “I got rice with peanut sauce.”

Rey looked up at him with a disheartened expression, “oh, no. Really?”

“I’m just kidding,” he chuckled and waved it off. “I got a rotisserie chicken and a Cesar’s salad.”  Rey laughed relieved as he pulled out both the chicken and the salad then setting the food on the counter next to the cash register.

“Woah. Thats a big chicken.” She stared at the grilled bird that had the size of a Thanksgiving turkey.

He looked at it unimpressed, “well, whatever we don’t eat I’ll save for dinner.”

“Where do you find that?” She asked taking the plastic lid off of the container it was in.

“There’s a stand that sells those in my neighborhood. On the way to or from school I buy one and I’ll just eat from that all day.”

Rey giggled and opened the salad container before drizzling the Ranch packet over it. “And what about your parents? They don’t mind eating chicken with you every day?”

His face turned stern and he didn’t look at her when he said, “I don’t live with my parents.”

Rey sensed that must’ve been a touchy subject. “I don’t know if I could eat chicken every single day.”

“Well, sometimes I eat at school or like somewhere else. But, it’s cheap, tastes good and is a good source of protein. Plus, I’m not that big of a foodie. It’s fuel so, if I know something’s good for me, then I’ll just eat that for the rest of my life.” For some strange reason she found that to be a bit unusual but simultaneously understandable. And of course, amusing.

They ate their food and she was grateful she wasn’t alone for lunch. She spent many meals alone outside of school and she was nice to have some company. When they finished, she put the empty salad container back in the brown bag. “Thank you for lunch, Ben. I also really appreciate not having to eat alone.”
“Yeah, yeah, for sure.”

“It’s reeeeally slow today, so I could use the company. Only had two customers in like two hours,” she sighed.

“Why don’t you close early and we go do something fun?”

“Oh, no. I don’t want Unkar to lose business. Besides, it’s not too bad.” She held up her book, “I have this with me… and now you.”

He gave her a pleased look and it felt as if his brown eyes were staring right into her soul. “So, you’re into that fantasy stuff?”

“That fantasy stuff?” She raised an eyebrow sarcastically. “Yes. I enjoy all kinds of nerdy stuff,” she set the book back down, patting the cover. “But, mostly in book form. I love reading. Can’t ever have enough.”

“You like Lord of the Rings?” He asked.

“Oh yeah! I love it. Haven’t seen the movies but I read all the books.”

He smiled and nodded, “I could help out.”

“What?” She couldn’t follow.

“I could rearrange shelves or dust shit,” he said leaning back in his chair, looking around the shop. “Y’know whatever needs to be done.”

“Ben, you don’t have to do that. You already brought me lunch.”

He shifted in his seat and reached over, inspecting the details on an old lamp shade with his fingers. “I have nothing else to do today,” his eyes resting back on her.

“Are you sure you want to spend your day in a pawn shop? Wouldn’t you rather hang out with friends or something?” She asked surprised, tilting her head.

“I couldn’t think of better company,” he said in a serious but warm tone. She kept her eyes on him and smiled. “OK, I mean… if you really want to.”

He clapped his hands together. “Great. Put me to work.” They spent the next hours moving around newly acquired items, changing the set-up in the display window and polishing silverware and other metal items. Rey checked the time on her phone and saw it was ten minutes until closing time.

“I’m gunna close a few minutes early,” she said looking outside. “I don’t think anyone is gunna come in anymore. That way I can take the earlier bus.”

“Or I could just drive you,” he said putting on his jacket.

“The studio is across town, that’d be a bit of a detour for you.”

“I don’t mind,” he shrugged, sliding his backpack on his shoulder now.

“I can just take the bus, that way you don’t have drive back and forth so far.”

“Don’t worry about it,” he insisted. Rey was about to protest, but he was quicker. “Or, I could just come along and wait for you in the studio,” he suggested.

She put her hands on her hips, “you don’t take ‘no’ for an answer, do you?”

“If it makes you uncomfortable, I won’t,” he reassured her.

“You don’t make me uncomfortable, Ben,” she gave him a look of reassurance to which he nodded, content. “I’ll get my things.”

Rey quickly grabbed her bag and jacket, turned over the ‘open’ sign, turned off the lights and locked the door. Ben was already on his bike with the motor running waiting for her and reaching out his helmet for her to take. She hopped on, slipped his helmet over her head and they took off.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

When they got to the dance studio downtown, Rey quickly changed into her ballet attire and left him sitting next to a few mothers who were waiting with their ten-year-olds for class to start. Ben was surprised to find out Rey was the dance instructor and not the one taking the class. The studio was a large lit up room with a glass wall separating the entry way from the actual dance room. That way parents could watch their children dance without being a distraction for them. Ben sat and waited patiently for it to start and felt very out of place among all these moms. Class started and all the little dancers ran up to Rey, ecstatically greeting and hugging her. After a moment of listening to what they all had to say, she made her way to the front and began the lesson. For Ben, this setting was unfamiliar and the whole ambience wasn’t one he felt comfortable in. But, he was absolutely captivated by Rey’s elegant and graceful movements. He was so mesmerized by her that he didn’t even notice a little hand resting on his knee and big blue eyes looking up at him. The little girl with blonde ringlets in a periwinkle ballet outfit tapped his leg and he looked down at her.

“Are you a racer?” The soft, angelic voice mumbled.  

He couldn’t understand her the first time, so he asked, “am I a what?”

“A racer,” she looked at his helmet.

“Oh, uh, no. I just ride a motorcycle.” She poked her little finger into the soft stuffing inside his helmet. “I have to wear a helmet so that if I fall down, I don’t hurt my head,” he explained.

“I have a purple one,” she began picking at her skirt, “with rainbows.”

“Oh, yeah. A purple helmet?”

She nodded enthusiastically and scratched her nose with the back of her hand. “My daddy says I have to wear it when I ride my scooter.”

“Yeah, yeah, he’s right to say that. Gotta be careful. Don’t wanna hurt yourself.”

The little girl’s mother noticed their conversation and smiled at Ben. When she tried climbing onto Ben’s lap, her mother called her back. “Anna!” The little girl shuffled back. “I’m sorry,” her mother added.

Ben huffed amused, “it’s ok.” He turned his attention back to Rey and couldn’t resist taking his eyes off her. Her brown hair glistened under the lights and her slim, athletic figure moved so gracefully. Smooth yet precise, elegant yet firm. Ben was in complete awe of this beautiful, passionate girl who seemed so familiar yet couldn’t be more different.

“She’s amazing isn’t she?” Anna’s mother whispered to him. “We’re so lucky to have her.”

He was yanked out of his thoughts and turned to her. “Yeah,” his gaze turned back at Rey, “she’s beautiful.” He cleared his throat and added, “to watch.”

“Are you her boyfriend?”

“Oh, no, we’re … friends. I just gave her a ride today. But, it’s my first time seeing her dance.”

“Oh, yeah. It’s a real treat to watch isn’t it.”

“Absolutely. I might come more often now,” he chuckled.

“I’m sure she would appreciate the support,” she winked. “Are you coming to the big recital on Thursday?”

“I wasn’t aware there was one.”

“Yeah, it’s the 10+ girls, teens and all the instructors performing that night. You should come.”

“Yeah, I’ll consider it.”

“I’m dancing, too,” Anna leaned on Ben’s legs again.

“No, baby, you’re not. Just Layla. Your recital is in a couple weeks,” her mom explained, twirling the girl’s little blonde curls.

Rey finished class and all her little dancers hugged her ‘goodbye’. She made way for the next instructor and her group of girls and spoke to some of the mothers outside of the studio while Ben got ready to take off. Rey waved to her students, got on the back of Ben’s Triumph and they drove home. When Ben pulled up to her driveway, all the lights in the house were out, indicating Unkar was still not home, yet. They walked up to the porch and she stopped and turned around on the steps. Even on the second step, he was taller than her.

“Thank you, Ben,” she said and he stopped in front of her, “for today.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah, I enjoyed it.” His face was serious, but his voice was soft and seemed genuine. “It was different, but fun.”

Rey smiled and he watched her freckles bounce around on her face. He liked her dimples and how her warm, hazel eyes made him feel so at ease, absent of judgement.

“It was a very cute sight,” she said, her face lighting up. “This black-clad biker among all the tulle and blush dresses.”

“I felt like a soccer mom, or like a parent at Disneyland waiting in line for their kid to take photos with the princesses.”

Rey burst into laughter at that analogy. “Oh my goodness. Well, there aren’t any princesses I know of anywhere to wait on, so don’t worry.”

“I see one,” he whispered, slightly tilting his head and softening his expression.

Her lips parted and she looked deep into his eyes searching for a hint, indicating that he was teasing her.

“Uh huh, ok,” she raised an eyebrow, crossed her arms and tilted her head. “I’m anything but.”

“I’m sure to some people you are,” he smiled giving her a flirtatious look and slipping his hands into his pockets.

Her face relaxed, and she closed her eyes smiling. “Maybe,” she said opened them.

Ben didn’t want to make her stand outside in the cold anymore. He sighed, “well, I guess I’ll see you tomorrow then?”

“Bright and early.”

“OK,” he half smiled and turned after giving her a wave.

“Drive safe.” She turned the key in the lock but didn’t open the door.

“I will.”

“Ben?” He turned around waiting for her to speak. “Do you wanna come inside?”

He looked behind her at the house and then back at her. He smiled a bit to himself and looked down at his feet, I should probably head back. But, next time, sure.”

“OK,” she said, almost relieved. “Text me when you get home, OK?”

“What?” He asked surprised. “Why?”

“So, I know you got home safe,” she explained.

He tilted his head in wonder. “Yeah, sure. I’ll do that,” he said confused but pleased. She waved and he got on his bike and drove off.

On the way home, he thought about her request. This was new to him. Someone who was still a stranger, wanting to make sure he got home safe. Almost as if she worried about him. When he arrived at his apartment, he immediately texted her ‘home safe 😉.’

Chapter Text

The whole week Rey had to take over her adoptive father’s afternoon shifts at his pawn shop as punishment for staying at the party past ten o’clock . So, the fact that she and Ben texted each other multiple times a day was a welcome interaction making the time pass quicker. At school, they would smile at each other in the halls or exchange flirtatious looks in class. She was careful not to be obvious around Finn, Poe and the others, but Rose noticed and approached her about it. Luckily, Rose Tico was very accepting of people and didn’t pass judgement on her developing friendship with Ben Solo. She also began FaceTiming Astraal-Talik more, which she found to be very entertaining. She knew Astraal-Talik and Ben were very close and although people didn’t dare to mess with her, Rey found the little ginger to be a very sweet and even-tempered person with whom she enjoyed spending time.

Rey was stretched out on her bed in her pink cat-ear hoodie as her and her friends were on a group call. Kaydell told them all about her new internship at the mayor’s office, Finn very excitedly announced he was getting a puppy in the spring from his cousin’s dog’s accidental pregnancy and Poe began planning their annual Thanksgiving get-away.

“We have to find another car, for all of us to fit,” he went down his to-do-list. “And we need to call the AirBnB this weekend at latest.”

“Rey, do you think Unkar would lend us the van?” Finn asked.

“I don’t think he will,” she shook her head apologetically. “But, I’ll ask to be sure.”

Rey checked the time but was relieved to see she still had some time before having to leave. “Hey, I’m gunna get ready for later. Are you guys still coming?”

“I sure am,” Rose grinned into the camera.

“I’m really sorry, Rey,” Kaydell said with a frown. “I still have so much to do today. This internship is really kicking my butt.”

“Cool, Rose. And, Kaydell, that’s absolutely understandable. I’ll have more,” Rey assured her.

“I wouldn’t miss it,” Finn smiled.

“Same,” Poe put his thumbs up. “But, I can’t stay afterwards for dinner or anything. One of the guys from our D&D group is celebrating his birthday and invited Finn and myself.”

“No problem.”

After ending their call, Rey got ready, packed her dance attire and took the bus downtown. She was nervous but felt better knowing her friends were coming to support her, especially because she couldn’t count on Unkar to show up. After her girls performed their choreography and all other categories were done, it was time for her solo. The lights were dimmed as she walked out on stage and got in position. The music began and the lights focused on her and followed her every step. She closed her eyes and enjoyed every second she was in movement, expressing her passion. Everything around her grew mute as she let the rhythm take over and guide her every movement as she performed a variation of Swanhilda’s Waltz from Coppelia. When she finished and came to her ending pose, the lights went out and her friend’s cheers echoed through the theater. For the finale, all the dancers joined her on stage to bow and end the dance recital. The curtains closed and Rey walked out with her girls to greet their proud parents. After they all found their parents, Rey walked over to her friends who hugged and congratulated her on her performance. They praised her numerous times and were incredibly supportive for which she was so grateful and appreciative. All remaining lights were now turned on and slowly everyone made their way to the exit. She looked up and caught a glimpse of a tall figure standing a couple rows away. Her face lit up when she recognized who it was. Ben Solo stood with his hands behind his back waiting for everyone to pass. He wore a navy blue button-up shirt over dark jeans. Her friends stayed put as Rey walked up to him.

“Oh my god, Ben. What’re you doing here?”

“Friends support each other,” he said slightly nodding at Poe, Finn and Rose to greet them. “And we’re friends, right?” Poe was the only one to awkwardly wave back while everyone else just stared.

“We are,” she said gleefully. “How did you know about this?”

“Well, I had a small coffee klatsch with one of the other soccer moms and she told me about it,” he smirked and Rey chortled and quickly covered her mouth. He paused and admired her for a moment. “You were amazing.”

“Thank you,” she smiled. “I messed up in the beginning, though.”

“I didn’t notice. I know nothing about ballet but I’m pretty sure nobody else noticed either.”

“Well, I did. It bugs me.”

“Did you have fun?”

“I did.”

“Well, then that’s all that matters. And either way, to me it was a perfect performance,” he assured her. “Oh, wait,” he reached behind to the back of his belt and brought forth a single white lily. He held out the flower, with his silver rings glistening under the spotlights of the theater, “I heard people usually give flowers to the dancers after the show?”

“Ben!” She took the flower, humbled and touched by this gesture.

“Everyone gets roses,” he shrugged. “And I liked the lily better. So, there ya go.”

“That’s very… gentlemanly of you,” she said with an impressed but teasing look.

“I don’t know about that,” he grumbled. “But, I’ve been told that’s what people do at these things.”

She smiled and hugged him gratefully. His large, warm hands rubbed her back as he gently embraced her. He felt strong and firm yet comforting and warm. He had a spicy, smoky, sweet scent to him. A mixture of leather, sandalwood and patchouli scents which she found to be extremely pleasant and fitting. She pulled back and looked at his long face with gratitude and affection. “Wow. What a surprise. Thank you so much for coming. It really means a lot that you came.”

“You bet,” he said. He looked at her friends and said, “I’ll let you get back. I have to get going. See you around?”

Ben Solo turned around and walked off. As Rey watched him exit the theater, she subtly brought the flower to her nose and smelled the sweetness of the white lily blossom. It brought a smile to her face and she walked back to her friends who were all eagerly awaiting her. Rey said nothing as she looked at her friends’ stunned faces.

“What was that?” Finn blurted out.

Poe said nothing and waited for her explanation. His face told nothing about what he was feeling. Rose on the other hand, tried so hard to hide a smile but clearly failed when Finn gave her a confused look.

“He came to support me,” Rey shrugged. “And to give me this.” She held up the white flower.

“Yeah, but why?” Finn asked, still stunned.

“‘Cause friends support each other,” she said naturally. “And we’re friends.”

“Since when?” Finn continued, while Poe stayed silent.

“I don’t know, couple weeks.” Rey felt she didn’t have to explain or justify her friendship to Ben Solo.

“OK, guys, calm your tiddies,” Rose grew tired of this back-and-forth and knew Rey didn’t want to make a big deal out of this. “They’re friends, he showed his support and that’s all. What’s the big deal? None of us thought to bring Rey flowers,” she said tauntingly. Rose took Rey’s hand and gestured for them to leave. “Let’s go, I’m super hungry.”

Poe tilted his head, ran his fingers through his short, black curls, “you’re right. We gotta get going, too.” He gave Rey a look she couldn’t quite figure out. She knew Poe wouldn’t judge her but he, just like Finn, always had her back and made sure to watch out for everyone in their friend group. Each and every one of them had a very special bond and Rey felt they were her family. The family she never truly had until she met these kind, generous and hilarious ‘chaotic crackheads’, as they called themselves.

Poe and Finn hugged the girls ‘goodbye’ and left for the party. “Where do you wanna eat?” Rose asked.

“Uhm, I don’t know,” Rey shrugged. “Should we ask anyone else to join us though?”

“Yeah, sure. Who?” Rose reached for her phone. “I know Kaydell has stuff to do.”

Rey blew air through her teeth, “maybe Astraal-Talik?”

“Yeah, sure.” Rose and Rey walked out of the now completely empty theater while Rey started a video call with Astraal-Talik.

She answered and looked a bit disheveled and stressed. “Oh, hey, girly. What’s up?”

“Hey, so, Rose and I are on our way to grab dinner. Do you wanna join us?”

“Awe, that’s so sweet but I can’t. My mom is hosting her annual dinner party and I’m helping her with that.”

“Oh, OK. Maybe next time then.”

“Where you guys going for dinner?” She asked shuffling around.

“We don’t know where yet but we just wanted to ask if you wanted to come along,” Rose leaned into view.

“Hey, Rose. Well, if you guys want you can just come to my house and eat here. You don’t mind, right mom?” She looked up from her phone in the direction her mother must’ve been. Rey could hear a soft ‘no, not at all’ and Astraal-Talik smiled into the camera. “See?”

Rey looked at Rose who just shrugged and then nodded. “Uhm, sure alright. We’ll be there. What time?”

“I’ll send you a drop pin, but now I guess. People are already here. It’s a buffet so it really doesn’t matter when you guys come over. But, yeah whenever you want.”

“Perfect, ‘cause I’m starving,” Rose groaned.

“OK, well I’m gunna get ready and then I’ll see y- BEN! Don’t put any chili in there,” the fiery redhead barked at someone across from her.

Rey tilted her head in surprise, “Ben as in Ben Solo?” She asked. “He’s with you?”

“Yeah, he’s not following instructions,” she gave him a taunting look. “You’re late and now you’re messing up the sauce. Just- ugh!” Astraal-Talik moaned. “Anyway, I’ll see you guys in a little bit? Oh God, what’re you doing? Ben I just said-”

Rey heard his deep voice in the back arguing, “it has to be spicy, or else it’ll be all bland and shit.”

“It’s spicy enough,” Tali threw up her hands, “it’s not my fault you abuse your taste buds! You know what, just go help mom outside!” She rolled her eyes and returned her attention to Rey and Rose who were giggling at what they were witnessing. “I gotta go guys, I’ll see you in a bit.”

“OK,” Rey grinned. “See ya.”

Chapter Text

Mrs. Gleeson was in the kitchen putting all the food in different bowls and onto platters for the buffet. Her long, orange hair was pulled into a low ponytail tied with a green ribbon coordinating with her emerald green, flowy blouse.

Ben came back into the kitchen after being barked at by Mrs. Gleeson’s mini-me. “Hey, Miss G, is there anything else I can do? I rearranged the tables like you said.”

“Did you put the table cloths on them yet?” She asked pouring some sauce into a pitcher.

“Yes, ma’am.”

“Well, then I think it’s all ready and we can put the food out. Check on Tali if she’s finished.” Astraal-Talik’s mother nodded and gave him a warm smile. He was about to turn to do so when Tali came in with a dark blue, satin dress and her foxy-red hair pinned up in an elegant updo. Ben Solo began waving his hand back and forth like a fan, “oooh,” he said expressing his approval of Tali’s appearance. “Wow,” he took her hand and spun her around once, letting her show off her dress. She posed in various ways while Ben and her mother cheered her on. They all laughed and Tali had enough of the attention.

“Thank you,” she waved off their compliments. “You look nice too, I didn’t think you’d put on such a fancy shirt.”

He looked down to check what he was wearing, “thanks, yeah, I found this.” Tali chuckled and turned to get a platter to take outside. Ben slid next to her, “we’re matching.” He pointed out the almost identical colors in their outfits.

“We are. But, I look better,” she grinned teasingly.

“Yes, you do,” he agreed, winked and took a bowl to take outside as well.

Tali walked off and Mrs. Gleeson looked at him with a big smile and her right hand on her hip. “Oh, you two,” she shook her head amused. She looked at him for a minute before saying, “I’m glad she has you, Ben.”

Ben looked up at her, bowl in hand. “Oh, ugh, yeah. I’m, ugh- I’m glad I have her, too.”

“You don’t come over as often as you used to. Why is that?”

Ben sighed knowing his time was consumed by the brotherhood. “Oh, just school and the kid.”

Her blue eyes looked at him with so much compassion that he didn’t know where to look. “How are Aridema and Kenton?”

“Oh, they’re doing OK. It’s difficult sometimes but we’ll get through it.”

“Are they coming next week?”

“Yes, we will all be there.”

“Oh, great!” She clapped her hands together. “I haven’t seen that little rugrat in a while.”

“He’ll be happy to see you, too.”

She tilted her head and gently rested them on her clasped hands, “he looks a lot like his daddy, huh?” Ben smiled and slowly nodded in agreement. Whatever face he made compelled her to put her hand on his. “Ben, you have a lot on your plate, don’t add more to it.” He looked at the face of a concerned mother and instantly felt comforted even though he wasn’t quite sure what she was getting at. She put her hand on his cheek and gave him a compassionate nod before running her thumb along his scar. “You know you can always come to us for anything,” she whispered. He nodded and smiled at her. She patted his chest, “OK, now, let’s go tell everyone the buffet is ready to devour.”

The Gleeson’s backyard was a very large square space surrounded by red brick buildings and only accessible through a screen door of their kitchen. The windowless buildings encompassing the yard made for a private enclosed space, shielding them from prying neighbors. Party lights were hung all along the walls and colorful, potted plants brought green life to the brick and concrete jungle they lived in. Tali was entertaining some of their guests and some people were at the buffet tables piling food on their plates. The doorbell rang and Tali hurried and stepped into the kitchen. Ben set down the bowl onto one of the buffet tables and grabbed a bottle of a foreign beer Mrs. Gleeson’s boyfriend had brought. He walked over to where said boyfriend was sitting and telling some elaborate tale about his high school years as a football player. Ben greeted the round, sat down and opened his bottle with the pocket knife he had on his keys.

“Hey, kid.”

“Hey, Cardo,” Ben replied. Cardo Ren was one of the older members of their gang and a major influence on Tali in joining the Knights of Ren last year. He always felt very at ease around Cardo because of his humorous and easy-going nature. Ben knew Cardo reported to Ren about everything but he never gave him the feeling of being under surveillance. They clinked beers and Ben listened to the rest of his story.

He heard Tali explaining to someone where in the house everything was and he grew curious and peeked through some people that were blocking his view. One of the girls thanked her and he knew straight away whose voice that was. Rey came around the corner accompanied by Rose Tico. He jerked up and his heart began to pound. They both reached for plates and his eyes met Tali’s who gave him a knowing smirk. He stood up and walked over to the buffet table.

“Today is full of surprises,” his deep voice made her jump.

She turned and looked up at him. “Long time no see,” she smiled, startled but not surprised at his presence.

“Hey, Ben,” Rose grinned.

“Hullo,” he nodded at her. “Are you stalking me?” His eyes narrowed teasingly, looking back at Rey.

“Wha-? Excuse me, you’re the one that showed up to my dance recital, unannounced and unbeknownst to be.” She put her free hand on her hip.

“Oh, unbeknownst,” he teased. “Excuse me, but one of the soccer moms invited me. Mkay? I was there to cheer on Anna.”

“Anna didn’t dance today,” Rey said raising an eyebrow.

“Er-, y’know her sister, uhm,” he snapped his fingers trying to remember.

“Layla?”

“Yes, exactly!” He smirked confidently.

“Uh, huh.” Rey crossed her arms and looked at him with a ‘I caught you’ expression. Rose and Tali looked at each other and giggled.

“Who’s Anna and Layla?” Tali asked.

“They’re two of my girls,” Rey turned to Tali. “I teach ballet,” she added.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

“Ben, dear,” Mrs. Gleeson peered around Ben, placing her hand on his arm. “Could you grab some more chairs from the garage?” She looked at the new faces. “Oh, hello.”

“Mom, this is Rose and Rey. From school.”

“Ah, yes. Welcome! Grab something to eat and make yourselves at home,” she scrunched her nose making her many freckles dance.

“Thank you, Astraal-Talik’s mom!” Rose thanked Mrs. Gleeson as she walked away with Ben right behind her. “So, is Ben like related to you or something?”

“What?” Tali looked at her surprised. “No, but we grew up together. He used to be here all the time. Now, not so much. Like, I see him everyday but my mom always bugs me about how much she misses him.” Rey smiled at the thought of that.

They both put food on their plates and sat in a corner on lounge chairs made of wooden pallets with fluffy turquoise cushions. Rose was eager to eat her plate and began enjoying the food Mrs. Gleeson had prepared. Rey also felt her stomach growl and the built-up hunger from the dance recital made itself known. They ate up their plates and got seconds. The food was delicious and Tali’s mom probably must’ve cooked for days to prepare so much food, Rey thought.

Rey just bit into a sourdough ball when Ben Solo plopped onto the seat next to her. “Hey, stalker,” he nudged her to which she smiled chewing her food and shaking her head. They ate silently as Tali came over with her plate of seconds and one of her mother’s colleagues right behind her. She was clearly annoyed at the woman talking her ear off. For a while, the woman told anecdotes about life as a wealthy and influential person that was intended to impress her audience. Rey, being of polite nature, listened and gave her the impression of following her stories. Ben listened silently with a stern, unconvinced and unimpressed look. It was clear the woman spoke in an arrogant and condescending manner to express her societal status. When the woman began putting down Tali’s mother by complaining about the food, decorations and general living situation Ben crossed his arms and let out a low growl. Tali glanced at him with a pacifying look to which he sighed and relaxed his muscles a bit. The woman continued to brag about her own accolades and deeply rooted knowledge on sophisticated matters. Tali rolled her eyes so hard at Rey, Rose and Ben when the woman started to recite Shakespeare’s Sonnet 18.

“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day?” She began.

“No,” Ben mumbled. Rey covered a laugh and put her hand on his knee to avoid any more cheeky comments. While the woman continued overly confident, Ben subtly ran his fingers over the back of Rey’s hand which was still resting on his knee. She looked at him but he continued to stare at the woman’s performance while sliding his large fingers under her palm, then gently caressing her fingers with his thumb. She looked at him a bit surprised but he continued on as if holding her hand was the most natural thing in the world. She glanced over at Rose who didn’t even try hiding her excited face. Tali noticed as well and had the most proud and content expression.

“So long as men can breathe and eyes can see, so long lives this, and this gives life to thee.” The woman put her hand on her chest and bowed her head, ending the poem.

“Well, pardon me while I play the grand piano,” Ben said to which Tali openly burst into laughter. Rey quickly complimented the woman in order to avoid causing offense, nevertheless she turned on her heel and walked off.

“Who was that?” Ben asked.

“Oh, some rich, preppy, uptown lady my mom does business with,” Tali whispered to make sure the woman was out of earshot. “I love my mom’s parties, but God do I hate doing small talk with these uppidity, arrogant big shots who think they’re better than everyone else.” Tali rolled her eyes. “And I hate being polite. So, I’m glad you’re here to scare em off.”

“What the hell is that a supposed to mean?” Ben tilted his head.

“Well, y’know you can be a little too… direct sometimes,” she explained. “Sometimes downright rude, but that’s part of your charm and I appreciate that.”

“I’m not rude. It’s called being honest. If they can’t handle the truth then that’s not my problem,” Ben shrugged.

“See, that’s what I mean. You have a I-don’t-give-a-fuck attitude. But, I have to give a fuck for my mom’s sake. It could affect her job.”

“Doesn’t mean you have to take their bullshit,” he stated.

“I know but sometimes you have to tell a little white lie about being excited about what they have to say or put up with their nonsense to pacify them, y’know,” she took a sip from her Dr. Pepper.

“Why? You can go through life without being dishonest. It’s not your responsibility to make them feel better, Tali.”

“Oh, like you’ve never lied?” Tali scoffed.

“Nope. I always tell the truth,” Ben pushed back.

“Oh, really? How much did you lose at the poker game last night?” She gave him a sardonic smile. Ben pushed his lips together and narrowed his eyes. Rose smiled eagerly awaiting his answer and Tali’s victorious grin made Rey slightly smirk.

“None of your business and that’s the truth,” he replied smug.

Tali laughed. “Touché,” she winked.

Rey let Ben gently play with her fingers as the conversation continued on. When their eyes met, he gave her a soft smile. She observed his profile for a moment. She liked everything about him, his strong Roman nose, his high cheekbones and sharp jawline making for an oblong face shape, his luscious lips and even the many beauty marks over his forehead, nose and cheeks. Sure, he was scruffy looking but he was also kind of beautiful, she thought. He had very masculine features yet alluring. Rey didn’t hear the conversation that was going on, but was whipped out of her thoughts when she heard Tali address Ben with “… you rudely large man!”

Ben shifted back in his seat sideways with his elbow leaning on his leg to get a better look at her. “Rudely large?”

“Dude, you’re bigger than our fridge,” Rose joined in. “I don’t know what they’re feeding you but it’s enough. You’re like a Kodiak bear… just without the fluff.” She made a gesture with her fingers mimicking grabbing something furry.

“You talk a lot of shit for someone who tiptoes around the four foot side of a pool,” Ben took a sip from his beer, resting his eyes on Rose.

Rose opened her mouth and thumped her hand on her chest as if she were offended. “Well, people stop growing when they hit perfection, so clearly it took longer for you. But, then again maybe you’re still growing.”

“Tell me, Rose, does your booster seat come with any special features?” Ben retaliated while Rey and Tali laughed wholeheartedly at their tug of war.

“Wow,” Rose crossed her arms while she met his proud smirk with an amused nod. “Did Peter Jackson call you yet? I heard they needed references for Ents in their upcoming series.”

“How about I get you a step ladder so you can say that shit to my knees, short round,” Ben said, pointing his beer bottle at her. Rose and Tali laughed so hard that Tali dripped some of her Dr. Pepper onto the cushion. They both began trying to clean it up with napkins. Rey felt Ben’s hand recoil and when she looked at him, she saw his attention was turned to two men walking out of the kitchen. They were black clad and Rey recognized the black and red symbol on their denim vests like she had seen on Ben’s jacket. Ben nodded towards them and stretched up his fingers in greeting. He shifted away from her and his face turned stern.

A man put his hand on Ben’s shoulder and squeezed, letting him know of his presence. “I haven’t seen Tali laugh this much in weeks,” he smiled. “It’s nice to finally meet some of her friends.”

“This is Rose and this is Rey,” Tali introduced them. “And this is Cardo, my mom’s boyfriend.”

“Nice to meet you,” Rose and Rey said almost simultaneously.

“Kylo, can I speak to you for a minute?” Cardo gave him a nervous look.

“Sure,” he stood up and followed him to the kitchen.

The girls looked at Tali in confusion. “Kylo?” Rose asked.

Tali’s eyes grew, almost unnoticed to Rey. “Oh, that’s just his nickname within the Kn-, ugh, y’know within our family and friend group,” she said nervously. She quickly changed the subject by asking, “what are you guys doing on Wednesday? I’m turning 18 if you guys wanna come over?”

Rey looked at Rose whose face showed she also thought something was off about Tali’s explanation but they both decided not to further question it.

“Sure,” Rose said. “Is your mom cooking that again?” She pointed towards a casserole on the buffet table. “‘Cause if she is then you can count me in.” Tali smiled and nodded.

“I’m free, too. I’d love to come, Tali,” Rey thanked her.

They all looked up when they heard someone tapping glass to get the parties attention. It was Ben clinking his pocket knife on his beer bottle. Everyone in the backyard turned to him ready to hear his announcement. But, instead Cardo began to speak. “Firstly, I would like to thank you all for coming to this amazing party that my beautiful Allison put together for you tonight. It’s a special evening for her and I know she put a lot of work into it.” Claps filled the air in acknowledgment of Mrs. Gleeson’s efforts. “I would like to take a moment to express my gratitude and my adoration for you, Allison.” He paused which made Mrs. Gleeson furrow her eyebrows in confusion. “I came into your and Astraal-Talik’s lives in a time that wasn’t the easiest of times. My love and appreciation for you and Tali has grown every single day since I have met you and continue to grow.” Tali perked up also confused as to what was going on. “If you feel half of what I feel for you two, I would be the luckiest man alive. So, to express how much I love you and want to keep you in my life forever, I have to ask an important question.” He turned to Ben who reached into his back pocket bringing forth a small, red, velvet box. Cardo took the box, opened it and got down on his knee. Mrs. Gleeson’s eyes teared up and she put both hands over her mouth. “Would you do me the honor-”

“Yes!” She shouted.

“Let me finish,” he chuckled.

“Right, sorry,” she bit her lip. Some guests laughed at her eagerness.

“Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”

“Yes, absolutely I will.” She flung her arms around him as everyone clapped and cheered. Tali stayed silent as Cardo slipped the ring on her mother’s finger.

“There’s one other thing,” Cardo interrupted the joyous cheers. He pulled out another ring from the box and walked over to where Tali was sitting. “Astraal-Talik, I know I could never replace your dad. Nor do I want to. But, if you accept this ring, I promise I will try to be the best stepfather I can be and try to live up to what you deserve. Not only do I love your mother, but these last three years, I have also come to love you as my own. Would you do me the utmost honor of becoming my stepdaughter?”

Tali looked at him in total shock. She looked at her crying mother, then the ring and then back at Cardo. “Uhm, OK,” she said still stunned. He gave her the ring and everyone began to clap again.

“Well,” Cardo said clearly relieved, “I guess we have a wedding to plan. And you’re all invited!”

After hugging and congratulating Tali’s mom and future stepfather, Ben walked back over to their group to congratulate a stone-faced Tali whose eyes were glued to her new ring. She looked up at him and maintained eye contact for a while before asking, “how long did you know?”

“What?” He asked confused at her cool attitude. “Oh, well not that long, just-”

“How long?”

“A week, maybe.”

She looked at him in disbelief, “you knew that long and didn’t bother to tell me?”

“Tali, he wanted to surprise you both. Of course I wasn’t gunna say anything,” Ben defended himself.

She slowly nodded in disappointment, “you should’ve told me.”

Ben furrowed his brows and put a hand on her back. “Tali, aren’t you happy about this? I thought you liked Cardo,” he whispered.

She looked up and into his eyes again. “I do. You’re right… I should be happy.” She attempted a smile.

“Tali-”

“Later,” she gently tapped his leg with her fist.

“OK, well Cardo and some of your mom’s friends want an espresso.”

“Fine,” she said getting up but Ben stopped her.

“It’s OK, I’ll do it. I was just asking if you guys want one, too.”

Rey and Rose shook their heads and Ben turned around to walk back to the kitchen. “I think we better go,” Rose said looking at the time on her phone. “It’s getting late.”

Rey nodded and got up. They hugged Tali ‘goodbye’, thanked her mom for the food and congratulated her again on their engagement.

They walked through the screen door into the kitchen and she saw Ben in front of the coffee machine with his back to them. Rose winked at her and walked out the front door to her car.

“Bye, Ben. I’ll see you tomorrow,” Rey said to his back.

He turned around and pressed the brew button before walking over to her, “you’re leaving already?”

“Yeah, it was a spontaneous invite, so,” she shrugged.

“OK, well get home safe and text me when you get home,” he winked.

Rey chuckled, “absolutely.” For a moment they gazed at each other and she noticed him glancing at her lips. “OK, well, bye.” She reached up and wrapped her arms around his neck. He gently squeezed her torso as if she could break under his embrace. When they pulled away, he still had his hands resting on her waist. Rey’s heart began to race and she felt as though she had a swarm of blue morphos in her stomach. When he made no motion, she gathered her courage, raised her heals from the floor, reached her hand to his face and pushed her lips onto his. They slowly drew back and she let her finger tips linger on his scar while Ben Solo smiled at her full of compassion and affection.

“Good night,” she whispered. He nodded and she walked out the front door to where Rose was waiting in her yellow buggy.

Chapter Text

Kaydell quickly made her way through the corridors of City Hall. When she opened the door to the mayors office, she was greeted with a smile.

“Good afternoon, Miss Connix,” the mayor said. Her long, brown hair had been braided into a low bun with two gray streaks on either side revealing her age. Her beautiful, brown eyes and warm smile made her seem much younger than she probably was. Today, she wore a royal blue pantsuit with gold and sapphire gem earrings.

“Good afternoon,” Kaydell panted. “I’m sorry for being late, I had to stay after class to finish an art project.”

“No worries, dear. I thought you finished that project already.”

“Well, technically I did. But, my partner didn’t show up to the presentation. So, now we have some catching up to do.”

“Ah, well I hope your partner sticks to it then,” she smiled. “Alright, could you take that stack of forms and pack them into this case very neatly. I need them today at the meeting.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Kaydell scurried over to her desk.

A man in a beige suit knocked on the door and stuck only his head in the room. “Ma’am, they pushed up the 4 o’clock meeting to three.”

“That’s in ten minutes,” the mayor looked at her watch. The man shrugged apologetically and she added, “alright, I’m coming.” Kaydell continued with her task when her boss turned to look at her silently. “Miss Connix,” she tilted her head her. “How would you like to go to your first administrative meeting?”

Kaydell looked at her surprised. “What really?”

“You’ve been doing a great job here and I think it’s time for you to come along.”

“Oh, yes!” She yelled and then quickly cleared her throat. “Yes, ma’am, I’d love to join you.”

“Good. Put the rest of those forms in the case and bring them along,” she winked and walked out. Kaydell waited for her to be outside to ball up her fists and jump in the air. “Yes!” She whispered excitedly. Kaydell knew this meant the mayor was pleased with her performance and her reward gave way for more learning opportunities and insight to the job. She cleared her throat again, ran her open hands over her hair to neaten it, closed the case and followed the mayor of Hanna City out the door.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

“You punched Daisy?” Rose blurted.

“Woah, Tali, what happened?” Rey joined in on the questioning.

“I just got done with her pea-brain insults,” she shrugged with a disinterested expression. “She pulled the last straw and suffered the consequences.”

“Tali!” Rey looked at her concerned.

“What?” Tali looked at her as if it was no big deal. “Rey, she went too far and now she knows not to do it again.”

“Isn’t that a little harsh?” Rose asked.

“Not in my book. And if she feels the need to insult me or you guys, well,” Tali made a motion of hitting her elbow against her open palm. Rose and Rey looked at each other slightly intimidated.

“What did she even say?” Rose crossed her arms.

“Don’t worry about it,” Tali turned around, “she won’t say it again. See you guys later.”

“Where you going?” Rey shouted after her.

“Detention. Coach said gotta go right away,” she shrugged.

“Well, I guess now that we have practice twice a week it won’t hurt,” Rose whispered to Rey.

They returned to practice and after a hard afternoon of training, they showered, packed up and left to go home.

“So, did Ben text you at all after yesterday?”

“I texted him when I got home last night and then this morning. But, he only responded to my message from yesterday.”

“He wasn’t at school today either,” Rose flung her book bag over her shoulder.

“Yeah,” Rey said disappointed.

“Well, I mean that’s nothing new.” Rose put her hand on Rey’s shoulder. “I’m sure there’s a good explanation for that.”

“You’re right, I’ll just try again later. Wanna watch House of the Dragon tonight?”

“Or we wait ‘til next Monday and then we’ll have two episodes to watch. How about tonight you come over to my house, we order food and watch Prisoner of Azkaban?” Rose suggested.   

“Sounds good.”

The girls hopped into Unkar’s van and drove off. They passed a motorcycle driver and Rose perked up from the passenger’s seat to look back. “Wasn’t that Ben?”

Rey tried to get a glance of him in the rear-view mirror. “Yeah, I think so.”

“Well, at least now we know he’s alive,” Rose teased.

“Huh, yeah.”

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ben Solo parked his motorcycle a bit further away from his high school since he didn’t want to bump into any teachers after skipping all of his classes today. Had Ren not given him another target, he could’ve seen her. He still had Rey’s floral, gourmand fragrance in his nose and the soft, warm feeling of her lips on his. This sweet, kind and poised girl took up most of his thoughts lately. When he was near her he felt unperturbed. She was a source of serenity yet simultaneously excitement. It was intoxicating.

Tali came dragging her feet around the corner with a miserable look on her face while he rested on his bike waiting for her. “Sup, green boots!” He shouted making a reference to an inside joke the two of them shared. Her face lit up a bit and he could tell his attempt at cheering her up worked.

“Aye, primoooo!” She yelled back. They bumped fists and she hopped on the back of his bike.

“Hungry?” He asked over his shoulder to which she gave him a thumbs up. Ben drove in the direction of Tali’s go-to place to eat. He felt bad for not telling her about the proposal and decided it was a good idea to treat her to a meal at her favorite diner.

Trudy’s Cafe n’ Diner was empty when they arrived giving them free choice of seats. It had a sixties theme as most diners do, but this particular diner had the absolute best milkshakes in the whole city, according to Tali. When they were younger, and just starting out with alcoholic beverages, they would often come here with a bottle of toffee vodka they had refilled into a thermos to spice up their milkshakes. They still did this from time to time. The air was thick with frying grease and the sounds of dishes and silverware being handled rang in their ears as they slid into a booth by the window.

“What’re you getting?” Tali asked scrutinizing the menu.

“Biscuits and gravy and chicken fried steak!” Ben said enthusiastically.

“I think I’m gunna get a panini,” Tali put the menu down and slouched back in her seat.

“Oh, a panini,” Ben teased. “How quaint.” She didn’t respond, still looking at the menu. When she was finished, she sat there a while, arms crossed and a glum demeanor.

“So,” Ben leaned forward, raising his eyebrows. “You punched Daz.”

Tali sighed and rolled her eyes. “Yeah.”

“I’m guessing not to defend my honor.”

She tilted her head and the corner of her mouth curled a bit. “No.” The waitress interrupted them and took their order.

“So, then what happened?” Ben continued.

“She made a stupid comment about my mom and Cardo. I guess she must’ve heard from Trudgen.”

Ben nodded slowly, “I mean I’m not one to talk, but is that really a reason to punch someone?” Tali shrugged and sat there silently with her eyes on the menu. “Wanna tell me what’s going on?” He whispered with his chin resting on his fist.

She looked around to see if anyone was in earshot before starting. “I know this is gunna sound so dumb and maybe even childish,” she rubbed her face. “But, I don’t want my mom to move on from my dad. It’s been six years but I still don’t feel like it’s been long enough. I want her to be happy but I also don’t want her to forget him.”

“First of all, that’s not dumb,” he gave her a reassuring look, “it’s normal to not want a parent finding a replacement for the other parent. But, that’s just the thing. Cardo will never replace your dad. Ever. And he even said it last night, he doesn’t want to do that. And I’m sure your mom will never forget your father.”

“She barely talks about him anymore,” her eyes became moist.

“I guess she wants to be respectful towards Cardo. But if you want to talk more about him, talk more about him,” Ben suggested. “Maybe she thinks you’re the one who’s holding back because it’s too painful.”

She looked at him pensively. “If you’re gunna say some bullshit about having open communication and just talk to her, then I say you first.”

He leaned back, knowing she was referring to his own situation at home. “Hey, I’m trying to help you.”

“Sorry, I know,” she waved it off. “I’m just saying maybe it’s time for you to talk to your mom, too.”

“Tali, you know that’s different. My mom’s not like your mom. Your mom is much more … accessible and forgiving.”

She looked down at her hands that were resting on her lap. She knew it was a sensitive topic and decided not to push. “Also,” she said after a while and then looking him in the eyes. “Please don’t say anything to the others…”

“You know I won’t.”

She nodded. “I’m a little… scared that we’re digging a hole that’s gunna be too deep to get out of.”

“What do you mean?”

“What if one day I wake up and decide to go to college or get married or I don’t know move to another country. The Knights would never let me.” Ben listened silently and was able to relate to his best friend because he recently began having those same thoughts. “And now that Cardo, one of the older Knights, is gunna be my stepdad… it’s just like they’ll forever have their claws in me.”

“But, they’ll also protect you, your family and provide anything you need.”

“I know that. And I love my life and I don’t regret joining but…”

“You don’t like people having control over your life and your decisions,” he understood.

She nodded, “yeah.”

“Hm.”

They remained silent for a while, both deep in thought. “At least I‘ll always have my best friend right there with me,” she broke the silence and put her hand on his arm.

He patted her hand with his and sighed, “always. You’re stuck with me, green boots.”

Tali laughed through her misty eyes. The waitress brought out their food which they instantly devoured and the mood improved rapidly.

When they finished and Ben took his last bite he looked up to see Tali staring at him. “Can I ask you something?” She asked.

“Shoot,” he mumbled chewing his food.

“What the hell did you ever see in Daz? She’s so astronomically stupid.”

He laughed as he chewed and then swallowed. “I honestly don’t know.”

“‘Cause she looks like a model? Lucious blonde hair? A great ass? But nothing in here,” she said pointing at her forehead.

“She’s easy on the eye, sure,” he chuckled, “but, there was something refreshing about her. I guess she gave me something I needed during that time.”

“Yeah, I know what she gave you,” Tali smiled sarcastically.

He let out a deep, rumbly laugh, “sure. That too. But, that’s not what I meant. C’mon let’s get outta here.” Ben payed for their meal and they got up and walked out. The two took the road along the beach to the Knight’s hangout and Ben could see Tali in his mirror staring out onto the water. He knew she was going through a lot of emotional turmoil and decided she needed a distraction.

When they got to the Knight’s hangout, Kuruk handed them two beer bottles and they sat down watching Ap’lek and Vicrul, two of their brothers, play pool. Ben got out his phone and opened his messages. He replied to Rey with a ‘hey stalker, sorry for not gettin back to you. I was really busy today’.

‘Hey, yeah I noticed. Didn’t come to class 🥺’

‘I had a lot of errands to run that couldn’t wait, I’ll be back on Monday.

‘ 🤨 ’

‘I promise 😇 ’

‘OK 👍 ’

‘What’re you up to?’

Rey sent him a photo of a television screen showing Professor Snape from Harry Potter presenting an Egyptian relic with a depiction of a werewolf. ‘Movie night 🥰,’ she replied.

‘Ah, Severus. Good man.’

‘You know who Snape is?’

‘Ugh, excuse me, madam! I know my wizards.’

‘ 😂😂😂 of course. Pardonnez moi’

‘Sure. And I also believe that’s Prisoner of Azkaban you’re watching?’

‘OK, you really do know your stuff.’

‘ 😋 Who’s with you?’

‘Rose and Kaydell’

‘Ah, tell them I say hi, I’ll let you get back to your movie’

‘I will. Wanna FaceTime tomorrow?’

‘Yeah, sure’

‘OK, see you tomorrow 😘 ’

‘ 😉 ’

His phone began to vibrate and it notified him that he was getting a call from Ren. He swiped the answer button, “hey.”

“We have a situation. You guys need to come right now. Already sent you a drop pin.”

“Alright, on our way.”

“Kylo, just knives.”

“Yes, sir.” Ben put his phone in his pockets and looked at his brothers who were waiting for him to speak. Ben briefed them and they all hopped into their cars and Tali onto Ben’s motorcycle with him. They all followed the pair on the black Triumph to an open, grassy space that Ren had led them to. They could see Ren’s black Mercedes with its headlights on, shining onto a man tied up and hunched on the ground. Ben recognized the man. He was one of the four guys from Kanjiklub that had jumped him at school a few weeks ago. Not only did they risk too much attention on public grounds but they also broke the treaty by stepping into their territory. Cardo approached Ben and Tali, “this is Razoo Qin-Fee. Tasu Leech’s little sidekick.” They looked at the stone-faced man on the ground who was being blinded by the headlights.

“That’s the one that jumped me,” Ben crossed his arms.

“Well, then I guess you get the first go,” Cardo patted Ben’s arm. While Ren made a long speech about what would happen to people if they dared to threaten the Knights of Ren and how they dealt with these attempts, all of the Knights formed a circle around Qin-Fee. Ben walked over to Ren, Tali and Cardo right behind him.

“Ah, yes. My protégé. I think you remember him. Don’t you, Razoo?” Ren’s face lit up.

“We may have crossed paths,” the man answered Ren proud.

“Well, I think it’s time to get to know him a little better, wouldn’t you agree?” He put his hand on Ben’s back, “Kylo, would you do the honors?”

“Gladly,” he growled. “But, this is too easy. It’s a little sad you needed three other guys to confront me,” Ben took off his black denim jacket, revealing his muscular build underneath his black muscle shirt. “Don’t get me wrong, it’s flattering. But, tonight I’m not gunna take the easy way like you did.” Ben unlatched his knife from his belt and threw it on the ground in front of the man. “Untie him,” he told Ap’lek who was standing right behind the man in their circle. Razoo rubbed his wrists after Ap’lek untied him and picked up the knife and quickly got into a fighting stance.

“Where’s yours?” He asked.

“It wouldn’t be a fair fight,” he said relaxed with his hands in front of him. Razoo was at least one foot shorter than Ben but he was still a skilled fighter, Ben knew that. So, he decided to wear him out. Razoo attacked and Ben dodged his every move with such finesse and grace. Every advance the man made was blocked or efficiently swerved by the young Knight. It was almost like a dance. After a while, Qin-Fee grew frustrated and more aggressive. Ben knew this was his chance to really get him tired and then strike. As he anticipated, the Kanjiklub member grew wearied and inattentive. It only took Ben two blows and the man collapsed onto the grass. “Guess it was still unfair,” he looked at the heavily breathing man on the ground while his brothers and sisters cheered him on. “He’s all yours,” he said to the other Knights. He turned away and the others began to strike and kick Razoo.

“That was impressive, kid,” Cardo squeezed his shoulder but Ben hated compliments and waved it off.

“I told you he’d make a valuable asset,” Ren said to Cardo. “He’s one of our best fighters.”

Cardo smiled and nodded proud. “Alright, take your sister home before Allison starts to worry.”

“She knows I’m out with Kylo today,” Tali said. “She never questions that.”

“Yeah, but we have enough men here and it looks like nobody else from Kanjiklub is coming,” Cardo looked back at where the others were still beating Razoo.

“I would’ve had enough frustration and anger to channel today,” Tali rolled her eyes.

“Another time,” Ren said stern.

“Yes, sir,” Tali quickly said obediently. Ben could tell Tali was getting back into a bad mood.

“Well, I guess if we’re not needed here,” Ben nudged Tali, “we can go see what Ari’s up to?” She nodded and she handed him his jacket which he slipped back on.

“Home, Kylo,” Cardo said calmly.

Ben sighed and contemplated insisting but decided to stay quiet. They shook the older Knights’ hands, got onto his Triumph and drove off into the night.

Aridema opened the door to Tali and Ben with Kenton on her hip. “There’s my little man,” Ben reached for him as Kenton squealed and stretched his chubby, little arms towards him. He gave Ari a kiss on the cheek and they stepped inside. Tali hugged Ari and answered her when she asked about her day. Ben plopped onto the couch with the toddler on his lap. The whole house smelled like cinnamon, oranges and cloves. Ben wrinkled his nose, “it’s not even Halloween or Thanksgiving yet. Why does it smell like Santa threw up in here?”

The young mother rolled her eyes. “Ben, shush.” Tali giggled and sat on the floor with her legs crossed in front of Ben and Kenton. Ben set the toddler on the carpet floor and Tali began playing peekaboo with him.

“I’m just saying isn’t it a little early for that shit.”

“Language!” Ari scolded him.

“Oh, like he’s gunna understand that,” Ben gave her an unimpressed look.

“I don’t care. I don’t want him around that kind of language. You guys hungry?”

“Nah, we just ate,” Ben said tickling Kenton.

“Some eggnog then?”

Ben looked at her in disbelief. ‘What?! Hell no. What is happening?”

Tali chuckled, “since when do they sell eggnog in October?”

“I made it today from scratch,” she smiled.

“Oh, well in that case I’d love to try some,” Tali said then kissing Kenton all over his chubby face.

Ben looked back and forth at Ari and Tali. “You two are insane,” he said shaking his head. The girls giggled and Ari poured them two mugs of homemade eggnog. Ben didn’t agree with their need to prematurely engage in Christmas traditions but he could tell the situation was cheering up his best friend. Ben watched as Ari and Tali gleefully laughed and made fun of him. He didn’t mind. He was just happy they were enjoying themselves, carefree and unworried.

Chapter Text

“Good morning,” Ben’s deep, smoky voice came through her phone’s speakers.

“Morning,” a very sleepy Rey said. She hadn’t even gotten out of bed and she looked a mess. She checked the time on her phone and saw it was almost 10:30 a.m. It felt way earlier than that and she tugged her blanket up over her shoulders and over her nose, revealing only her semi-opened eyes and tousled brown hair.

“Did I wake you?” He asked.

“Mh,” she hummed. All she could see of Ben as she squinted was a big black blob on her screen which meant he must’ve been wearing his black hoodie. He chuckled and she heard him stand up and walk around.

“I’ll call later then if you wanna sleep,” he said amused.

“I just need ten minutes,” Rey mumbled.

“Are you sure, I can call later. It’s fine,” he offered.

Rey really wanted to talk to him. She was meeting her friends later and she knew she wouldn’t have time then. “No, no. I’ll call you back right after I got up.”

“Alright,” he chuckled. Rey hung up, rubbed her face and then flung the blanket off of her while still staying perfectly still in the bed for a few seconds. Finally, she gathered enough energy to get up and walk over to the bathroom in order to brush her teeth and comb her hair. When she was finished and felt fresh she walked over to her closet. She opened the wooden sliding door of her built-in closet and thought about what she could wear. She stopped and looked down at her light blue, slightly sheer cami that failed to leave certain things to imagination. She smiled, put her hair up in a bun and propped her phone up on a candle on her vanity. She sat down on her white, fluffy swivel chair and opened FaceTime.

“Heeey,” Ben answered his phone. He must’ve had his phone propped up against something as well, as he was mixing a white liquid in a small, round plastic container. She noticed he did a double take when he noticed her top.

She smiled to herself and crossed her legs on the chair. “Hey you. Whatcha mixing?”

“Formula,” he winked.

She giggled, “ah. To get big and strong?”

“That’s what it says on the box,” he said looking at a blue and white can reading the word ‘Nan’. “You got anything special planned for today?”

“Yeah, I’m meeting Poe, Finn, Kaydell and Rose at the 3D mini-golf place later. Then after we’ll get dinner and maybe go see a movie. You?”

“Uhm,” he growled. “Gunna help my friend Ushar with his house renovations. And then, I dunno,” he took a towel and wiped the surface he had the container with the mixture on, “maybe chill at home.”

“Oh, sounds fun.”

“Yeah, I get to break shit. It’s gunna be sick! Take a sledge hammer and just ‘Hulk smash’ the place,” he said enthusiastically.

She laughed and said, “well maybe Hulk isn’t a good example. Your friend probably wants a functional house in the end.”

“So, slightly less destructive… like Shrek. Got it,” he made a clicking sound with his tongue and pointed at her with his index and thumb outstretched.

She put her freshly painted nails to her forehead and sighed in amusement. “Yeah, sure,” she smiled.

“I mean I look like him so, y’know makes sense,” he winked.

“Oh, stop it! You do not. Not even close.”

“Mkay, if you say so,” he raised an eyebrow.

“I do,” she crossed her arms. Ben made a face to show he disagreed bringing forth a chuckle from Rey. “So, what’re you going as in two weeks?”

“What do you mean?”

“For Halloween,” she reminded him. “You know at school. They’re throwing a Halloween party.”

He stopped what he was doing and looked at her unimpressed. “I don’t do Halloween.”

“What? Oh, c’mon.”

“I hate Halloween,” he mumbled.

“Who hates Halloween?”

“I do. Fuck Halloween. It’s a ridiculous holiday, bullshit,” he grumbled.

“Well, I love Halloween. We’re all going. You should come.”

“Ugh, no.”

“With me? Please?” She pushed her eyebrows together, pulled down the corners of her mouth and made a sweet, pouty face.

“What- What are you doing? No, no. Stop, don’t make that face,” he said putting his hand up gesturing to stop. She intensified her look and batted her eyes a little. He blew air through his lips in resignation. He pushed his lips together and then slowly inhaled. “I’ll… consider it,” he said reluctantly. Her eyes brightened and he added, “but don’t make me wear anything I wouldn’t any other day.”

“Uh, huh,” she said clearly not taking his request seriously.

“We need to stop hanging out. You’re a bad influence,” he shook his head to which Rey began to chortle gleefully. “Well, I need to get going,” he said looking at the clock on the microwave behind him. “Time to get some construction dust in my lungs.”

“I hope you’ll wear a mask. And a helmet,” she raised an eyebrow.

“If I find one, sure.”

“If not I’ll buy them for you. I will come over there and strap the damn things on you myself,” she threatened.

He chuckled. “Bet.”

“Oh, you think I won’t?”

“Nope. You don’t even know where the house is.”

“I’m sure Tali knows. And I’m pretty sure she’d tell me.”

He thought about it for a moment before saying, “I don’t think so. Not if I tell her not to because some crazy, innocent looking girl is stalking me. Yet again.”

“Oh, really? Stalking! Wow.”

“Yup,” he nodded proud.

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that. She’d side with me.”

“Honestly, I would too if I were in her shoes. Who could say ‘no’ to that smile.”

“Don’t psych me out, stop!”

“It’s true, you enchant people with that smile,” he grinned.

“Shut up!” She didn’t want to buckle. He smiled knowing his charm was working on her but did as he was told. She caught on and rolled her eyes then smiled and shook her head. “OK, well go Bob-the-builder some stuff. I’ll talk to you later.”

“I‘ll Bob-the-builder the shit out of it,” he winked. “Later!” They hung up and Rey sat at her vanity for a moment smiling into the mirror. She closed her eyes and swiveled around in her chair.    

The squad spent the whole day together playing mini-golf, hanging out at the mall, seeing the movie Black Adam with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson and then getting Indian takeout to eat at the lake. They brought loads of warm blankets and pillows to sit around one of the public bonfires on one of the artificially installed beaches of the lake. They ate their takeout and enjoyed each other’s company. When they were finished they all sat and listened to Poe who had brought his guitar and began picking at the strings. The fire cackled and sparks rose into the chilly air while the melody of the American folk song Fare Thee Well began to ring and Poe’s smooth, baritone voice carried the lyrics through the dark night.

If I had wings like Noah's dove
I'd fly the river to the one I love
Fare thee well, my honey fare thee well

Well, I had a man, strong and tall
He moved his body like a cannonball
Fare thee well, my honey, fare thee well

I remember one evening in the pouring rain
And in my heart was an aching pain
Fare thee well, my honey, fare thee well

Muddy river runs muddy and wild
You can't give a bloody for my unborn child
Fare thee well, my honey, fare thee well

So as show us a bird flying high above
Life ain't worth living without the one you love
Fare thee well, my honey, fare thee well
Fare thee well, my honey, fare thee well

Everyone listened contentedly and Rey was filled with a sense of serenity and appreciation in being with the people she loved so dearly. She adored campfire nights with her friends and especially enjoyed them when Poe brought his guitar along. Kaydell and Rey were snuggled up next to each other, sharing a blanket with their knees pulled up to their chests. Kaydell rested her head on Rey’s shoulder as they listened to Poe sing songs by Bob Dylon, John Denver and Bob Seger. Rose and Finn also shared a blanket and were completely captivated by Poe’s performance as well. It was an absolute perfect ending to a perfect day, she thought. It began to get a bit more windy and they decided to pack up to avoid getting sick in the cold October weather. They parted ways with the boys who drove off in Poe’s orange Wrangler. Rey drove Unkar’s van and turned onto the road leading to Kaydell’s home. When they passed a Walmart, Kaydell asked to stop by as she needed some supplies for her internship. Rey parked her adoptive father’s green Chrysler in the parking lot near the entrance and they entered the 24-hour super center.

“Does this Walmart have a Starbucks?” Rose asked. “I’d kill for a strawberry frap.”

“I don’t know but if they do I’m getting a pumpkin spice latte,” Kaydell grinned. The girls grabbed the supplies Kaydell needed and Rey texted Unkar if he needed anything. When he replied with ‘toilet paper and milk’, she headed towards the aisle with the hygiene products. She took a pack of toilet paper when she noticed a child squeak two aisles down across from her. Pretty late for a young child to be up at this hour, she thought and as Rey looked up all the heat from her face vanished and her stomach tightened. She saw Ben Solo with a toddler on his hip looking at diapers. He had on a black hoodie, beat up blue jeans with chains dangling from the waistband. And a toddler around his hip. The child had dark hair and dark brown eyes. Just like Ben. Rey froze and couldn’t believe what she was seeing. His back was turned to her but the child was looking straight at her.

“Oh my god,” Rose’s soft, compassionate voice whispered. “Your tall hunk has a kid?” Rey couldn’t speak and just stared on. “Wait, who’s that?” Rose asked. A young woman in a waitress outfit with a long, dark brown braid swaying behind her walked up to Ben and the child and pointed at something on the pack of diapers he was holding. Rey remembered the formula he was mixing and put two and two together.

“Holy cow is that Aridema Sanchez?” Kaydell joined the pair. She quickly caught on to what was happening and must’ve noticed Rey’s shocked face. “Oh, Rey. Shit. I’m sorry. Are you OK?” Rey continued watching the little family and just turned around and walked away. Her two friends followed her to the cash register.

“I can’t believe he kissed you, what an asshole!” Rose crossed her arms with her lips pressed together.

“Wait you two kissed?” Kaydell asked surprised. “Why didn’t you tell me?”

“I knew what you were gunna say,” Rey said frowning. “And I guess you were right.”

“Oh, sweetie,” Kaydell rubbed Rey’s arm. Kaydell turned to Rose, “I can’t believe he has a kid with Ari Sanchez.”

“At least you found out before things got serious,” Rose said in the most compassionate manner she could muster.

“I don’t wanna side with him or anything but maybe the kid’s not his,” Kaydell said carefully.

Rose gave her a look of doubt, “he looks just like him, Kaydell. And why would he be out this late with someone else’s kid and girlfriend?”

”Plus,” Rey interjected downheartedly, “this morning he was mixing formula. I thought it was like a muscle protein powder shake or something. But, he actually admitted that it was formula. I didn’t question it because I thought he was joking.”

Kaydell nodded in agreement. “You’re right. I mean I know they’re not related. Ari Sanchez and her family used to be very close with ours. So, I know her deal… a little,” she pondered. “You think that’s why he got kicked out of his parents’ house?”

“Maybe,” Rose said. “I wonder why Tali didn’t say anything, though.”

“Oh my god, you should call her,” Kaydell suggested. The girls payed for their things and walked to the car. At first, Rey didn’t want to call Tali and snoop but Rose and Kaydell insisted and Rey wasn’t in the mood to argue.

“Wuzzup,” Tali answered.

“Hey, Rey’s with me,” Rose said almost agitated.

“Hi, Rey!”

“Why didn’t you tell us Ben has a child?” Rose said getting straight to the point.

“What?” Tali asked surprised.

“Ben Solo. Has a kid. Did you know that?” Rose pushed.

“Wait, he told you about Kenton?” She carefully asked.

Rey’s stomach tightened once more when hearing the child’s name, making the situation even more real. When she found her voice again she answered, “no. We saw him just now with his girl and a kid.”

“Yeah,” Rose said. “I guess he was too cowardly to tell her himself but we just saw him at Walmart with Aridema Sanchez and their child.”

“Look, I’m not gunna talk about Ben’s business. OK? If you wanna know about his situation then you need to ask him yourself,” she said stern.

“Oh, c’mon,” Rose said displeased.

“No, you’re right, Tali. I’m sorry,” Rey interjected. Rose gave her a confused look but Rey shook her head.

“OK, talk to you guys later,” Tali said and they hung up.

“That’s bullshit,” Kaydell shook her head. “OK, let’s forget the whole thing. C’mon let’s go home and watch House of the Dragon or another Harry Potter movie.” Rey sighed and after a while she nodded and turned the key in the ignition with Rose looking at her with a concerned expression.

At Kaydell’s house, they watched another movie and Rey scrolled through Ben’s Instagram account to try and find any indication of Aridema or the kid. To her disappointment, she found nothing. Aridema didn’t have an Instagram account so she couldn’t check her out either. She scrolled through Tali’s account as well but to no avail.

The next day, she didn’t respond to any of his messages and when her Sunday ballet class came around it didn’t help that little Anna asked her where the tall racer was. She grew nervous that he might just show up as he knew where the dance studio was now, but to her relief he didn’t. After class, he tried her on FaceTime but she let it ring. Luckily, the next few days she successfully avoided him at school and continued to ignore his messages. When Tali’s birthday came around she called the birthday girl and told her she would not attend the party.

“What? Why?” Tali asked disappointed.

“I just don’t want to bump into Ben,” Rey sighed.

“Seriously? OK two things,” Tali held up two fingers, “first, that’s a little childish, no offense.”

“None taken,” Rey furrowed her brows.

“And second, if he’s there, doesn’t that give you a chance to ask him about everything you wanna know?” Tali raised an eyebrow. “Seriously, you can talk to Ben, he’s not as mean and scary as people think. Well, y’know to the people he likes.”

Rey thought about it. “OK fine. But I won’t stay too long.”

“Good. Rey, don’t let a guy keep you from having fun. Plus, it’s my birthday. It’d be a little hurtful to not come because you don’t wanna see Ben.”

“You’re right, Tali,” Rey smiled courageously, “of course I’ll come to your birthday. Is there a dress code?” She teased.

“Yes, 80s neon vibes,” Tali teased back. “Let Rose know, too.”

“OK, will do. See you tonight.”

“Ciao.”

Chapter Text

Rey wore her white fishnet tights underneath her pink pleaded skirt. She paired it with a white oversized crop top and silver metallic boots. She pulled her brown curls into space buns and added pink hair clips. As she finished her eyeliner, she caught a glimpse of the white lily on her windowsill that Ben had given her. She sighed and returned to drawing on her wing. A notification popped up on her phone from Rose telling her she was ready. Rey opened the message and opened the photo Rose sent. It was a mirror selfie of Rose sporting a baby blue sweater with lantern sleeves and black leather pants. She texted her a thumbs up back and rushed out the door.

After she picked up Rose, Rey parked down a few houses from Astraal-Talik’s home. They walked to the front porch and rang the doorbell. Rey heard muffled music coming from inside the house and it grew louder and clearer as Mrs. Gleeson opened the door. “Hi, girls. Come on in,” she smiled warmly.

“Hey, Mrs. Gleeson,” Rose said. They entered and walked through the hall and turned right into the kitchen. Rey saw people outside drinking, eating and dancing. The same party lights were hung up but the music was louder and much less classical than from the night of Mrs. Gleeson’s party, and with a lot more people in the backyard. She scanned the crowd to see if Ben was anywhere to be seen but she saw nobody she knew. Mrs. Gleeson filled up some large bowls with chips and smaller bowls with various dips. “Girls, could you take these outside and just set them right over there on that table?” She pointed out of the kitchen window at a round table next to where large black speakers were blasting El Que Espera by Anitta. They took the bowls and made their way around the dancing guests. Some children ran past them with balloons while their parents stood around with drinks yelling at them to stop running. Rey looked over to the yelling parents and saw Tali in a black crop hoodie and ripped black denim jeans walking towards them with two cans of beer in her hand.

“Thank you guys for coming,” she opened her arms to them.

“Of course,” Rose said. “I always come when there’s free food,” she winked.

“Happy Birthday, Tali!” Rey hugged her. Tali handed them the cans but Rey turned it down, “I have to drive.”

“School night,” Rose shook her head.

“Oh, yeah no problem. There’s soda over there,” she pointed at a large stack of soda cans across from them. “Pizza’s over there, too. Just get a napkin or a paper plate and dig in.”

Rey grew nervous and felt her palms turning sweaty. She continuously scanned her surroundings but couldn’t find him. After a while, Rey and Rose decided to join some kids they recognized from school that were playing beer pong. As they didn’t know anyone else they decided to stay and watch them. The two girls laughed and joked with the others and Rey became more relaxed. She took a sip from her Sprite and caught a glimpse of someone on the dance floor hunched over, holding the hands of a toddler and swaying to the rhythm of the music. She recognized the child when the man threw him up into the air, catching him then continuing to sway with the laughing child in his arms. Her eyes were glued to the pair and it was almost cute the way he danced with the toddler but she was too hurt and mad at him to admit that. Aridema was sitting on a lawn chair near the two, eating a slice of pizza. She smiled watching her boys laugh and have fun. Her long black hair was braided to the side in a fishtail style and she wore a plain white shirt tucked in her high-waisted blue jeans. Ben walked towards Aridema with the child and held him towards her as she gave the giggly child a kiss. He threw the child up into the air once more and as he caught Kenton he noticed Rey. He looked at Kenton and then back at Rey. Rey stiffened not knowing how to react. Ben whispered something to Ari whose eyes slightly widened and her eyes met with Rey’s. She quickly looked away but Ben and Ari walked across the yard and approached them.

“Heeey,” his deep voice rumbled with the slightest note of nervousness.

“Hello,” Rey said cool. He bent down and hugged her with the child still on his hip. Rey was surprised at how unworried he was with Aridema right next to them. He squeezed Rose’s shoulder and greeted her as well but she stayed silent and just nodded. Ben carefully smiled at Rey but looked confused when he noticed her cool attitude.

“This is Kenton,” Ben said looking at his family.

“Hello, Kenton,” Rey attempted a smile.

“Kenton you wanna say ‘hello’ to Rose and Rey?” The child turned away and hugged Ben’s neck shyly. “OK, I guess not. This is Aridema.”

Aridema stretched her hand out to shake Rey’s. “Hello, Rey. I’ve heard a lot about you,” she smiled friendly.

Surprised, Rey glanced at Ben and then back at Aridema, “Oh. I wish I could say the same.”

“It’s nice to finally meet you.”

“Yeah,” Rey said confused. “Likewise.”

“And Rose was it?”

“Yes, I’m her best friend,” Rose said in a very assertive manner.

Ben furrowed his brows a bit. “OK,” he looked back and forth at Rose and Rey confused. “I didn’t know you guys were coming.”

“Tali invited us last week,” Rose said reserved, raising an eyebrow. Silence.

“Well,” Ben sighed, “Kenton’s hungry. Enjoy your evening, I guess.”

“Yeah, you too,” Rey said softly. The little family turned around and walked back to the lawn chairs. Rey exhaled and Rose rubbed her arm before they returned to watching the next beer pong round.  

Rey avoided any more encounters with Aridema and Ben and made herself scarce. She turned to her best friend, “Rose, do you still wanna stay?”

“We don’t have to, Rey. We can leave whenever you want. We stayed a while and I don’t think Tali would be upset if we left now.”

“OK, let’s find her and say ‘goodbye’.”

They made their way to to the screen door leading to the kitchen when a group of middle-aged men came out. The first man was older than the rest and wore a gold metallic suit, the other men that emerged behind him all wore black suits and were around Mrs. Gleeson’s age. Some of the guests stopped what they were doing and looked in his direction. Rey looked around and saw some guys and girls that were also dressed in all-black stopping and staring at the newcomers. Rose and Rey looked at each other in confusion. Among those who were staring was Ben Solo. She noticed him growing more tense as the man walked towards him with open arms. Ben quickly picked up Kenton from the ground and tightened his grip as the man approached him. Rey watched the scene but couldn’t hear what was being said over the music.

______________________________________________________________________

Ben didn’t recognize the other two Knights, but was surprised to see the leader of the Knights of Ren at Tali’s birthday party accompanied by the man he knew as supreme leader Snoke. He only had a handful of encounters with the leader of the First Order but every one was intense and unpredictable. The Knights of Ren were a subordinate gang to the First Order for whom they distributed a variety of drugs. Ben knew this was an unusual appearance and a sense of mistrust at the situation washed over him. Snoke reached towards Ben and placed his long, scrawny fingers on Ben’s cheek.

“Ah, Kylo Ren,” Snoke greeted him. He looked at his scar with a smirk which Ben interpreted as a power move to remind him to whom he belonged. “You look good,” he gently patted his face.

“Sir,” Ben nodded respectfully. Snoke’s attention turned to Kenton and Ben glanced at Tali who looked similarly surprised at their unexpected guest. Snoke stretched his hands to Kenton to which Ben held on tighter to the child. He gave Ari an uncertain look but she smiled and nodded, so he hesitantly let Kenton be taken out of his arms while keeping a hand on the child’s back and his eyes glued to Snoke.

“Look at you,” Snoke said calmly, “you’re getting so big.” His long fingers pinched the child’s cheeks and Kenton made a skeptical face. Ari lightheartedly made conversation with Snoke while Ben stayed completely silent, watching his every move. Kenton touched Snoke’s wrinkly face while he spoke to him. “Ah, I have a bit more wrinkles than some. Every line has a story,” he said. He gave Kenton back to Ben who quickly grabbed him and let him cuddle up on his shoulder. Snoke rubbed the child’s back and turned to Ari, “I haven’t seen you in a while, Miss Sanchez. Let’s not make that a habit. Oh, and I’m sorry about Hennix.” Ben flinched at the mention of that name. Snoke must’ve noticed this because Ben saw his lips curl slightly.

Ari smiled and nodded in acknowledgment, “thank you.” Snoke moved on to the next members of the brotherhood and Ben let out a relieved sigh. He looked at Ari who was much more composed and hid her fear better than him, he thought.

“Are you OK?” He whispered and took her cold fingers into his large hand, gently wiggling them.

She nodded and rubbed his arm. “I think we should go home,” she smiled subtly glancing at Snoke who was congratulating Tali.

As he handed Kenton over to his mother he asked, “want me to drive you home?”

She shook her head and took the child into her arms. “Are you coming over tonight?”

Ben looked over to Ren and Snoke. “Yeah, I’ll be there.” He kissed the child’s head and then Ari’s cheek.

He walked them to her car and as they drove off Ben took a moment to breathe and try to conceal his emotions. He sighed and wanted to return to the party when he saw Rey and Rose leave the Gleeson’s house. “Hey,” he walked towards them with his hands in his pockets.

“Hi,” Rey said, “bye.”

“Wait,” he said as they passed him. “Are you avoiding me?”

Rose took the keys out of Rey’s hand, gave her a look he couldn’t interpret and walked off. Rey turned to him and crossed her arms. “I didn’t want to impose on your family time,” she exhaled.

“What?” He asked befuddled. She looked at him with a reticent expression. He slowly realized. “Is that why you haven’t texted me back or answered my calls?”

She looked back at Rose who was waiting in the van for her. “You know, you really shouldn’t kiss people that aren’t your girlfriend.” She turned around to walk away.

“Wait.” When she didn’t stop, he shouted, “Rey!” She turned to him with a frown, looking at the ground. He looked at her stern and said, “Kenton’s not mine.”

She looked up at him and furrowed her eyebrows. “What? But-”

“Ari… the kid.” He swallowed before continuing. “I take care of them but he’s not mine.” He sighed and then asked, “can I explain?” Her demeanor turned more open and she waited for him to begin. He sat down on the porch steps and rested his arms on his legs, rubbing his left thumb on his right palm. She gently sat down beside him and watched as he gathered himself. “A few years ago,” he began. “There was a fire. My best friend, Hennix, was there that day. And so was I. We were doing things… we shouldn’t be. I followed him to this old sawmill where he and another friend of ours would go to take drugs to forget their worries. He had a fight with his girlfriend, Aridema, that night and wanted to forget about it. And he did. He was too high to notice the flames. I tried to get to him but he was trapped and,” Ben’s voice grew soft and he had to inhale a few times. “He didn’t make it.” Rey gently put her hand on his forearm. “What I didn’t know,” he continued after a moment of silence, “was that Ari was pregnant.” They both stayed silent for a moment.

“Hennix is Kenton’s father?” She asked carefully, breaking the silence. He nodded slowly. She closed her eyes and put her hand over her mouth.

“He was my best friend. I loved him.” He felt his eyes become moist. “He was like my brother. I couldn’t help him. I couldn’t save him. And I’m reminded of that every time I look into a mirror,” he said pointing at his scar. “I felt so guilty about surviving. I didn’t understand why he had to die and not me. I didn’t have a baby on the way. Or a pregnant girlfriend to care for. So, I felt it was my responsibility to take care of his family.” He looked into her beautiful, compassionate eyes, “Hennix can’t be here for them, so I have to be.”

“Oh, Ben, I’m so sorry.” Rey wrapped her arms around his upper arm and put her head on his shoulder.

After a while, he rested his cheek on her head and put his hand on her interlocked hands, slowly rubbing them. “You didn’t know. And I’m aware of how all of this must seem.” She slowly nodded with her head still on his shoulder. “Do me a favor.” She shifted up and looked at him. “Next time just ask me, OK?”

She smiled and nodded silently. “I will, Ben. I’m sorry.”

He patted her hands and sighed. “Good. I have nothing to hide from you. If there’s something bothering you, just talk to me. I like to think I’m easy to talk to. But, I wouldn’t know. It’ll just avoid a lot of misunderstandings.”

“OK,” she smiled. “So, Ari and you aren’t … together?”

“No. We’re not,” he shook his head. “I’ll be honest. We do sleep together sometimes.” Rey shifted back a bit and looked at the ground. “But, not since I met you.” He turned his face to her and when she didn’t meet his eyes he added, “well, I guess that’s up to you to believe that.”

“I do,” she whispered. “I believe you.”

He glanced at the green Chrysler, “tell Rose I apologize for making her wait so long.”

“She’ll understand. She’s very forgiving.”

He chuckled, “OK.”

“Good night, Ben.”

“Good night, Rey.” They stood up and she took his hand into hers as she got onto the last porch step. He put his other hand below her cheek and his fingers reached around to the back of her neck. He leaned in and their lips met. After a long, cherished moment, they pulled away and he held her chin with his thumb. Her hazel eyes sparkled as she smiled looking into his. She flung her arms around him and hugged him ‘goodbye’.

“See you tomorrow,” she said and walked off joining Rose in the van. He watched as they drove off and when he turned back to the house he saw Tali in the window, her head tilted with a content expression. He cocked his head at her and she scrunched her nose at him smiling. He chuckled to himself and walked up the stairs to return to the party.

Chapter Text

“So,” Mr. Ackbar said clapping his hands together. “I have a little confession to make.” The whole class looked around the room, meeting each other’s eyes before turning back to their teacher. “The test we took a few weeks ago wasn’t an ordinary test. It will obviously be a large part of your grade as I told you but it was also an evaluation issued by the government to examine the performance levels of all students across the state.”

Phasma raised her hand to which Mr. Ackbar called on right away. “Mr. Ackbar why didn’t you tell us that before? That way we could’ve studied even harder and raised our chances of beating other schools.”

“Well, that’s not the objective here. It’s not about being better than other schools it’s just to analyze the everyday, non-enhanced performances of our students. Knowing what kind of strings are attached would’ve influenced everyone’s performance. However, there is a monetary prize for the student that scored the highest which I will deliver shortly. The results came in and our school achieved 6th best performance out of all schools statewide and that’s damn good. Definitely better than we anticipated,” he added teasingly. The class gave him a few moans and ‘heys’ to which he started chuckling. “I’m kidding, I’m only kidding. Of course you were gunna shine. I never doubted you.” As their history teacher continued showing and explaining the different results of the evaluation which nobody found to be interesting, Rey looked over to Ben Solo who was leaned back in his chair, arms crossed with his silver rings glistening in the light. When he noticed her, he slightly cocked his chin and she smiled and winked at him. He bit his lip and smiled before returning his attention back to Mr. Ackbar. “Alright,” their teacher said, “now to the prize.”

“How much is it? Double or triple digits?” Armitage Hux asked unimpressed leaning back in his chair with one finger resting on his temple.

“Well, Mr. Hux that would be a total of $150.” The classroom gasped and everyone’s attention was glued to the envelope in their teacher’s hand. He walked through the aisles and stopped in front of Ben’s desk. He held it up and then gently set it on the desk top. “Congratulations, Mr. Solo. Outstanding job,” he patted his shoulder and returned to the front of the classroom. Everyone, especially Finn, stared at Ben. Rey was ecstatic for him and was filled with pride. When he modestly looked over to her with a blank face she grinned from ear to ear and began clapping. The rest of the class joined her except for Hux, Phasma and Finn. Finn mostly because he was stunned and still had his mouth open in shock. Rey reached over to him and gently closed it with her freshly manicured nails.

“Oh, peanut,” Rey smiled shaking her head in amusement at Finn, calling him by their shared nickname for each other. Ben was very uncomfortable with the praise he was getting from his classmates and seemed relieved when their teacher resumed the lesson. Rey took out her phone when Mr. Ackbar wasn’t looking and texted Ben.

‘Meet me in the library after lunch.’

‘😎👍’ he responded.

For lunch the gang met up in the park near their school where they often took their meals to eat outdoors as opposed to the dark school cantina. Especially in the spring and summer, Rey and her friends would have picnics there and enjoy the beautiful greenery layout. The gurgling and splashing sounds of the center fountain had a calming effect which made for a peaceful lunch break. Although it was October, the sun was shining and a warm breeze swept over the grounds, so the friends decided to eat outside. While they chewed they discussed their costume plans for the Halloween party.

“Should we do a group costume thing or surprise each other like last year?” Kaydell asked.

“Surprise!” Poe didn’t hesitate.

“Oh, wow. OK,” Kaydell laughed. “I’m fine with that. You guys?” She asked the others and they all agreed. “I got something pretty cool in the making.”

“Can’t wait to see it,” Rey said and finished her sandwich. When they were all finished everyone except Rey went back to the school grounds as they had work to catch up on. Rey decided to stay outside a while longer and finish her book before returning to class. Finn had packed up the blankets so she decided to sit on one of the benches facing the fountain. The lady sitting next to her was drinking out of a large coffee mug and reading a book with a cover full of green leaves and purple blossoms.

“Is this seat taken?” Rey asked politely, knowing this side of the bench wasn’t reserved.

“Absolutely,” the woman’s warm voice invited her. She was wearing a gray pant suit underneath a classy, dark blue cloak coat and her dark brown hair had been pinned back into a low bun. Rey opened her book and glanced over to the woman whose jasmine scented fragrance blew over to her. She was intrigued by this classy, elegant woman who sat so poised and almost regal. The woman must’ve noticed her interest. “Anything good?” She asked turning to Rey and looking at her book.

Startled, Rey cleared her throat and showed the woman her book cover, “oh, uhm, yeah. Fire and Blood by George R.R. Martin.”

“Oh, I quite enjoyed that one,” the woman nodded lightly. Rey was surprised that the woman, who seemed not much younger that Unkar, was interested in anything nerdy.

“You like Game of Thrones?” Rey asked with her eyebrows raised.

“Certainly,” the woman spoke calmly, “I enjoy reading all kinds of fictional novels. I haven’t watched the show, nor will I. I’d rather leave the characters and worlds to my own imagination.” Rey was impressed by the woman’s attitude.

“What are you reading?” Rey asked friendly. The woman closed her book to reveal the cover which read ‘When Women Were Dragons’ by Kelly Barnhill. “Oh, that sounds interesting.”

“Yes, it’s quite interesting. It’s about a young girl, Alex Green, who is left behind when multiple women turn into dragons and fly away in Wisconsin, 1955. Basically, it’s about young women finding their independence and liberation in a world that suppresses them. I just started the book but any novel about women taking charge and finding inner strength is worth reading. Similar to your book,” she gave her a warm smile.

Rey smiled back, “I guess now I have another book on my never-ending list.” The woman winked at her before returning to her novel. They both sat in silence for a while immersed in their stories. After a while, Rey checked the time on her phone and noticed her lunch break was almost over. She packed up her book, said ‘goodbye’ to the woman and rushed to the library. She walked around for a while looking for Ben but she couldn’t find him anywhere. After making two more rounds, she made her way to a secluded area to take out her phone and check if Ben had texted her. No messages. Maybe he forgot, she thought with a disappointed look.

‘Hey, I’m in the astrophysics section,’ she typed and hit send.

Instantly, he replied with ‘I know.’ She double tapped his message and as she turned around she almost walked into his chest.

“Ben!” She said startled. He put his finger to his mouth gesturing to lower her voice. He moved towards her and as she stepped back she felt the books in the shelf nudging at her back. He smirked as she realized she couldn’t back away from him. She looked at him with her big hazel eyes, tilted her head and crossed her arms acknowledging what he was doing. “Hello, Ben.”

“Hi,” he whispered looking deep into her eyes. Soul scan, she thought. She gazed back into his alluring, dark eyes and knew if she wasn’t careful she’d get lost. “You wanted to see me?” He asked coming an inch closer.

“I did,” Rey smirked playfully.

“Well,” he said putting both of his hands on either side of her, resting his palms on the shelves. “Is there a particular reason?”

Rey reached up to his silver chain necklace and slid her pink nails under the chain, pulling him another inch closer. “Maybe,” she answered. At that he bit his lip and she couldn’t resist anymore. Her heart began to race even more and knees grew weaker. She raised her heels from the floor and pressed her lips onto his. He placed one hand at the nape of her neck, cradling her head and the other smoothly moved along her waist, bringing her closer to him. She wrapped her arms around his neck pulling him in even closer. Rey let out a moan and Ben pulled back a bit, smiling then gently placing his thumb over her lips.

“Library,” he whispered and she made an embarassed face to which he chuckled and gently kissed her cheek. His tender kisses made their way slowly along her neck down to her clavicle. Rey closed her eyes and relished in the trail of his affection. His hair tickled her chin and she inhaled the sandalwood scent of his raven locks. When he came back up to her lips, she parted them allowing his tongue to find hers. Everything inside her tingled, her chest rose and he pulled her close to his warm, solid torso. Rey’s mind slowed and everything around her became obscure and they savoured the sweet moment of their passion.

The bell rang and they were forced to end their heated embrace. They shifted back and he held onto her chin rubbing her lower lip with his thumb. “What’re you doing later?” He asked softly.

“Ballet,” she sighed her eyes glued to his lips.

“I can take you,” he offered.

She nodded and smiled. “I’d like that.”

“OK.”

He backed up fully and Rey picked up her backpack from the ground. He rubbed his hand over his mouth then pushed his hair back. “See you later,” she said walking away from him. Ben stayed put and just as she reached the next aisle she turned around, scurried back to him, gave him another peck and hurried to class.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Ben chuckled and watched his cute ballerina rush off. Before making his way to next period, he sought out the men’s restroom. As he opened the door he heard muffled voices and when he entered fully, Ben found Kuruk with a certain redhead quickly putting something in his pocket. “Well, well. Armitage, fancy seeing you here,” Ben said sarcastically, crossing his arms.

“Solo,” Hux said slightly nervous, “you don’t have to puff your chest out like that. We’re having a civil conversation. Care to join us?” He tried seeming calm.

Ben looked at Kuruk who tried hiding a smirk, letting Ben understand he was correct about his assumption of what situation he just walked into. He looked back at Hux and put up his hand. “Nah, I’m good. You have regular conversations in here?”

“None of your business,” he huffed.

“I’m sure daddy wouldn’t be too happy about these conversations,” Ben raised an eyebrow.

Hux walked over to Ben. He wasn’t much shorter than him but he still had to look up to meet his eyeline when speaking to Ben. “You keep my secret, I keep yours,” he said with a threatening look. Ben wasn’t the slightest intimidated by his efforts but still thought it be best to stay civil and silently nodded in agreement. Hux walked out of the restroom and Kuruk began to chuckle when he was out of earshot.

“I can’t wait til you kick his ass one day, dude,” Kuruk said shaking his head entertained. “It’s a matter of time.”

“Ah, he’s all talk. Rich kids can be so… pretentious.”

“So are you and you’re not a snobby asshole.”

“That’s different. I’m not a rich kid.”

“Technically you are. Your parents are sort of rich,” Kuruk shrugged.

“Well, that’s just it. My parents are rich. Not me.”

Kuruk tilted his head and gave him an unconvinced look. “That’s what all rich kids say.”

“Dude, really? You’re saying I’m like him?” Ben pointed his thumb towards the door.

“No, course not. I’m just pointing out that it’s wrong to say you’re not a rich kid. I know since you left home you ain’t got no money other than the Knight’s money but growing up you did.”

“Whatever, dude,” Ben waved it off and proceeded to use the urinal before going to class.

For his last period Ben made his way to the study room where he found Kaydell Connix hung over her textbook. He walked over to her and from his bag slipped out a pamphlet that was stapled on the top left corner and gently set it in front of her.

“What’s this?” She asked confused, looking up at him with her blonde bangs covering her eyes. She blew them out of her face and waited for his answer.

“The essay,” he said setting down his book bag on the floor leaning up against the table leg.

“Wait what?” She grabbed it and looked through the pages.

“You can proof read it if you want but it’s all there.”

“Wait, wait. You mean you wrote the whole essay already? But it’s not due til December.”

“I know but I told you I was gunna make up for not showing up to the presentation. I figured that way our workload is equal.”

She stood up flipping through the pages again. “Wow. That must’ve been loads of hours of research.”

“Yeah, well, it’s only fair,” he shrugged.

She looked up from the essay and gave him a grateful smile, “thank you, Ben.” She put the essay on her stack of homework. “I’ll proof read it this weekend.”

“Cool.”

“I never could’ve pulled that off. Especially with a kid,” she said shaking her head impressed.

“Excuse me?” Ben furrowed his brows.

“You know since you have a kid and all,” Kaydell explained.

Ben stiffened and then moved towards her. His change in demeanor must’ve intimidated her as she sat down looking at him, eyes widened. He placed one hand on the desk and leaned down to her, looking at her with a stern face. “You really shouldn’t talk about things you know nothing about, Kaydell.”

“I’m sorry, Ben, I-,” Kaydell apologized but was interrupted by him.

He put his finger up, “my business is my business. I don’t appreciate you making comments based on assumptions.”

“OK,” she put her hands up apologetically. “I won’t. I didn’t mean to impose. I’m sorry.”

He backed up and looked at her for a moment then relaxed his muscles when he realized she was being genuine. “Good.” She continued looking at him and slowly put her hands back down in her lap. “Let me know when you finished looking over it.” She nodded and he flung his book bag over his shoulder before exiting the study room.

Ben walked out of the school entrance and over to his Triumph that was parked in between two other cars. He looked at his helmet as he leaned against his bike waiting for Rey, thinking about Ari and the kid and hoping more people didn’t know about them. The less people knew, the better. He texted Rey ‘I’m parked in the west parking lot 😉’ to which she replied with ‘on my way 💙’. When she came rushing towards him with her backpack, a wave of gratitude and disbelief washed over him. He couldn’t believe that she was in his life and he took in every little detail of her appearance. From her brown bouncy curls to the cute dancing freckles on her nose to her gorgeous dancer legs. She was so beautiful inside and out. In his heart he knew that this girl had the potential to flip his world upside down. He opened his arms and she dove into his embrace. “Hey, stalker.”

She dug her face into his chest and sighed, “hello to you too, you meaty oak tree.”

“Wow,” Ben pulled her away to look into her eyes. “Oak tree? Really?”

She nodded and smiled proud, then flung her arms around him again and kissed his cheek. He shook his head and handed her his helmet, “OK, twinkle toes, hop on.” She untied her bun and slipped on the helmet before getting on the back of his bike. “We have to make a quick stop before we go to the studio, OK?” He said to which she gave him a thumbs up. He put on his jacket, hopped on the bike, pulled back the kickstand and turned the key in the ignition. He patted her leg to make sure she was ready and when she put her arms around his waist and gave him another thumbs up,  he took off.

They drove about fifteen minutes before Ben turned into a large parking lot of a car part and bike shop with a sign reading ‘Cycle Zone Powersports’. He parked the bike, got off and told her to stay put. When he entered the shop, Usher was waiting behind the counter for him with an open face helmet in a blush pink sitting in front of him.

“Hey, kid! I finished the paint job yesterday. It should be dry.”

“Thanks, Ushar!” Ben picked up the helmet looking at it from all angles and then checking if the padding inside was enough.

“Is this the right color?” Ushar asked with an unsure expression.

Ben chuckled. “Yeah, I think so. How much do I owe ya?”

“Well, with helmet and the paint job. Let’s say for you, 120 bucks.”

“Perfect,” Ben grabbed the envelope containing his prize money from his back pocket, took out the amount he owed and set it on the counter. “Thanks, man. See you around.”

“Yeah, later,” Ushar put up his hand and continued what he was doing.

Ben returned to Rey who was patiently waiting on the back of his bike. He held the helmet behind his back and gestured to put up the visor on his helmet. Rey did as he asked and waited for him to speak. “Hey, can you take off my helmet real quick?”

“Uhm, yeah. I thought it was just a quick run?”

“It is. I just thought you might want your own helmet,” he said and revealed the blush pink helmet from behind his back.

“Oh my god! What?” Her eyes grew and she quickly took off his matte black helmet. “Are you serious?”

“Yeah, I thought now that we might be riding more together, it makes sense for you to have your own.”

“I don’t know what to say. Thank you!” She said still shocked at this surprise.

“No problem.”

“How much did it cost? I’m a little short on cash and I was saving for some pointe shoes. Can I pay you back in installments?”

“What? No, no. Don’t worry about it.”

“Ben, I can’t –,” she refused.

He leaned towards her, “I said don’t worry about it. OK?”

She sighed and hugged him, “thank you. That’s so sweet.”

“No, it’s not sweet. It’s responsible. Just looking out for your safety.”

“It’s sweet.”

“Stop saying that.”

“So, so sweet,” she teased.

“Oh, hush,” he said pulling his helmet over his head. Rey did the same with hers and had a big pleased grin while he helped her with the fastener. When they were all set, they continued their ride to the studio.

When they got to the studio, Rey rushed inside, leaving Ben in the entrance area behind the glass wall to sit and wait like last time. This time there were no other soccer moms, he thought and chuckled to himself. He watched all the dancers as they practiced their choreography and decided Rey was definitely the best dancer out of them all. Of course, he was biased but even objectively speaking he found her to be exceptional and outshone the other dancers. The gracious way she carried herself and the flawless movements made it seem so effortless. He could watch her all day, for the rest of his life, he thought.

Chapter Text

When she was finished with training, Ben took her to a Chili’s Grill & Bar where they enjoyed a nice Tex-Mex meal and each other’s company. Rey noticed how many times she couldn’t resist a smile when she looked at him and felt her stomach flutter whenever he smiled back. She found him to be very easy to talk to and she felt completely comfortable in his presence. Ben Solo was a very reserved and seemingly daunting young man but when you got to know him and spend some time with him he was an incredibly affable person. “So, on Sunday we’re doing a double feature of Hocus Pocus if you wanna come,” Rey spoke softly, now knowing he wasn’t the Halloween enthusiast that her and her friends were. “We do a movie night before Halloween every year and since the new Hocus Pocus movie came out, we’re watching both.”

“Who’s we?” Ben asked, taking a sip from his Pepsi.

“Poe, Finn, Kaydell, Rose and me,” Rey leaned against the table with her forearms and hands under the table and giving him a sweet, pleading simper.

“Are you sure the others would want me there?”

“Of course. They won’t have a problem with it,” she lied, knowing full well that Finn would be rather displeased.

“I mean,” he pushed his hair back and blew air threw his teeth expressing hesitation. “If they’re fine with it, sure. Where?”

“This year at my house. We switch it up every year.”

“This is starting to sound like an annual thing where you’d… go all out.”

“Don’t worry, Ben nobody is getting dressed up or anything. Just snacks and a movie. It’s very casual.”

“Mmh,” he gave her an unconvinced look. “Alright, I’ll swing by.” Rey grinned and she could tell he was still reluctant but accepted the invitation for her sake.

The next day, Ben didn’t come to school and Saturday he told her he’d be helping with the renovations at his friends house again, so Rey was very excited to see him and her friends after her ballet lesson. After class, little Anna had asked about the racer again and Rey promised her to bring him soon. When she had mentioned to her friends that Ben was coming, they were all fine with it but Finn stayed silent. He didn’t verbally oppose to it but she knew he wasn’t happy about it either. She hung up string lights with little bats all around her room and decorated her shelves with pumpkins and other Halloween decorations. As it got closer to the time the others would arrive, she ran downstairs to make popcorn and fetch other snacks and beverages. Unkar was sitting in his recliner watching Columbo, beer in hand and a bowl of chips on his lap. When the doorbell rang, he didn’t budge and Rey ran to the door to invite her friends in. Poe, Finn and Kaydell stepped in and greeted Unkar who acknowledged them by raising his beer towards them but without looking away from the TV screen. The bell rang again and when she opened the door she found Rose with Ben Solo right behind her.

“Look who I found,” Rose said pointing up at Ben who was so much taller than her.

“Yeah, I saw her walking all alone and I couldn’t stop without asking if she was looking for her mommy,” Ben teased to which Rose punched him in his ribs making him slightly hunch over and letting out a soft huff.

“Careful, Solo. I have the perfect height to reach other sensitive areas,” she warned him with a raised brow. He grinned at her and they stepped inside, took off their shoes and greeted Rey and then the others. When Ben stepped inside Unkar shifted in his recliner and she could see his tired, blue eyes stare straight at Ben.

“Oh, Unkar,” Rey addressed her adoptive father, “this is Ben Solo. Ben this is Unkar.” Ben walked over to him and reached out his hand towards him. Unkar wiped his hand on his jeans and took Ben’s hand.

“Nice to meet you, sir.”

“God blessed, you’re a big boy,” Unkar said.

“Uh, yeah. I’m a little taller than average,” Ben replied politely.

“How tall are you?”

“I’m 6’3”, sir.”

“Damn.” He looked up at him for a moment. “Respectable height.”

“I’m, ugh, I’m enjoying it, yeah.”

“You swim?”  

“No, sir.”

“Oh, ‘cause,” Unkar made a gesture with his hands, implying Ben had a broad figure.

“Nope, but I did wrestle for a while.”

“Yeah, I can tell.” Unkar was impressed but also unusually chatty, Rey thought. “Alright, have fun.” Just as Ben was about to return to the others, Unkar added, “and son?”

“Yeah,” Ben turned back to face him.

“No funny business.”

Ben smiled politely, “yes, sir.”

Rey looked at Rose and Kaydell who were smirking at the situation. They knew as well as her this was an unusual interaction for Unkar to engage in. Rey couldn’t help but smile at Unkar for actually showing interest or some concern for her. He wasn’t a neglecting guardian but he had never shown any sign of protectiveness or solicitude in general towards her. The friends walked upstairs to her room and everyone found a place to get comfortable. Poe found a seat on the floor in a pile of pillows and blankets, Finn and Kaydell sat in Rey’s white fluffy lounge chairs and Rose and Rey got comfortable on her bed. Ben walked into her room and she watched him look around taking everything in while his eyes wandered from her bed to her vanity and then to all the trinkets she had accumulated over the years. He looked very out of place in her ballet core style bedroom and she tried to hide an amused smile. He walked over to her old pointe shoes she had gotten for her tenth birthday that were hung on a nail next to her vanity. He gently took them between his thumb and index finger and felt the soft satin fabric. He gently let them go and looked around her room a bit more while Poe and Finn were scrolling through Disney+ trying to find the movie. Rey patted the spot on her bed next to her inviting Ben to sit beside her which he immediately did.

“Well, well,” Rose said, “another reason short people have it easier.” She stretched her hands out towards her legs. “I can fit on any bed or on any couch.” Ben huffed amused and Rose crossed her arms with a proud smile on her face. “And on any chair.”

Poe turned around to them, “Solo is the chair.” Ben slightly smirked as he patted the top of his thighs gesturing for him to sit on his lap. “Don’t tempt me, Solo,” Poe gave him an exaggerated seductive look to which Ben winked back. Rose, Kaydell and Rey laughed as Poe bit his lip continuing the act.

“Can we start?” Finn frowned.

“Sure,” Rey gave him a comforting smile. “Anybody need anything else?” They all shook their heads and Poe pressed play.

Ben took Rey’s hands in his and gently caressed the back of her hand and fingers. After a while she moved closer to him and rested her head on his chest to which he gently put his arm around her, rubbing his hand along her back. For a moment she closed her eyes, enjoying his warm embrace and the way it made her feel safe, treasured and loved. This was new to her. She hadn’t been held by anyone since her parents passed away and she reveled in this long forgotten sensation. During the whole movie the others laughed and thoroughly enjoyed the Sanderson sister’s narrative while Ben showed no reactions other than occasionally giving her a warm smile whenever she looked up at him. When the first movie was finished, Poe and Kaydell argued whether the young female character Allison was a witch or not. They couldn’t come to an agreement on the matter and Kaydell decided to end the argument by turning to Ben, “anyway, Solo I hear you’re coming to the Halloween party?”

Ben raised his eyebrows. “Uhm, oh that’s still happening?”

“Of course it’s happening. I asked you and you said yes,” Rey smiled.

“I was hoping that may have slipped your mind.”

“Nope,” she grinned.

“I said I’d consider it.”

“So, that’s a yes,” Kaydell claimed.

Ben sighed and gently swayed his head back and forth. “I don’t know. It’s not really my scene.”

“Not enough drugs?” Finn mumbled under his breath.

Ben overheard his comment and his brows furrowed a bit. “No, I don’t do drugs.”

“Oh, honorable,” Finn replied flat with a hint of sarcasm.

Ben looked at him for a moment before asking, “Finn, did I offend you somehow?”

“Not lately,” he answered sharp.

“Have I ever?”

Finn sighed, “no, I’m just tired and I wanna continue with the movie.”

Ben said nothing else and everyone awkwardly turned their attention to the TV as Poe pressed play for Hocus Pocus 2. Rose looked at Ben and gave him a shrug and rolled her eyes as if to say ‘don’t worry about it, you don’t have to take it seriously’. Rey snuggled even closer to Ben and his warm hand caressed her head, gently smoothing her hair back in the process. When the movie was over, they exchanged feedback and everyone agreed that it lived up to their expectations. All but Ben who had no expectations. When they were ready to leave, Rey walked her friends to the door and they all hugged each other ‘goodnight’. Ben kissed Rey’s cheek before accompanying Rose to her car which was parked next to his bike. She thought Unkar was fast asleep in his recliner with the TV still on. After she closed the door, she walked over to him to switch it off but jumped when he began to speak.

“That tall one,” he asked, “he your boyfriend?”

“Uhm, yeah. Sort of,” she smiled thinking about that title.

“Well, then invite him over for dinner one night. As your guardian I guess it’s my job to make sure he’s suitable.”

“Suitable?” Rey crossed her arms.

“I just wanna make sure he has good intentions,” he paused, “y’know, with you.”

Rey smiled and crouched down, resting her crossed arms on the armrest of his recliner. “I’d like that,” she looked at him. “He’s really sweet. I think you’ll like him.”

“Alright, well let him know and we’ll make plans.” Rey nodded and patted his arm in agreement.

The next few days, Rey spent her free time working on the costumes for the party and FaceTiming Ben after school. She knew he would oppose to wearing a costume but she started on one for him anyways. Over the weekend, she had to take over Unkar’s shifts and in the evenings she continued on the costumes. When Halloween came up the next day, she was ecstatic to show Ben what she had made.

“You made this?” He asked surprised.

“Yeah, I know it’s not perfect but I used an old dress and some other fabric I had laying around,” she showed him her costume. It was a pink witch costume with puffy lantern sleeves and a matching pink witch hat with a bow.

“Wow, that’s really impressive, Rey,” he raised his eyebrows.

“Thank you,” she smiled up at him. “Uhm, I have a surprise for you.”

“For me?”

“Yes, now, before you say ‘no’ just give it a chance.” She pulled out a large dark cloak from her bag. “I knew you’d be wearing all black, as you always do. So, I thought this would work well.” He took the cloak in his hands and looked at it from both sides. “I even added a hood because I thought that would look cool.”

“You made this, too?” He asked.

“Yeah. It’s nothing fancy. I know you don’t like dressing up, so it’s not a specific costume or anything. Just y’know a little accessory to fit the theme of today,” she grinned.

“I don’t know what to say. Well, I can’t say ‘no’ now, that’d make me such a dick.” Rey clapped her hands together, hoping he’d be willing to actually wear it. “Thank you, Rey. You did an amazing job.” To her surprise, he hugged her. She had anticipated a bit more pushback on his part and more convincing on hers but the effort of making something for him must’ve done that for her. Tali and Rose came up behind them just as he swung the cloak over his shoulders.

“No, friggin, way!” Tali exclaimed. “You’re wearing a costume? You. Ben. Ben Solo. Wearing a- OMG!” She took out her phone to capture the image of her best friend in the Halloween spirit.

“Oh, shut up. Hey, put that away,” he protested. “Why aren’t you wearing a costume? I thought you loved these things?”

“Ugh, hello?” She gestured showing her outfit which was a plain white shirt, denim jeans and a red hat tucked in her back pocket. “Bruce Springsteen.” She turned around posing to recreate his famous Born in the U.S.A. cover photo. “I can’t believe you of all people didn’t recognize it.”

“Ah, now I see it. OK that’s cool,” Ben crossed his arms nodding proud. “What about you?” He addressed Rose.

“I’m Wendy Darling from Peter Pan,” she said twirling around, showing off her blue nightgown and posing in a very Disney type of way.

“Oh, I love it!” Rey said.

Poe Dameron was dressed as Gomez Addams from The Addams Family and Finn was sporting a denim jacket and a red vest like the character of Marty McFly from Back to the Future. They all complimented each other’s costumes and began taking photos together. Ben was very reluctant but gave in to their incessant pleas. Kaydell was the last to show up and was wearing a very short version of Belle’s dress from Beauty and the Beast with a taco-shaped clutch and a plastic cup with a lid and drinking straw in her hands. She brought her little cousin, Holly, who was dressed as Stitch from Lilo and Stitch. Everyone looked at Kaydell a bit confused. “Kaydell, what exactly are you?” Rey asked.

“I’m Taco Belle,” she answered her, showing all of the details in her outfit. She pushed back her golden locks, revealing two Taco Bell sauce packets as earrings and her taco clutch with a bell cutout glued onto it. They all laughed and were impressed by her creativity. The group took more photos before entering the school that was now decorated with various Halloween inspired accessories.

Poe shuffled over to Ben as they entered the party. “You think they got booze?” He whispered.

“Well, it’s at school. I’m guessing the chances are pretty low,” Ben whispered back.

“Good thing I brought this then,” Poe said slightly opening his black and white striped suit jacket, revealing a silver flask. Ben exhaled in amusement and Poe winked as he nudged him and then took the single stem rose he had with him between his teeth. The school was covered in artificial cobwebs with large, hairy spiders and skeletons hanging on the walls. The lights were out and green and orange spotlights made for an eerie atmosphere. The smell of hotdogs and corn on the cob lingered in Rey’s nostrils and distant howls and screams coming from the speakers filled the air. Kaydell took her little cousin to the face painting area while the others made their way to the buffet in the cafeteria and filled their plate with Halloween inspired finger food. After they finished eating, Kaydell and Holly joined them and they made their way to the various activities all throughout the classrooms. Poe, Finn, Kaydell and Ben decided to check out the haunted house in the school’s gymnasium. Rey, Rose and Tali stayed behind to watch Kaydell’s eight year old cousin who was too afraid to take part in that. So, they made their way to one of the classrooms that offered jewelry crafting. When the two groups were done, they all met back up in the cafeteria for some punch with Poe’s special addition.

“Wow. I never thought I’d see you at something like this, Solo.” It was Armitage Hux with Daisy Richards on his arm.

“Dito,” Ben replied emotionless.

“Of course we were gunna come. We love these things, don’t we, doll?” He turned to Daisy. Hux was dressed as a football player and the scarce fabric of Daisy’s cheerleader outfit barely covered her perfect body. Her long, blonde hair was in a high ponytail with a large red bow at the base.

“We sure do, baby,” Daisy pushed an orange strand of hair out of his face. Tali blurted out a ‘HA’, then quickly covered her mouth, still giggling.

“You and Hux are a thing?” Tali asked amused.

“Yes,” she put her hand on his chest as he pulled her in. “He knows exactly what I need,” she added glaring at Ben. She turned back to Hux and began fumbling at his collar. Without looking away she addressed Rey, “I must say I’m impressed you got Ben to take you to an event like this. He never took me to anything fun,” she said bitter. “But, then again we were usually occupied with… other fun activities,” she looked at Rey raised an eyebrow challengingly.

“I bet we have more fun,” Hux winked at her, biting his lip. Kaydell coughed gesturing to stop with the innuendos as a child was present. “So, I heard your friend Kuruk got arrested last night.” Everyone turned to look at Ben with shocked expressions. “A lot of drug dealers and junkies have been getting busted lately, you think there’s a connection?”
“I think there’s a connection between your brain and wall paper paste,” Ben replied wiping his mouth with a napkin and Poe couldn’t contain an amused snort. Even Finn smiled to himself, looking down.

“So, he didn’t get arrested?”

“He did. But, it was a misunderstanding and he was let go this morning. Not that it’s any of your business,” Ben defended his friend.

“Rey,” Daisy pointed at her enthusiastically, “there’s a karaoke set in 203, we should sing a duet later.”

“Uhm, sure,” Rey shrugged. “Karaoke sounds like fun. Holly?” The girl nodded and they all agreed to hang out there for a while.

“Perfect,” Daisy smiled sadistically. They all made their way up to 203 which was usually where choir class took place. A group of young boys were singing a medley of the Hamilton raps as they walked in. When the boys were finished, Daisy grabbed Rey’s hand and pulled her to the microphone stand to begin their duet. Daisy let Rey choose the song ‘At the Ballet’ from the musical A Chorus Line. Rey knew Daisy had an amazing voice that she never failed to keep hidden but she also knew her own voice was pretty decent as well. Ben kept his eyes on her the whole time she sang. She couldn’t quite interpret his expression as it was usually a serious one. When they finished, their friends clapped and Hux whistled at Daisy. Daisy enjoyed the attention and decided to sing a couple more songs alone to show off her angelic voice. Rey walked back to her friends and sat on Ben’s lap who wrapped his arms around her waist and kissed her cheek.

“Is there anything you can’t do?” He asked and she held onto his large hands that were now clasped in front of her stomach and resting on her own lap. She leaned her head back onto his shoulder and watched Daisy entertain the room.

Chapter Text

When Daisy had enough, Finn and Rose sang a few duets and were later joined by Kaydell and Holly for some Disney songs. Rey decided to sing one more duet and led Poe up to the microphone to sing ‘Baby, it’s Cold Outside’. Even though Rey knew Daisy was looking to outshine her, she still thought it was a great idea Daisy had had and was truly enjoying herself. Rey never had the urge to be competitive or let some rivalry get to her. She saw everything as a chance to enjoy her time with people and try new things. Suddenly, Armitage walked up to her and Poe and stretched out his hand implying he wanted to have a go.

“Daisy, my love,” he looked at her and she swooned, “you’ve inspired me to continue singing and I can’t wait to perform with you for the Thanksgiving dinner at your dad’s country club. Baby, this is for you.” Hux dramatically performed Ed Sheeran’s Perfect and Rey thought he was good but Poe, Finn and Ben thought otherwise. They snickered and Rey slapped Ben’s thigh and gave the others a stern look of disapproval as she sat back down. Hux presented them with an exaggeratedly romantic performance which was perceived by the boys as something to be ridiculed. Rey felt they were being disrespectful and her and Kaydell got them to stop. Armitage came back to the group of friends when he ended his solo and Daisy flung her arms around him.

“You’re doing that for a Thanksgiving dinner?” Poe asked failing to hide a smirk.

“I am,” he said proud. “I have multiple songs I want to perform but I only have a 5 minute timeframe. I don’t know what to cut yet.”

“After hearing that,” Ben mumbled, “your throat.” Poe burst out into laughter so hard that he tilted back in his chair and almost tipped over. Finn covered his face with his hands but his body movement gave away that he was laughing as well.

“Ben!” Rey scolded him. Hux glared at him but quickly let Daisy comfort him.

“I thought you were amazing, baby,” Daisy wrapped her arms around his bicep. “This is how he professes his love. You’re just jealous you’ll never be as happy and in love as we are.” She gave Rey a condescending side-eye.

“OK,” Ben snorted.

“He would do anything for me,” she said placing her hand on his cheek and gazing into his piercing blue eyes.

“That’s right, baby. Anything,” Hux agreed. “And she’d bend over backwards for me.”

Before Ben could respond to that, Tali reached over, slapped her hand over Ben’s mouth to stop him from making an inappropriate comment. When Tali realized how surprising that was for everyone, she slowly pulled him in to her and hugged him as if that were her intention all along. Rose and Rey exchanged a knowing look and subtly giggled at each other while Ben eyed Tali sternly from the side, her hand still covering his mouth. She gently let him go and addressed the couple, “well, that’s great. It’s nice you two found each other.” She smiled and Daisy gave her a sarcastic smile back.

“Thanks. Don’t worry, Tali you’ll find someone, too,” Daisy waved her hand at her superciliously. Tali rolled her eyes and the seemingly happy couple left after letting them all know of their late night plans later.

“Wow,” Rose said. “That was hard to watch.”

“Are you kidding?” Poe interjected. “That was the best thing I’ve witnessed in a while.”

Ben checked his phone which had notified him of a text message. He looked at Tali who instantly understood the situation. “Hey, Rey,” he said gently moving her legs off of his lap. He set her on the ground and stood up, “I gotta go. I have a small yet urgent matter to tend to.”

“An urgent matter?” Rey asked. “Is something wrong?”

“No, it’s Ari. She, ugh, needs help with something.”

“I’ll come with you. I wasn’t gunna plan on staying any longer anyway,” Tali said and Ben nodded in agreement.

“Is she OK? Is Kenton OK?” Rey asked, worry starting to take over.

“Yeah, yeah. It’s nothing too bad, she just needs some help.” He subtly jerked his head towards Tali implying to follow him. “See you guys tomorrow. I’ll call you later,” he added and kissed Rey on the cheek. They rushed out leaving the group of friends befuddled behind.

Rey was disappointed that he left so quickly but she knew how he felt about Ari and Kenton and didn’t want to interfere in their lives. She would do the same for any of her friends. She entered the restroom and saw Daisy touching up on her makeup. “Hey.”

“Hello,” Daisy answered uninterested, applying mascara. “I wouldn’t get too attached.”

Rey stopped and turned back to her, “excuse me?”

“Ben Solo?” Daisy put her mascara down and put her hand on her hip. “He’s gunna grow tired of you, princess.”

“Thank you for your concern but this really isn’t any of your business.”

Daisy eyed her for a few seconds. “It’s only a matter of time until he needs someone more… adventurous and uninhibited.”

“You mean like you?” Rey was over Daisy shuffling around with her implications.

Daisy smiled and flipped her hair, “I give you a few weeks then he’ll come back to me.”

“I thought you and Armitage were head over heels in love.”

“We are. For now.” She turned back to the mirror and moved her finger along her lips, wiping off any overdrawn lipstick. “And when Ben comes crawling back, I’ll have the satisfaction of turning him down. It won’t last, we’re obviously meant to be together, but at least he’ll know what he’s missing… for a while.”

“What if he doesn’t?” Rey asked with crossed arms.

“He will.” Daisy packed up her things and when she turned back to Rey, she looked her up and down. “He’ll have his fun with you for a while until he realizes how boring goody little ballerina girls with their noses constantly stuck in books are.”

“We’ll see.” Rey showed no emotions.

“Don’t say I didn’t warn you,” she flipped her hair and walked out.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

As Tali opened the door to the bar and they both entered, Ben could see Ari standing with her back against the wall in the hall leading to the restrooms. She was talking to a man who had his hand resting on the wall close to her keeping her in place. Ari’s eyes were widened and her eyebrows were furrowed giving away her panic. Ben darted towards them, grabbed onto the back of the man’s collar and yanked him away from her. The man flew backwards and hit the ground next to Tali who glared at him with her hand clenching a knife. Ben checked if Ari was hurt but she shook her head and nodded towards the other men approaching them.

“Kanjiklub,” Tali said and spit next to the man who was still on the ground.

“That was a mistake,” the man got up, patted himself off and waited on his friends to gather around Ben, Tali and Ari. Everyone else in the bar watched as if fights in this bar were so common that they need not be bothered. The bar keeper also continued on without looking up once.

“Ari, stay put,” Ben told her looking at the six members of the Knight’s rival gang. Aridema backed up a bit taking cover in the hall.

“We heard what you did to our brother, Kylo,” one of the men said. “To avenge him will be quite satisfactory.”

“It’s humorous you think you’ll actually succeed, you human speed bump,” Tali hissed. While they spat insults at each other, Ben looked at each member individually to gain any signs of weaknesses or habits he could use to his advantage. He knew with Tali at his side they had a pretty good chance of fending them off.

“Make sure we finish the job,” the man Ben had thrown to the ground said to one of his guys and nodding towards Ari. Ben looked over to Ari who was clutching her bag to her chest with large brown eyes full of fear. He understood. This was a planned assault. For whatever reason, these men were sent to assault Aridema Sanchez. “After we’re done with this one, maybe we should drop by the ballerina’s house,” the man sneered. Ben instantly got tense at the mention of Rey and he quickly realized how long he must’ve been under surveillance and how closely they were looking for Kanjiklub to know anything about Rey. A cold shower ran through his core at the thought of Rey being under their radar and potentially in danger. Before he knew it, Ben jolted towards the man, the fear of Rey being threatened stiffening his muscles and pushing his adrenaline levels so high that his body became its own master.

“Ben?” Tali was holding his face and looking up at him as he stood panting and holding two bloody knives in either hand. He looked around and slowly came to. There were no other people in the bar other than a hunched bar keeper peeking over the counter. Ben had no memory of how he got to where he was. “Holy shit, dude!”

“What the hell happened?” Ben asked looking at Tali then over to Ari to make sure she was safe. When he saw she wasn’t harmed and slowly walked their way, his panting became more calm.

“You tell me!” Tali looked around. “Dude, you were in full beast mode. You fucking tore these assholes to shreds. All by yourself.” Tali gestured to Ari looking for validation. “Ari? I didn’t do shit, did I?”

“She’s right. You took them all down on your own. Tali tried getting to one but you didn’t even give her the opportunity,” Ari slowly and carefully approached him.

“I gotta say I don’t know whether I should be scared of you or impressed by you,” Tali put her hands in her pockets and looking at the knocked-out men on the floor.

“I don’t remember that.” Ben dropped the knives and looked down at himself. “I don’t remember anything.”

Ari carefully touched his arm and looked him in the eyes. “Ben, you blacked out.” Ari who was training to become a licensed practical nurse, checked his body for injuries but couldn’t find any on the spot. “We should get out of here. C’mon, I’ll drive you two to my place, we can get your bike tomorrow.”

“No, I’m taking my bike home.”

“Ben, I don’t think you should be driving after what just happened,” Ari crossed her arms with a worried look.

“It’s fine. I’m fine,” Ben put up his hand.

“Well, I’m driving with her,” Tali said. A black Mercedes parked in front of the bar and after a few seconds Ren and Ap’lek walked in.

He looked at the scene with raised eyebrows. “Damn,” he said and patted Tali on the shoulder. “Thanks for the text. Get out of here and get Ari home,” he ordered his two Knights. Ben, Tali and Ari left and as they stepped out Ben got a glance at Ren taking out his Walter 9mm. Ben hopped on his bike and the girls drove off in Ari’s white Subaru.

When they got to Ari’s apartment, Ari paid the babysitter, checked on her toddler and made a pot of coffee for everyone. They sat around the table as Ari double checked for any injuries on Ben. When was relieved to find none she sat down and poured herself a coffee. Tali and Ari ran everything by him again about what happened and Ben still had no memory of the scene they were describing.

“What I don’t understand is why you were a target,” Ben shook his head and swirled his coffee around. “The way they were talking, it was like they were only there to find you.” Ari stared at her mug not saying anything. Ben could tell she knew something but was hesitant about sharing it. “Ari?”

She looked up at him and he saw the fear in her eyes. “Ben,” she said slowly looking back at her mug. “I don’t feel safe here anymore. Not that it’s ever been safe but recently I feel like I’m being watched and it scares me. Not only for me but I have a 2-year-old. I constantly have this tingling in my gut telling me something is wrong. And I’m scared for Kenton and me.”

“The Knights of Ren will always protect you, Ari,” Tali interjected. “That’s the golden rule. Families are always protected and respected.”

Ari sighed before continuing. “But that’s just it. I fear the brotherhood.” Ben and Tali looked at each other with stern but confused faces. “I never told you about that night. The night of the fire. Hennix and I fought. But, I never told you what we had fought about.” Ben shifted in his seat, eagerly awaiting what she was about to say next. “I had been a bit doubtful of the brotherhood for a while at the time and I began questioning multiple things. Hennix didn’t like it, he said I was being ridiculous and that I should trust them as he did. There were so many encounters with other members and with Snoke that just seemed off. After a while, I got that same feeling of being watched and I told Hennix about it. He looked into it and slowly he began questioning some things too. Apparently, Ren ordered him to stay home from multiple jobs because of it and Hennix became frustrated. When they asked him to report back on you,” Ari looked at Ben to which he leaned in closer, “that’s when he openly began questioning them. You were his best friend and he wanted to keep you away from the brotherhood. For some reason the Knights of Ren eagerly wanted to recruit you.” She paused and looked at Kenton who was sleeping in his little bed that was pushed next to the couch. “When I found out I was pregnant, I wanted to make sure we would be safe. Truly safe. I wanted what was best for my child. So, I asked him to leave the brotherhood and move away with me. He was conflicted because he had made a vow to them. But, he made one to me too. I would bear his child. That made me believe it was a kind of a vow to me. It was an ongoing discussion for weeks. And then one day, the night of the fire, I gave him an ultimatum. Either them… or us.” Tali and Ben both stayed silent listening closely to what Aridema had to say with a big lump in her throat making it difficult to speak. “He was never able to make his choice.” Tali carefully took Ari’s hand in hers and tried comforting her as tears rolled down Ari’s reddened cheeks. Ben watched as the mother of his best friend’s child mourned him so much and couldn’t bear the pain his loss caused, so he sat there silently and stiff. Ari cleared her throat and gathered herself. Ben understood how that could’ve caused tension among the Knights but still he didn’t understand what that had to do with their rival gang.

“I don’t quite understand what that has to do with Kanjiklub, though,” Ben spoke softly and trying so hard not to seem insensitive.

Ari shrugged and said, “I don’t know. But it all feels weird. And dangerous. Too dangerous for my son and I to stay here.”

“Wait, you don’t mean you wanna leave?” Tali asked.

“Maybe,” Ari said standing up. “Let’s talk about that tomorrow.” She checked the clock on the microwave which read 11:47 p.m. and decided to go to bed. Tali and Ben agreed to spend the night to make sure nobody would give them a surprise visit. Just as they were all getting ready to crash there was a knock at the door. Ben took his gun from his jacket pocket and stuck it in the back of his waistband. When he opened the door he was surprised to stare into the hazel brown eyes that belonged to Rey. She had changed from her witches costume into an oversized beige hoodie and dark skinny jeans. She had a tote bag with a black bundle inside in one hand and her phone in the other and staring up at him with big eyes.

“Rey,” Ben said shocked.

Chapter Text

“What’re you doing here?” Ben asked.

“Well, I got a bit worried when you didn’t answer my texts or calls after you two just darted out like that,” Rey said with an innocent but worried expression.

“How’d you know we’d be here?”

She held up her phone that showed she had Snapchat opened and a little ginger avatar was placed on a digital map at this exact location. “Is everything OK?”

“Oh, yeah yeah, we’re all fine,” Ben answered promptly. “Sorry, I got distracted and just haven’t gotten to checking my phone yet.”

Rey nodded understanding. She looked beyond his shoulder into the house and asked, “is this where Aridema lives?”

“Yeah, it is,” Ben said looking in the direction Rey was.

“Can I come in?” She asked with a shiver. Ben quickly opened the door wider, put his shirt over his belt and gun and invited her in. Tali must’ve done the same as he heard her shuffling around.

“Oh, shit,” she mumbled. “Rey! What’re you doing here?” She quickly added.

“I was just checking to see if you guys were alright.”

Tali patted herself down, showing she was unharmed, “yup. I’m OK.” She slowly walked over to Ben and stood very close next to him. “C’mon on in!” As Rey walked in and stood in the living room of Ari’s little apartment, Tali quickly slipped behind Ben, took his gun out from his waistband, closed the door and quickly hid it in his jacket that was hanging on the coat stand behind the door while Ben followed Rey. “You want juice or something? Jeez, Ben tend to your guest,” Tali added.

Ben walked over to the fridge and offered her various beverages but Rey declined. As she looked around the apartment with her tote bag in her hand and unsure what to do, Ari walked out of the bedroom in her navy blue pajama bottoms and an oversized sleep shirt. “Oh, hello, Rey.”

“Hi,” Rey said softly.

“I was wondering when the wind would sweep you to our humble abode,” she winked.

“You were expecting me?” Rey asked surprised.

“Eventually, yeah. This one talks about you so much,” Ari nodded towards Ben, “that, yeah, I was hoping he’d bring you one day.”

Rey looked at Ben with a pleased smirk, “you talk about me?”

“Ugh, well, I mean-,” Ben shrugged.

“Nonstop,” Ari interrupted him smiling and scrunching her nose.

“That’s not true,” Ben put his hands on his hips.

“OK, for normal people it’s not much. But for Ben standards – constantly!” She grinned teasingly. Rey blushed not being able to hide her smile and Ben shook his head, rolling his eyes. Tali still stood near the door with her arms crossed and an amused grin on her face. “Well, make yourself at home and if you need anything I’ll be in here,” she said pointing behind her to the bedroom door.

“Thank you,” Rey smiled.

“I’ll get you some blankets and a pillow,” Ari said putting her finger up implying Rey should wait.

“Oh, blankets?” Rey looked up at Ben who gave her a warm look.

“I’m guessing you’ll be sleeping here, right? It’s pretty late,” Ari’s voice came from inside her bedroom.

“I’m crashing here tonight, too,” Tali said taking off her jewelry and setting it on the kitchen table.

“I wasn’t planning on it. We have school tomorrow and-,” Rey said looking at Ben and Tali unsure.

“So? We can all go together,” Ben suggested. “I’m sure Ari has a new toothbrush and you can wear one of my shirts to sleep in if you want.”

“Yeah, c’mon. Stay,” Tali said making puppy dog eyes at her.

“Uhm, well,” Rey shrugged, “I guess it’d be OK. I’ll just have to let Unkar know.”

Ari walked out of her room with multiple blankets and more than enough pillows to make a fort. “I hope these are enough. Tell me if you need more.”

“Oh, wow. Thank you,” Rey put her hand on her chest. Ari put some pillows on the couch for Rey and some on the floor along with two blankets. Ben knew that was for him and he nodded when Ari gave him a look implying he should sleep on the floor next to Rey. Ari and Ben then pushed Kenton’s now empty bed further away from the couch to make room. Ben wasn’t as surprised as Rey at how welcoming and natural Ari was handling this situation. That’s what he appreciated most about Aridema. She was so uncomplicated and never expected or demanded anything from him. Or anyone for that matter. He felt lucky having Ari be so open and unproblematic especially because their situation was unconventional and he felt he had a duty to her. But she never was the one to encourage that feeling. She was just grateful to him. Had Daisy been in Ari’s place, he probably would’ve never been able to talk to another girl, let alone bring her to the house.

“You can sleep on the couch, Tali and I will sleep in my bed and Ben,” Ari pointed to the ground, “you need like a yoga mat or something?”

“Nah, I’m good. I can sleep anywhere. Plus, you have carpet, that’s soft enough,” Ben said, pushing back his raven locks while examining the floor.

“I’m beat, I’m going to bed,” Tali said and peeked in Kenton’s room before brushing her teeth in the bathroom, leaving Rey and Ben in the living room. Rey set her bag next to the couch and spread out the blankets Ari had left folded on the armrest.

She turned to Ben, walked up to him very closely and wrapped her arms around his waist. “I didn’t even say ‘hi’ properly,” she sighed into his chest.

Ben smiled, put his arms around her and rubbed her back. “Hi,” he said softly. They stood there in each other’s gentle embrace before they pulled away and he reached for her chin with his thumb then gently kissed her on her soft lips. “I’m gunna check on Kenton really quick.” He took off his black t-shirt and handed it to her. For a moment, she stared at his chest before awkwardly taking the shirt and quickly looking back up into his eyes. “You can change while I’m doing that. It’s fresh. I showered when I got here.”

Rey smiled at him and held the shirt to her chest. “Thank you.”

He stepped into the toddler’s room, walked over to where Kenton was sleeping and watched his little eyelids flutter as he was dreaming. He gently put his hand on the child’s small back which almost covered his whole back side and admired the sleeping child for a while. Then he quietly walked over to the rocking chair on which he had some of his clothes flung over the armrest. He took his black sweats and changed into them. He listened at the door to make sure Rey was done changing as well and quietly opened it to step out. As he gently closed the door, he found Rey already snuggled in on the couch. He crouched down next to her, “you need anything else?” She shook her head and yawned. Before turning off the lights, Ben knocked at Ari’s door to let her know he checked on Kenton and to wish them a good night. He walked over to the light switch, flipped it, then slipped under the blanket on the floor and reached one hand behind his arm as he sighed and relaxed all of his muscles. Ben heard Rey turn over to her side to face him. He felt a cold little hand gently glide along his arm, feeling for his own. He took her hand in his and their fingers merged together. They stayed like that for a while and he felt his stomach tighten. He wanted to be with her, every part of his body longed for her. He brought her soft hand up to his lips and gently kissed the back of it.

“Come here,” she whispered. Ben sat up, turned to her as he pushed his blanket down to his thighs. She ran her fingers through his dense hair, brought him closer to her face and pressed her forehead against his for a moment before finding his lips with her own. He supported her head with his large hand placed at the nape of her neck and savored the taste of her lips and tongue. His whole body ached for her but he had to contain himself. This wasn’t the place for them to go any further. It was so hard to resist her. She moved as close as she could towards the backrest of the couch to make room for him. He got up from the floor and laid next to her as she covered them both with her blanket. He moved his arm up and around her as she snuggled up next to him with her head resting on his chest and her arm around his torso. He gently moved his finger tips along her hair as she fell asleep in his arms. When her breathing became more calm and deep he kissed her head and closed his eyes as well, letting the darkness and exhaustion from today’s events take over.

__________________________________________________________________  

Rey opened her eyes and noticed her whole upper body move up and down. For a moment she forgot where she was but as she looked up and saw Ben Solo with his eyes still closed, she remembered. She looked down on his chest and realized she had slept on top of him. More comfortable than you’d expect from someone that was built as solid as he was, she thought. She rested her chin on her left arm and rubbed his chest with her right hand while smiling up at Ben whose eyes began to slowly open. “Good morning,” she whispered.

He sighed with a smile, brought his hand to her back and began gently moving his hand in circles. “Morning,” he answered softly. She pushed herself up to reach his face and kissed him. Both of his large hands came up to her head and he moved some hair strands out of her face with his fingers as she gazed into his dark brown eyes. He was so gentle with her and truly made her feel safe and secure. Almost as if he gave her a sense of… home. In this moment, she felt at home. She had forgotten that feeling a long time ago. The feeling you have when you are embraced by a parent and they let you know everything will be alright. When she was with him Rey knew everything would be alright. In the short amount of time she knew him, he really found a place in her heart and she knew he would stay there. She closed her eyes and enjoyed this feeling. He continued stroking her hair and rubbing her back. She listened to the beat of his heart underneath her and let out a deep content sigh. He kissed the top of her head and they stayed like this for a cherished moment. After a while, Ben turned his face and looked to the door as if he were listening closely to something. Rey said nothing and listened as well but heard nothing. “Kenton’s awake,” he whispered. “I’ll go check on him.” Rey pushed herself off of him and sat back to make way for him to get up. He kissed her forehead and then stepped into the child’s room.

After a moment, Ari carefully stepped out of her room already dressed in her diner’s uniform. “Good morning,” she whispered, smiling at Rey and scrunching her nose.

“Good morning,” Rey answered smiling back. Aridema Sanchez was such a beautiful person, she thought, inside and out.

“You sleep OK?”

Rey nodded and began to stretch. “I did, you?”

“T’was short. But, yeah I slept fine,” she winked. “You drink coffee? Or tea?”

“Oh, uhm, tea.”

“Pancakes or eggs?” Ari asked.

“Ari, you don’t need to make me breakfast. Don’t you have to go to work?”

“I’m making breakfast either way. For everyone. I still have enough time,” she said looking at the clock on the microwave.

“I’ll help,” Rey said getting up.

“No, no you don’t-,” Ari said then stopped to look at Ben’s shirt that reached Rey’s knees. “That shirt is like a tent on you,” Ari giggled. Rey looked down and noticed how his shirt engulfed her.

Rey giggled, “I could throw on a belt and boom – a dress.”

Ben came back out with a very sleepy Kenton in his arms. “Hey,” he greeted Ari who was smiling and stretching her hands out to her son. “Say ‘good morning, mommy!’” Kenton rubbed his eyes and snuggled up on Ben’s shoulder. Ari walked over to him and rubbed the back of the toddler’s hands with her index finger and gave him a kiss on his rosy cheeks. Ben carried him over to the couch and took a seat with Kenton still on his chest.

“He still needs a while to wake up,” Ari explained to Rey. “Just like this one,” she added as Tali came dragging her feet out of the bedroom with her eyes barely open.

“Morning everyone,” she sighed, taking a seat next to Ben and resting her head on his shoulder. Rey was amused by the whole situation and chuckled to herself.

“Ari, is it OK if I take a quick shower?” Rey asked.

“Absolutely! Towels are above the mirror and if you need a toothbrush, fresh ones are under the sink.”

“Thank you.” Rey grabbed the clothes she wore the day before and scurried into the bathroom. She grabbed a dark blue towel from the shelf above the mirror and laid her clothes on the chair next to the sink. She hopped in the shower and used Ari’s 2-in-1 shower gel and shampoo that smelled of coconut and pineapple. When she was finished, she wrapped herself in the towel and brushed her teeth with one of the toothbrushes she found under the sink like Ari had said. She looked on the counter and saw various perfumes and hair products. Behind all the bottles she found one matte black circular bottle. She picked it up and read Tom Ford Ombré Leather. She took off the cap and smelled it. She recognized that scent. The leather, patchouli and amber scents gave away that this was Ben Solo’s bottle. She smiled to herself and put it back, then quickly put on her clothes and dried her hair. When she walked out of the bathroom she found Ari, Ben and Tali at the kitchen table with Kenton occupied with a toy in his bed. Ben had his arm stretched out on a towel that was laid out on the table. Ari was standing over it, tightening a tourniquet around his bicep. Tali poked his veins and Ari gently patted it as well to make sure it was ready after Ben slapped Tali’s hand away. “What’s happening here?” Rey asked putting her hair up in a half ponytail.

Tali who was now more awake answered, “Ari is practicing drawing blood on Ben.”

Ari was concentrated but she seemed confident and her motions looked very effortless.

“She’s training to become a nurse. And this is part of her practical test,” Ben explained looking closely at what Ari was doing. Ari released the tourniquet and then pulled out the needle before quickly putting a cotton pad on the punctured spot for applying pressure.

“Keep the pressure on it for bit,” Ari said. “Ben’s veins are amazing for me to practice on. They’re so visible and therefore hard to miss,” she added.

“Happy to help,” Ben said still pressing his vein with the cotton pad.

Ari opened a bandaid and placed it on the punctured spot. “There we go. This makes you the first person I drew blood from,” she patted his shoulder.

“What?” Ben blurted surprised. “You said you did this before.”

“Yeah, on dummies,” Ari shrugged. Ben looked down at his arm, back up at Ari and then back at his arm with a very shocked expression.

Tali busted out laughing and pointed at his face, “Hahaha, look at how pale he just got!” She continued to laugh and Ari and Rey joined in as Ben shook his head with widened eyes. He got up and walked over to Kenton who was jumping up and down in his bed next to the couch.

“Your mommy is a menace,” he poked Kenton’s nose. The toddler giggled and continued jumping. Tali, who was still laughing, walked over to the bathroom to get ready for school. Ari giggled as well as she gave Ben a bottle with an orange liquid in it to give to Kenton.

“I’ve never seen orange formula before,” Rey said.

“That’s because it’s carrot juice mixed with milk,” Ben said. “My mom used to make it for me as a kid and I drank it way longer than I should have. Everyone in our family got it when they were young. Better than all that other junk.”

“We use formula sometimes but Ben isn’t the biggest fan of it,” Ari said with her hand on her hips watching Kenton enjoy his breakfast bottle. As Ben watched the child with his hands resting on the rail, Rey noticed his knuckles were bruised. Ari cleared the table before turning to the stove to make breakfast. Rey decided to set the table and Ari told her where everything was. When she was done, Rey sat down at the table and Ari set a mug with a fruity tea in front of her. Rey smiled gratefully and Ben sat down, joining her.

“What happened?” Rey said gently poking at his knuckles.

“Oh. I, ugh, I think the protective gloves I wore on Saturday aren’t doing their job.”

“At your friend’s house that you’re helping renovate?”

“Yeah.”

“Huh, I didn’t see that at the party yesterday,” Rey said brushing over his knuckles looking closely at the darkened skin.

“Prolly ‘cause it was dark,” Ben shrugged. “I don’t feel anything,  though.” Rey saw Ari sneak a glimpse at him which led her to believe he may have not been completely truthful. Before she could say anything else Tali came back from the restroom and Ben got up quickly to get ready for school himself. Ari’s scrambled eggs were ready to eat and she gave everyone an equal amount of eggs on their plates and put a stack of toasted bread slices in the middle of the table for everyone’s taking. When Ben was finished and had joined them back at the table, they all enjoyed the food together. Rey hadn’t expected any of this to happen when she left home yesterday but was very happy how it all played out.

When everyone was finished, Ari packed Kenton’s bag for daycare and headed out the door with the child on her hip. Ben cleared off the table and Rey gathered her few things she had brought. They agreed on Tali driving with Rey to her house to pick up her book bag and then meet Ben at school who would take his Triumph. As they were about to leave the apartment Rey remembered she had something for Ben.

“Ben, I almost forgot,” Rey said as he gathered his things for school as well. She reached into her tote bag and pulled out the cloak she had made for him and two bracelets made of pony beads. One bracelet had blush and periwinkle colored beads with three white beads bearing black letters that spelled the name ‘Ben’. The other had all black beads with three white beads spelling the name ‘Rey’. She handed him the black one, “I made these for us yesterday at the jewelry station with Holly.”

Ben took the cloak and the bracelet and immediately put on the self-made friendship bracelet. “Perfect fit,” he winked. She put hers on as well and he pulled her in for a hug. “Thank you,” he breathed on the top of her head. “I’m not ever taking this off,” he said to which she giggled into his chest.

“Well, then ditto,” she looked up at him, her arms squeezing his torso. He leaned down, she raised her heels from the floor and their lips met. He placed his hand on her waist and they slowly backed up until Rey’s back was pressed against the wall. She reached into his hair and their kiss grew more passionate.

“I am all for you two expressing your passion for one another but I think we should get going.” Rey and Ben pulled back from each other and Rey’s cheeks turned rosy out of embarrassment. Tali opened the door next to Rey and winked at her as she walked outside. Ben smiled, rolled his eyes and got his things. Rey picked up her tote from the floor and followed Tali to her van.

Chapter Text

When Thursday came around, Rey sat on the bench in the park during her lunch break to wait on the classy lady that was now her book buddy. They had formed an unexpected friendship over the past three weeks and Rey really enjoyed their bench talks about various books and just life in general. Because the woman was a stranger, Rey found it very easy to confide in her about certain things. Unkar was a good provider for Rey but she longed for someone she could truly open up to and seek constructive advice on personal matters from a parental figure. Rey felt the woman kept a respectful distance but ensured proper, helpful advice and useful approaches. She was kind, warm and genuinely interested and well versed on numerous matters. Traits she couldn’t say Unkar had. Secretly, Rey wished this woman would’ve been her adoptive parent as opposed to Unkar. She was simultaneously ashamed of that desire, especially because she hadn’t known her for very long.

“So, how was the Halloween party?” The woman sat down beside her and her warm smile made Rey instantly feel at ease. She wore a dark red pant suit and a dark gray overcoat. Her beautiful, thick, brown hair was twisted back and gathered at the back of her head with her long locks woven into a long braid.

“It was a lot of fun. There was a haunted house area and a really extravagant buffet,” Rey explained. She went on to tell her about all the activities, about their costumes and the karaoke room.

“Oh, do you have a photo?” The woman asked as her eyes lit up with amusement at the mention of Kaydell’s ‘Taco Belle’ costume. Rey took out her phone and showed her photos of their costumes. The woman pointed at Kaydell, “I know her, I work with her at the office. That’s Kaydell Connix isn’t it?”

“You know her? Yes, that’s my friend Kaydell. So, you work at city hall?”

“I do. Small world,” the woman smiled. As Rey swiped to the group photo the woman’s smile disappeared and she observed it closely. “Who’s that?”

“Oh, that’s Ben. He’s my boyfriend. The one I’ve been telling you about.”

“That’s him? Oh, wow. You weren’t lying, he’s handsome,” she said smiling approvingly. Rey smiled back and explained how he wasn’t into Halloween but accepted wearing the cloak she had made for him.

“If he’s willing to do something he dislikes that shows he cares,” the woman winked.

“Yeah,” Rey said looking at the photo of Ben. “He’s full of surprises that’s for sure.”

“Well, as long as he’s respectful and well-mannered,” the woman gave her a look that let Rey quickly understand the implication.

“Oh, for sure. He’s incredibly respectful,” Rey put the phone down and thought about it. “Y’know, he rarely makes the first move. Like he’s scared. Assertive but scared.”

“Scared? To kiss you?” The woman asked with a confused expression.

“No, no. More like scared to be too intrusive.”
“Well, he looks like a pretty large guy. He’s probably aware of that and doesn’t want to unintentionally overstep any boundaries,” the woman said pensively.

Rey nodded agreeing with her, “he always seems like the kinda guy who takes whatever he wants. Or at least that’s other people’s perception of him. But, I see him in a different light. He always gives me the choice.”

The woman smiled at her as if she were touched. “I’m glad he treats you well.”

“He really does,” Rey smiled. “Never judge a book by its cover, I guess.”

“Oh, that reminds me,” the woman said reaching into her gray leather Coach bag. “I’m finished with this if you’d like to read it.”
Rey took the copy of When Women Were Dragons. “Thank you, I’ll try and finish it as soon as possible.”

“Keep it,” the woman winked. “I have too many books anyway.”

“Thank you so much.” Rey wasn’t used to strangers gifting her anything. Ever. Not even Unkar gifted her anything just for the sake of it. She was truly grateful and decided to move this to the top of her reading list.

 __________________________________________________________________________________________

“Hey, green boots!” Ben said standing in front of the screen door to the Gleeson’s home.

“Sup, primo!” Tali answered, opening the screen door to invite Ben inside.

“Is Cardo here? I need to talk to him.”

“Yeah, he’s in the garage.”

Ben entered the house and followed Tali down the hallway. She opened the door to the garage and let him in without following him.

“Kylo,” Cardo greeted him while putting various tools back in their box. He must’ve been changing Mrs. Gleeson’s summer tires as the car was still lifted on the car jack. “Coulda used an extra pair of hands twenty minutes ago. What can I do for you, son?” He asked wiping his hands on an old rag.

Ben knew Cardo had always been truthful to him and felt he wouldn’t bullshit him in anyway. “Did you hear about the incident with Ari a couple days ago?”

“I did. Tali told me about it. Aridema got lucky. What’re the chances of Kanjiklub turning up at that bar?”

“See, that’s the thing. Ari doesn’t think it was by chance,” Ben said crossing his arms.

“What do you mean?” Cardo crossed his arms as well and leaned back on a storage shelf.

“She thinks she’s being followed. And the evening she was at the bar, she noticed that the guys from Kanjiklub walked in and straight to her. She said it didn’t seem natural. Not at all as if they were there to just hang out and get a drink,” Ben explained. Cardo rubbed his chin pensively.

“Why would Kanjiklub put Ari in their target?” Cardo asked.

“Maybe they’re targeting family members in general? Has Miss G noticed anything?”

Cardo shook his head, “nah. That’d be low, even for Kanjiklub. I think if they are following Ari, then it’s because of Ari and not because she’s linked to you.” Cardo looked at Ben and sighed before asking, “does she have any enemies? Has she maybe upset anyone?”

“Not that I know of. You think someone hired them?”

“They do take jobs from outsiders sometimes. Non-members. Y’know sort of as hitmen,” Cardo raised his eyebrows.

Ben thought carefully whether he should confide in Cardo about Ari’s concerns regarding the Knights. “I can trust you, right?”

Cardio’s expression became more open and expectant, “yeah, of course. You know you can talk to me.”

Ben nodded, “I need you to give me your word this isn’t gunna go further than us.”

Cardo put his hand over his heart, “of course.”

“Ari is growing more and more concerned. Concerned about the Knights.”

“The brotherhood? Why?”

“She fears the brotherhood.”

“We protect our own, why would she be afraid of us?”

“I’m not sure, neither is she but she can’t shake the feeling.”

“I doubt this has anything to do with the Knights of Ren. Besides, Kanjiklub is the one that showed up that night. And Ren took care of them. I think she’s probably just shaken up a bit by the whole thing. She has a kid, therefore she’s probably even more alert.”

Ben bit his lip knowing he didn’t want to raise any suspicions about his doubting the Knights. “I just want to make sure nobody is out to get her. I need to protect her. Both of ‘em.”

“I know you do, kid,” he walked over to Ben and put his hand on his shoulder and gave him a comforting expression like a parent would give their child. “The brotherhood will ensure her and Kenton’s safety as well.”

Ben nodded, “I know.”

“Good.”

The door opened and Mrs. Gleeson poked in her head. “Babe, dinner’s – Ben! How’ve you been? Dinner is on the table come eat with us.”

“Hey, Miss G. Oh, thanks but I’m actually invited to dinner somewhere else. Thank you, though.”

“Ah, that’s too bad. Alright maybe next time then. Babe, clean up and come to the table,” she urged her fiancé and returned inside.

Ben followed Cardo inside and walked past him towards the kitchen as Cardo stepped into the bathroom to wash his hands.

“Are you sure you don’t want anything?” Tali’s mom asked again as she reached for the bowl of mashed potatoes in front of her.

“No, thank you,” Ben smiled. He walked over to Tali fist-bumped her, gave Mrs. Gleeson a kiss on the cheek and headed for the door, “I’ll swing by on the weekend. See ya.”

  __________________________________________________________________________________________

After practice, Rey quickly put her ballet attire in the wash, cleaned her room and began preparing dinner with Unkar. She was surprised at his good mood and the fact that he wanted to cook with her. He never did that. “You’re in a good mood,” she smirked as she chopped one of the onions.

“How could I not be with the shop doing so well?”

“Yeah, I noticed that. How’d that happen?”

“Uhm, talent?” Unkar said sarcastically. Rey chuckled at his momentary humorous attitude. “No, I only kid of course. Ever since I got that new investor a few weeks ago, business has been great. Oh, that reminds me.” He wiped his hands on a kitchen towel he had tucked in his pocket, then reached for a rectangular red leather pouch on top of the refrigerator. “There ya go,” he said handing her a couple of twenty dollar bills he had taken out of the pouch.

“What’s this for?” She asked not sure why he was giving her money.

“You took the car to the shop and I didn’t reimburse you yet.”

“Oh, thank you,” she said surprised and folded the bills to put in her back pocket. Rey didn’t have to count the money to see it wasn’t even close to the amount she had paid. Regardless, she was grateful he had given her anything at all.

“When’s he coming?”

Rey checked her phone, “in twenty minutes.”

“I’ll take a quick shower then,” Unkar said putting the kitchen towel on the counter and rushing upstairs.

When Rey was finished, she put the casserole in the oven and set a timer on her phone. She heard Unkar walk halfway down the stairs and probably dry his hair with a towel as his voice was muffled when he asked, “is he here yet?”

Rey chuckled at the excitement in his voice. “No, not yet.” She heard her adoptive father rush back upstairs and was amused at the thought of Unkar being more nervous about this dinner than she was. A knock at the door announced his arrival. Rey hurried over to the front door and opened it to Ben Solo standing on their porch with his helmet in hand and his backpack over one shoulder. He had on the same navy shirt he wore the day of her dance recital and his raven hair was slightly disheveled from wearing his helmet. He pushed some loose strands back with his free hand and leaned in to kiss her in greeting. “Hi,” Rey whispered as she took his hand and felt the cold metal of his rings in her palm. When she looked at his wrist, she saw the bracelet she had made him and smiled to herself.

“Is that him?” Unkar yelled from upstairs as she gently pulled him inside by his hand.

Rey chuckled and yelled back, “yup.”

“I’ll be right down.”

“I think someone’s excited to see you,” Rey teased Ben who looked towards the stairs and let out an amused sigh. She took his helmet and put it on the floor next to the door. As he put down his backpack, she took his black leather jacket to hang on the coat rack and then turned back to him, reached up and flung her arms around his neck. He smiled, tugged down the back of her shirt that had risen up as she reached up to hug him and then wrapped his arms around her waist raising her off the floor a bit and going in for a long, affectionate kiss. He gently set her back down and she grabbed his hand to lead him into the kitchen.  

“How was practice?” Ben asked politely as he followed her. When they entered the kitchen and Rey made her way to the salad bowl, he leaned back on the counter, listening closely as she told him all about her day. She tossed the salad and then began setting the food on the table with his help. When the table was set, Ben walked back over to the door, hunched over his backpack to retrieve a book and handed her the weathered blue hard cover with the title The Silmarillion by J. R. R. Tolkien. He stepped behind her with her back against his chest, wrapped one arm around her pulling her close and holding up the book to her with the other. “I don’t know if you’ve read this yet. I’ve read it like a hundred times. As you can tell,” he pointed out the bent pages that looked like they had been through a lot.

“Oh my god, I’ve been wanting to read that for ages,” Rey said taking the book and scanning the back.

“Yeah, I thought you might want it,” he said as he moved around her to face her. “It’s a little hard to get into but it’s really interesting to find out all about Eä, Valinor, Númenor, Middle-Earth, and how -”

Rey covered her ears with the book slightly smacking the side of her face, “No! No spoilers!”

Ben smiled and put up his hands defensively, “sorry.”

“Y’know, I never in a million years would’ve thought you were a nerd at heart.”

“I dabble in the dark arts,” he crossed his arms with a grin and shrugged coyly.

“OK, Potter,” she teased mustering up the best Draco Malfoy imitation she could.

He looked at her with a frown, “really? You honestly think I’d be a Gryffindor?”

She chuckled and shook her head. “No, you’re definitely more the Slytherin type.”

His jaw dropped sarcastically as if he were offended and put his hand on his chest for emphasis to which Rey had to laugh even more. “You’re probably right,” he winked. Unkar came down the stairs tucking in his shirt and patting down his thinned out hair that usually stood out in all directions. “Hey, good to see you again, sir,” Ben said respectfully while stretching his hand out towards Unkar.

“Ah, yes, yes, good to see you, good to see you,” Unkar said with an unusually welcoming demeanor. “How’ve you been? Been getting some wrestling training in?” He asked patting Ben’s arms gently and then quickly stepping back again.

“Oh,” Ben chuckled, “no, not lately.”

“Ah, well if you need someone to practice with, I’m available,” he gently punched the air.

“Oh, cool. You wrestle?” Ben asked.

“Yeah, back in the day, yeah,” Unkar smiled confidently.

Rey tilted her head, “I never knew that. You did?”

“Well… no,” Unkar sighed, swinging his hands and then clasping them together in front of himself. “I didn’t. But, I was in band. The marching band I mean.”

“Ah, ok,” Ben smiled encouragingly. “What instrument did you play?”

“The trombone. So,” Unkar quickly added to redirect the focus off himself, “do you play any instruments?”

“I have an electric guitar and a bass at home,” Ben answered. “And my parents always had a piano that I’d tickle the keys on, but other than that nothing else really.”

Unkar’s face lit up and he put his hand on Ben’s upper back, guiding him to the kitchen in order to continue their conversation.

“What is happening?” Rey asked quietly to herself, watching Unkar’s never-before-seen fangirly behavior. She didn’t know if she or Unkar had the bigger crush on Ben. Giggling, she joined them. Ben and Unkar were sitting at the table talking about various shared interests while Rey watched them silently, highly amused and smirking at Unkar’s enthusiasm. She texted the group chat her and her friend’s had and told them about Unkar fangirling to which Poe texted back ‘oop, he has a groupie now’ and Rose asking for a Snapchat video of the scene. The timer on her phone went off and she walked over to the oven to take out the casserole. As Rey set the dish on the table, Ben quickly retrieved his backpack.

“I brought you something, sir,” Ben said pulling out a bottle with a burgundy label reading ‘Glenmorangie’. “I hope you like whiskey. This is my dad’s favorite.”

“Oh, my,” Unkar said taking the bottle and looking at the label very closely. “Your dad knows his stuff. This is some good whiskey.” Unkar pointed at Ben while looking at Rey, “I like him.” Unkar smiled and turned his attention back to the bottle. “You can come over more often, son.”

“Haha, sure,” Ben answered, relieved that Unkar liked his gift. Rey sat down and smiled at Ben, still amused by the whole spectacle.

“How about we open it after dinner and we’ll drink a glass together?” Unkar suggested.

“Oh, hell yeah,” Ben agreed.

The three ate their meal and Rey was relieved at how well the evening was going and how accepting Unkar was of Ben. Accepting was an understatement at this point. She enjoyed every moment of having a charming meal with her adoptive father and her boyfriend and wondered how great it would be if this could become a more frequent occurrence. Like normal families.

After dinner, Unkar opened the whiskey bottle, poured himself and Ben a glass and decided to let Rey have a sip as well even though she was still 18. He explained that he was OK with them drinking alcohol in his house and in his presence because that way he’d have control over the amount that was being consumed.

“Besides, we’re responsible,” Ben added. “Unlike some laws. In this country you’re allowed to join the military at 18 but not drink beer until 21. So, potentially go to war and go through intense traumatic experiences but not drink a lousy beer. Make it make sense.”

“Agreed,” Unkar said taking another sip. “Look at the Germans. They’re allowed to drink beer at 16.”

“True, but good beer. I’ll usually only drink it if it falls under the purity law. Like Kellerbier or Schöfferhofer.”

Unkar put his glass down and looked at Ben with a blank face. “The what?”

“The purity law. It’s a German - well originally Bavarian - law that regulates the ingredients in beer, limiting it to its purest form with nothing other that hops, barley and water,” Ben explained. Unkar looked at Rey who just shrugged and smiled.

“And how do you know all this? And where can I get beer like that?” Unkar asked eager.

“Oh, my mom. She’s German on her mom’s side and prides herself in some traditional habits. There’s a small German grocery store not far from here where my parents shop sometimes.” Rey was not used to Ben speaking about his parents at all, so she carefully listened to any details he would share about them. “Next time I come over I’ll bring different beers to try.”

Unkar beamed looking at Rey and back at his whiskey. “That sounds wonderful.” Rey looked at Ben who gave her an affectionate smile to which she put her hand on his that was resting on the table and gave him a pleased smile back. Their conversation continued on swerving into sports and finally landing on Unkar’s favorite topic: Nascar.

“I’m actually more of a Formula One person,” Ben blew air through his teeth. “It’s much more interesting than just watching all the racers make one big left turn, y’know.”

“I respect that,” Unkar raised his glass. “Who’s your favorite? Hamilton?”

“Oh, god no. He’s a good driver but he’s very arrogant. No, my absolute favorite was Mark Weber but he doesn’t drive in that category anymore. This season, I was rooting for Verstappen and Leclerc.”

“Who do they drive for again?”

“Red Bull and Ferrari.”

“Ah, right. Maybe I’ll watch more of that then. You could come over on Sundays.”

“Yeah, sure. I think it starts around March again, so sure.” The fact that they were making plans so many months away made Rey’s stomach flutter.

“You can come, too,” Unkar winked at Rey.

“Oh, thanks! So generous,” Rey teased back, chuckling. They continued joking around and sipping their whiskey and Rey was thoroughly enjoying Unkar’s mood. She couldn’t remember the last time he joked around like that with her or anyone.

When the doorbell rang, Unkar got up to answer the door. Ben had Rey’s hand resting between his large fingers and brought it up to his lips to gently kiss them.

“Oh, come in, come in,” Unkar’s voice came from the living room. Rey scooted closer to Ben with her chair in order to give him a kiss but was interrupted by Unkar leading their unexpected guest to the dinner table. Rey noticed Ben’s body shift and get tense as they saw who it was. A tall, thin man in a bronze suit walked in and sneered showing his yellow, crooked teeth as he approached the pair. She had seen this man before. At Tali’s birthday party a few weeks ago he had shown up just as she and Rose were about to leave and Rey noticed that he had evoked the same reaction in Ben as tonight. Ben quickly withdrew his hand from hers and kept his eyes glued to the man. Rey slightly tilted her head confused but then turned her attention back to Unkar and the man.

“Rey, Ben, this is Mr. Snoke,” Unkar introduced him. “Welcome to our humble abode.”

Chapter Text

“Good evening, young Rey,” Snoke gave her a smile that made the hair on her neck rise. “And ah, young Solo! My, what a delightful sight,” he said clasping his long boney fingers together. Rey noticed Ben’s hand that was now resting on his knee clench into a fist and she wondered why Ben felt so threatened.

“Oh, you know each other?” Unkar asked surprised.

“Our paths have crossed,” Ben’s voice was deep and unemotional.

“Let’s just say,” Snoke’s piercing blue eyes glared at Ben, “I know the family.”

“Oh, well in that case come, sit and stay for a drink,” Unkar said.

“No, I couldn’t. My driver is waiting outside. I just wanted to drop that contract off for you to sign,” Snoke said pointing at the document in Unkar’s hand. “I have one more investee to visit tonight.”

“Oh, what’s one drink among new business associates,” Unkar urged.

“I couldn’t possibly,” he put his thin, with liver spots covered hand on his chest to emphasize his gratitude at the offer.

“He’s a very busy man,” Ben spoke calmly but cautiously. “He’s involved in so many people’s business… es - We shouldn’t keep him from tending to them.” Rey realized Ben was trying to get rid of him and couldn’t help but just sit and watch. Snoke turned back to him and slowly curled his lips into a sneer.

“Well, I’m sure they wouldn’t mind if I come a bit later,” his ingenuine smile left Rey as cautious as Ben. “Besides, like you said I’m very busy and I deserve a drink from time to time.”

“Great!” Unkar said gesturing for Snoke to take a seat. Ben’s eye twitched slightly as he eyed Snoke. He sighed, took his glass, swirled his drink around a few times before gulping it down. “Rey, go ahead and get another glass for our guest.” Rey nodded silently, got up and did as Unkar asked.

“So, you two,” Snoke focused on Ben, “are you in a relationship?” He addressed the obvious. Rey set the glass in front of him and poured him some of the whiskey.

She glimpsed at Ben who clearly looked as if he didn’t want to answer any of Snoke’s questions. She set down the bottle and gave Snoke a polite smile, “we are.”

“How’d that happen? You couldn’t be more different,” Snoke asked which Rey thought to be a quite objectionable remark.

“At school,” Ben chimed in. “ We met at school. As teenagers usually do.”

Rey could sense a growing tension and noticed Ben’s voice reveal a more annoyed tone.

“We actually had our first get-to-know-each-other dinner this evening,” Unkar explained.

“Ah, and how’d that go?” Snoke took a sip from his drink and inhaled sharply at the sting the alcohol left in his mouth.

“I’d say very well. He’s a fine young man,” Unkar said pleased. “His parents did good,” Unkar winked at Ben. Rey could tell the whiskey’s effects had been activated when Unkar’s speech became slightly slurred. “Ben’s the one that brought this whiskey. It’s his dad’s favorite,” he smiled and finished his glass.

“Interesting. Tell me how is your father?” He asked.

Ben glared at Snoke and Rey could tell this was not a topic to be discussed. “I wouldn’t know,” he answered bluntly.

Unkar raised his eyebrows and poured himself another round. “Why not?”

“I moved out a while back and haven’t seen or spoken to my parents since,” Ben said with a stern face.

“Woah,” Unkar’s reactions became slightly delayed. “What happened?”

“Unkar!” Rey scolded him, furrowing her brows to make him aware he was being rude.

Ben inhaled and pressed his lips together before answering, “that’s a private family matter that I won’t be discussing tonight.”

Unkar grew aware of Ben’s discomfort, “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to cross a line.”  Ben put up his hand and nodded, accepting the apology. Rey noticed Snoke’s lip curl into a nearly undetectable smirk. She found that to be an unsettling reaction and was glad when Unkar turned the attention towards Snoke by asking him multiple personal questions which he answered vaguely, revealing little to nothing about himself. Rey reached under the table taking Ben’s hand in hers and she could feel him relax a bit. They both stayed silent as Snoke and Unkar began speaking about various business matters.

When Snoke took his last sip, he stood up and thanked Unkar for the drink. Unkar stood up as well and shook Snoke’s hand. “I’ll see you very soon,” Snoke patted their interlocked hands, demonstrating dominance in their dynamic. He reached for Rey’s hand and she took his cold, wretched hand in hers. “And I’ll be seeing more of you now, too,” he showed his crooked teeth.

Rey gave him the most polite smile she could muster, “have a good evening.”

He nodded pleased and then turned to Ben, “and you, young Solo.”

Ben was still sitting slanted in his chair with his chin resting on his knuckles. “I’m sure,” he said raising his other hand slightly. Unkar walked Snoke to the door and Rey put her hand on Ben’s shoulder to comfort him. He put his hand on hers and patted it gently without looking at her as if to deny she had a reason to comfort him. They cleared the table and began filling up the dishwasher as Unkar stepped back into the kitchen.

“You two got this?” Unkar mumbled.

“We do,” Ben smiled at Unkar’s stumbled speech.

“OK, OK. I’m gunna go to bed,” he turned around waving at them.

“Good night, Unkar,” Rey chuckled. He staggered off and Ben and Rey couldn’t hold back their laughter.

Together they finished quickly and when everything was clean, she looked at Ben and couldn’t help to ask. “Ben?”

“Yeah,” he turned to her after taking a paper towel to dry his hands.

“When Mr. Snoke came in,” she spoke softly, “I noticed you got pretty tense.”

He sighed as he balled up the paper towel to throw away. “Oh, yeah?”

“Yeah.”

“Well, he’s kinda creepy.”

“He is,” she sighed. “But, you’re usually not easily intimated by creepy people.”

Ben cleared his throat, “look, Snoke has many businesses in his locks. He’s a very rich and powerful man. And when creepy people are put in a position of power, y’know, I think it’s smart to stay cautious.”

“Should I be worried about Unkar’s deal?”

Ben sighed, “my uncle was involved with him business wise, somehow. I’m not sure what happened back then but my uncle left town and we haven’t heard from him. Just make sure Unkar is being careful. He should read that contract very closely.”

“OK,” Rey said with a worried expression.

“It might be nothing, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry,” he said and kissed her forehead. She smiled and wrapped her arms around his waist and pulled him close to her. Rey could feel Ben resting his chin on her head as she pressed the side of her face onto him.

“How does he know Kenton and Ari?” She asked into his chest.

“What?”

“At Tali’s birthday party he held Kenton and spoke to Ari as if they knew each other well.”

“Oh, ugh,” he paused and rubbed her back, “he knew Hennix and his family.”

“And Tali?” She backed up to look at him, “she seemed surprised to see him there.”

“Well, he does business with Miss G’s fiancé, Cardo. I think,” he added. “So, I guess maybe they’re close or something. It was surprising because it wasn’t Cardo’s birthday but Tali’s. I don’t know, I mean he was invited to drink with us by Unkar, too.” Rey knew this explanation sounded logical but nevertheless, she had a feeling there was more to the story.

“OK,” she said softly and decided not to push any further. “What are you doing after school tomorrow?”

“I have to help out at the house again this weekend,” Ben said while gently pushing a strand of hair out of her face.

“OK,” she began poking at the buttons on his shirt. He waited to see what her intentions were and smiled when he understood. He put his large hand on hers, flattening her hand on his chest to stop her from fiddling with his shirt.

“What’re you doing?” He whispered to which she smiled and shrugged innocently. She wiggled her hand free and pushed her knee between his, backing him further up to the counter. He cleared his throat and looked over to the door that was wide open. She gave him a longing look then pulled him down to her by his silver chain necklace and began passionately kissing him while opening the top buttons of his shirt. His warm hands slowly made their way to her hips and before she knew what was happening he picked her up, plopped her down on the counter behind him and stared at her with hungry eyes. She was startled yet excited by his quick movements and his unpredictability. She wrapped her legs around him and locked him in her hold. Rey reached for the next buttons but he stopped her.

“What?” She asked unsure of his hesitation. He shook his head slowly with his hands resting on the counter on either side of her.

“Why?” She whispered trying to continue her pursuit.

“Because,” he put his hand under her chin, gently lifting it to make her meet his eyes. “I don’t think your dad would appreciate me groping his daughter in his kitchen while he’s asleep upstairs.”

“His daughter doesn’t mind. In fact, she’d appreciate it.”

“Well,” he said rubbing his thumb over her lips, “it’s still not happening.”

Rey shifted back, gave Ben a displeased look and crossed her arms. “You’re serious?”

“I am,” he said resting his hands back on the counter on either side.

“Can you give a better reason for why you don’t want to be with me?” She asked sounding almost offended.

“What? Of course I do-”

“Then what is it?”

“Look,” he sighed and tried giving her a comforting smile. “It’s not that I don’t want to, because trust me I do. It’s all I can think of lately.”

She rubbed up and down his chest. “Me too. We can be quiet,” she said pointing at the couch.

He clasped his hands together. “It’s taking all of my self-control not to devour you right now. It’s just not the right time.”

That comment simultaneously excited and disappointed Rey. “When is the right time then?”

“When there’s not a parent in the house that could hear or walk in on us at any given moment. When we do get intimate I want us both to feel one hundred percent comfortable and at ease.” He moved closer to her face. “And not to mention be as loud as we want,” he winked. She bit her lip to which he winced.

“Alright,” she slightly threw up her hands, yielding. She placed her arms around his neck and let him pick her up, her legs wrapping around his waist. He made his way to the living room with Rey still in his arms. When he stopped in front of the steps to set her back down, Rey kept her arms around his neck with her feet dangling above the floor. Ben chuckled showing a little bit of his teeth and then wrapped an arm around her waist to give her some support. He shook his head and she gave him a proud smile.

“So, you’re just gunna hang here, or?”

“Yup.”

“It’s gunna be a little hard to walk. Let alone drive my bike home,” he teased.

“Well, maybe you should just spend the night, then.”

He tilted his head and raised his eyebrow at her. “I can bring you upstairs but then I’m going home.”

“Fine,” she grinned. He shook his head defeated but amused.

“Unbelievable,” he sighed, grabbing onto her legs to help her wrap them around his waist again so he could carry her up the stairs. When they got to the top and approached her bedroom, he stopped, turned and bent down for her to open the door, still in his arms. She hit the light switch and he closed the door with his foot.

He gently set her down, “madam.”

“Why thank you,” she smiled. “This should become a regular thing. I could get used to this.”

“I bet you could. And I’d probably even go along with it,” he huffed to which she scrunched her nose at him.

“Alright,” he took her face in his hands. “Thank you for dinner, I had a great time tonight.” He kissed her forehead and then her lips.

“Me too.” She grabbed onto his waist and kissed him back.

“I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“OK,” she smiled.

“Good night,” he said as he walked towards the door and wiggled his fingers playfully at her before stepping out. She giggled and then walked to her window and watched as he walked to his bike, put his helmet and backpack on and drive off. Rey stepped into her bathroom and got ready for bed. Just as she was finished washing her face, she heard her phone vibrate on her bed.

“Hey girl,” Rose said as she answered.

“Hi,” Rey smiled and plopped down on her bed.

“Did you see Kaydell’s text?”

“No, not yet. We had Ben over for dinner and he just left. I didn’t get a chance to check yet.”

“Oh, nice how’d that go?”

“Good, I’ll tell you all about it tomorrow. What’s up with Kaydell?”

“She said she can’t go on the trip with us ‘cause she has a Thanksgiving event thingy to attend for work.”
“Oh, no. She just now found out? We had this planned for weeks.”

“I know but she said they gave her new responsibilities which she’s really grateful for and I guess to host or plan that event is one of ‘em. She said she’s bummed she can’t go but she really wants to take that opportunity.”

“OK. Yeah, no of course. I get that. She should, I’m sure it’s really helpful for the program. So, what does that mean for us?”

“It means we either have to find one or two people to come with us or cancel the trip completely. It’d be too expensive otherwise. It’s super short notice but do you think Ben or Tali would like to come with us?”

“Oh,” Rey said, surprised Rose would consider Ben. “Are the others OK with it?”

“Yeah, it was Poe’s idea.”

“Oh,” Rey smiled. “Sure, I’ll ask him. Well, them.”

“Noice. Alright see you at school tomorrow.”

“Yup, g’night.”

They hung up and immediately Rey texted Ben. When he answered right away, she knew he had gotten home and wasn’t on the road anymore. She opened FaceTime and called him straight away, hoping he’d be able to accept their invitation.  

“Wow, you miss me already?” He asked teasingly.

“Always!” She smiled. “No, I actually just got a call from Rose. I think I told you that we’re going on a road trip to this fancy log home in the mountains for Thanksgiving. We go every year and the others wanted to know if you and Tali might want to join us?”

“Oh, ugh. When is it and how long?”

“Thanksgiving day to the Sunday.”

“I don’t really celebrate Thanksgiving ‘cuz of the whole genocide thing.”
“No, no, we don’t either. We actually started going on these trips to avoid the celebrations. We don’t condone this lie of a holiday either.”

“Oh, alright. Well, sure. I guess I’m in.”

“Oh yay! I’ll let the others know. We can talk about the details tomorrow.”

“Alright, sure.”

“Good night, Ben.”

“G’night, sweetheart.”

Rey was ecstatic and immediately texted the group chat to let her friends know that Ben would be joining them on their road trip. She felt so appreciative of everything that had happened over the past few weeks and wanted to share her happiness with everyone. She reached over to her night stand and opened the drawer. She took out the only picture she had of her birth parents and observed it for a while. Her five-year-old self was curled up in her mother’s arms with her father hugging them both from behind. She had her brown hair in three little buns just like her mother and wore tiny beige overalls. She traced her mother’s face and recognized many similarities to her own features. She had inherited her mother’s hazel eyes, dainty nose and freckles and her father’s brown hair and high cheekbones. Rey couldn’t remember much of her parents or her childhood but remembered the love she had for them. She spoke to the photograph, telling her parents all about Ben and all the other exciting things going on her life. When she was finished, she kissed the photograph, placed it back in the drawer and quickly found sleep.

Chapter Text

As Rey’s arms were wrapped around Ben’s waist, she had trouble keeping her helmet from smacking his. She backed up a bit and held on to his sides with just her gloved hands. His Triumph rumbled underneath her and she felt the heat radiating from the muffler near her boots. The wind was cold and crept under the sleeves of her leather jacket. It was an old black faux leather jacket she had found at a thrift store a week before for five bucks. She knew she’d be riding with Ben more now and thought it was a good idea to have a jacket just for their rides. But, she quickly realized it wasn’t doing its duty. It was thin and only reached to right above her belt, letting the cold find its way up her arms and up her back. Now that it was late November, the cold was inevitable and she tried blocking out the fact that she was freezing. She turned her head back and saw Poe’s orange Jeep was still behind them. Poe noticed and must’ve told the others as she saw four hands wave back at her. Rey smiled and was overjoyed to go on this road trip with her best friends and her boyfriend. She must’ve expressed that excitement somehow because Ben noticed and took her hand from his waist, interlocked their gloved fingers for a moment and brought the back of her hand to his helmet where his mouth would be. Rey giggled to herself and squeezed his hand before letting go and held onto his sides again.   

It was about another half an hour to Ben’s and Tali’s friend’s house where they would drop off Ben’s bike and switch it out for the Mercedes he was letting them borrow for their trip. Rey looked out over Ben’s shoulder and enjoyed the beautiful scenery that Hanna City had to offer. They were now on the highway which ran directly along the coast. The waves were oozing onto the beach and Rey noticed a handful of surfers trying their luck with the cold, unpredictable waves. Dedicated, she thought. Rey was never taught to swim and therefore wasn’t eager to get into large bodies of water, let alone be involved in any water sports. Other than standing in the shallow part of a pool or sitting in a jacuzzi, she had no desire to spend any of her time in water. The roads began to meander and Ben smoothly laid into the curves which Rey mimicked and found to be exhilerating. She understood why Ben liked riding so much. When a group of ten Harley Davidson riders drove by, Ben extended his hand in greeting and Rey noticed he repeated that whenever someone else on a motorcycle rode past them.

When they got to his friend’s house, Ben parked in the driveway next to the black Mercedes with tinted windows that was already waiting for them. They hopped off and Rey waited on the others to walk over from across the street where Poe had parked the Jeep. Ben rang the doorbell and a man in dark jeans, a gray shirt and a black denim jacket opened the door. He was at least twenty years older than Ben, and Rey wondered about the nature of their relationship. She noticed Tali’s demeanor stiffen as she walked up the driveway to approach their friend. Rey was surprised at how professional Tali spoke to the man. He didn’t leave his door step and didn’t seem to want to engage with her and her friends. Ben shook his hand, exchanged the keys and turned around raising his hand in appreciation as the man closed the door. Rose looked at her and the others confused but shrugged and waited for Ben and Tali.

“Alright,” Ben said opening the trunk of the Mercedes. “Let’s get the bags from the Jeep and we can hit the road.”

“He’s not gunna come out and see who’s using his car?” Poe asked, pointing at the closed door.

“Ugh, no,” Ben said, his eyes following the direction of Poe’s finger. “Guess not.”

“If I would lend my car to complete strangers, I’d wanna know who they are at least,” Poe raised an eyebrow. “Especially an expensive car like this.”

“I’m not a stranger. He trusts me,” Ben said turning his attention back to the trunk and putting his and Rey’s helmets in it. Rose and Tali came back with their suitcases and let Ben load them. Ben closed the trunk when it was full, then opened the garage door and pushed his bike inside. When he locked up, Poe and Finn hopped in the Jeep and Rose, Tali and Rey got into the Mercedes.

“Dude, this is dope,” Rose said, looking around as they got in the car and running her hands over the leather seats. “Are you in the mafia?”

“Excuse me? Am I in the what?” Ben asked, furrowing his brows.

“It’s like something a mafia boss would drive,” she laughed.

Rey caught Ben and Tali sharing a quick look through the rear-view mirror before saying, “oh, haha, yeah he loves cars. You should see his Porsche. For obvious reasons he wouldn’t let us borrow that.”

“Good lord! How do you afford two cars like that?” Rose asked astonished still occupied with the fancy features in the backseat.

“Lucrative business, I guess,” Ben said starting the engine then slowly rolling out of the driveway and onto the street with Poe’s orange Wrangler already in position to take off.

“That was really nice of him to lend us his car,” Rey smiled at Ben, putting her hand on his. He turned his hand a little to hold onto her fingers and smiled back, nodding.

“Yeah, he has his moments,” he winked.

“What was his name again?”

“Oh, uhm, Ren.”

“Ren? That’s an unusual name,” Rey turned to Rose and Tali behind her to check if they agreed.

“Is it?” Ben asked.

“I’d say so.”

“OK,” he said shrugging with one shoulder. Rey noticed the way both Ben and Tali became less at ease when speaking about this man and could tell it was best to drop the subject. She shrugged it off and returned her attention to the neighborhood outside and observed all the houses. Ben proved himself just as good a driver as he was a motorcycle rider. When he shifted gears, there was no jerking or rumbling and he kept the car going smooth. They followed Poe and Finn for an hour until they stopped at a gas station. Poe filled up the Jeep and Finn, Rey and Rose went inside to use the restroom and to buy some snacks for the road while Ben and Tali waited outside.

“So, how is it so far?” Finn asked nodding towards Tali and Ben who were leaning on the car.

“Good, Tali and Rose are keeping us entertained,” she winked.

“And Ben?”

“Oh, he’s alright. He’s quiet and concentrated but I think he’s having a good time.”

“I would be too if I had to a drive a Benz. When Solo said his friend would lend us his car,” Finn whispered to Rey, “I didn’t expect that.” They stood in line watching Tali and Ben through the window.

“Yeah, it’s really nice of him. Not to mention convenient for us. None of us are 25. But,” she whispered back.

“But what?” Finn asked.

“Didn’t you get a weird feeling from that guy? Like Poe said, wouldn’t he wanna meet the people using hiscar?”

“I thought that was odd, too” Finn agreed.

“Did you catch the way Tali got all stiff when she spoke to him?” Rey asked making sure the pair outside wasn’t looking back at them.

“No, I didn’t. I mean he’s a lot older than them. She was probably being respectful.”

“Maybe. Hey, by the way if you wanna rotate just let me know.”

“Uhm,” Finn looked out the window to Ben again. “I’m good. Poe and I are fine. We’re listening to crime podcasts,” he winked. Their conversation ended as they paid for their food and joined the others back outside. Finn had bought Walkie-Talkies and gave one to Rose and kept one for himself to communicate with them on the road. Rose protested and asked why they couldn’t just send voice messages back and forth but Finn insisted it was necessary for their roadtrip. Rey agreed it was kind of cool and they didn’t have to rely on service in order to stay connected. During the drive, Finn would occasionally check on them whenever the gap between their cars got too big. Tali and Rose slept throughout the entire rest of the drive, so Rey suggested joining Finn and Poe in listening to a crime podcast. Ben agreed and she and Finn figured out which episode of Solved Murders:True Crimes Mysteries to listen to, and counted down over the Walkie-Talkies in order to hit play simultaneously. Occasionally, either of them would make comments or ask questions about the murder case through the Walkie-Talkies.  

Two hours of driving and two episodes later, they found a Whole Foods Market near their AirBnB and decided to grab some food for the next couple of days. As they stepped out of their cars, they all stretched their limbs and made their way into the grocery store. Rey overheard Ben whispering something to Tali but she only heard three words: careful, Kanjiklub and territory. What’s Kanjiklub, she thought. Before she could say anything Tali jolted over to Rose and Ben came up behind her, putting his hand on her back and under her hood, then rubbing between her shoulders. She smiled up at him and put one arm around his waist as his arm found its way around her shoulders.

“Everything good?” He asked and kissed the top of her head.

“Yeah, you?”

“Hmm.” They walked through the automatic doors and she shifted back, sliding her hand along his arm and into his large hand.

“What’s Kanjiklub?” She asked.

“Where’d you hear that?” He looked at her sideways.

“You said it to Tali just now. Like two seconds ago,” Rey pointed behind her towards the parking lot.

“Oh, that’s… that’s the name of a gang.”

“A gang?” Rey blurted.

“Shhh,” Ben looked around but nobody heard. “Yeah.”

“How do you know that?”

“I just do. I’m sure you’re aware of gangs like the Crips and the Bloods, right?”

“Well, yeah. But-”

“See, it’s just common knowledge. I’m pretty sure we’re in their territory. But, I’m sure there’s nothing to worry about,” he smiled trying to comfort her.

She wasn’t concerned about her safety. That hadn’t even crossed her mind. She knew about gang presence in Hanna City but she was never exposed to that world even though she knew it had been a huge problem since the 90s. She had always felt safe in that regard. She was more concerned about all the shifty things that she had picked up on lately. Ben shrugged it off and tried to seem unbothered but she knew him a little better now and sensed something was in fact bothering him. She observed him a while, letting him know she wasn’t convinced.

“What?”

“Nothing, c’mon let’s join the others,” Rey said and pulled him behind her. They found the others and went over the shopping list before spreading out to find all the groceries. Rey watched as Ben walked over to the fruit and vegetable stands looking at the colorful variety. Next to him was an employee with a holiday themed caramelized apples stand who addressed Ben to try one and wished him a ‘Happy Thanksgiving’ to which Ben responded with “excuse me? No it wasn’t. Nothing about Thanksgiving was happy.”

The man was offended and argued with Ben about the controversial holiday for a while. Finally, the man gave up as he saw no reason to continue arguing with Ben and asked, “look, do you want to try an apple or not?”

“No, I don’t want to try one. Look at ‘em, they’re probably covered with pesticides and other synthetic chemicals.”

“Sir, they’re harmless. These are perfect pieces of fruit.”

“Oh, yeah? You should try kissing my ass. It’s a real peach.”

“Ben!” Rey exclaimed and quickly ran over to the pair. The employee rolled his eyes and shook his head. “I’m so sorry, sir!”

“I’m not,” Ben glared at the man.

“C’mon,” Rey took his hand and tugged at him to leave the stand. The others stood between two aisles watching the scene as well. Tali had a smug smile on her face and Poe was trying to hide the fact that he was laughing to avoid offending the man even more.

“Solo?” An unfamiliar, deep voice came from the next aisle. Everyone turned their heads in the direction the voice came from. A tall, olive-skinned man with jet black hair appeared from behind the Campbell’s soup shelf with a green basket in his hand. He looked about their own age and had a few similarities with Ben, Rey thought. A long face, deep brown eyes, high cheek bones, an aquiline nose and very broad shoulders. He was much darker than Ben and his hair which was in a single braid laid over his shoulder that reached past his chest. His white teeth flashed as he smiled at the familiar face.

“Yazzie? Holy shit!” Ben said surprised.

“I thought I recognized your voice and that Solo sass,” he chuckled. They embraced each other in a big bear hug and patted each other’s shoulders. Ben seemed genuinely happy to see him and smiled when she saw his eyes light up. Up close, Rey noticed how much they resembled each other even more and she came to the conclusion that they were maybe related in some way. She smiled waiting for Ben to fill her in on who this person was.

“Jay, oh my goodness!” Astraal-Talik ran up to him, flinging her arms around his neck.

“Hello, copper woman,” Jay greeted Tali and smiled down at her.

“Jay, I’d like you to meet my girl. This is Rey,” Ben said with a proud smile gesturing towards Rey.

“Really?” Jay said looking deep into Rey’s soul. Another thing they have in common, she thought. He nodded slowly with a pleased look. “That’s good.”

She didn’t know what he meant by that but stretched her hand towards him, “nice to meet you.”

“Nice to meet you, too,” Jay said with his warm hand gently taking hers. He looked back at Ben, patted his arm and smiled impressed.

“And this is Rose, Poe and Finn,” Ben introduced them all. “Jay Yazzie is one of my oldest friends.”

Jay smiled at each of the friends and shook their hands before asking, “so, what’re you doing so far up in the mountains. Other than cussing out Whole Foods employees,” he winked. Ben told him about their weekend plans and then returned the question. “My dad and I are here for a pow wow,” Jay explained. “If you guys are here for the whole weekend why don’t you stop by?”

“Is that acceptable for … non-Natives?” Rose asked carefully.

“Of course. It’s encouraged for anyone to come. Y’know as long as you’re respectful,” Jay reassured them.

“I mean that sounds like fun,” Finn said.

“Yeah, I’m down.” Poe agreed. “We’re boycotting Thanksgiving anyway so why not also support an indigenous cultural event.” Everyone nodded and it was quickly decided what their Friday plans would be.

“Awesome,” Jay grinned. “Come by around ten tomorrow morning, we should be done setting everything up by then. Then you and dad can catch up, too.” Rey was thrilled to go to a real pow wow and learn about the beautiful culture of their country’s indigenous peoples. She had no idea what to expect but was excited to find out.

“We’re going to dinner later, if you and your dad want to join us?” Finn offered.

“Oh, that’s really nice but I have to help out at the grounds today. Plus, my dad and I were invited to a sweat lodge ceremony later.”

Rey could tell all of her friends, including herself, wondered what a sweat lodge ceremony entailed but nobody asked as they noticed Jay needed to get going. Tali looked very disappointed about him turning down the invitation but stayed silent.

“Perfect. We’ll see you tomorrow, then,” Ben said. Jay nodded and stretched out his fist. Ben bumped it and both boys then brought their fists up to their hearts. Jay hugged Tali again then walked off and Rey knew straight away that she would like him. She sensed that this was a special person who had good, positive energy surrounding him. And she could tell Jay was important to Ben, someone he trusted and valued. The friends paid for their groceries and hopped in their cars with Poe, Finn and Rose leading the way in the Jeep.

On the way to dinner, Rey asked Ben how he knew Jay. “His family and mine have been friends since I can remember. We met over fifteen years ago while we were on vacation in Arizona and we’ve stayed connected ever since. Jay and I were both very young so to me they’ve always been around. They’re like family. We even used to take turns visiting each other at least once a year. I gotta say it’s really good to see him,” Ben sighed.

“How long haven’t you seen the Yazzie family, then?” Rey asked.

“Oh, me personally maybe two to three years,” he answered. “Jay’s mother passed away and his dad became a recluse after that. We still stay in touch but when that happened and we had our family stuff going on, our visits became less and less.”

“Well, maybe now’s the time to reconnect. This happened for a reason, I bet,” Rey grinned at Ben.

He took her hand in his and gently kissed the back of her hand and gave her a sweet smile. “Maybe,” he winked.

Chapter Text

They followed Poe’s Wrangler to a small restaurant near their cabin. When she stepped out of the car, Rey heard her stomach growl right as she got a whiff of frying grease coming from the restaurant’s kitchen. As they walked into Clyde’s Bar & Grill, the smell of fried meat, grease and various spices filled her nostrils. The restaurant’s interior was mainly made up of dark wood furnishing, giving the place an old tavern aesthetic. There were party lights with large colorful lightbulbs hung throughout the restaurant and large plotted plants between the tables and booths. It had a rustic, cozy feel. The bar stretched from the entrance all the way to the back of the restaurant with multiple bar keepers behind it and a magnitude of liqueur on display. They found an open booth and took a seat. A short waitress with two long, blonde braids and piercing blue eyes rushed to their table to greet them. Her long fake lashes had a row of little gemstones on them and her lips were painted a metallic bronze.

“Hey, there what can I start y’all off with?” She smacked her lips, clearly chewing gum. She took everyone’s drink orders and when she got to Ben, she put her hand on her hip, smiled and winked at him, “how about you, brown eyes? What can I get you?” Ben ordered a Sprite and she flipped one of her braids back, “we only have 7Up, is that OK, sugar?”

“Ugh, sure,” he shrugged.

“Alright, I’ll get that right out for you,” she said and gently patted his shoulder to which Ben raised an eyebrow, displeased. Rey was aware he didn’t like people touching him, especially strangers but Ben being oblivious to the fact that she was clearly flirting with him made the whole situation very amusing and she had difficulties holding back a smile. When the waitress came back to bring their beverages, Poe thanked her and everyone was ready to order their food. She got out a little note pad and pushed her pen onto Ben’s bicep to retract it.

“So, dark and mysterious, what can I get you?” She asked, ready to write down his order.

Ben looked at his arm and back up to her with a peeved look. “Well, for starters you can stop poking me with your pen.”

“Oh, honey,” she batted her lashes. “I didn’t mean to upset ya. Did you even feel that with all those muscles on ya?”

“Excuse me?”

She laughed, “Oh, don’t take me too seriously. I’m very comfortable and affectionate with our customers. It relaxes them.”

“Yeah, well, I prefer you aren’t.”

“Oh my,” she smiled at the others, “he’s a grumpy one.” She rubbed his shoulder and Rey watched Ben’s face turn more stern than it already was. Tali began laughing at his reaction which must’ve encouraged the waitress to continue.

“Are you fond of your fingers?” He asked but Rey quickly grabbed his hand to relieve his aggression. Tali’s grin was so big that Rey could see all of her teeth. Poe smirked at Finn but Finn’s expression once again was a bit more cautious than that of his friend.

_________________________________________________________________

When they finished their meal, Poe decided to get a round of Paleta shots to toast to their trip. He got himself and Ben non-alcoholic shots and to everyone’s surprise nobody questioned their age and Poe got his order straight away. Finn then had the idea to do surprise rounds. Each one of the friends should go up to the bar and order a round of shots without telling the others what it was. They agreed and when Ben’s turn came around, he got up and scrutinized the menu. He knew Tali adored Snickers so when he surprisingly found a Snickers one he immediately ordered a round. He sat back down and when they were about to toast, Ben realized. He watched as Rey moved the shot glass to her mouth and before she could drink he slapped it out of her hand and it shattered to the ground. Everyone jumped and stared at him startled.

“Ben!” Rey looked at him confused.

“Jesus!” Poe blurted.

“What the hell?” Rose added.

“What was that?” Rey asked while Ben began grabbing napkins and drying her and the table off.

“Did you slip her something? I knew it. I swear to god!” Finn glared at him and Rose looked at him, mouthing ‘calm down’.

“It’s Snickers liqueur, genius. She’s allergic to nuts,” Ben answered calmly continuing to soak up the liquid from Rey’s hands with a napkin. “I’m sorry sweetheart, I’ll get you something else.”

“No, it’s OK,” she smiled half-heartedly, letting him wipe off her arm. “I probably shouldn’t have any more anyway.” The waitress came rushing over again asking if they were alright.

“Sorry. I’ll pay for that,” Ben pointed at the glass shards on the ground. She disappeared in the back and returned with a small broom to sweep up the shards. “You leave quite the impression, don’t ya?” She asked.

“He’s 6’3,” Tali answered for him, “he’s always knocking things over. He doesn’t know his own strength sometimes.” Ben looked at her apologetically. He knew this was true, he was too big for his surroundings sometimes but he truly felt guilt-ridden about this mishap. Especially, because he put Rey in danger.  

Ben paid for everyone’s meal and left the waitress a very large tip. “Again, I apologize for the mess.”

“No, problem, sugar. Come back anytime,” she winked as they walked out.

On the drive to their AirBnB, Ben was overly affectionate towards Rey by either continuously taking her hand, kissing it or placing his hand on her thigh. She clearly enjoyed his attention but also made it clear that she was alright and he need not feel so guilty. “It happens, Ben. I’m alright, nothing happened. Stop stressing,” she said and ran her fingers through his dense locks.

When they arrived, they all stepped out and began unloading the cars. The log home they had rented for their trip was elevated and built into a hill with two flights of stairs leading to the entrance. Ben looked at the stacked round logs that made up the structure and was in total awe. He had never seen a log home in real life and was fascinated with the structure and aesthetic of this particular style house. When he entered, he noticed the smell of wood immediately and a sense of coziness and comfort kicked in. Everything felt warm, not just because the owners had already started up the fireplace but because the logs and wood floor gave the house a warm atmosphere. He inspected the walls, the floors, the windows and doors. If I ever build my own house, it will have to be a log home, he thought.

“Ben’s in his element,” he heard Tali whisper to Rey who huffed amused. He ignored them and continued taking in the architecture. The open ceiling concept made the house feel even larger than it already was and Ben liked how the open stairwell led up to the loft that overlooked the living room and kitchen.

“What is this, white pine?” He asked rubbing one of the logs with his open hand and inspecting the wood.

Everyone just shrugged except Poe who made his way to him, “probably cedar?”

“Nah, cedar’s more red.”

“True, yellow pine maybe?”
“Possibly. Yellow pine doesn’t stain as well as white pine, though.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Poe said pensively.

“OK, I guess those two are in their own world,” Finn said, nodding towards him and Poe. “How about we settle in our rooms and then meet back in the living room when we’re done?”

“Sounds good,” Rose said and Rey nodded.

“C’mon, Solo,” Poe smacked his chest with the back of his hand. “Let’s go upstairs before the best rooms are gone.” Ben followed Poe and grabbed his, Rose’s and Tali’s bags since Rey was already going up the stairs with hers. She had no trouble carrying her suitcase up the steps and he was surprised at how light it seemed in her hands. Strong girl, he thought proud. Although she was slim and feminine, she was still very athletic and undetectably muscular. But then again, one had to be fit as a ballet dancer. He was attracted to her in more ways than he could count and just enjoyed looking at her.

They went from room to room and admired the beautiful interior of the house. Ben was surprised that an AirBnB of this grade was as inexpensive as it was. There were fours rooms available and Finn and Poe decided to bunk with each other. Rey chose the room next to Rose’s and just as Ben was about to walk past it, her head popped out.

“In here, Ben,” she smiled and gestured for him to come in.

“Oh, ugh,” he looked down the hallway. “I didn’t realize we were- OK.”

Tali walked past the open room he had just stepped into and looked at him with the corner of her mouth curling up at a diagonal then exposing her teeth and raising one eyebrow knowingly.

“Of course we are, silly,” Rey said and he put down his bag. He looked around the room and noticed they even had a private restroom. The room was decorated in a Rocky Mountain log cabin aesthetic with lots of scenery paintings hung on the walls and bear motifs incorporated in the rest of the décor. He took off his jacket and hung it over a chair that was pulled into a small desk next to the door. He walked into the restroom and wondered if the steam of the open, walk-in shower concept affected the wood at all. He looked up into the corners of the ceiling but saw no visible hints of mold or water stains caused by condensation. He walked over to the sink and turned on the faucet, checking if it worked.

“What’re you doing?” Rey asked leaning in the door.

“Oh, just making sure everything works,” he said flushing the toilet then moving to the shower to check its functionality as well. Rey smiled and slightly shook her head. She came over to where he was and slid her arms around his waist. He turned a little to face her and he couldn’t resist smiling at the way her face lit up with her big hazel eyes looking up at him with so much joy. She scrunched her nose making her freckles dance like they always did.

“And?” She asked. “Does everything work?”

“Mhm,” he nodded, sliding his arms in between her embrace and moving her arms up to his shoulders.

“Good thing that works,” she said looking at the shower, “we’ll need it to work for later.”

He smiled when he realized what she was getting at. Ben bent down, reached around her thighs and picked her up. She had her legs wrapped around his waist with her arms around his neck, now looking down at him. “Why later?” He asked.

She bit her lip and smiled, “because the others are probably already downstairs.”

“They can wait.”

She tilted her head and raised her eyebrow slightly. “Ben.”

“Rey.”

“Later,” she mouthed.

“OK,” he mouthed back. She leaned down to his face and gently placed her lips on his as he carried her back to the bedroom. The door was still open and Rose walked in and jerked back, “oh, sorry. I just – never mind.”

Ben gently let Rey down and she called Rose back, “it’s OK, Rose. What’s up?”

“The others were wondering if we should watch a movie. Everyone’s tired from the trip and not in the mood for anything else.”

“Yeah, sure. What’re we watching?” She asked and looked back to him if he was alright with it which he was and nodded in agreement.

“They didn’t choose yet.”

“OK, we’ll be right down.” Rose closed the door and Rey slipped into the bathroom to change into comfortable leggings while Ben also put on some black sweats before joining the others in the living room. The friends decided on The Lord of the Rings as Rey had never watched it before and Poe was a super-fan of Tolkien’s trilogy. They all got comfortable on the sofas with blankets and popcorn and enjoyed the movie while Poe ever so often would whisper behind-the-scenes facts about the actors or the production. Rey snuggled up in Ben’s arm and after a while she ended up with her head on his lap. He pulled the blanket up and over to cover her fully and rested his arm along her side and ran his fingers through her hair with his other hand.

“Did you know,” Poe whispered to Ben, “Gandalf bumping his head, here, wasn’t scripted? That was improvised.”

“Ah,” Ben whispered back.

“Also, Ian McKellen and Elijah Wood never filmed a scene together. Frodo had to be so much smaller than him, so they could never be in the scene at the same time.”

“I see,” Ben said politely.

“Poe, shut up!” Rose whispered back. “Let him watch the movie.”

“Sorry.”

“No, it’s alright,” Ben’s voice was soft. Poe waited for a scene in which there was only music playing and no dialogue to lean over to Ben again and softly whisper, “the floors in Bilbo’s home were magnetic. That way the weight of the ring was emphasized and it couldn’t bounce when he dropped it.”

“Poe!” Finn exclaimed. “Tell us those facts after the movie.”

“There wasn’t anyone talking just now!”

Ben let out an amused huff and gave Poe a reassuring nod. Ben realized Rey’s breathing became more relaxed and steady. When he looked down at her head resting on his leg, he saw her eyelids were closed and she had fallen asleep. He smiled to himself and put his hand on the backrest of the couch to make sure he wouldn’t wake her with his touch. The movie still had about twenty minutes left but Rose, Tali and Rey had all fallen asleep. Rose was the first to get up and sleepily make her way up to her room. Tali woke up again for the ending and finished the movie with the others. When the it was over, Finn made sure the fire was out and headed upstairs followed by Tali. Poe got in some more behind-the-scenes facts while turning off the TV then walking into the kitchen for a glass of water. Ben held Rey’s head with his hand and slid out from underneath her and gently put it on the spot he had been sitting in. She slowly opened her eyes a little bit while he was crouched down in front of her, carefully stroking her head.

“Hey, ready for bed?” he asked softly. Rey must’ve been half asleep as she didn’t respond right away. “Sweetheart?”

“Mmh,” she moaned.

He chuckled and slid his arms under her legs and back, picking her up in a bridal carry as the blanket slid off of her and onto the couch.

Poe took the last sip of his water and chuckled, “someone’s out.” Ben smiled and nodded at him, then turned towards the steps. “Here, I’ll help you. I can open the door,” Poe said quickly making his way in front of Ben to get to the top of the stairs first. When they got to the top, Poe opened the door to their room, turned on the light and waited outside while Ben stepped inside. “Good night, you two,” Poe whispered.

“Thanks, see you tomorrow,” Ben whispered back and Poe closed the door behind him.

Ben walked over to the bed, put his foot on the edge of the bed so her legs could rest on his knee and with his free hand he tugged the comforter down. By then, she had opened her eyes a bit and he gently laid her down on the bed. Her sleepy eyes squinted at the bright light and Ben quickly put the covers over her and turned off the light. He took out his phone, turned on the flashlight and made his way to the restroom to brush his teeth and take a shower. When he was finished, he towel dried his hair and quietly stepped out of the bathroom, carefully making his way to the bed with the flashlight of his phone on again. Rey was turned towards the window and away from him but as he slipped under the covers, he noticed she had taken off her leggings and hoodie while he was gone. Now, all she had on was her underwear and bra. Isn’t that uncomfortable to sleep with a bra on, he thought. He only got a quick glimpse but realized her panties had the same shade of blush as her motorcycle helmet to which he smiled amused. He leaned over to her, brushed a few strands of hair out of her face and kissed the side of her head. He crossed his arms behind his head, closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He now felt the exhaustion take over and he tried to find sleep. He felt the mattress move and then opened his eyes when Rey’s head found its way onto his chest and her arm around his stomach. She cuddled up to him and he put an arm around her, holding her close. His thoughts completely filled with warmth, affection and bliss, he fell asleep with his little ballerina in his arms.

Chapter Text

Rey woke up with sunlight streaming in from the window and hitting her face. She squinted and for a moment she forgot where she was. She looked around the room and quickly remembered. Her eyes closed again and, smiling, she turned over to face Ben. She opened her eyes to find his side of the bed empty. Confused, she looked around the room and when she saw that the door to the bathroom was open, she realized he must’ve left. She flung the blanket off of her, looked down at her bra and panties and quickly put on her leggings and hoodie. She stepped into the bathroom to brush her teeth and take a shower. When she was finished, she walked out, covered in her towel, and squatted down in front of her suitcase to look through it for clean clothes. She quickly slipped on her fresh bra and panties underneath the towel, hoping nobody would burst in, and then grabbed her burgundy long sleeve hoodie with a peekaboo cutout and dark gray leggings. When she was finished putting on her clothes, she checked her phone and saw Rose had texted her, letting her know that she was already awake and downstairs. Rey opened the door and listened for any voices but only heard Tali singing to Why Can’t He Be You by Patsy Cline which was coming from the built-in speakers above the sink. She leaned over the wooden rail of the loft and saw Rose curled up in a blanket on the sofa with one arm resting on the backrest, watching whatever was going on in the kitchen. She came down the stairs and saw Tali opening cabinets while Ben stood in front of the stove, cracking eggs and whisking them with milk in a bowl.

“Morning,” Rose smiled with puffy eyes. She was the first to see her and when she greeted Rey, the other two looked up at her.

“Good morning, everyone,” Rey smiled back. She walked over to Ben and hugged him from behind as he poured the egg mixture into a pan with sautéed vegetables in it.

“Hey, sweetheart,” he smiled and kissed her head. “Hungry?”

“A little,” she yawned.

“Coffee is almost ready,” Tali said, pointing at the coffee maker.

“Oh, thank you but I’d rather make myself a tee,” she smiled.

Ben turned around, reached next to the refrigerator and carefully took a mug filled with hot water and the tag of a tea bag hanging from the side and set it in front of Rey. “I already made you one. Might be a little hot still, so careful.”

“How’d you know when I’d be up and come down?”

“I checked when you were last active and guess-timated,” he winked.

Rey smiled at his thoughtfulness and kissed his cheek before taking her tea that smelled of ginger and lemon over to the kitchen table. Right as she sat down, Finn and Poe came downstairs in their sleep clothes and took a seat at the table as well, squinting and disheveled. Tali brought the coffee pot over to them with two mugs.

“You two are still as tired as we are,” Poe said to Rose and Rey who barely spoke. “But, you two? How are you guys so awake and already making breakfast?”

Tali shrugged saying, “habit, I guess.”

“And you, Solo? You an early bird, too?”

“Sure,” he mumbled.

Poe laughed at the tone in Ben’s voice which wasn’t exactly backing up his response. “Just not very talkative in the mornings?” He asked with a teasing grin.

“How can you tell?” Finn asked Poe. “When is he ever talkative?”

Tali raised her feet off the ground behind Ben and put her hands on his shoulders and looked over his right shoulder, “that’s Ben. He’s a man of very few words,” she teased.

“Well, what do you want me to say?” He asked, opening his palms and then silently continuing to focus on preparing the eggs.

________________________________________________________________

“Oh, Ben! It’s all good,” Tali said taking the plates with the finished omelets to give to the others. He caught a glimpse of Rey smiling at Tali as if to say ‘I know’. Her beautiful eyes and that sweet, kind-hearted smile were mesmerizing and he caught himself staring at her for a moment while she listened to the others joke around. Her laugh made his heart skip a beat while also giving him such a sense of comfort. While the chopped mushrooms and onions were sizzling in the pan, he gazed at this absolutely entrancing and beautiful human and knew she was the reason his life would never be the same as it was. He snapped out of his trance and poured his egg mixture into the pan and finally, when all the omelets had been prepared and his own was ready, he sat between Tali and Rey and enjoyed his breakfast with the others who, now, were almost finished. His phone buzzed and he picked it up to check the display. The notification showed Jay had texted him a description of where their camper was parked and where he would be waiting for them.

Everyone had finished eating and they all got ready for the day’s plans.

“You know,” Rey said facing her little mirror as she sat at the desk in their room putting on some mascara, “you can wake me next time.”

Ben was sitting on the bed texting Jay and looked up at her. “Did you want me to?”

“I’m just saying, you don’t have to sneak out.”

“You were so tired yesterday. I didn’t want to interrupt your sleep.”

She turned around in the chair and rested her arm on the backrest, “it would’ve been nice to have woken up next to you. I was a little disappointed when you weren’t there.”

He got up and knelt in front of her and put his hands on her knees. She had changed into some jeans and his hands slowly glided over the denim fabric up to her thighs. “Well, then I won’t get up any sooner than you. Tomorrow, I’ll be there. OK?”

She smiled, “OK.” His hands slowly moved around her hips and when they met behind her, he pulled her towards him. She chuckled and let him slide between her knees as she planted her lips on his. She ran her fingers through his hair, clasping her hands when they reached the nape of his neck and observed his face for a moment. “I’m really happy you’re here, Ben.”

“Well, thanks for inviting me.”

“Hmm,” she hummed and smiled.

“Alright, let’s head out. Don’t wanna miss grand entry,” he smiled contentedly.

“What exactly is that, anyway?”

As she finished getting ready, Ben explained to her that grand entry was the official beginning of a pow wow for which all the dancers entered the arena together in order of their respective dance groups to honor the ancestors, the dancers, the drummers, veterans and everyone attending the event. Rey grabbed her bag and as they made their way downstairs and out the door, Poe, Finn and Rose were already waiting on them in the orange Jeep.

The drive took about an hour and when they arrived at the grounds, they saw dozens of RV’s, campers and tents scattered all across a cleared field. A few teepees had been put up and Ben smiled at the memories he had of all the times Jay, himself and Jay’s cousins slept in one, staying up all night with the fire keeping them toasty warm. Simpler times, he thought. He was excited to finally attend another pow wow after such a long time. Although it wasn’t his own heritage, he was still proud to have been shown and exposed to Jay’s beautiful culture. The Yazzie’s and everyone they had introduced him to had been so welcoming and accepting and he truly saw the Yazzie family as his own. They parked their cars next to some RV’s near the spot Jay had described to him. As they stepped out of their cars, a tall figure with a black hoodie and black sweat pants approached them and Ben recognized Jay’s silhouette. Jay pulled back his hood, exposing his face completely now. His long hair was tied into two thick, shiny braids that bounced off his chest as he sped up his tempo. He had one very thin third braid, starting at his crown.

“Yá’át’ééh abíní, good morning!” Jay greeted the group of friends. Jay and Ben clasped hands and pulled each other in, their right shoulders touching. Jay shook everyone’s hands and then pulled Tali in for a hug as well. “Hey, Copper Woman.”

She hugged his torso, “hey.” Ben noticed her cheeks turn red and he huffed amused to himself.

“So, what’s the plan?” Ben asked him quickly, so nobody else would notice Tali’s blushing.

“You guys eat yet?” Jay answered him with a question of his own.

“We did,” Finn answered.

“Oh, good. You guys ever been to a pow wow before?” Everyone shook their heads except for Ben. “I know you have,” Jay smiled at Ben. “I’m sure some of the aunties might still remember you.” He turned to Rey. “He was the only white boy that rolled with us and everyone always thought he was one of us with that long, thick, black hair,” he reached around Ben’s shoulder, squeezing him.

______________________________________________________________

Rey chuckled as Jay held onto Ben and she was surprised Ben let him do so.

“Wait, so you guys aren’t family?” Poe asked surprised.

“Nope, but we’ve been hearing that question for the past fifteen years, huh?” Jay laughed and Ben nodded, agreeing with his friend.

“You two look a lot alike,” Rose added. “I honestly thought you were related somehow.”

“Not that we know of,” Ben said.

“I always say he’s my honorary cousin, though,” Jay winked.

“Yup. I’m just a lot lighter than you and my hair is shorter,” Ben half-smiled.

“Oh, that can be fixed with time,” Jay teased.

“Yeah, I don’t think so. Not gunna happen.”

“Hey, it’s longer than a buzz cut, so that’s something,” Jay poked his elbow in Ben’s rib cage to which Ben smiled and shook his head in resignation. “Well, I have to head back to our van and help my cousins with their hair and their regalias,” Jay looked back to where he had just sprinted from. “Y’all can go inside and find a seat in the bleachers, maybe walk around or something. My dad’s already in the arena.”

“Where’s that?” Rose asked.

“Oh, you see that big building over there?” Jay nodded in the direction of what looked like a college facility. “It’s in the gymnasium. The entrance is right next to that gate. I’ll meet you guys in there, alright?” He said, touching Tali’s chin with his thumb.

“Alright, see you later,” Ben said and everyone waved as Jay rushed back to the spot in which his family was camping out.

The group of friends walked into the arena and Rey was amazed at what awaited them inside the gymnasium. The bleachers surrounding the basketball court were full of spread out or folded blankets with Native American designs on them, reserving people’s spots. Men, women and children in colorful traditional outfits were either walking around, sitting in camping chairs or in the bleachers braiding their hair and putting on beaded accessories that were part of their regalias. Rey was mesmerized by the different style outfits with beautiful designs and various beaded motifs. Most dancers had feathers attached to their hair which Ben explained were eagle feathers.

“Eagles are sacred animals to the tribes of North America because they can fly the highest, therefore they are closest to Creator,” Ben whispered to Rey as they walked towards the bleachers. “When an eagle feather touches the ground, there has to be a special ceremony to purify the feather. You can’t just pick it up. That would be considered disrespectful.”

“Wow,” Rey tried taking everything in. “What about those fluffy feathers? Like those two women have.” She pointed at two women in dresses that had multiple rows of small, metal cones attached to their dresses which made a soft jangling sound when they walked.

“Those are plumes. The feathers of baby eagles, mostly worn by women and girls.”

“Ah, and those metal cones? Do they have a meaning, too?”

“Yeah, that’s a jingle dress. The dancers have three hundred and sixty five metal cones for every day of the year. I think the cones are made of chewing tobacco lids. Jay’s older cousin, Sacheen, is a jingle dancer. I don’t want to get anything wrong, so if she’s here we can ask her.”

“OK,” Rey smiled and slid her hand in his. “Oh, I hope she is!” She added and excitement to meet this girl grew in her.

They all found a spot in the bleachers and put their jackets on the bleachers to reserve their seats and when Ben checked his watch, he let the others know they still had a little while until the dances started but the Master of Ceremony would announce everything.

They watched the dancers get ready and after about twenty minutes, Ben stood up, facing a dancer that was approaching them. The man wore a red long-sleeve shirt covered by a breast plate made of what looked like white, finger-long, elongated beads. He had on multiple beaded accessories with different patterns and reoccurring bear paw prints incorporated in the designs. An apron starting at his waist with the same motifs reached to his knees, the many fringes all around the edge of the fabric swaying back and forth as he walked towards them. Rey noticed a very large bustle of brown feathers attached to his back that looked different from the eagle feathers she had seen and was curious to what bird they belonged. Ben had explained the different dances earlier, so she recognized the man to be a men’s traditional dancer. Rey now knew the man’s traditional headdress, known as a roach, was made of porcupine hair and held two eagle feathers in the top center of his head. As he came closer, Rey grew more and more intimidated of the dancer whose face was painted a blood red from the nose up, making it even harder to identify him. She wondered if he was Jay’s father. His white teeth flashed as he smiled and when he was only inches away, towering over her and Rose, Rey finally recognized Jay. He fist-bumped Ben and greeted the friends once more.

“Holy crap,” Poe exclaimed. “Dude, I would’ve walked right past you. You look so different.”

“Like a warrior,” Tali smiled up at him. Jay winked at her and put one leg up on the bleachers next to Rose and rested an elbow on his knee.

Rey silently observed every detail of his ensemble and couldn’t get enough of the beautiful designs and colors. “Did you make all this yourself?”

“I sure did. We believe every dancer should make their own regalia. So, sewing the base and beading the accessories like cuffs, arm bands, hair pieces, and so on,” Jay said looking down at his outfit and pointing at the items he was mentioning.

“Wow,” Finn said what Rey was thinking.

“Ben actually helped me with these couple years ago,” Jay said pointing at the two leather bands above his moccasins that had multiple bells attached to them. Rey looked at Ben with her eyebrows raised and he nodded, answering her unspoken question.

“I always know exactly where Jay is,” Ben crossed his arms and smiled at his friend. “I can recognize his bells anywhere.”

“So, I can’t sneak up on you then, huh?” Jay laughed.

“You can try,” Ben grinned and teasingly raised his eyebrow.

“What’re the bells for?” Finn asked.

“Oh, they just help keep the rhythm with the beat of the drum,” he answered him.

“Well, I can’t wait to see you dance!” Rose clapped her hands together.

“Speaking of, I should probably get in position. Grand entry is starting here pretty soon. My category is the first one, so I’ll come to you guys when I’m done, alright? Then we’ll have some time to hang out.”

“No, worries. Take your time. We’re taking it all in,” Poe reassured him. “Good luck!”

“We’ll root for ya!” Finn gave him a thumbs up and Jay walked off, his bells jingling and feathers swaying. It really was an impressive sight, she thought. All the dancers began assembling at the East side of the circular dance arena and the MC announced grand entry and asked everyone to stand up to show respect for the flags, the dancers, the drummers and the ancestors. The drums began to sound and Rey watched as flag carriers slowly moved their feet to the beat of the drums and made their way clockwise around the dance arena.

“You see the man holding the staff with eagle feathers?” Ben asked quietly, slightly leaning down to Rey. She nodded, looking at the dancer similarly dressed as Jay. “That’s Cliff, Jay’s dad,” he explained. “He served in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a veteran he has the honor of carrying the eagle staff which represents the culture and the clans.” More and more dancers entered the arena and when Rey spotted Jay, she watched his every elegant and on-beat movement. He was now carrying a fan made of feathers in one hand and a beaded stick with a dried talon on the end in the other. His feathers jerked back and forth and all the fringes swayed to his movements. After grand entry and when the dance competitions began, Rey and her friends watched Jay and his father dance in their category with so much precision and elegance all the while in such a proud and dignified manner. The others wanted to walk around the the gymnasium to see what the vendor stands had to offer but Rey decided to watch the different dances. As a dancer, herself, she was incredibly intrigued and captivated by the unfamiliar and culturally significant dance styles. Ben stayed with her and offered insight to the various regalias and dance forms. Jay and his father danced multiple rounds and when they were finished, Jay came back to Ben and Rey, now wearing an incomplete ensemble with only the red shirt and apron on.

“You guys hungry yet?” Jay asked. “Rey, you should try Navajo tacos. It’s the best thing you’ll ever eat.”

“Oh, wow. Consider me intrigued,” Rey smiled up at him. They got up and followed Jay to a stand that sold Native American frybread, chili and Navajo tacos. They stood in line and when it was their turn to order, a short elderly woman with two long, thin, gray braids wearing a stained kitchen apron smiled at them and clapped her hands, her eyes sparkling and her wrinkles moving upwards into a pleased smile.

“Young Solo, is that you, hito?” She asked with a croaky but sweet voice.

“Oh my god, Mrs. Romero!” Ben exclaimed with wide eyes. “How are you?”

“Good, Creator still has a few years in stock for me.”

He chuckled, “oh, good. Someone has to make the best frybread on the rez.”

“Oh, you!” She waved it off and smiled. She looked at Rey when she noticed Ben holding her hand, she asked, “well, who’s this? Your girlfriend?”

“Yes, ma’am. This is Rey.”

“Oh, qué linda! She’s beautiful!”

Rey smiled at her and stretched her hand over the counter. “Nice to meet you.”

“Hello, Rey.” She shook her hand and looked back at Ben with a simper. “She has pure eyes, good soul that one!” Ben proudly smiled down at Rey as his hand glided along her back and down around her waist.

“This is Mary Romero, she’s a family friend,” Jay explained. “Tia,” he addressed her. “Rey’s never tried Navajo tacos before. Can we get three?”

“Of course, mi hito. Coming right up,” she winked. As she was preparing their food, she asked Ben, “how’s your momma, hito?”

“Oh, ugh,” Ben became a bit less calm. “I haven’t spoken to her in a while.”

She glanced at him worriedly. “Why is that?”

“We, ugh, we had a falling out a few years ago. I haven’t seen her since.”

“Oh, mijo! You should go to her. Don’t fight among family.”

“I don’t think she wants to talk to me, tia.”

“She’s your mother. Of course she wants to talk to you. And I’m sure she would love to meet your gorgeous girl.”

Rey noticed Ben getting nervous and gently ran her hand along his back but without looking at him to make sure the others wouldn’t notice her efforts to comfort him. She didn’t want him to feel the need to react, so she continued subtly rubbing his back and avoiding eye contact.

“We’ll see,” Ben finally answered.

“I’m sure you guys will find back to each other,” she reassured him, having noticed his pain. When she was finished she gave the three teenagers their tacos and they dug in. The Navajo taco consisted of a round piece of frybread topped with meat, beans, lettuce, sour cream, salsa, cheese and tomatoes. Rey took a bite and knew straight away this was her new favorite food.

“Wow, you weren’t joking, Jay! This is the best thing I’ve ever tasted!”

Jay laughed and nodded amused. “I’m glad you like it!” The two boys smiled at each other pleased and enjoyed their own tacos.

Chapter Text

When they finished their food, they walked around the gymnasium and were found by Poe, Finn, Tali and Rose who each had at least one tote bag filled with their purchases which Rose gleefully showed them. Rose was already wearing some of the jewelry she had bought off an elderly Mescalero Apache woman that excelled in the traditional art form of Native American beadwork.

The friends decided to make another round through the vendors to give the other three a chance to find something nice as well. Jay purchased a few strands of sweet grass and two bundles of white sage. Rey found a beige fleece blanket with a colorful design balanced with arrowheads which Jay described as the Chief Jospeh pattern. He explained that Chief Jospeh was a Nez Perce Chief that led his people in the 1800s and was admired for protecting his people and being an incredibly truthful and generous leader. He was later honored with the pattern that symbolizes bravery, strength and integrity.

Jay also explained that the Pendleton wool blankets were the most valued and legendary because they kept the victims of the Indian Removal Act warm during their harsh and brutal journey to their new settlement issued by the government. Many more would’ve demised had they not been shielded from the harsh conditions by their wool blankets.

“Today, when someone is to be honored for a great deed or achievement, they are given a Pendleton blanket,” Jay spoke to Rey as she felt the soft fabric in her hands. “They’re pretty expensive, so it’s a big deal,” he winked. “This one may not be a Pendleton original,” he said pointing at the fleece blanket in her hands, “but it still does the job. And honors the great Nez Perce leader, regardless.”

Rey was fascinated by how much significance and meaning were put into everyday items that in her own culture and society deemed menial. She purchased the blanket from the young woman sitting in her camping chair behind the stand. Rey handed her the money and the woman’s two thick, dark braids bounced off her chest as she leaned towards Rey, her white teeth flashing and warm eyes meeting her own. Rey thanked her and continued to the next stand with the others.

Poe was purchasing something already as Rey approached the table with a variety of stickers with Native designs and printed artwork. She was surprised at how much nerdy artwork had been displayed. Themes of Marvel, Star Wars, Lord of the Rings – which Poe most likely had already found - all with a Native American twist. One small sticker had the poster art of Marvel’s Captain America: The First Avenger on it but not with Chris Evans as the character. Instead, it was Sitting Bull, the legendary Hunkpapa Lakota Chief that led his people during the years of resistance against the United States government. Rey smiled at the satirical artwork and the fact that this depiction couldn’t be more accurate. These people were the true defenders of America, yet nobody acknowledged it. Rey felt her stomach tighten at the thought of the atrocities Jay’s people and his ancestors had to endure and what they still have to endure to this day. She felt heat rise to her cheeks and blew out a breath of frustration. Ben noticed and drew an idle circle on her shoulder with his finger. As she looked up to him, his eyes were asking if she was alright. She smiled and shook her head as if to say it was nothing. He put his arm around her shoulders and kissed her temple and continued walking from stand to stand.

When they came to one that sold various types of silver jewelry, Tali and Rose tried on the different silver bracelets with intricate designs and turquoise stones embedded. Rey noticed one very slim, simple silver bracelet that bisected in the center, holding a small butterfly made of four small turquoise rocks. Her eyes lingered on the piece, and she startled when a low male voice spoke to her from behind the stand.

“You may pick it up and try it on,” he purred. Rey looked at his dark, wrinkled face and obeyed. She knew it was a suggestion or more a permission to touch his artwork, but she didn’t want to insult him by declining. His worn out, beige cowboy hat threw a shadow over his dark eyes that Rey knew had seen many hurdles and life experiences. The man’s wrinkly, bony fingers gently reached for her arm and he showed her how to comfortably slide the stiff bracelet on without having to bend it. He poked one end into the softest part of her arm and gently slid the cuff around her wrist. Perfect fit.

“You can squeeze it a bit to adjust the size, but it looks like you don’t have to,” he smiled. It was beautiful. Simple, elegant and unique.

“Do you like butterflies?” The old man asked.

“Oh, I- I guess so. I’ve never thought about it but sure,” she answered honestly.

“Ah, I thought maybe because you went straight to that one you might have a connection to them.”

She shook her head and shrugged slightly. “It’s absolutely beautiful,” she praised his work.

The man studied her a bit before saying, “You know. The butterfly has good medicine.” Rey looked up in confusion. “The butterfly symbolizes growth, change, improvement, … and hope.” He said the last word with enough expectation in his voice as if it would trigger something in her. Which she guessed it did, somehow. “The blue butterfly,” he continued, “especially symbolizes beauty, grace and balance. It’s a person’s essence, or soul either in the past, present or,” he glanced at Ben who was now listening a few steps away, “future.”

Rey looked deep into the man’s eyes and felt a mixture of confusion and understanding.

“You can think of it as a tie throughout the universe.”

She didn’t know what to say, so she asked, “how much is it?”

“That one, for you, seventy-five.”

Her eyes dropped and she sighed disappointed as she realized she spent most of her day’s budget on the blanket. “I’m sorry. I can’t afford that. It’s absolutely stunning, though.”

The man bowed his head in understanding and sat back down in his camping chair that was cushioned with a blanket but still squeaked as he sank into it. She smiled again at him and slid her hand in Ben’s as they - in their own pace - caught up to the others.

After a while, the dancing had stopped and men and women were gathering in the arena and all opening their braids and buns. First the women lined up next to each other all with their beautiful, silky long hair flowing as they turned their heads while they waited. Jay explained that sometimes they have long hair competitions. Whoever has the longest hair, gets a small prize. Another way of expressing how much long hair is valued in the culture. When the women found a winner they went on to the men. Tali suggested Jay should participate but declined, saying he’d rather be the one to cheer on the others. Rey agreed with Tali in thinking he would definitely have a shot with the two thick, silky black braids he proudly wore. But they didn’t push him.

After the winners had received their prize money, there was a showcase of single hand drummers singing original round dance songs. Some drummers sang in English and some in a language Rey didn’t recognize but guessed to be their ancestral language. Jay knew one of the singers who was up next and decided to get a little closer to support him during his performance, Tali right behind him. Rey looked up at Ben who was slightly nodding his head to the beat. Back straight, arms crossed, legs one foot apart, his face stoic and eyes sparkling, she could’ve sworn he felt a connection to the ancient rhythm. Warrior, she thought. Ben too could’ve been a warrior in another time. Maybe in their time, in a different way, in his own way, he was one. He definitely had personal battles to fight. Many things from his past he had to deal with. She studied him and his eyes slowly turned to her.

“Yes?” He asked softly.

“Nothing,” she smiled and wrapped her fingers around his bicep, resting her head on his shoulder. He kissed the top of her head and returned his attention to the beat of the drum.

A large hand appeared on Ben’s shoulder before a man a few inches shorter than Ben emerged and smiled at him. It was Jay’s face but more mature and darker. The man looked like he could’ve been Jay’s older brother, except she knew he didn’t have any siblings.

“Cliff!” Ben said with a pleased smile and opened his arms to him just as Rey let go of him and stepped away for him to do so.

“Oh, it’s good to see you, Junior! How you been?” The man embraced him with so much warmth and comfort in his eyes. They exchanged pleasantries before Ben introduced the man as Jay’s father. Rey was surprised at how young he looked and reached for his hand as he held out his. She could tell Ben was truly elated to see Cliff, especially after so many years and she grew excited for him.

“So, you kids going to forty-nine?”

“Oh, no. Probably not. I don’t think so,” Ben answered him. “Jay didn’t say anything, but maybe if the others wanna go.”

“What’s forty-nine?” Rey asked.

“It’s the party after a pow wow,” Ben said.

“Mostly for adults,” Cliff winked. “They usually have a band that plays, and some booze makes its rounds.”

Rey’s confusion must’ve been written on her face as Ben explained, “Alcohol isn’t permitted on pow wow grounds. So, after everything is done, people party at night. And that’s called forty-nine.”

“That’s where I met Jay’s mom,” he smiled but Rey could see the pain in his eyes at the mention of his late wife. “Hey, Sacheen is making green chili. You and your friends should come by for dinner tonight.”

Ben looked at Rey waiting for her opinion on that, so she answered, “We don’t have any plans for dinner yet so sure. We’d love to.” Ben nodded in agreement and Cliff patted Ben on the shoulder before he turned on his heel and made his way to the exit.

After a while and lots of moaning bellies later, the friends decided to join Jay’s family at their camping lot and made their way to the campground outside the gymnasium. Rey noticed it was already dark outside as they exited the building but large spotlights around the field lit up the area where all the tents and campers were set up.

As they walked towards the lot where Jay’s family were camping, Rey leaned into Ben and whispered, “I thought Cliff was Jay’s brother at first. He looks so young.”

“That’s because he is,” Ben whispered back. “Jay’s parents were only fifteen or sixteen when Jay’s mom got pregnant with him. Two years later they got his sister and-”

“Jay has a little sister?”

“Had,” Ben frowned, “she passed away when she was only five.”

“Oh,” Rey sighed and looked towards Jay who was teasing Tali a few steps ahead of them.

“She got hit by a drunk driver.”

“They’ve suffered great losses,” she sighed and shook her head in sorrow.

“Yeah, it amazes me every time, y’know, how they can both still be so positive and cheerful.”

“Just because they don’t show their pain doesn’t mean it’s not there,” she gave him a sorrowful smile.

“Hmm.”

“Ben?”

“Yeah?”

“Y’know…” she trailed off, but he took her hand encouraging her to finish her thought. “I just wanted to tell you, uhm-”

His brows furrowed but waited patiently for her to continue.

“If you ever want or need to talk, y’know about anything. I’m here.”

He studied her face for two breaths before nodding gratefully. He pulled her hand up to his lips and kissed the back of her hand before he looped his arm with their interlocked fingers around her shoulders and breathed in her ear, “that goes for you too.” She smiled and gently squeezed his hand in thanks.

The friends took a seat around the campfire. There were a few camping chairs around a fire with Jay’s family’s camper parked right behind the half circle of chairs. Cliff, a young woman, two children and another man around Cliff’s age were already sitting and getting ready to dig into the food that had been prepared. The man wore a red flannel and had his hair tied with white yarn into a low bun and was speaking to the young woman with her long, smooth, ravenous locks moving like silk along her back. Her dark-brown eyes glistened, reflecting the bright flames. Her oval face was framed by curtain bangs, her round lips were naturally crimson and her olive skin was absolutely flawless. Rey admired her charm and elegance and instantly knew who this young woman most likely was. The dark-haired beauty jumped up and squealed as she saw the group of friends approach them. She ran towards them and flung her arms around Ben.

“Oh, my god, hito!” She said still embracing Ben. “It’s about time you show your face around here again.”

“Hey, Jellybean,” Ben raised her off the ground with one arm. Rey’s friends were just as surprised as her by his reaction, seeing as Ben hated hugs and they rarely saw him embrace anyone as warm as that.

Jay must’ve sensed something and quickly gestured to the beautiful girl in Ben’s arms, “Guys, I’d like you to meet my wonderful cousin, Sacheen Tsosie.” Ben put her down and walked over to the fire, greeting the man next to Cliff as Sacheen turned her attention to her and her friends. Jay kissed Sacheen’s cheek in greeting before adding, “How come I don’t get a ‘hello’ like that?”

“I see you all the time, he’s a rare creature that one,” she pointed back at Ben before embracing Tali with another more subtle squeal and then shaking everyone’s hand.

Jay gestured towards the man and then the two children,” that’s Victor, Sacheen’s dad and those are her twins, Mira and Marlon.”

Rey looked at the two children, who were maybe around eleven or twelve years old, and then back to Sacheen, who she never would’ve guessed to have children already. She didn’t look much older than her and her friends. Youthful genes must run in the family, she thought.

“Come over to the fire, guys, take a seat and have some chili,” Sacheen gestured to follow her.

The chili was delicious, too spicy for Finn and Rose but Poe and Rey enjoyed every spoonful. Along with two bowls of chili, Rey ate three pieces of fresh frybread with melted butter on them and slumped into her camping chair, belly completely full. Marlon was cuddled up onto Ben’s chest half asleep while Mira had found a seat on Poe’s lap and was wide awake, sharing every detail of her life with Poe who listened patiently and politely until she was finished. After a while, Marlon got up and followed his mother into the camper to go to bed which gave Mira the opportunity to replace him on Ben’s lap. The twins must’ve missed him as well and seeing either children with Ben made her think of Kenton. She assumed his thoughts were probably also with Kenton as he stroked Mira’s hair and her eyelids began to flutter in relaxation.

Rey stretched out her legs to let the fire warm her and looked up at the starry sky. For a moment she stared at the twinkling bright lights of the universe above her and wondered how long they sparkled so bright and if Jay’s ancestors had looked at the same stars she saw. She closed her eyes and inhaled the clear night air and listened to the crackling of the fire and the symphony the locusts and crickets had to offer. Cliff tried getting Mira off of Ben’s lap as it was well past her bedtime but he had a hard time, seeing as she didn’t want to leave him. He finally succeeded and as he returned from inside the camper, having put the twins to bed, he held an old guitar in his hands. Rey saw Poe’s eyes glisten and knew it wouldn’t be long until he was the one to serenade them. Cliff made sure the instrument was in tune and began plucking the strings, bringing forth a song Rey only recognized as House of the Rising Sun by The Animals until Cliff’s voice accompanied his strumming. Poe began singing along with his melodious voice, making Cliff raise his eyebrows in surprise.

When they finished the song, Cliff asked, “Do you play, kid?”

“Yes, sir. I do,” Poe nodded.

“When doesn’t he play?” Finn said smiling at his friend.

Rey smiled and added, “he’s really good. He’s our entrainment whenever we go camping or have a bonfire.”

“Well, then let’s see what you got,” Cliff smiled, handing him the guitar.

Poe situated himself, getting a feel for Cliff’s guitar.

“Can we make requests?” Tali said who was now sitting on the ground in front of Jay, leaning back into his legs. Poe nodded and when Tali asked him to play I See Fire by Ed Sheeran, his eyes were filled with pleasure and he gladly accepted, putting his hand over his heart.

“Ah, Lord of The Rings,” Rose rolled her eyes at Poe’s enthusiastic face.

“No, smartass,” Poe huffed, “Hobbit.”

Rose put her hands up and shrugged as the others’ laughter rang over the fire. Rey glanced at Ben who was leaned back in his chair with his arms crossed and long legs stretched out. When he noticed her, he winked and gave her a warm smile making heat rise in her cheeks and her stomach flutter. Poe’s voice was calm, steady and everyone listened quietly, letting him sing them to a state of serenity. Rey gently swayed to the melody and felt a sense of pride at Poe’s beautiful performance. When he was finished, Tali and Sacheen clapped and Cliff, Jay and Ben gave him impressed nods.

“You weren’t lying. You really can play… and sing,” Cliff winked at him. “You have one helluva voice, kid.”

After everyone complemented him, Sacheen casually asked, “have you ever sang with Ben?”

Everyone’s head turned to Ben, except for Tali and Jay’s family who weren’t as surprised at that question as Rey and her friends.

“Solo, you sing?” Poe asked surprised.

“Not really,” he purred giving Sacheen a displeased look.

She only shrugged and Cliff said, “sure you do. He gets it from his mom. She has a beautiful voice.”

Tali smiled teasingly at Ben as if she knew he wasn’t going to not sing for them tonight and Jay and his family wouldn’t let him get out of this one. The Yazzie’s could be very persuasive.

“As kids,” Jay began, “every year for my birthday we had a small bonfire and we’d sing and play instruments. And the highlight of that day was getting to spend it with Ben and singing traditional or any other campfire songs with him.”

Ben gave him a mixed look of appreciation at the memories and one of displeasure of knowing what Jay was getting at.

“It was my birthday couple a weeks ago. And you weren’t there, so,” Jay held Ben’s gaze.

“That’s a cheap move,” Ben sighed.

“But I think it’s working,” he grinned back to which Ben clicked his tongue. “You know what I wanna hear.”

“Wait!” Cliff jumped up and hopped in the camper. He immediately came back out with a small silver harmonica in his hand. “Can’t sing a song by The Boss without this.” Cliff whispered something to Poe who nodded and grinned at Ben.

Cliff put the harmonica to his mouth and gave Poe a nod to start the intro of Bruce Springsteen’s The River. Rey looked at Ben who leaned forward, resting his forearms on his knees and shaking his head in defeat. When he began, Rey couldn’t believe her ears. His deep, baritone voice was smooth and smoky, sending a chill down her spine. The bass in his voice vibrated over to her and she stay still letting his voice relax every muscle in her body. She looked over to Jay who was smiling at her and gave her knowing nod and Rey could’ve sworn people from the other camping lots fell quiet too, listening to the beautiful music the trio were offering. With a content smile, Rey returned her attention to the fire and let the ballad carry away her thoughts and worries.

Chapter Text

The calming crackling sound of the fire was the only thing she heard as the music stopped and everyone grew quiet. Ben didn’t give anyone the chance to comment on his surprisingly beautiful singing voice and instead asked Cliff if he had his hand drum on him.

Ben turned to Rey, “you think the guys in the arena can drum? You should hear Cliff and Sacheen sing.”

Sacheen blushed but quickly explained to Rey that she was sometimes a backup singer at pow wows whenever her dad or Cliff were a part of the drum group. As Cliff brought out his round, flat traditional hand drum made of dried rawhide with a black and turquoise bear paw painted on it, Sacheen explained that all hand drum songs have one verse that is repeated four times. Four times as that number is sacred and honors the medicine wheel. The songs usually have the theme of a love song and are often sung for communal round dances.

“What’s a medicine wheel?” Rose asked with her hands perched on her fists, elbows resting on her knees. Her straight, jet-black hair swayed in the evening breeze.

Cliff pushed his thick braid over his shoulder and pulled out a leather necklace through the collar of his shirt with a small pendant in the shape of a wheel with four spokes. Each spoke was a different color: red, black, yellow and white.

“The medicine wheel is the symbol of all things sacred. The wheel is life, balance and all knowledge of the universe,” Cliff explained. “It’s a metaphor for a variety of spiritual concepts. The circle represents the circle of life and that it is eternally ongoing. The four spokes represent all four sacred things such as the four natural elements, four cardinal directions, four stages of life, four seasons, four human races, etc.”

“It reminds us to stay connected and in balance with ourselves and Mother Earth,” Jay added. Jay pulled out his keys and pointed to a keychain made of a small cylindrical beaded base with leather fringes hanging from the bottom. In the four sacred colors was that same symbol incorporated into the beadwork.

“Is that what that is on your chain bracelet?” Tali looked up, addressing Sacheen who nodded and showed a small metal version of the symbol dangling from a fine chain link bracelet on her wrist. Tali examined the metal charm that she held between her fingers.

Sacheen nodded to Ben, “he has the same one.”

Rey’s eyes went straight to Ben’s wrist which was full of multiple leather bands, thin chain link bracelets and the one bracelet she made him a few weeks ago with her name on it. He twisted some of the silver chain bracelets and there it was, that same metal version of the medicine wheel. The twin to Sacheen’s charm. She had never noticed it before. She wondered why Ben had twin charms with Sacheen and looked back and forth between the two.

“Ah, so you do still have it,” Jay’s cousin teased, her beautiful almond shaped eyes sparkling in the light of the fire and her bangs lightly bouncing as she moved.

“Of course, I still have it. Why wouldn’t I?” He almost seemed offended. Jay gave Ben a pleased and slightly proud smile and patted his knee.

“Uhm,” Tali perked up from between Jay’s knees looking back and forth between Sacheen and Ben, “that better not be a best friend charm.” She crossed her arms in a pout.

“You know what I like that idea!” Sacheen answered her. “Sure, Ben you’re my bestie. This proves it.” She held up her wrist and pointed at the charm.

“No, no, no,” Tali shook her head, “find your own bestie. This one’s mine!” She moved her pointer finger back and forth.

Sacheen’s warm, melodious laugh filled the chilly air. She put her hands up defensively, “ok, ok. You win.”

Ben leaned to Tali and squeezed her shoulder, “naw, you’re so cute when you get all jealous and protective.”

Tali stuck out her tongue and gave him vulgar gesture to which he laughed. “There’s only room for one best friend,” she smirked at Ben.

“Sure,” Ben rolled his eyes.

“Say it,” she looked at him menacingly.

“Say what?”

“That I’m your best friend in the whole wide world.”

“For what?”

“Say it.”

“No.”

“Say it.”

“Don’t leave her hanging like that, Solo,” Poe chimed in playfully.

“I’m not gunna let loose until you say it,” she crossed her arms again.

“What is this? Jerry Springer?” Ben threw up his hands. Cliff, Jay and Sacheen laughed but stayed out of it. “Why do I have to say it?”

“It’s good to admit your feelings, Ben,” Rey answered for her, joining in on teasing her boyfriend.

“Whose side are you on?” Ben looked at her offended.

“We’re both on your side,” Tali said in an overly calm and loving voice which Rey knew was to mock the situation. “We love you,” she put her hand on his arm and batted her lashes.

Ben huffed, rolled his eyes dramatically and shook his head. “Will you shut up if I do?”

Tali grinned from ear to ear, “yes.”

“Fine,” he turned in his seat to face Tali, took her hand in his. “Tali, you're my best friend.”

“Thank you.”

“Fine.”

“Now repeat that one more time for Kuruk,” she said getting out her phone and acted as if she were going to call their mutual friend.

“You annoying little shit,” he said gently putting his hand over her face and pushing her away. She laughed and smiled up at him victoriously as Ben shifted back in his chair letting out a long sigh.

Everyone laughed and Rose chuckled as she addressed Finn and Poe, “that could literally be you two!”

Poe chuckled, “what are you talking about? I tell him every morning and every night that he’s my best friend and I love him.” He pointed his thumb in Finn’s direction.

Finn put a hand on his chest, leaned back and laughed wholeheartedly. “That’s true,” Finn reached over to seductively rub Poe’s chest.

“Watch and learn, Ben!” Tali said gesturing to Finn and Poe. Ben smiled and shook his head. Rey loved how relaxed and at ease Ben seemed. She knew he was enjoying the teasing and wasn’t actually annoyed by anything that was being said. She knew he had a playful side and enjoyed watching him show it a little bit. She was grateful of how all of her friends were truly enjoying themselves.

“Actually, I have to take that back a little bit. Ben can be very sweet. When he wants to be… which is rare,” Tali added.

“You get enough affection from me and you know it,” he retorted.

She got up and hugged him from behind which he acted as though he hated every second of it. “There’s room for improvement. But, you’re the bestest bro I could ask for.”

“Ok.”

“Very loyal and always has my back.”

Ben half-grinned at her glancing at her sideways as her arms tightened around his neck.

“You know what he would tell me to say if kids were being mean to me?” She asked nobody in particular. “That I was truly special and they were just jealous.”

She kissed his cheek as Ben asked, “and what did I tell you to say when they still gave you a hard time?”

“My brother can have you eliminated with just one phone call.”

“That’s my girl!” Ben said proudly and patted her arm that was still wrapped around his neck.

Cliff’s deep laugh rang over the fire and Rey thought his chair tipped back a bit as he held his stomach, throwing back his head. Rey could absolutely see that situation happening and laughed with the others.

Tali gave him another squeeze before saying, “you better give her more affection than that little amount you call enough.” She gently slapped his cheek a few times then returned to her spot by Jay.

“Of course, unlike you she deserves it,” Ben teased then looked at Rey with a soft smile. Tali gave him another vulgar gesture as she drank from her Pepsi can and the group’s laughter rang in Rey’s ears again. Rey smiled and shook her head before turning her focus to Cliff and Sacheen who were ready to sing and drum.

The beat of the drum mimicked the beat of a heart and the song Cliff and Sacheen chanted was one their ancestors sang long before anything they knew existed. It was beautiful and Rey watched as the beat and the chant took over everyone’s mind and soul. She felt it in her core. This ancient chant, which she didn’t understand but she felt, was a promise. An ancestral promise. A promise to the universe. A promise to Mother Earth. A promise to love, respect and continue their ways of life. To stay proud, resilient and continue to fight for their culture, their people and their future.

The Yazzie family shared some more songs and stories of traditional life and of their ways with Rey and her friends. She was truly grateful and honored to have been invited into that special place and spend the evening with these special people. She had never truly known any indigenous people. There hadn’t ever really been an opportunity to encounter any, unless she just hadn’t recognized any to have been indigenous. The stories and information they had gotten in school was far from the reality. The image of the indigenous peoples of the Americas had been veiled in lies. Many people she knew probably still thought the Native American was extinct. But, they were here. Alive and breathing. And different from what she was taught about them. Not just Jay’s family, but everyone she had engaged in any interaction with at the pow wow was different from the idea that had been planted in her mind. She decided to learn more about these people and find out more truths that might have been swept under America’s rug. She hoped to see the Yazzie family again soon and decided not just for herself but especially for Ben that it was beneficial to keep in contact.

Before it got too late, they decided to return to their rented home of the weekend. They thanked the family for dinner and the wonderful evening in general before the six friends returned to their cars and drove back to the log home. On the hour drive home, Rey fell asleep after ten minutes and only awoke just as Ben pulled into the driveway. Everyone was so tired as they climbed the stairs to the house and vanished into their rooms immediately after entering the house.

“I’m gunna take a quick shower,” Ben said, taking off his jacket then shirt.

Rey nodded and put her own jacket over the back rest of the wooden chair near the window. Ben entered the bathroom and when the door closed, she slipped off her own top and jeans to change into something more comfortable for bed. She got a whiff of smoke and pressed the shirt to her nose. After smelling her hair which also smelled of campfire, she bunched up her top and put it in her dirty clothes bag she had in her suitcase. As she was squatting in front of her suitcase, she grabbed her pajamas and glanced at the bathroom door from which running water sounds were coming. She looked at the door for a moment. Then, she stood up, walked over to the door leading to the hallway and turned the key in its lock. She walked back over to the bathroom door and stood there for a while. Then she took a deep breath and knocked twice.

“I’m almost done, sweetheart,” Ben’s muffled voice came through the door.

“Can I come in?”

Silence.

“Ben?”

“Yeah, sure.”

Deep breath. She turned the knob and slowly slipped inside. The shower’s glass doors were fogged up, yet still revealed the outline of Ben’s tall, broad figure. The towel rack was directly installed onto one of the doors, perfectly covering anything below his navel. Rey walked over to the sink and took off her jewelry and set it next to Ben’s belongings. She slid her hair tie off the small bun atop her head and glanced in the mirror to see Ben scrubbing his chest. Her heart rate elevated and she felt heat rise to her cheeks. Closed her eyes, she took another deep breath. She pulled down her pajama shorts which she had slipped on moments before. Then her bra, then her socks and panties. She turned to faced him. He was turned away from her, his jet-black hair was stuck to his head and neck, his broad shoulders glistening from the water trickling down his back. He barely fit under the shower head which was sitting too low for his height. She slowly walked over to the shower and opened the glass door. He turned to face her as he heard the sound of the door opening and his eyes met hers. Not once did they wander. His face was unreadable and for a second she regretted her decision in surprising him this way. But his lips slightly curled into smirk, and he moved so she could fully enter. The warm water from the shower head hit her and she moved closer to him. She held his gaze and put her hand on his wet, strong chest. One of his hands found her hip and then slid behind her to pull her in closer to him. His other hand gently held her chin, tipping it upwards as he brushed his lips on hers. Rey closed her eyes and slid both of her hands up his chest and around his neck as they kissed. Their wet bodies were now completely touching, and she smiled as his length touched her belly button. His hands slid down further and he began massaging her backside. Their kiss grew more passionate and she could feel the heat in her core grow with every movement of their lips and tongues. Her breasts tightened and she felt the apex between her thighs begin to throb. His mouth moved down her neck, leaving a trail of soft, affectionate kisses behind. She let out a soft groan and as she looked up, his hungry eyes met hers and he smiled as he put a finger on his lips. She bit her bottom lip and let her fingers trace the muscles of his abdomen until she got to his base. He placed his fingers around her chin and lifted her head up to look at him and then gently brushed his thumb over her trembling lips. He caught her wandering hand and to her disappointment, placed it on his chest. Then that hand cupped her breast as his lips returned to her neck. Rey closed her eyes and let his touch take over all her senses. With his other hand he gently caressed her stomach down and along the inside of her thigh. A shiver went down her spine and she arched her back at his caress. The first stroke of his finger against her dragged a deep but soft moan from her. Finally, he began making lazy circles and she bowed into the touch. His other hand moved up to the back of her head as he gently pushed her to the shower wall to shield her from bumping into it. His fingers continued their teasing as his lips brushed her cheek, chin and collar bone. Her hair was drenched at this point but she didn’t care. All she could think was what his touch was capable of making her feel. Her mouth went dry and her breathing became heavier, making her whole chest rise and sink. He was pleased with her reaction and his lazy circles became quicker and more intense. Her body, mind, soul and all her senses were now pinned down to the feeling of his fingers. She captured his mouth with her own as he slid one finger into her core. She yielded fully to him and he repeated the movement, slow and hard. And when her body signaled it was ready for more, his tempo sped up and his movements grew more intense. Every part of her narrowed down to his touch and an explosion of her universe made her cry out. Her body shuddered as he wrapped his strong arm around her waist, holding her as she fell limp in his embrace. Her legs trembled and Ben’s approving smile made her refocus on reality. He gave her a much more soft and affectionate kiss than the ones a few moments ago and as she caught her breath, she smiled back at him with her eyes full of love and fulfillment. Her hand wandered to his hard base again, wanting to feel him but he gently caught her hand in his, bringing it to his lips and kissing the back of her hand as he gently shook his head. They both had not spoken one word throughout this intimate moment. She realized they hadn’t needed to say anything. They understood each other perfectly without words.

After they washed off, they stepped out and Ben placed a towel over her shoulders, rubbing her arms and then pressing a kiss to her temple. He grabbed another towel and wrapped it around his waist. When they were close to dry, they stepped outside of the bathroom and Rey put on her blush pajama shorts and top while Ben slid on a fresh pair of black boxer shorts. Rey watched him move around the room and watched his muscles contract and relax as he picked various things up from the ground. She didn’t pay attention to what it exactly was that he was doing, her eyes were set on his incredibly muscle-toned figure. As he came back from hanging his towel up over the shower door, she met him at the bathroom entrance and slipped her arms around his waist. He kissed the top of her head as she leaned into him and his scent filled her nostrils. They held each other for a moment before Ben reached down, picked her up and gently carried her to the bed. All the while receiving her kisses. He placed her on the bed and still holding onto his neck, she pulled him on top of her. He chuckled and continued receiving multiple pecks. She grabbed his face and captured his mouth with hers as he lifted himself off of her. They slipped under the sheets and she turned away from him so he could nestle up behind her. She leaned into him as she felt his hard warmth on her back and his warm breath on her neck. His broad hand slid under her arm and onto her stomach, pressing her closer to him. With her hips she began nudging towards him. When there was no reaction, she made a circular motion with her hips, arching her back so that her backside was pushed up against anything under his waistline. He let out an amused huff and pressed his hand into her stomach, shifting her even closer and whispered, “sleep, Rey.”

She was slightly disappointed but turned to him, kissed his nose and smiled. “Goodnight, Ben Solo.”

“Goodnight, sweetheart.”

The beat of his heart, his breathing, his scent and his warmth quickly swayed her to sleep.

Chapter Text

When she awoke, she was still faced away from Ben, but she couldn’t feel him beside her anymore. She shifted around to see where he had gone. But, when she turned to face him, she found him on his side, his cheek resting on his fist and looking down at her, smiling. She smiled back and rubbed her face before saying, “Good morning.”

“Hi,” he reached to her face, sweeping a loose strand out of her face.

She closed her eyes and leaned into the gentle touch. A huff coming from Ben signaled his amusement. She nestled her face into the pillow while resting her gaze on his beautiful, prominent features.

Rey sighed with contentment before she said, “this is nice waking up to.”

He took her hand and brushed his lips over the back and added, “told you I’d be here this time.”

She smiled and let out an amused sigh, “how long have you been awake?”

“A while,” he shrugged. He looked deep into her eyes as if he were searching for something. She couldn’t read his expression, so she softened hers. He looked at her, eyes filled with affection before saying, “hey, I have something for you.”

He leaned back to reach his nightstand and opened the drawer, pulling something small out of it. “I meant to give it to you yesterday when we got home but then I got distracted… y’know when you attacked me.”

“Attacked you?”

“Mhm,” he smirked confidently.

“I very shyly slipped in and didn’t say a word.”

“Attacked,” he repeated. “I had no choice but to surrender to your needs,” he put up his hands defensively and Rey laughed, playfully punching his chest. He winked and then opened his hand which held whatever small item he wanted to give her. In one swift movement he had it between his thumb and forefinger and Rey’s eyes widened when she recognized the butterfly bracelet from the pow wow.

“What?” She took it out of his hand and studied it. “Where did you get this?”

“I bought it,” his eyebrow raised slightly.

“Yeah, but when did you get this? I was with you the whole time.”

“I’m super sneaky,” he teased as he took the bracelet out of her hand and then reached for her arm, gently sliding it on her wrist.

“Ben, this is too much. I can’t take this.”

“Yes, you can.”

“Really, I can’t.”

“You can, and you kind of have to. I can’t return it and doesn’t fit me.” He held up is broad, healthy wrist in demonstration.

She let out a sigh of defeat, “thank you, it’s beautiful.”

“You’re welcome,” he kissed her temple and she slid into his arms.

“Let’s get one thing straight,” her tone grew more assertive, and she twisted to look at him. “I don’t want you spending your money on me like that. This is too much, okay?”

He answered her with another kiss to her temple.

“Ben, I mean it. I can’t accept gifts this expensive. I’d feel so bad.”

“And that’s why you’ll get them.”

“What?”

“How I spend my money is my business. And if I wanna spend it on you then you’ll just have to deal.”

“Well, I’m not taking it and you’ll have to deal.”

“We’ll see.”

“Yes, we will,” she said scrunching her nose at him. He chuckled and kissed her cheek before pulling her in tight.  

“I saw how fascinated you were with it,” he said as she eyed her present. “And I also saw the disappointment in your eyes when you realized you didn’t have enough on you to get it. It was hard seeing that expression. I don’t like it.”

“So, you went out and spent way too much money on me just to avoid that face?”

“I know you’re not materialistic, sweetheart, I just… I don’t know. This seemed important to you.”

“Well, this better be the last gift for a while,” she turned her gaze back to her wrist.

“I think that’s my decision to make,” he smiled into her neck.

“I think not,” she huffed.

He let out a muffled grunt of amusement before wrapping his arms around her completely and pulling her into his chest, before she could protest anymore.

His phone began to ring and he loosened his grip, turning to the nightstand once more. He grabbed it and slid the answer button on his display to the right.

“Hey, good morning,” Ben said to the person on the other end of the call. Rey half-listened while she eyed the butterfly made of the beautiful turquoise stones. “Ugh, sure, I’ll ask.” He turned back to her. “Rey, Jay asks if we want to go on a hike with them today. You wanna go?”

“Sure. Whereto?”

“He says it’s a surprise. But it’ll take three to four hours.”

“I’m down. I’ll ask the others. But I’m in for sure.”

“She says yes. Uhm sure,” Ben said before looking at Rey and whispering, “he says to bring bathing suits and towels.”

“It’s November?”

He just shrugged and returned his attention to Jay. “Ok, sweet. I’ll see you there. A’ho, brother.”

He hung up and she looked at him curiously. “Why do we need bathing suits?”

“I don’t know. But you can count on Jay to have really cool ideas and surprises.”

“Hm, alright. What does A’ho mean?”

“Oh, ugh, it depends. It could mean ‘thank you’, ‘amen’ or some people use it to just emphasize the end of a statement or conversation. Whenever Jay says it I tend to repeat it in acknowledgment of whatever was said or agreed upon.”

“Ah. Cool.” She nodded and studied Ben’s face as he was texting someone, probably Jay, on his phone. “Are you happy you saw him again? Jay, I mean.”

He put his phone down but looked at the ceiling. “I am. I didn’t realize how much I missed him until I got to spend time with him.”

“Why did you break off contact?”

He shrugged, although she sensed something was bothering him, and he tried not to let on that there may have been a reason but she somehow sensed it. “Just kind of happened, I guess.”

“Well, I can see you two really like each other and I can see how happy you are to have found your way back to each other. I like him. I feel like he’s a good friend.”

“Great friend,” Ben sighed and Rey picked up on that slight change in tone that expressed a bit of sadness or maybe regret.

She didn’t want to push so she asked, “what time are we meeting him?”

“In an hour. SO, we should probably get ready and let the others know as well.”

“On it,” she said reaching for her own phone to text their group chat.

They met Jay and Sacheen at a parking lot in the middle of the woods, for which Jay had sent a drop pin for them to navigate. Both Jay and Sacheen had large backpacks resting on their shoulders and Rey was impressed at how easy I’ll they were carrying the very full and clearly heavy bags. Her and the others only brought smaller backpacks with their change of clothes, a towel and a small water bottle. Jay had his hair tied up in that same style Sacheens father had it the night before and how she saw many of the other Navajo women and men having their hair tied up. The ends of the white cotton strands tied around the bun swayed back and forth whenever he turned his head. The two cousins wore camouflage cargo pants and long sleeved shirts with a down vest. Jay in black and Sacheen in dark gray. They looked as if they were going on a multiple day journey and Rey immediately felt unprepared. She looked to Rose who must’ve been thinking the same thing as she looked down at herself, noticing how her thin yoga pants and hoodie may not have been a good choice for whatever Jay and Sacheen had planned.

They had been walking for an hour up the mountain until Poe, Finn, Rose and Rey had all been panting so loud every animal within the range of two miles would’ve been alarmed. The inclination was noticeable but nothing Rey thought to be challenging. Tali, Ben, Jay and Sacheen seemed as if they did this all day long. Their breathing was steady and so far no sweat on any of them had shown like on her and her friends. She knew Ben was fit, but she wasn’t aware how much less fit she was compared to him. She was fit when it came to dancing but for some reason this was a challenge. And they still had three or so more hours ahead of them. Rey hadn’t spoken to Ben much on the hike because he and Jay had been walking side by side in deep conversation. She could tell he needed this and didn’t want to disturb them. After about ten minutes, Jay wouldn’t let them sit for any longer, they all continued the hike up the mountain to wherever Jay’s secret destination was. Ben had taken Sacheen’s backpack and Rey noticed she had a slight limp. She was slightly slower now than Ben and Jay, making her fall beside Rey.

“Are you alright?” Rey jerked her chin towards Sacheen’s leg.

“Oh, yeah, just gotta take it easy. I injured my knee a few months ago. I keep thinking I can do everything like before but… nope. Gotta slow down a little,” her warm smile made Rey completely at ease.

“What happened?” Rey asked.

“My dad and I took Marlon and Mira on a mountain biking trip and I had an accident. Jacked up my right knee. Nothing permanent, but it’ll take time to heal.”

“Oh, damn. And were your twins hurt? Or your dad?”

“No, luckily nothing happened to them. Just shocked.”

“I can imagine.” By looking at Sacheen’s youthful face, it had slipped Rey’s mind that she had two children already. She seemed like their own age or at least not far off. “How old are Mira and Marlon?”

“Twelve.”

That meant she must’ve been around…

“Is their dad here too?”

Sacheen’s face went to stone and Rey regretted instantly having asked about him.

“No.” Sacheen’s warmth cooled a bit and there was an awkward silence. Rey didn’t know what to say, so she stayed silent. “I didn’t know their father.”

Whether Sacheen noticed Rey’s confused face or not, she didn’t let on. She kept her eyes on the trail as she spoke softly, “my children’s conception wasn’t pleasant. Nor was it with my permission.”

Oh. “Oh, I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean to-” Rey started.

Sacheen only shook her head. “I don’t particularly like talking about it, but I won’t ever not talk about it.”

Rey understood. If she were to keep it bottled up, it would eat her alive.

“I was seventeen and walking home from school one day. It was during the day. The sun was out and I was in plain sight. I felt safe, or at least didn’t think to be cautious. He came out of nowhere and I just froze. I tried to scream but when I opened my mouth nothing came out. No sound. Just silence.”

Rey’s gut turned but she continued to listen.

“I was so angry at myself. More than at him, I know that doesn’t make sense but I was so angry that I let someone do that to me.Take complete control. It took me a very long time to deal with that.”

Rey only nodded. She had no words. No idea how to console her. She didn’t even know if consoling was what Sacheen even wanted. “I-.”

Sacheen rubbed Rey’s arm as if to console her. “You don’t have to say anything.”

So, she didn’t.

“Y’know, it was actually Ben’s dad that helped me deal with that. Just around, oh, maybe five years ago, he started training Ben and Jay in like martial arts stuff and knowing what I went through he offered to have me join them. And I did. He helped me help myself. Now, I won’t ever let that happen to me again. Ben’s family helped ours a lot. In many ways.” Rey let all that information sink in. “Have you met Han yet?”

“Who?”

“Han. Ben’s dad?”

That was the first time anyone had ever even mentioned his father’s name. She realized she didn’t know either of his parents' names. She felt guilty. She felt guilty in the lack of awareness about him and his life. She hadn’t ever asked. Of course, she hadn’t wanted to push him to talk about things for which he wasn’t ready. But, she wanted to at least know their names.

“No, not yet.”

“Oh. Well, when you do, I know you’ll love him.”

Rey wanted to know more about Ben. She knew he never spoke voluntarily about… well… anything private. It irked her. She knew he was honest but something in his demeanor never let her want to push further. And she wanted to be closer to him. She wanted him to feel close to her. She needed him to trust her as she trusted him.

“They’re amazing people.”

She knew of nothing else to say so she asked, “how did your families meet?”

Sacheen explained that around fifteen years ago when Jay and Ben were very small they had met at a pow wow just outside of Hanna City.

“Cliff and Han became good friends as Leia and Tina did. They lived far apart but they were both adamant about visiting each other as much as possible. Ben’s family became synonymous with our own.” Sacheen looked at the two tall friends ahead of them and frowned. “When my tia Tina died… it really hit us hard. And Ben and his parents were right there like they always were.”

By the look in Sacheen’s eyes Rey understood this story wasn’t hers to tell. “You and your family have gone through so much. I’m beyond speechless.”

Sacheen nodded in agreement, “it’s not that uncommon for our people. Whether it’s something like what happened to Tina, or Avery, or me. Everyone knows someone to whom something like this has happened to in one way or another.”

“God. That’s … heartbreaking.”

Again, Sacheen only nodded.

“This may sound odd but, how … after all these atrocities… how are you all so happy? So hopeful?”

Her face turned into something Rey had only seen in Jay’s face before. Sacheen’s brown eyes looked up at her and then out, over Ben and Jay’s heads. She inhaled deeply and said, “Because everything our ancestors fought for... Everything our parents, grandparents, great grandparents endured will all have been for nothing. A lot of our people have lost their way. They are broken. They’ve lost hope. And I don’t blame them. But… We are still here. We remain. We are strong. We are resilient. We are indigenous.” Her voice became calm and focused, but Rey could hear the fire within her. “And we can’t let them win. As far as I’m concerned, they never truly won. The colonizers I mean. They tried taking everything away from us. In the most brutal way a human can fathom. But it didn’t work. Not really. I’m living proof and my children are living proof that they lost. As long as we are still here, they lost. Our ancestors gave us enough strength, resilience, endurance, bravery and love to overcome this. It may take a while. But I truly believe we will one day thrive again as a people. Hope has never left our hearts and souls.” The beautiful Navajo woman pointed to her chest. “Where there is hope, there is a way.”

Strong words, Rey thought. “But how do you keep that hope?”

“Through the love to our people. To our land. To life,” she answered solemnly.

Rey breathed and she didn’t know what it was but her chest tightened and her eyes began to burn.

Sacheen looked into the woods and then up into the sky. She sighed and said, “Maybe in some sick, twisted way we were chosen for this horrendous path because creator knew we would survive. We were and are strong enough.”

With those last words Rey couldn’t stop tears rolling down her face. She was so in awe of Sacheen and her views. She was amazed at how she could have a mindset like that and not be subsumed by hatred.

As if she could’ve read Rey’s thoughts she added, “Well, we are angry. As we should be. That anger keeps that spark alive. The spark for us to aim for change. Love kept us alive. But the anger lets us hold onto our voices. And right now, it's time to be loud.”

Rey wiped away her salty tears which she could now taste on her lips. She didn’t feel right crying when it was Sacheen and her family and her ancestors that gone through these atrocities but she just couldn’t help herself. She sighed and then turned to her. “I’m very glad to have met you, Sacheen. You’re a very special person.”

Sacheen looked at her, that comforting warmth having returned. She smiled and her long black lashes batting twice before saying, “Thank you. So are you. I can tell. I’m glad to have met you as well, Rey.”

“Thank you.”

“Ben is very lucky to have you. And I’m sure you know you’re very lucky to have him, too.”

“I am.”

“He’s one of the good ones. I should know,” she winked.

Ben must’ve either heard her sniffles or seen her tears because he was now looking over his shoulder at her with a worried expression. Rey waved it off and gave him a reassuring nod. He wasn’t quite convinced, but he returned to his conversation with Jay.

Chapter Text

For the next hour of their hike, Rey and Sacheen bonded over dancing and exchanging insights on their respective dance styles. Rey could’ve spoken for hours about her love for ballet, and she could’ve listened to Sacheen for hours talking about the same love for Jingle Dance.

Sacheen explained that the Jingle Dance came to be a century ago, when the granddaughter of an Ojibwe medicine man got sick and in multiple dreams he saw his spirit guides, four women, wearing Jingle Dresses. The dresses were calf-length dresses in bright colors with multiple rows of metal cones attached to the back and skirt part. A total of three hundred and sixty-five jingles, each for one day of the year. In his dreams the medicine man was shown how to make the dress, which songs to sing and play and how to perform the Jingle Dance. The tinkling of the jingles sounded like rain on tin and each sound was a prayer meant for healing. The granddaughter was shown the ways of the Jingle Dress and when she performed it, she was healed. Since then, this particular dance style was considered the healing dance or prayer dance. Sacheen also explained that dancers never dance for themselves, only for others. When dancing, they pray for someone in need, either someone in particular or generally for anyone who needs a prayer. But, through the movements and the beating of the drum, healing oneself is inevitable. Rey thought about how Sacheen’s beautiful braids would bounce like the metal cones on her dress, her feet elegantly and lightly moving in intricate patterns to the rhythm of the drums. She couldn’t wait to see Sacheen dance, but that excitement faded, knowing she would have to wait until her knee was healed.

They didn’t stop speaking until Jay finally gave them the signal that they had arrived. They all looked around, looking for what it could be, but Sacheen, who probably knew their destination, walked over to Jay. They both slid between two bushes and into a dense patch of shrubs, leading to what seemed like nowhere just further into the dense woods. Ben followed suit. Then Rey, Tali, Finn, Rose and Poe right behind them. The tiny trail that led to wherever they were going was full of shrubs, bushes and trees that for someone who didn’t know where they were going seemed like a dead end. But, after a few minutes they all stopped and Jay pushed some thick branches out of the way to get to the spot he was looking for. And as Rey emerged from behind the branch, she saw what their destination was. Carved right into the mountain was a bright turquoise natural pool, surrounded by rocks and shrubs and large branches. The steam above the water’s surface indicated that it must have been a hot spring and Jay’s request to bring swimwear implied it wasn’t too hot to bathe. A small waterfall gently trickled down into the milky blue hot pool and the contrast of the forest’s autumn colors with that rich blue of the water made for a stunning picture. Rey stopped to gawk at the sight and listened to sound of the water, the steady rhythm of the cicadas, the wind whistling in the trees and the flapping and chirping of various birds.

Jay looked pleased when she met his stare and he walked over to set down his backpack. Ben did the same and let Sacheen have access to her belongings.

“This is amazing!” Poe said with his hands on his hips, taking it all in. Finn was already putting down his things and taking off his sweater and shirt. Poe, Finn, Tali, Sacheen and Rose were already in the water. Rey hadn’t noticed everyone eager to get in as she studied her beautiful surroundings. She walked up to the pool, set down her bag and clothes which she had quickly slipped out of and held folded in her arms. She looked down to see how deep the water was and after seeing Rose wading around, the water to her arm pits, she deemed it shallow enough to get in. She looked back to see Ben and Jay spreading two blankets on a flat spot on the ground and then taking off their clothes as well. Jay was tall, slim and had the body of someone who did a lot of physical activity which his well-toned muscles confirmed. His copper skin was beautiful and she saw Tali’s eyes glued to his every movement. Jay slowly got into the water with Ben right behind him, pulling his shirt over his head. Rey blushed a tad as she looked over Ben’s upper body. His was impeccable. Broad shoulders, muscled arms and torso, strong legs. The wind rustled through his raven hair and she caught herself staring longingly.

Poe made a sound of surprise behind her, “damn, Solo, it’s like you’re carved outta marble.”

Ben ignored the remark and got into the water, making his way to Jay. He probably didn’t know how to respond to direct compliments, so he didn’t respond at all. Poe gave Rey a look, making her blush at what his expression implied, but smiled back at him. Ben looked over his shoulder at her and came wading back towards her, extending his hand. She took it and slowly dipped her toes, then feet into the water. It felt magical. As she stepped deeper into the pool, she let the warmth envelope her and relax all of her aching muscles, soothing every inch of her body that was exhausted from the three-hour hike. She let Ben guide her to where he had wanted to find a spot next to Jay before. Somebody long ago must’ve arranged rocks in the pool to make for underwater benches. She took a seat and leaned back onto the edge. Everyone was quiet, eyes closed, arms extended along the rocks surrounding the edge of the pool, letting the warm water relax them. All she heard for a few moments was the trickling of the waterfall and the sounds of the forest. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes as well. Her friends let out pleased sighs and she smiled.

Finn spoke first. “Thank you, Jay and Sacheen. For bringing us here. This place is so special and we appreciate you sharing this with us.”

They both nodded and Sacheen answered, “We figured if you all are looking for some time away from your busy lives then you should have the chance to truly relax.”

“This was worth every exhausting step,” Rose smiled, eyes still closed, and Tali hummed her agreement.

“Our parents used to come here all the time,” Jay spoke softly, “I’m sure it’s not a secret, this place, but I’m also pretty sure a lot of people aren’t aware of it.”

Rey slid closer to Ben as the others continued their conversation. He wrapped his arm around her waist and settled his hand on the side of her right thigh. She dipped her head back and to the side, resting it on his shoulder and looking out through under his chin.

“You OK?” He whispered.

She nodded.

“Looked like you two had a moment there.”

She knew what he meant and looked over to Sacheen who was enjoying the water as much as everyone else. “We did.”

“But you’re alright.” It wasn’t necessarily a question.

Again, she nodded and leaned into him more. The way she was positioned wasn’t as comfortable as she had thought and pivoted towards him, putting her legs over his right leg. In doing so, she brushed up against something she should have avoided. Ben raised an eyebrow, and she bit her lip, realizing. “Sorry,” she whispered.

His lips curled slightly upward, and he clicked his tongue a few times in insincere disapproval. “Are you?”

She huffed in amusement, “maybe. Maybe not.”

His face turned to the others, but his hand slid down her back and his fingers began playing with the waistband of her bikini. She stiffened a bit and he let out an amused sigh. He slowly tugged at it, exposing too much of her behind for being out in public. The others hadn’t noticed but she stiffened even more, scooting away from him a bit. She saw the subtle amusement in his face, even though he seemed as if he were listening to the others’ conversation. She cleared her throat and also acted as if she were listening. In silent retaliation, she put her hand on his thigh. When there was no reaction, she slid her hand up slowly. She gave him a quick glance, but he still showed no reaction. Rey was not going to let him win. She wouldn’t let him make her react while she seemingly had no effect on him. Let the games begin, she thought.

With the middle knuckles of her index and middle finger she brushed over the most upper part of his inner thigh. His lips tightened and she smirked, finally having drawn out a reaction, however subtle it was. She slowly turned her hand and felt his hand move from her lower back to between her shoulders, gently taking the strap of her bikini in his fingers and pulling slightly. She realized what would happen if he succeeded in undoing the bow that kept her top fastened. Rey rolled her shoulders back and pressed herself into the rocks, giving his hand no room for movement. She froze and pulled back her hand, not too quickly, when Jay turned to Ben and asked something Rey wasn’t really listening to. Ben, too, flattened his hand on her back fully and didn’t move. Jay eyed them for a moment but then returned to the conversation. Rey attempted to put her hand back to where it was before but before she could do so, Ben slid his arm under her legs, his other hand reaching down to her bottom and scooping her up onto his lap. She eyed him intensely, but his gaze was set on the others.

“That was a mistake,” she whispered in his ear and his left arm that was now laying lazily over her legs tried gripping her thighs. She was quicker and turned ninety degrees to her right, her legs now between his. Rey faked wanting to scoot up closer towards him and used that chance to put her hands on his thighs, very close to his groin. He cleared his throat, and her scooting became more circular hip undulations. She felt something grow under her. His lips tightened, trying to hide a smile and shook his head ever so slightly. Rey turned to him a bit and gave him a victorious look. Ben’s arms squeezed her middle and he kissed her shoulder. When he loosened his grip, his hand was flat on her stomach, his left pinky spreading and finding its way under her bikini waistband. Rey swallowed and felt her core begin to tingle as his finger slid further down. His arms were perfectly placed to cover his exploring finger, allowing him to get away with his mischievous behavior. Well aware of this, he brushed another gentle kiss on her shoulder. She shimmied slightly, causing some brushingherself and felt something push not so gently from under her. She put her hand on his wandering one before it got any further than the waistband.

“You two need us to leave?” Jay leaned in, whispering so quietly the water sounds almost swallowed his question. Rey stiffened and Ben let out a deep, low, rumbling laugh that only the three of them acknowledged. Heat rose to Rey’s cheeks and embarrassment washed over her. Ben didn’t seem unsettled one bit, smirking at Jay who gave him a smug look back and then winked at Rey before returning his attention back to his cousin. She gave Ben a disapproving look, but he just smiled proudly and tightened his arms around her waist.

Finn began climbing the slick rocks of the waterfall. It wasn’t his most elegant moment, but he made it to the top and lay down right in the middle of the stream, letting the warm water glide down over his dark brown skin. He stretched out his hands towards the sky and began to laugh. It was a picture of pure joy, peacefulness and mirth. Rose smiled up at him, amused by his joy. Rey chuckled at the sight as well, scrunching her nose at Rose who shook her head, the corners of her mouth curled into a smile.

After a while Sacheen looked up at the clear blue sky and said, “we should probably start drying off, looks like there’s a storm coming.”

Everyone looked at each other slightly confused, seeing no cloud in sight. But they all made their way to the blankets that Jay and Ben had spread out on the grassy ground earlier. Rey wrapped herself in her towel and joined the others. Ben and Jay were putting out chopped vegetables, fruit and little cut up baguette pieces with various dips that Sacheen handed them from her bag. Everyone gathered around the food and began enjoying the delicious fresh snacks Jay and Sacheen had provided.

The two cousins really thought of everything. Sacheen laid out a couple card games and smaller board games if anyone was interested. They played a few rounds of Uno of which Rose and Sacheen won most.  

“Too bad we don’t have Cards Against Humanity,” Finn grinned.

“True, but is that a solitaire deck?” Poe asked Sacheen who was packing the games back into her backpack.

“Uhm, yeah.” She took the deck and handed it to Poe. “I’ve never met anyone that actually plays that. Y’know other than on an app.”

Poe shrugged. “Well, I don’t really, but I do a little magic,” he said with a sly grin and adeptly shuffling the cards.

“Oh, really? You know magic?” Finn asked.

“Like I know real magic? Yes, yes, I do.” Poe said smug and Finn, along with Rose, snorted. “Well, I know some magic tricks with cards. It’s been a while though…”

“Wait really? You’re being serious?” Rey asked.

“I have dabbled in the dark arts, yes.” He answered wiggling his fingers over the spot on the ground in front of him.

“Do one,” Jay demanded intrigued.

“Alright, I need a volunteer. Ben, how about you?”

Ben looked up. “Uhm… alright.” He scooted over to face Poe who was still shuffling, making a big production out of it.

“Ok, so, this is what you’re gunna do for me,” he started and divided the deck into three piles facing down. “Now, Ben, may I call you Benjamin?”

“No,” Ben said dry. Rey couldn’t hide her amusement and even Finn chuckled at his slight frown.

“M’kay. Now, take the top two cards from the middle pile and turn it over on either side pile, facing up.” Ben took the first card placing it face up on the left pile then took the second card placing it face up on the right pile. “Alright, now this card facing down is your card, so pick it up and look at it. But don’t show me.”

Ben picked it up and looked at it, holding his other hand in front of it to hide it from Poe. He showed Sacheen, Rey and Rose who were sitting next to him. “Ok.”

“Don’t let me see it!” Poe put his hands over his eyes.

“I wasn’t going to,” Ben raised a brow.

“When you’re done looking at it put it back into the middle deck. Anywhere in the middle deck.” While Ben shuffled his card into the middle deck, Poe put up two fingers to his eyes and then pointed them towards Ben’s eyes as if he were reading his volunteer’s mind. At that Ben’s lips curled ever so slightly. Poe then took the two cards facing up and put them on the top and bottom of the middle deck, putting that pile between the other two piles. “Ok, now I need you to shuffle it four times.”

Ben took the deck in his large hands, looking at Poe unconvinced yet amused. “One shuffle, two shuffles, three shuffles,” he looked at Rey and had her shuffle once as well, “and four shuffles.” Rey had done a middle shuffle which made Poe’s eyes widen in slight panic.

“Oh god, you may have blown it for me with that.” Poe grimaced at Rey which drew hearty laughter from everyone.

“What all great magicians say!” Finn teased.

“Ha, HA!” Poe frowned and took the deck. He dramatically hovered his hand over it multiple times before leaning back and looking through all the cards in the deck. “Now, I’m gunna look at these and find your card, Benjamin.”

“That’s not my name,” Ben said with a blank face.

Finn looked over Poe’s shoulder, but Poe recoiled, trying to cover the cards. “No, no, don’t watch my process.”

“Wait, wait, how many chances do you get to find it?” Ben held up his hand gesturing to stop. “Cuz this could take forever, then.”

“Well, uhm, what’s your favorite number?”

“My what? I don’t have a favorite number.” Ben raised an eyebrow.

“Uh, ok, four, I guess. Four cards in the beginning, so four. I get four chances.”

“Fifteen minutes each.” Finn said sarcastically, crossing his arms. Jay let out a deep rumble of entertainment.

Poe looked through all the cards. “No, no, that’s not it. Oh, nope, no. It’s coming, never mind. Ok, ok, I think I got it… nope.” Sacheen, and Rose started laughing and everyone started making jokes. “Ok, hold on, I get four chances. Ok, I got it.” Poe shifted towards Ben who looked unimpressed. “Oh, please let this be your card.” Everyone was captivated to see what was going to happen. “The first round… Benjamin, is this your card?”

“Stop calling me that and no.”

“No? Ah man… ok, ok I got a couple more chances.” He took that card, set it on the table, took another card and put it on the top of the deck. He then held up the deck to show the card underneath. “Is this your card?”

“No.” Ben shook his head. Poe repeated the process and asked again. Again, Ben answered with a “no.” Finn put his hand on his stomach and laughed out loud, tipping his head back completely.

“Ok, ok, this one might be it. You can just tell me your card. This is the fourth try, and it doesn’t matter now.”

Ben looked at him and huffed. “It was a king of spades,” he sighed.

Poe held up the deck proud and completely sure of himself. “The king of spades!”

Everyone burst into laughter. “No,” Ben said, a bit of amusement and slight pity in his voice.

“AAH! No?” Poe looked surprised. Ben shook his head. “Wait, wait, wait, I’m not done, Solo!”

“Well, that’s too bad,” Ben murmured crossing his arms.

Poe took the smaller pile on the table holding it up to Ben and said, “your card is in this pile!”

“Uh, huh,” Ben said unconvinced.

“Yup, Benjamin, give me a fist bump!”

“Not if you keep calling me that.”

“Benjamin. Give. Me. A. Fist. Bump.” Poe stretched out a fist. Ben threw up his hands in resignation and gave him a fist bump. Very swiftly and elegantly, Poe took Ben’s fist, turned it ninety degrees and said, “keep it there. Just like that. Wow, big man, big hands! OK, don’t move it.” He took the smaller deck slid it into Ben’s fingers. “Squeeze!”

“I’m squeezing,” Ben sighed. Poe then waved his hands over Ben’s fist as if he were conjuring some unknown magical forces. Ben raised an eyebrow and Poe looked deep into his eyes. He then slapped the top cards off, causing one card to remain clenched between Ben’s fingers. “Boom,” Poe said confidently.

Ben turned his fist slowly to reveal which card it was. His eyes widened and mouth parted slightly. “WHAT?” He looked up at Poe in disbelief and looked back at the card.

As Ben revealed the king of spades, Sacheen, Rose and Rey began to clap and cheer while Finn stared open-mouthed at his best friend and Jay nodded his head impressed. Rey and Rose looked at each other and expressed how impressed they were as well. Poe raised himself up onto his knees to give them a slight bow and sat back down with the biggest grin on his face, holding up his hands.

“Ok, that was impressive!” Ben smiled and shook Poe’s hand nodding in acknowledgement.

Poe winked at him. “And there’s my second magic trick,” he said pointing at Ben’s face, “I made Ben Solo smile!” Poe said teasingly. Ben shook his head, still smiling and sat back down next to Rey who giggled and wrapped her hands around his neck.

Chapter Text

The group of friends were on their way back down the mountain when Rose and Finn found a spot to take selfies. They found themselves on the edge of the trail, a small bare spot with only a few fern plants surrounding it, portruded above a twenty-foot-drop. Beyond that was the view of the vast, supple forest blanketing the mountainous terrain, making for a breathtaking picture. No matter how many selfies they would take, a photo would never do it justice, Ben thought. Rey and her friends took multiple photos and especially took their sweet time filming TikTok videos which Ben didn’t necessarily mind as long as he didn’t have to feature in them. When Rose pulled Tali in for some shots, he couldn’t hide an amused smile at his best friend’s tortured expression. Of all the things he’d witnessed her do when out on jobs with the Knights, this was torment to her.

Finn was behind the camera, giving them directions on how to pose, where to look and which expressions to put on. Rey looked flawless as always, Ben thought, but Tali wasn’t into it at all, and everyone could tell. He knew she was trying for their sake but she wasn’t truly enjoying this little photo session. Finn - bless him - gave very helpful and productive advice and suggestions for her to follow but to no avail.

“OK, Tali, look at the camera as if you were making love to it. That usually does the trick,” Finn said getting onto one knee in order to get the right angle for the shot.

Ben laughed, “Maybe give her a reference she’s familiar with, dude.”

Laughter echoed through the mountains. Everyone except for Tali thought it was amusing which drew a strained “fuck you, Solo” out from her.

“You asking me to volunteer?” He smirked; his arms crossed.

She raised her arm and gave him a vulgar gesture before turning her attention back to Finn. He chuckled and blew her a kiss as she threw him a quick, annoyed glance.

Ben felt Sacheen grow more and more nervous as she scanned the clear blue sky.

“Relax,” Poe said who must’ve realized the same as Ben. “It’s so sunny and beautiful out.”

“You don’t know the mountains as we do,” Sacheen gave him a warm smile to cover her concern.

Rey, always considering everyone’s feelings and always trying to truly hear and see everyone, said, “C’mon, guys, let’s head back.” Ben loved that about her. She always made sure everyone was being listened to and she was always aware of everyone’s situational emotional state. And tending to them in the most subtle way to avoid attention turning to the person affected or onto herself. He studied her face while she spoke to Sacheen as they all began wrapping things up to continue their hike back. His whole core softened at the sight of her.

He almost didn’t hear Jay coming up behind him, “Hey, come walk with me.” Jay patted his shoulder and he felt a cold wave of apprehension pass through him.

The pair walked silently side by side for a few yards before Jay sighed and looked at him sideways. “So, you gunna address it, or should I?”

Although his gut clenched, Ben genuinely didn’t know which of his many screw-ups Jay was getting at, so he stayed silent and peered over at his friend.

Jay tightened his lips and nodded before asking, “what’s bothering you, dude?”

“What do you mean?”

“Ben, I’ve known you for a long time.” The way he said his name told Ben there was honest concern lingering within him. And by the looks of it – for a while. “I know that look, brother. Something’s up.”

Ben knew it was time to deal with the confrontation he had been avoiding for so long. Ben glanced at his friend and knew he couldn’t get out of this one. Not without potentially insulting Jay or hurting his feelings. Plus, Jay was very skilled at reading expressions, especially when it came to him. Sometimes he wondered if Jay had other worldly senses or gifts to let him pick up on imperceptible, intangible matters. He loved Jay dearly and used to share everything with him. The last few years, Ben had changed but the love and admiration for Jay hadn’t. He knew things were different now. Their lives progressed in ways neither of them would have anticipated. Whether it was good or bad was yet to be determined. Many things had changed, but their bond, their friendship, their love, remained.

Ben took a deep breath. “You’re right. There is something.”

Jay continued looking forward, for which Ben was grateful. He had trouble opening up, articulating certain emotions or sharing personal matters. And when people stared at him while doing so, it made speaking near impossible. He had done unspeakable things and had still been able to look people in the eyes, but speaking about feelings, relationships or whatever, was more difficult than anything. Ben had always been honest. He tried to always truthful, unless his safety or someone else’s safety depended on it. So, when it came to subjects he didn’t necessarily want to discuss, he closed up or avoided people altogether.

“There’s,” Ben cleared his throat. “There’s a reason I, ugh, haven’t reached out in the past two years.”

“Oh?” Jay’s face turned from concern to surprise to worry. “I hope I shouldn’t be offended.”

“No, it has nothing to do with you. I’ve been subconsciously distancing myself.”

Jay raised an eyebrow, his head turned toward Ben, carefully eyeing him now. He didn’t blame him.

“It’s not that I’ve been avoiding you or anything. I mean I have but not because of you. It’s just that…” Jay let Ben find the words he needed in order to explain himself properly. “I guess I’ve just been avoiding the question that I’ve been dreading to answer.”

Again, Jay threw him a quick sideways look and began nodding knowingly, understandingly. “Is this what I think it is?”

There it was again. Jay just always knew exactly what Ben was getting at. That’s why it was always so easy for him to talk to Jay, because he never actually had to say much. His stomach tightened once more at the awareness of how much he’d missed his friend.

“Depends on what you think it is,” Ben sighed. They both knew it.

“You joined?”

Ben didn’t verbally answer but his silence was enough for Jay. His friend let out a deep sigh, swallowed and began nodding as if it would help him better comprehend the information he had just received. Jay ran his copper-toned hand over his face, then reached behind him and rubbed his neck.

“I can’t say I’m happy about this.”

Ben nodded, waiting for Jay’s scolding and reprimanding.

“But,” Jay sucked in a breath. “I’m even more not happy about the fact that you felt you couldn’t tell me.” Ben looked up surprised. “I’m sorry if I made you feel like you couldn’t talk to me, Ben.”

He hadn’t really known what to expect, but it sure as hell wasn’t this reaction. Ben expected Jay to shun him and push him away, as his family did.

When the people closest to him found out, they threw warnings, lectures and disapproving comments at him, very clearly expressing their rejection. He knew he had failed them in joining the Knights. He knew he couldn’t go back home after that. Things were said. By both sides. Ben knew he had hurt his parents. His family very clearly expressed their disappointment and anger towards him. He internalized the things that were said. He wasn’t worth the effort to attempt understanding him, his rage or his distress. This pushed him further towards the brotherhood. The motley group of people that accepted him and even celebrated the rage and strength within. For him it had been the only way out of an unforgivable mess. It had been the only option.

“Wait, that’s what you’re worried about?”

“Well, yeah. You’re my friend. I want you to feel like… well, my friend.”

Ben was unsure how to respond, Jay again must’ve sensed that and gently put his hand on his shoulder.

“I must’ve failed as a friend if I gave you that impression,” Jay spoke softly.

Ben looked at him shocked. Failing his family wasn’t anything new. He always felt he did. He never expected anyone to think they had failed him. “You didn’t.”

“I think I did, Ben.”

Ben could feel the tingling sensation of tears trying to break free, but he sniffed, pushing them away. He blinked up at the sky and shook his head.

Jay stretched out his hand towards him. “No more hiding. No more secrets.”

Ben’s lips curled and he accepted his friend’s offer by grabbing onto his forearm.

“Good,” Jay smiled, his white teeth flashing. Jay looked over Ben’s shoulder to the others that were trotting behind them, a good distance out of earshot. “Do the others know?”

Ben shook his head.

“Hmm.” Jay nodded. “Rey?”

Again, he shook his head. “I wanna wait until the time’s right.”

“I’d say the time is always right. That’s something she has a right to know, brother.”

Ben sighed, looking over his own shoulder to glance at his beautiful ballerina. “I know.”

“But Tali knows?”

“Oh, she knows.”

Jay stopped walking and looked at him as he realized. Jay’s eyes widened, worry washed over his beautiful copper brown face, and he put the tips of his fingers on Ben’s chest, halting him. “No.”

Ben avoided eye contact but nodded full of regret.

“When?” He asked sternly.

Ben’s lips tightened as he finally met Jay’s dark eyes. “Four months after me.”

“For fuck’s sake, Ben!”

“I know. It was out of my control. She joined without me knowing. The ritual happened while I was out of town.”

“I’m guessing she did that on purpose,” Jay closed his eyes and blew a long breath through his teeth.

“She knew I was so torn about joining. To this day I don’t understand why she would join… voluntarily.”

Jay inhaled, his eyes looking at something in the distance. “It’s simple. Out of love and loyalty to you, Ben.”

“It was unnecessary,” Ben sighed in despair but a spark of gratitude and love for Tali made itself noticeable in him.

“Yeah,” Jay sighed and shook his head in disbelief.

“That’s not even the worst part,” Ben continued. “One of the older Knights is engaged to her mother.”

“Holy shit. This is so fucked.”

“She’s completely in their grips. It’s eating me up. The guilt. I just…” Ben hadn’t been this candid with anyone or even himself for a long time. It felt good to articulate it, but it also made it real. “She’s strong, yes. And she knows what she wants. But I don’t want her to be exposed to this fucked up lifestyle.”

Jay pressed his lips together and gritted his teeth. “Nobody does. I don’t want that for her either. I don’t want it for you, Ben.”

Ben found Jay’s eyes again and they were full of compassion. Ben couldn’t handle it. He looked back down at his shoes and stayed silent. It was the only thing he could do to not lose his shit. Something about Jay always made him so transparent with his emotions. It was comforting yet terrifying. He didn’t deserve Jay’s compassion… or Rey’s at that matter. The things he’d done. The things he was capable of. He didn’t deserve their kindness. Their affection.

“I should’ve done more to keep her from joining. I didn’t even wanna join… why would she?” It was a rhetorical question.

“Why did you?” Jay took the chance to address his reasons. Ben knew Jay would never outright ask him anything too personal unless Ben signaled he was comfortable with it.

Ben wasn’t ready to tell him the full story yet, so he answered, “the situation didn’t leave me any other choice.”

“That’s how I felt back then, too. But there’s always a choice.”

“I didn’t see another choice.”

“I know,” Jay’s understanding and nonjudgemental attitude eased Ben’s tension about the topic. “Who initiated the ritual?”

“Ren himself.”

“Híjole!” Jay’s eyebrows were raised, and he blinked a few times. “Shit, man.”

Ben remembered the days and days of agony he had experienced because of it. He blinked the memories away and straightened his shoulders.

“So, they must really trust you then?” Jay inhaled.

“Looks like it.”

The person who carried out the initiation ritual was the person who chose you as a new member. And because it was their leader himself, it put Ben on a higher status than the others. Ben had yet to figure out why that was a good thing after all the things he had to do because of it.

“Well, at least now I know why you’re so goddamned buff, dude. Seriously, man what the fuck?”

Ben rolled his eyes and shook his head. Jay smirked at his friend’s inability to accept a compliment.

They walked in silence for a while, the laughter and chatter of the others filling the air. Ben knew Jay had to process all this new knowledge, so he remained quiet.

“You have to tell her,” Jay broke their silence.

“I know.”

“No, Ben. She’s different. I see the way she looks at you. And not just out of want or lust. No, it’s something else. It’s a rare look. One I’ve only seen twice. Between my parents… and between yours.”

Ben swallowed the pain rising from thinking about his family.

“I can tell she means a lot to you. Don’t let her run into this blindly. You know the way,” he said pointing at the small metal medicine wheel charm on Ben’s chain bracelet, reminding him of what it meant to them. Jay put his warm hand over Ben’s heart. After a few seconds he then lifted it in order to point at his chest, “warrior. A warrior’s heart.” Jay said as he poked his outstretched finger into Ben’s chest. “You know what that means.”

Ben closed his eyes and gently nodded in awareness. “I do.”  

His friend’s face revealed a sense of pride as he gave him one approving nod. He jerked his chin towards the charm. “Let it guide you. Listen to your spirit. We both know how it can end.”

Ben knew there was a huge gang problem on the reservation Jay and his family lived on. A lot of his cousins were in gangs and Jay himself almost joined when he was at his lowest. But since participating in Sun Dances he found his way back on the Red Road, as his people called it, and even became a pipe carrier. This meant always having a clean, sober spirit and mind. No drugs, no alcohol. Jay’s traditional lifestyle and the ways of his ancestors guided him and pulled him out of his darkest time.

“Don’t let your spirit rot with secrets. One way or another it’ll break her heart. I know you don’t want that.”

Ben looked back at Rey. “No, I don’t,” he sighed.

“Then I suggest you talk to her… yesterday,” Jay added sarcastically.

Ben huffed, grateful for Jay’s attempt at lightening the mood.

______________________________________________________________________________________

Tiny droplets found themselves on Rey’s nose, cheeks and forehead. She looked up to see smaller clouds forming above her. She scrunched her nose and wiped off the drops of rain. The chirping of the birds had faded and the smell of Autumn made itself clear with the change of weather. A light breeze made small bumps appear on her arms and legs and she slightly shivered at the growing cold. She looked over to Sacheen who gave her a I-told-you look and began walking faster. Rey felt the light breeze grow more intense and thoroughly shivered as she sensed something in the bushes beside her. She stopped and looked but saw nothing. The tapping of a woodpecker above her caught her attention but something eerie lingered there. Finn stopped next to her, following the direction of her eyes.

“What?” He asked.

“Nothing, I just thought I felt or saw something,” she said, eyes still scanning the bushes and the trees beyond them.

“It’s probably just the Spirits,” Sacheen’s voice came from behind her. Finn and Rey both turned to her confused.

“The what?” Finn furrowed his brows.

“The Spirits. They’re everywhere.” She opened her palms and looked up at the tips of the trees towering over them.

Finn began to chuckle but stopped when he realized she was serious and not trying to play a trick on them.

“What do they want?” Rey asked genuinely curious.

“Spirits don’t want anything. They’re just there. Any occasionally, they speak to us,” Sacheen’s warm smile showed Rey she fully meant what she was saying.

“And what are they trying to say to us now?” Finn asked, his eyes widened with minor concern and curiosity.

“Probably to hurry up, so we don’t get soaked,” Sacheen shrugged and then winked. She spun on her heel and followed Ben and Jay who had now also picked up their speed. Finn and Rey looked at each other with slight confusion and then quickly trailed behind her.

They had to walk another good forty minutes until they finally reached the parking lot. The rain had become a bit heavier, but they remained mostly dry with only the tops of their heads and shoulders covered in rain drops.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Rey heard Ben shout. Rey looked up and spotted at a tall, dark, hooded figure near their black Mercedes. He was clearly looking at the license plate and taking photos with his phone. When their presence was announced through Ben’s shouted question, the figure flinched and quickly ran onto the road where a dark blue Nissan was parked.

“Hey!” Ben shouted and began to sprint towards the car, Jay on his tracks. The figure jumped into the back seat and the car drove off, tires squeaking.

When Rey and everyone else reached the cars, Ben and Jay were already checking the Mercedes for any traces that may have been left.

“What the hell was that?” Poe asked who came jogging up to them.

“I don’t know, but whoever it was marked our tires,” Ben said rubbing at the white streak on the bottom of the front right tire.

“Is that chalk?” Finn asked.

“Yeah,” he continued rubbing it off, then moving to Jay’s truck. Rey caught a silent conversation between Ben and Jay as they threw each other knowing looks.

“Don’t parking inspectors do that? Maybe they were just making sure we weren’t camping here or something,” Rose threw in.

“But why did they run off like that then?” Finn crossed his arms. “Seems a little weird.”

“I think it was probably just some dumb kids looking for unlocked cars to steal,” Jay shrugged, looking rather calm.

“Good thing we arrived in time then,” Tali’s eyebrow rose daringly.

When Ben was sure that nothing was missing or damaged, they hopped in their cars and made their way home. Sacheen and Jay decided to drive back with them to their AirbBnB and join them with whatever evening plans would follow.

The rain didn’t stop, and a thunderstorm had made its way to them from the Northwest, lighting up the living room every now and then. Therefore, the group decided to curl up on the couches and watch the second movie in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Rose had made popcorn for everybody and Poe was already spewing behind-the-scenes knowledge which Ben seemed very interested in. Whether he genuinely was or not he didn’t let on, for which she was grateful he humored Poe in that way.

“In this scene,” Poe whispered to Ben who leaned into Poe to avoid having to raise their voices, “Viggo Mortensen actually broke his toe when he kicked the helmet. His scream was so intense that Peter Jackson actually used that take.”

“Ah,” Ben said keeping his eyes on the screen. Rey smiled to herself realizing Ben’s intention in letting Poe get these facts off his chest while trying to not distract the others. Poe must’ve realized only Ben was interested in hearing his side comments and began whispering in Ben’s direction. Rey didn’t hear everything that was said but only picked up some chunks: Viggo Mortensen having bought his horse after production was complete and that the voice of the actor Dominic Monaghan who played the hobbit Merry Brandybuck had become significantly deeper over the years.

“Even lower than your voice, Ben,” Finn teased who must’ve heard Poe’s commentary. Rey was surprised Finn teased Ben so lightly and casually. It must be a good sign then, she thought.

“Yeah, Benjamin,” Poe smirked, “even lower than yours.”

Ben shifted away from Poe to look him up and down and gave him an intense side-eye. Poe bit his lip and avoided eye contact, trying to suppress a chuckle.

“Huh?” Ben raised his eyebrow.

“I. Said. Even lower than yours, Benjamin.”

“Who?” Ben’s voice was calm.

“You, Benjamin,” Poe’s teeth were now on full display.

“Who?” Ben repeated.

“You, Ben,” Poe grinned from ear to ear at him.

“Thank you,” Ben said, crossed his arms and returned his attention to the TV.

“-jamin,” Poe added quickly.

Without taking his eyes off the screen, Ben reached over to Poe’s bowl of popcorn and yanked it out of his hand, setting it on the other side of the couch.

“You don’t deserve popcorn,” Ben said.

Poe threw back his head and laughed, “No! C’mon, give me back my popcorn. Don’t take a man’s food, dude.”

“Nope,” Ben crossed his arms again, shaking his head with the corner of his lip curled slightly.

“OK, OK. Ben.” Poe threw up his hands. Ben looked at him sideways, his eyes tightened. Without taking his eyes off Poe, who was near a giggle, Ben reached back to Poe’s bowl and handed it back to him. Poe loved pushing buttons and he must’ve particularly enjoyed the banter with Ben. Rey knew Poe was growing to like Ben and this was his way of showing it. Rey also knew Ben was playing along or else the situation would’ve taken a completely different turn.

“Thank you,” Poe said grabbing his bowl, smirking to himself. Rey smiled up at Ben who winked and then kissed the top of her head as she snuggled up in his side.

After the movie, Sacheen and Jay decided it was too stormy to drive back. Tali and Rose offered to bunk with each other so Jay and Sacheen could have one of the four guest rooms.

Rey had finished brushing her teeth and when she stepped into their room, she found Ben only in his shorts on the bed, his long legs stretched out in front of him, one hand behind his head and the other scrolling on his phone. The conversation she had with Sacheen lingered in the back of her mind and she stood in the doorway looking at him for a moment.  

“Ben, what are your parents’ names?”

He looked up, raising his eyebrows.

“What?” He checked if he really understood what she asked.

“Your parents’ names?”

“Han and Leia. Why?”

“I just realized I didn’t know that.”

Confusion riddled his face, and it looked as if he were bracing himself for an unknown challenge.

“Tell me about them.”

“Why?” He tilted his head with slight suspicion.

“I want to know more about you.”

“Why?” He repeated. His hesitation took her back a bit. She wasn’t offended but still it irked her.

“I’m your girlfriend. Isn’t that normal to want that?”

Ben reached over to the nightstand, setting his phone gently on top of it. He then crossed his legs and folded his hands in his lap.

“What do you want to know?” His voice was calm with less suspicion.

Rey shrugged, “who’s a part of your family?”

Ben calmly sighed but answered. “Well, my immediate family are my parents, Han Solo and Leia Organa. I have no siblings. I have an uncle on my mom’s side, Luke, and on my dad’s side Chewie and Lando. They’re not blood but they’re also like uncles to me.”

“Where do they live?”

“Hanna City.”

“Are you ever gunna introduce me to them?”

“Maybe one day. When the time is right.”

“Because of what happened?”

He looked into the room but at nothing in particular. “Hmm.”

“What exactly did happen?” She asked carefully but nonetheless it drew out a displeased huff from him. She pushed off the door frame which she had been leaning on and walked over to the bed. She gently slid onto it, kneeling next to him. Ben looked at her with no intention of answering her, she realized. So, she placed her hand on his knee, slowly rubbing it to show she wasn’t asking to offend him just understand him.

“Ben, if you don’t want to talk about it, if you’re not ready that’s OK. I just… why don’t you trust me?”

He flinched at that question. “I do trust you.”

“Do you? You hesitated at telling me your parents’ names. And you’re very mysterious when it comes to your family and just your background in general.”

“Sweetheart,” his face softened, “of course I do.” His hand took hers and with his thumb gently rubbed the back of it. “What happened between my family and me… it left scars. I don’t… I don’t wanna deal with that right now. It would take me back to a bad place. And you make everything feel good and easy. Like there’s no care in the world. You just…,” he looked at her so lovingly. “You make me happy. I didn’t think that was possible for a long time. And I’m enjoying that.”

Rey felt a wave of affection wash over her and she wanted nothing more than to make him happy. To make him feel loved. And to take away his sadness and pain.

“I don’t talk about these things with you, not out of lack of trust but because I don’t want the one thing that brings me joy to have this dark thing lingering over that joy. You distract me from that, from everything. In a good way,” he clarified, having noticed that comment could potentially come across wrong. “That’s what I need right now. To be able to push away those not-so-happy memories.”

Rey understood. She understood it took time for people to deal with whatever trauma they experienced and you couldn’t force their healing. He opened up and expressed his concerns with her. It was open communication. It was a start. A step in the right direction. And even though it wasn’t fully, it was something, and she was grateful for it.

She smiled, “then I’ll be that distraction for a while.” She placed her hands right above both of his knees and pushed herself off her calves to lean into him. His hands gently held her face and she closed her eyes as their lips joined in an affectionate, then passionate kiss.

Chapter Text

The thunder roared outside and lightning lit up the room as Ben and Rey were leaned into each other, foreheads touching. Rey was grateful for this intimate moment they had shared but now she felt a particular hunger grow in her. Heat rose to her cheeks and her heart began to flutter. She shifted away from him and as she looked into his eyes that same hunger idled there. She tilted her head and gave him a coy smile, making the corner of his mouth twitch. She inhaled as she gathered the necessary courage and leaned into him, brushing sweet, gentle kisses down his neck along his scar. He ran his fingers along her arms that were still perched on his thighs. Rey slowly swung her leg over his lap, straddling him. As he looked deep into her eyes, his hands clasped around her behind, bracing her. Her own hands found their way onto his shoulders and as she looked down to him, he smiled, his eyes dark with lust. A lightning bolt lit up the room and she thought it a coincidence that the weather outside was a perfect reflection of what was going on inside her as a reaction to that smile. She brushed a loose strand out of his face and before she could do anything else he pulled her towards his chest, bringing her neck to his mouth.

“I wonder what would’ve happened if we were alone in that pool,” he whispered onto her throat.

She ran her hand through his hair and hummed in agreement to his curiosity.

“I think,” she pulled away from him, “something along these lines.”

She began bunching up the hem of her silky, blush camisole and lifted it up over her head, fully exposing her humble breasts. Ben kept his eyes on hers but his smile grew wicked, drawing out a heat in her core. His hands caressed her hips, her waist, halting on her ribs. A thumb gently brushed over the lowest part of her slopes. His hands were so large compared to her chest that he only needed to stretch his thumb out a little more to reach the now hardened peaks of her breasts. She hummed her approval and he fully cupped her chest while crashing his full lips onto hers. As her tongue found its way to his, he hardened under her, making her groan into his mouth. For a few breaths they continued their passionate kissing until Rey pulled back enough to see his eyes. She poked her periwinkle nail into the skin between his chiseled chest and slowly traced down his abdomen, halting at his waistband. His breathing grew heavier and she slipped her finger between the elastic band and his skin, his brown eyes almost black. He took her chin between his thumb and index finger, pulling her back closer to his face. When he didn’t kiss her, her finger continued to wander and with one swift move he flipped her over onto her back and now towered over her with his raven strands covering his face. With one hand he pushed back his front hair and with the other he traced along her side. Rey looked him over, his bulky chest rising up and down, the veins in his arms popping out around his muscular arms, his powerful thighs radiating heat onto her own legs. It was an intimidating picture, she had to admit. But she knew, despite his massive figure he was gentle, affectionate and careful with her. She needed him. Wanted to feel every inch of his body. Wanted to smell, touch and taste all of him.

He leaned down, now hovering right above her. She could feel his warm breath on her skin. His lips met her neck, leaving a trail of kisses from collarbone to belly button. When his mouth reached her shorts, he looked up at her, waiting for permission. She gladly gave it to him, nodding her consent. With his teeth he tugged the silky fabric of her pajama shorts down, exposing her fully. His hands slipped under the arch of her back, and she lifted her hips as he peeled off her shorts completely. Her body had already reacted, readying itself for what would come next. He slowly pulled her knees apart but then pushed himself off the bed and onto the end of the mattress, grabbed onto her thighs and yanked her down to the edge of the bed, before lowering himself to her.

“Try to be silent, OK?” He whispered with a wicked grin that set her core aflame. She had completely forgotten that they were not alone in the house and secretly thanked the universe for the loud thunderstorm still raging outside. When his lips finally met the apex of her thighs, a spark of electricity struck through her veins and she grabbed onto the sheets, holding on tight. Ben teased an agonizingly long while until he unleashed himself completely on her, worshipping her as her universe shattered and her climax splintered through her.

“Ben,” she rasped.

He groaned his approval and she lay there, limp with satisfaction. Ben wiped his mouth with his hand, rose from where he was kneeling and got back on the bed. Moving almost feline towards her, he was now hovering above her, studying her. He must’ve been content with whatever he found in her expression and kissed her cheek before scooting back on his knees and tugging off his own shorts. Her mouth went dry at the sight of his ample length. It didn’t surprise her that everything about him was massive. She studied him, and what she saw, the sheer beauty and strong physique of him, made her pull her legs up and part her knees, extending a silent invitation. He growled, accepting, and made his way to her entrance, gently, carefully sliding in. Ben put a hand on either side of Rey and lowered himself over her, their lips finding each other once more. When she adjusted to him, their bodies mimicked waves moving on and off a shore. Her whole being now centered around Ben. Around their emotional and physical bond. Nothing else mattered. Nothing else existed. Just Rey and Ben.

Their movements became faster, harder and deeper. Every part of her was on fire. Everything around her was a blur, solely their connection was clear and bright. She wanted more. Needed more. Her whole being was pinned down to him and the sensation he produced in her. She didn’t think it was possible but as she reached her climax, it was triple the explosion of her first. Ben tried muffling a groan as he reached his, slamming into the base.

He remained inside for a moment, catching his breath. Rey trembled, mouth dry and panting. He placed a kiss on her belly button before scooping her into his arms and embracing her in the most heartbreakingly gentle way. They lay there a while, still panting and holding each other while listening to the rain hitting the windows.

After a while she found enough strength to lift her head and look into his beautiful, loving eyes. There was a sparkle in them that she hadn’t seen before. She placed a hand over his scarred cheek and kissed him tenderly before nestling back onto his chest. She listened to his heartbeat while he lazily stroked her hair, her eyelids growing heavier and heavier until darkness washed over her, swaying her to sleep.

Rey awoke to her head rising and falling. She opened her eyes and only saw white bedsheets bunched up in front of her. There was something hard under her and she realized again where she was and what was under her. Or who. She turned her head towards him and found his eyes closed, his breathing even. Taking in his long, black lashes, his proud Roman nose, his high cheekbones, sharp jawline and full lips. Her eyes followed the scar on the side of his face, meandering its way down his neck onto his collarbone. Her finger reached out and gently traced it, making his eyelids flutter.

With his eyes still closed, Ben smiled. “Good morning, sweetheart.”

Rey smiled softly. “Morning,” she hummed.

His arms tightened around her, and she nuzzled her face in the arch of his neck and shoulder, looking out from under his jaw. They held each other a while before she pulled back and kissed his cheek. His strong hand rubbed the arch of her back and halted on her waist as he brushed a kiss on her forehead.

Rey heard the sound of silverwear and dishes being handled coming from downstairs. Before slipping out of bed, she planted a playful peck on his shoulder. He chuckled and she made her way to the bathroom.

After having gotten ready for the day, they met Sacheen, Jay, Tali and Rose in the kitchen with Rose making pancakes for everyone.

“Why, good morning you two,” Rose said, throwing Rey a knowing glance that only she understood which immediately made her blush. She hoped nobody else had overheard her and Ben’s nightly activity.

“Good morning,” Rey walked over to Rose, put her hands on the counter next to her and smiled shyly. By her reaction, Rose must’ve had enough confirmation for her assumption because she began grinning at the pancakes sizzling in the pan in front of her. Ben went to sit next to Jay and Sacheen at the kitchen table while Tali sat on the couch, watching them from the living room. Tali cleared her throat and Rey saw Ben wink at her. They must’ve had the same interaction she just had with her best friend. Luckily, nobody blatantly addressed anything.

“So,” Ben asked nobody in particular, “what’s the plan for today?”

“The boys are still sleeping but Poe mentioned something about antique shopping yesterday. So, maybe that and then a nice lunch before we drive home. You’re welcome to join us, whatever we do today,” Rose addressed the two cousins.

“Thank you, but we have to get back. Gotta help clear up the pow wow grounds,” Jay answered. “We’ll leave after breakfast.”

“Plus, if I leave my babies with his dad too long, he’ll spoil them rotten,” Sacheen said, pointing a thumb at Jay who smiled and nodded. Rey walked over to the couch Tali was lounging on and sat next to her while Rose continued flipping pancakes. Tali didn’t let on at all what she knew. Or what Rey thought she knew. Ben got up, boiled water to make tea for Rey and Jay and then began cutting strawberries, bananas and peaches as a side for the pancakes. Rey noticed the continuous banter between Rose and Ben as they prepared breakfast together. Knowing what Rose now knew, it probably made her more comfortable to be cheekier with him. Rey smiled at her wish being realized of her friends accepting Ben.  

“I heard you’re a beer expert?” Rose asked Ben.

“Oh, well I wouldn’t say that. I’m more of a whiskey guy. But, sure a bit. My mom comes from a culture that excels in brewing beer,” he answered. “So, it’s more or less in my genes,” he winked.

“What’s your favorite kind?”

“There are a few really good ones. I don’t really have an absolute favorite. Any type of Kellerbier is what I usually have. Like Karlsberg, Mönchshof, Sternla.”

“Oh, I’ve never heard of those,” Rose shrugged.

“Some of ‘em you can only get in like a German grocery store.”

“Ah that’s why.”

“Yeah.”

“I like Coors Light,” Rose said pouring more pancake batter into the pan.

Ben straightened, pausing his fruit chopping. He turned to Rose with furrowed brows, flipped the knife in his hand, directing the handle towards her and said with a very serious voice, “stick it in my heart, Tico, it’ll hurt less.”

Rose snorted with laughter and held her stomach as she leaned forward to try and contain herself. Tali rolled her eyes and snorted making Rey and Sacheen laugh even more than they already were.

“Fine, fine, just give me one of you keeler- whatever,” Rose threw up her hands. “Educate me then, Solo.”

“Oh, you’re on, Tico.”

“But only if you’re paying.”

Ben chuckled, “Sure.”

“Great,” she winked.

Finn and Poe joined them and when Rose had finished the first batch of pancakes, they all enjoyed breakfast together with Ben occasionally shaking his head at Rose and muttering ‘Coors Light’, drawing out a giggle from her.

“I wanna go check out this antique store near here,” Poe said to nobody in particular. “Anyone wanna join me?”

“Yeah, sure why not,” Rose nodded. “I already mentioned it to the others.”

“Oh, I’m out,” Finn held up his palms. “I need some rest. I’ll just chill here until we leave.”

“Me too,” Tali agreed.

“Sounds interesting,” Ben took a sip from his water. “Count me in.” He turned to Rey who was still chewing her last bite of food.

“Oh, uhm, I think I’d rather stay here, too.” She gave him an apologetic look. “But you can go.”

He contemplated for a moment but nodded, “yeah, I’m in.”

Poe looked at him pleased, “cool.”

When everyone had finished their food and Sacheen and Jay said their goodbyes. Rey didn’t miss the long, intimate hug Tali gave Jay and wondered about the nature of their relationship. After Sacheen hugged everyone and said her goodbyes, Rey watched Ben and Jay for a while who seemed to be having a very serious conversation judging by their faces. They clasped arms and pulled each other in for a hug. Longer than she would’ve expected. But then again, she wasn’t after having found out how much Jay meant to Ben.

Jay, stilling holding Ben’s arm in his, said to Rey, “take good care of him. Make sure he stays out of trouble.”

Rey smiled at the young Navajo and nodded. “I’ll try.” Ben raised an eyebrow at them, then patted his friend’s shoulder as he walked out the door.

Sacheen hugged Ben and as she pulled back, she put a hand on his chest. “She’s a good one, Ben. Don’t mess it up,” she winked at him and kissed his cheek. He chuckled at her and before leaving, she pointed at his charm, put her hand over his heart and gave him a knowing look. He smiled and nodded in recognition. Rey knew, whatever meaning behind that interaction lie, she probably wouldn’t discover unless she blatantly asked. But she was too polite and respected him too much to do so.

Poe, Rose and Ben drove downtown, while Rey, Tali and Finn stayed behind, cuddled up on the couches. Rey had fetched her book and a blanket and was now snuggled up, reading one of the many romance novels on her reading list. Finn was stretched out opposite her, scrolling on his phone while Tali had on her headphones, listening to a podcast. It began to rain again and as Rey looked out the window, she was relieved not to have gone outside and was instead curled up on the couch ready to dive into another world. They remained that way for a good while until Finn suggested a game of Cards Against Humanity. Rey knew deep down that was Finn’s way of feeling out what kind of humor his opponents had, and Tali definitely had the right kind.

They played a few rounds until Tali said, “OK, I wanna get to know you guys a little more. Let’s play some Truth or Dare, with just the truth part.”

“Uhm, OK,” Finn tilted his head. “What do you wanna know?”

“Let’s start easy. Where’s everyone from and who’s a part of your family?”

Rey let Finn answer first, as she didn’t want to jump on that right away.

“Well, I grew up in Hanna City, I’m an only child but I’m getting a dog soon,” Finn answered.

Rey hesitated a moment but decided there was nothing to hide, “well, it’s just me and my adoptive father, Unkar. He adopted me when I was 10 and we moved to Hanna City around two years ago. But you guys already knew that.”

Tali nodded and understood that was all Rey wanted to say. “Mkay, I’m also an only child,” Tali clasped her hands together, “and it’s just me and my mom on the outskirts. And Rey knows, uhm, my mom is engaged now. So, future stepdad soon,” Tali put two thumbs up, but her face didn’t match the gesture.

They continued talking about their plans for the future, what their passions and fears were, happiest moments in their lives and scariest moments in their lives. Then the subjects got very deep and very personal, initiated by Tali, but it was Finn who then asked, “who was everyone’s first?”

Tali and Rey looked at each other and then at Finn, Tali’s lip curling a bit at Finn’s growing comfort and courage to ask such things.

“I’ll go first if you guys are too shy,” Finn added, and meant to challenge Tali with that last word as he knew she was anything but shy. “Rey knows already. It was two years ago -ish at a party after a school dance. Her name was Jannah and I had the biggest crush on her. But yeah, it was awesome.”

Rey giggled at his proud smile at the memory. Rey spoke next, “Finn also knows already,” she smiled at her best friend, “but, it was also around two years ago, right before I moved to Hanna City. His name was Adam and what can I say, it was the first time… so it wasn’t overly enjoyable but still nice.”

Finn and Rey turned their attention to Tali when Rey finished, and Tali just blinked at Rey.  Finn noticed her hesitation and said, “don’t worry, it won’t go past us.” He put his hand over his heart and added, “promise.”

Tali cleared her throat. “Uhm, well,” she glanced at Rey and then bit her lip and raised her eyebrows. “I was fourteen. So, a while ago. And it was with… Ben.”

“WHAT?” Both Rey and Finn said together, gaping at her.

“It wasn’t like we were into each other or anything,” Tali threw up her hands, defensively. “I mean we grew up together and I swear to god there’s nothing there.”

“Well, then how? Not how… why?” Finn still gaped.

“It was summer, and I wanted to get it over with before we started Highschool. And I was so scared of it. I mean terrified. God I can’t believe I’m saying this,” she said, shaking her head and then putting her fingers on her temples. “Anyway, I wanted my first time to be with someone I trusted and felt comfortable with. So, I asked Ben.” She threw Rey an apologetic look, but Rey felt there was no need for it and gave her an understanding smile. “At first, he said ‘no’ because, y’know, we’re like siblings. It’d be weird. And trust me it was. But, after a while he thought about it and must’ve realized how scared I was and didn’t want me to have a negative experience… so he agreed.”

“Oh my god,” was all Finn said. “Were you his first then too?”

“Yeah,” she said scrunching her nose at what she must’ve felt was a cringy memory.

Rey laughed and clasped her hands over her mouth.

“It’s not funny. It was so awkward,” Tali put her hands over her eyes. “I mean he was so sweet and gentle and like super respectful but still. So weird.”

Finn laughed, “well, you have that to look forward to, Rey. Sweet, gentle, respectful and weird.”

Rey bit down on her lower lip, “I kind of already did.”

Finn jumped, put his hands on his chest and looked at her with wide eyes. Nothing negative in his expression, just surprise and curiosity. “What? When?”

“Last night,” Rey smiled at Tali who was already grinning wickedly.

“Why didn’t you tell me?” Finn said now grinning as well, showing all of his teeth.

“We were having breakfast, Finn,” Rey threw up her palms.

“There was enough time between breakfast and now,” Finn countered.

“I was going to, relax,” Rey laughed. “Plus, I just did.”

Finn looked her over and leaned in with a not-so-shy smile, “how was it?”

Rey slapped his bicep, “Nosy, rosy.”

“What? As if you weren’t gunna tell me or Rose.”

Rey smiled shyly, stretched her hands out in front of her and scrunched her nose, “it was amazing.”

Rey looked at Tali who was grinning so hard she thought it wasn’t possible for her to grin any wider than she already was. And she realized in the two years Rey had known Tali, she had never seen her this excited. Ever.

“I want details,” Tali said, and Finn nodded his agreement. “Ben won’t give me any so spill.”

Rey decided to only briefly explain what happened, not too much as she didn’t know how comfortable Ben would be about her friends and his best friend knowing too many details about their physical relationship. It was nice telling them about their – as Finn put it – ‘horizontal tango’ and she felt her stomach flutter at the memory of how Ben had touched her and how connected she felt to him.

“Good,” Tali nodded proudly. “He better treat you right. If he ever doesn’t – which I’ll make sure doesn’t happen – let me know and I’ll pin his balls to the wall.”

Finn burst out in laughter and Rey huffed an amused ‘OK’.

The key to the door turned in the lock and Ben and Rose came in.

“Ah, speak of the devil,” Tali grinned.

“Where’d you leave Poe?” Rey asked.

“Oh, he’s getting his prized acquisition from the Jeep,” Rose rolled her eyes and shook her head.

“Why, what did he get?” Finn asked and before either of them could answer Poe came in, attempting to fit a large wooden rocking chair through the door.

“Guys, look at this beauty!” Poe’s voice was full of excitement. Ben quickly walked back to the entrance to help him.

“Oh, my god,” Finn put his hand on his forehead. “What? What is that?”

“Fucking iconic is what it is,” Poe answered putting his hands on his hips, panting and proudly looking at his new rocking chair.

“Why didn’t you just leave it in the Jeep?”

“‘Cause I wanna use it until we leave,” he said sitting down and getting comfortable, beginning to rock. Ben huffed amused as he looked down at him, hands on his hips.

“I gotta admit, that’s pretty cool,” Tali nodded.

“Right?” Poe’s eyes grew. “Every single rancher has one of these.”

Tali and Finn got up and Poe let them try it out. Ben walked over to where Rey was sitting and leaned down from behind the couch and kissed the top of her head in greeting.

“Hey,” he smiled at her.

“Hi,” she scrunched her nose. “Did you have fun?”

He nodded and moved around the couch to squat in front of her. “I did.”

“Did you find anything nice?”

He hummed and slid his hand in the pocket of his leather jacket. He brought forth a small metal item and handed it to her. “For you.”

Rey took the small piece from between his fingers and saw it was a vintage silver hair comb with small butterflies engraved onto it. “To match,” he said pointing at her turquoise bracelet he had gotten her two days before.

She inhaled, tilted her head and raised an eyebrow, reminding him of their conversation about buying her things. His head tilted and eyebrow raised as well to remind her of his response during that conversation. She shook her head and rolled her eyes at him to which his lips curled victoriously.

“Thank you,” she said and kissed him.

“You’re welcome,” he said slightly sarcastic.

Tali slumped onto the couch next to them and teasingly asked, “what’d you get me?”

Without taking his eyes off Rey, Ben slid his hand into his other jacket pocket and handed her a small metal item as well.

“Wait, you actually got me something?” Tali asked surprised.

“Mmh.”

Rey kissed his cheek before turning to Tali who was smiling at a small vintage ring.

“That’s the Claddagh, right?” Ben asked.

Tali gave him a look of deep gratitude and Rey could tell she was touched. Not just by Ben getting her something but the sentiment behind the item and whatever Claddagh was.

“What’s Claddagh?” Rey asked.

“It’s an Irish design,” Tali explained. “It’s two hands holding a heart with a crown atop of it.” She held it up for Rey to get a better look. “It symbolizes the purity of a cherished friendship or relationship. The heart represents love, grá, the hands friendship, cairdeas, and the crown loyalty, dílseacht,” she continued, adding the Gaelic words as she explained the symbolism. “My family has Irish roots, so this means a lot.” She smiled at him. “Thank you.”

He nodded and then when she didn’t say anything else and just continued to smile at him, he added, “I hope you’re not waiting for a hug.”

Rey snorted and gently slapped his shoulder as Tali chortled.

“Come here, you big teddy bear,” Tali threw her hands around his neck to which he protested greatly.

“No, no, no. You know what I’m taking this back.”

“Don’t you dare,” Tali pulled away, getting the ring out of his reach. “Try me, see what happens.”

“If I knew you were gunna do that I would’ve left it there.”

“Well, you didn’t. Too bad!”

“Pff.”

Tali slipped it on and stuck out her tongue at Ben.

Chapter Text

After having packed their bags, the friends made sure everything in the house was in its place before getting in their cars and hitting the road back home. They had stopped on the way for lunch at a small diner off the highway and were now back on the road for another two hours. Since Poe’s chair took up most of the backspace in the Jeep, Rose and Tali sat in the back of the Mercedes with Rey sitting next to him in the passenger’s seat. When Rose signaled she had to use the restroom, Ben looked at the dashboard to see how much gas they had left and drove to the next gas station that looked clean enough with acceptable bathrooms for the girls to use. Ben knew all three of them weren’t high maintenance, but he still wanted to make sure it was decent. Or at least clean enough for them not to catch any diseases. As they pulled up to the station and parked around it, closer to the restrooms, Ben noticed a dark blue Nissan with tinted windows parked on the other side of the parking lot. He squinted his eyes to get a better look at the car but couldn’t see the license plate. He took the nozzle and opened the flap to the tank. As he waited for the car to be fully pumped, he spotted three guys walk out of the gas station, glimpse at him and get into the Nissan. They all had buzzed dark hair and were wearing dark blue denim jackets. When the car was full, Ben put back the nozzle and entered the station to pay.

Through the window he saw Rey, Rose and Tali walk up to the Mercedes, stretch their limbs and then get into the car. Ben used the facilities as well before stepping back outside and found everyone ready to continue their roadtrip.

They had been following Poe for about ten minutes until the Jeep disappeared in front of some trucks. A weird feeling in the pit of his stomach made him check the rear-view mirror. When he spotted that same dark blue Nissan behind him, his gut tightened as the realization hit him. He made eye contact with Tali who immediately understood what laid in his expression. She threw a glance over her shoulder, checking out the car that was now aggressively moving from side to side behind them. Tali nodded at him in the mirror, and he gently pushed down on the gas pedal. The car drove up really close then got some distance just to drive up really close again. The driver repeated this pattern multiple times and once even flashed his lights.

“Jeez, why won’t he just pass us?” Rose sighed her annoyance.

“Damn, he’s really riding your ass,” Tali said innocently and turned around again.

In that moment the car passed them and sped away. Ben sighed his relief and shook that weird feeling off. He peered at Tali again who just raised an eyebrow and tilted her head slightly.

After about a mile, Ben hit the brakes as he realized what was ahead. The blue Nissan was parked in the middle of both lanes, blocking their way. He immediately knew exactly what was happening. He glimpsed at Rey and a shiver went down his spine. He knew if he’d try to drive off, they’d only follow him and maybe things would get out of his control. So, he slowed the car down and halted.

“Everyone stays in this car.” His voice revealed nothing of what was going on inside of him. “Understood?”

“What?” Rose looked up from her phone. “What is that jerk doing?”

“What do you mean? What’s going on?” Rey asked. “Do you know him?”

“Just drive around him, Ben,” Rose suggested.

Ben kept both hands on the steering wheel and stared forward, not reacting to Rose’s suggestion.

“Why does he want us to stop?” Rey asked.

“Rey switch places with me,” Tali said. “Now.” Rey looked at her in confusion.

“I don’t like this, Ben,” Rey’s face revealed concern. “This feels weird.”

“Do what she says,” Ben only answered.

Tali let Rey climb onto the back seat with them before climbing into the seat next to Ben. Ben nodded at her and was thankful to Tali for thinking quick and not letting the questions continue.

His voice became deep and lethally calm as he spoke, his eyes stayed glued on the Nissan. “Rey, you stay in this car. No matter what you see or what happens. Do you understand me?”

“Ben, what’s going on?” Rey asked, her eyes wide and her cheeks lacking that rosy glow.

“What the hell?” Rose clenched her seat. “Why are you talking like that? Where’s Poe and Finn?”

“I’m keeping the keys in the ignition. Tali, you know what to do. But you two, stay in the fucking car.” Ben knew Tali would get them to safety, even if it meant leaving him behind. He could count on her to get them out out of danger in time.

Tali nodded, her face turning to stone.

“I need you to say it,” he spoke to Rey, still eyes ahead.

Something in his voice must’ve been intimidating enough for both Rose and Rey to stop talking and blink at him.

“OK, we’ll stay,” Rey said and swallowed. He was grateful she didn’t continue to ask questions and just agreed to his request.

“And you duck your heads if it gets loud. Do not reveal yourselves. Got it?” He said as the car ahead flashed its lights. The girls looked at each other and then nodded at Ben.

“Good,” he said and flashed his lights once in response, then turned the motor off. He slowly opened his door and kept it open for a few seconds before carefully stepping out. Three doors of the Nissan opened and the same three guys from the gas station got out with three equally wicked grins plastered on their faces.

The one that had stepped out of the passenger’s seat clapped his hands and spoke, “Oh, this is gold. This is absolutely gold.”

Ben didn’t recognize any of their faces but from their clothes and haircuts he noted their affiliation to Kanjiklub.

“Kylo Ren,” he studied Ben from head to toe. “The oh-so-scary Kylo Ren. Ren’s pride and joy. The prodigy.” He gestured air quotations to ridicule Ben’s status within their brotherhood. “We were hoping it was your boss, since you’re driving his car.”

“Of course, he’s not that stupid,” the second man said. “Ren wouldn’t wander out of his protected little territory by himself.”

Ben observed every inch of all three men. Analyzed every part of their appearances, their movements, their gestures, what they looked at, their reactions to their surroundings and when someone spoke. Everything and anything to find out as many details about these individuals as possible. One man had a limp on his right leg, the other had what seemed like a near blind eye. Ben made out each visible weakness to find out how and where to strike, if need be. The three closed in on him but he stood his ground, not flinching one bit to uphold a steady and confident appearance.

“I didn’t think you’d be so,” the first man, clearly a member with higher status, judging by his demeanor, said, “young.”

“Man, oh man is Tasu Leech going to be happy when we bring in Ren’s most prized Knight,” the third one with the bad eye sneered.

“I’m sorry to have to tell you,” Ben said putting his hands on his hips, signaling he had no intention of drawing a weapon. “You won’t be doing that today. Or most likely any other day for that matter.”

The leader of the trio looked at his two companions who both snickered. “Kid, you look smart enough to count. Look around. You’re clearly outnumbered.”

Good. He must’ve not seen either of the girls get into the Mercedes at the gas station. That meant they thought he really was alone.

Ben huffed a fake laugh, “oh, I can count. And I really like my odds.”

The leader showed no reaction, but Ben noticed the two others glimpse at each other. Good, he though again.

“I’m going to ask you nicely, just once. Get in the car, kid,” the man said, pointing at the blue Nissan.

“No, I don’t think I will,” Ben shrugged with a bored expression.

“I think I can persuade you,” he said moving the front flap of his jacket to reveal the black revolver in his belt.

“Oh, that’s a nice gun. I had that one when I was twelve,” Ben’s lip curled as he crossed his arms, revealing to his opponent that he was comfortable with the situation, hoping it would come across as careless.

He only grimaced as he said, “you’re in no position to sass me, boy. Get in the car.”

Ben gave him a sarcastically apologetic look and shrugged as he said, “I really don’t feel like it.”

With that, the man pulled out his revolver and pointed it at Ben. Ben only hoped neither Rose nor Rey would now do anything inconvenient. When all three men kept their eyes on him, he knew they remained unnoticed.  

“I don’t give a fuck what your arrogant ass feels like doing. I said get in the fucking car.”

Ben slowly moved towards him. “This isn’t gunna end well for you.”

The man laughed. “Either you’re blind on both eyes or you’re just plain stupid. Don’t push it.”

“Here’s the thing,” Ben tilted his head. “I like pushing.”

Finally, the man walked up to him and angled the gun with one hand at his head. Ben didn’t flinch as the gun was pointed at his temple and the other two were closing in as well. This was exactly what he was waiting for.

“I SAID GET IN THE FUCKING CAR!”

Ben only smirked which made the man’s eyebrows furrow in confusion. That was Ben’s cue to pounce. In one swift movement, Ben shifted to the side, gripped onto the man’s arm with the gun in his hand, swiveled back while swinging a flat hand that landed on the bridge of the second man’s nose and used his own weight to flip the armed one over his shoulder. He heard a pop, meaning the man’s arm either popped out of its socket or his elbow had gotten a good blow. Either way the man let out a cry. Using the momentum and the spilt second of the second man being out of sorts, he swung his leg towards the back of his knee, making him fall flat on his ass. He quickly disarmed the man, stepped back and now pointed at the one closest to him. The one with the bad eye already had his knife out but couldn’t hide his surprise at Ben’s speed and efficiency. All Ben could think of was getting Rey as far away from these assholes as possible. His anger vibrated through him and … Rey. She shouldn’t see what he usually would’ve done. What he was trained to do. No, he couldn’t let that be revealed. He took a deep breath and swallowed his fury.

His attention on the other two as well, he pointed the gun towards him now, “hands up and knife to me.”

It took the man a moment of contemplation as he looked between his two companions and then realized it was best to obey. He threw his knife at Ben’s feet to which Ben very unhurriedly placed his boot onto the blade.

“Keys,” Ben switched back to the one on the ground closest to him, pointing the man’s own gun at him.

“Dude, c’mon,” he said still laying on the ground, looking up at him and holding his arm, not daring to move.

“I. Said. Keys.”

He slowly reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out his car keys and threw them up to Ben who caught them midair. He pressed the top button on the key fob, locking their car to ensure they couldn’t retrieve any possible stashed weapons, and flung the keys a few yards away from them. He addressed the other one on the ground, holding his leg.

“Keep your eyes on them,” Ben said jerking this chin towards where the keys landed. “Back up.” They all did as he ordered and moved close enough to their car that Ben deemed acceptable. “Honestly, guys this was too easy. I overestimated you,” he said as he popped out the barrel and unloaded the revolver, the bullets clinking onto the ground below him. He flung the weapon in the direction of the keys before putting up his outstretched pointer finger at them. “Don’t fucking follow me. Understood?”

Ben picked up the knife, “And I’ll be keeping this.”

As he walked back to the Mercedes, Ben kept his eyes on the trio with his back to his own car until he reached the driver’s door. He kept on a neutral face as he slid into the seat and took off. He said nothing as he watched the three men get smaller and smaller in the rearview mirror scramble, trying to find the belongings Ben tossed away. Ben then opened the window and flung out the knife, to avoid bearing a weapon in the case of being pulled over.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

“What the actual fuck just happened?” Rose rasped. “Who was that? What did they want?”

“Are you OK?” Rey asked him and she heard her unstable voice as she spoke.

Ben nodded, answering her but ignoring Rose’s question for the moment. “Tali, take my phone and call him. Let him know what happened, where and let him know, they tracked the car.”

“Ben, what was that?” Rose asked again as Tali began scrolling through Ben’s contacts.

“Those were members of Kanjiklub,” Ben answered.

“Kanjiklub?” Rose asked.

“They’re part of a gang whose territory we’re in. And they probably thought we had valuables judging by the Mercedes,” Ben explained.

“Holy shit!” Rose slumped back into her seat and looked out the window in relief or despair, Rey couldn’t tell. Rey was too stunned to speak. She saw exactly what had happened but couldn’t explain it… nor did she find the breath to ask. Tali completely calm as if Ben wasn’t just held at gun point. As if he didn’t just walk away from a three-to-one assault. As if he didn’t so casually and so naturally disarm a guy and unload the gun. As if it were a casual freaking occurrence. During all of it both Rey and Rose were too scared to ask Tali anything. Not that she would’ve answered by the way her eyes were so murderously focused on what had been happening outside. Her whole demeanor and posture had shifted. And although Tali was was a few good inches shorter than her, she was incredibly intimidated by her in those moments. Ben would’ve had a similar effect on her had she not been more scared for him than of him.

Whoever Tali had called answered.

“Hey, boss. It’s Nyx. Yes. He’s driving. We had a bit of a situation with Kanjiklub. Yes. They tracked us. Three males. About three miles from Nayli. Yes, sir. Untouched. I can’t say due to two present civs. Yes, sir.” She hung up and Rey was surprised at how … well unlike Tali she spoke to whoever was on the other line. “He says to give a full report on the situation when we get back. He’s sending… a few KOR’s to the borders,” Tali spoke only to Ben who just nodded his understanding.

Tali’s phone call raised even more questions and Rey and Rose must’ve been thinking the same thing by the way Rose stared at her.

“Ben,” Rey spoke gently, and his eyes immediately darted at her through the rearview mirror. “Can you please tell us what’s really going on here? This all seems...”

“Terrifying,” Rose finished for her.

Ben glanced at Tali before answering. “We just called Ren, our friend who owns the car to let him know that he’s on Kanjiklub’s radar. Some of our friends have had recent … encounters with other Kanjiklub members and I thought it important to let him know. Y’know so he can be on the lookout.”

To Rey, objectively speaking, it all made sense. He was vague in his answer but still logical. Something still seemed to be off, she just couldn’t put her finger on it.

She turned to Tali, “Why’d you call yourself Nyx? And him boss?”

“Oh, those are just nicknames we call each other. I worked for him a while back and ‘boss’ just kinda stuck,” Tali quickly and calmly explained. Judging by her attitude and demeanor it all seemed plausible.

“Where’d you learn to that?” She switched back to Ben.

“Do what?”

“That whole flip-the-guy-over-your-shoulder-and-disarm-him thing.”

“I told you about the wrestling, didn’t I?”

He had. Unkar had asked him about it, she remembered.

“And they teach you how to disarm someone like that?”

Tali interjected, “No of course not, Ben and I did a self-defense class last year. I know how to do that, too.”

Rey nodded. Again, it seemed logical. Rose was just listening with her eyes darting back and forth between Tali and Ben.

“I was lucky though,” Ben added. “Between theory and reality there is a huge difference.”

“How are you so calm?” Rose shook her head at him. “I’m still not processing what just happened. Or what could’ve happened. The dude had a gun. A friggin gun!”

“Don’t think I wasn’t shitting my pants out there,” Ben furrowed his eyebrows at her. “Staying calm is one of the first things we learned in… self-defense class.”

Rey noticed Tali’s lip curl ever so slightly right as they glanced at each other and then directed her eyes out the window.

“And how do you know it was Kanjiklub or whatever they’re called?” Rose continued her interrogation.

“I assumed. We have a huge gang problem and judging by their colors they looked like members of Kanjiklub also known as Kanji Gang. Plus, one of them had their symbol tattooed on the back of his hand.”

“Is the gang problem really that bad?” Rey asked now.

“Yeah,” Ben said, and Tali nodded, raising her eyebrows. “The whole city and- well, state is divided into territories.”

“The part of town where my mother and I live we really witness all of that,” Tali inhaled with dismay.

“What other gangs are there?” Rose joined in again.

Ben blew out a breath. “Ugh, well, the ones I’m aware of are Kanjiklub, Guavian Death Gang, Crimson Dawn, Black Sun, Pyke Syndicate, The First Order and… the Knights of Ren.”

Rey jumped at the static coming from their Walkie-Talkie. Finn, Poe, she thought. Rose grabbed it and spoke into the device, hoping they were in its reach.

“Hey, where are you guys?” Finn’s voice came through.

“Finn! We’re back on the road, where are you guys?”

“Uhm, we stopped on the side of the road about twenty miles away from Salline. We figured we’d just wait til you caught up.”

“OK, we will be there soon. We’re alright. You’ll never believe what just happened,” Rose sighed and held her forehead. She explained as best she could and answered their questions that were full of worry.

When they spotted the orange Wrangler, Ben pulled over and they all got out, eager to tell Finn and Poe about what had happened. They just gawked at Ben as Rose elaborately described what they had seen from the backseat of the Mercedes. Reliving what had just happened and somewhat having the shock settle in her, she darted to Ben and wrapped her arms around his torso. He was warm, his muscles were firm but yet comfortingly tender. His arms enveloped her as she breathed in his scent. He was alright, therefore she was alright. She drew back and furrowed her brows in lingering worry.

“But everyone’s in on piece?” Poe had his hands on his hips, looking everyone over. When they all nodded and confirmed they were unharmed, he directed his word to Ben. “Quick thinking, dude. You OK too?”

“I’m fine, thanks,” Ben reassured him. Poe patted Ben’s bicep and took a few seconds to study his eyes as if he were looking for something. Ben held his gaze and gave him a comforting and abating half-smile. Everyone got back into their cars and promised they’d stay close from now on.

Rey returned to the passenger seat next to Ben and stayed quiet for a very long time. She wasn’t quite sure what to make of this and watched the trees and road signs pass them by. Her thoughts wandered for a while. Rose and Tali had fallen asleep in the backseat and their even breathing relaxed her as well. She was brought back as Ben gently scooped up her hand and held her fingers between his thumb and index finger. His hand was warm and calloused, and she tightened her grip around his.

“You OK, sweetheart?”

She was more shocked than she’d wanted to admit but she nodded and bit her lip.

“You sure?”

Great, of course he knew she was lying but she also didn’t know what to say.  “Ben?”

“Yeah,” his thumb rubbed the tips of her fingers comfortingly.

She paused for a moment, making him look at her with curiosity and slight concern in his eyes. “I’d like you to teach me how to wrestle.”

That probably wasn’t what he expected. “What?”

“I want you to teach me some self-defense… moves.”

He tilted his head, his eyes switching back and forth between her and the road. “Uhm, yeah. Absolutely.” Her request must’ve settled in his mind because he began to grin. “I think that’s a great idea.”

“OK. How about we start tomorrow after school.”

“Well, I have to help at the house tomorrow after school, but how about Tuesday?”

“Alright.”

He smiled at her and rubbed her knee proudly before taking her hand again and bringing it up to his lips.

By the time they arrived in Hanna City, it was dark and much later than they had expected. Ben dropped off Tali and Rose before driving to her house. He would pick up the motorcycle the next day before school. As Ben set her bag on the top step of their porch next to her, she saw the TV was still on, so Unkar must’ve waited for her. That was unusual.

“Would you like to come inside?” She asked and the exhaustion must’ve been conveyed in her voice because Ben huffed a chuckle and kissed her forehead.

“No, sweetheart. Get some sleep. I’ll see you at school tomorrow, alright?”

“Or,” she half-smiled with her eyes closed, “you stay the night?”

He took her chin between index finger and thumb and gave her a gentle kiss, “not tonight, darlin.”

She smiled, her eyelids feeling like heavy weights. Although she was on the top step, he still towered over her. She slid her arms around his shoulders and then around his neck and pulled him in for a long, tired hug. Rey let her whole weight slump against his chest as she closed her eyes and rested her head on his shoulder. She needed sleep, immediately. She felt a rumble come from his chest and felt the breath of his laugh on her cheek.

“Want me to carry you upstairs?”

She smiled but shook her head slightly. “No, it’s OK.”

With that she pushed off him and kissed him goodnight. She noticed him watching her unlock the door before carrying her bag inside. Unkar was in fact on the couch but fast asleep. Spoke too soon, she thought, looking at her sleeping adoptive father. She shrugged and turned back to Ben who set her bag next to the stairs then glanced at his phone that had vibrated.

“I got it, thank you,” she whispered.

He winked and gave her another kiss before silently stepping back outside. He halted and looked back at her. “Rey.”

“Yes, Ben?”

“Thank you.”

She cocked her head, too tired to understand what he was getting at.

“For being with me.”

“What?”

“Being there for me that is. It’s nice to know I have someone in my corner. Someone that cares.”

Every muscle in her face softened and her heart dropped a bit as she saw a flash of inexplicable sadness in his eyes. “Of course.”

“And for this weekend,” his lips were a bit slanted, “I had a really good time.”

“I’m glad to hear that, Ben.” She smiled a tad wickedly as she said, “we did have fun didn’t we?”

He winked and gave her a sly smile, “oh, yeah. Can’t wait to repeat that fun.”

She giggled and gave him a warm smile as he walked down porch steps. “See you tomorrow, Ben.”

He put his hand up and walked to the car. She watched him drive off before grabbing her bag and with heavy legs making her way upstairs. She flung it next to her vanity, peeled off all her clothes and fell onto her bed. She thought about everything that had happened today and determination washed over the fear she had felt earlier.

She texted Ben a quick, ‘text me when you get home’.

After about half an hour he responded with ‘home’. She smiled at her phone, set her alarm clock and immediately drifted off to sleep.

Chapter Text

‘Home’

He stared at the screen on his phone. Ben could feel his fingers move slower from the cold. The misty cloud of his breath spreading out in front of him. His guts clenched as he hit send. It was a lie. He wasn’t home. Some would say the brotherhood was his home, the only home he knew since his family turned their backs on him. But he knew what was implied in that message. And it wasn’t true. Lying was something he rarely did. He avoided it at all costs. Sometimes it was necessary to save his ass or someone else’s ass in the face of actual danger. But he never wanted to lie to Rey, even if it was a trivial matter. Regardless, she was the one person he never wanted to lie to, and he just did.

He slipped his phone in his pocket, looked up at the lit-up Hanna City skyline visible from this side of the river before turning his attention back to his brothers huddled around two figures kneeling on the ground. He walked across the dock to get to join them in the circle, the circle that usually meant they were assaulting someone. Ben recognized the man on the ground. The last time he saw him, they paid him a visit in his house. Ben was sure the man had been able to hold up his part of the deal since it had been a while since the incident. He blinked the memory away and focused on calming his heartbeat and breathing. Two of his brothers stepped aside to let him join their formation and when Ben stepped into the glow of the dock lights, he realized the female figure kneeling next to him was the woman in the picture - his wife. Her eyes were wide, she was shaking and weeping uncontrollably. It dawned on him what was happening, making his gut clench even more and he inhaled deeply trying to keep down the content in his stomach. Apparently, the man couldn’t scrape up enough money like he had ensured.

Ben looked around to see if Tali had been summoned as well but he couldn’t find her red head anywhere. He spotted Kuruk across from him who jerked his chin towards him in silent greeting. Ben nodded and then followed Ren with his eyes. Trudgen was standing directly behind the couple slapping the back of the man’s head whenever the couple tried to look at each other or do something he didn’t approve of – which was everything.

“You see,” Ren spoke to the couple as he paced in front of them. “We specifically told you what would happen if you failed us.” He knelt down in front of the man’s wife. “And now,” he took her chin in his hand, “we will take what we are owed.”

“I gave you the amount. I gave you exactly what you ask-,” the man whimpered.

“Shut up, asshole,” Trudgen slapped him again.

“You didn’t,” Ren continued staring at the woman, unbothered by the man’s suffering. “You forgot the late fee. Your time is up. You’re dealing with the First Order now, not just the Knights of Ren.”

Ben could feel a chill shock through him at the mention of the First Order. The mother gang of the Knights of Ren. More brutal, more relentless and more… efficient as Ren put it.

“It’s a shame,” Ren moved the woman’s face in various angles to study her, “such a pretty face. What a waste.”

“Please, I’ll do anything, I’ll-”

Another slap. This one hard enough to make him lose his balance a bit.

“You were already granted that attempt,” was all Ren said before releasing the woman and giving Trudgen a nod. He immediately pulled the woman up to her feet.

Ben couldn’t stand it any longer. This poor woman had nothing to do with the deal they struck. She was completely innocent in this. He needed to pay for his actions, yes. But not his wife.

“Sir, is this really necessary?” Ben’s voice was sharp although he tried to remain as calm as possible.

Ren slowly turned towards him, nostrils flared and jaw twitching. “I don’t remember allowing any interruptions, son.”

“She has nothing to do with this deal, we should let her g-”

Ren whirled towards him and slapped Ben so hard in the face with the back of his hand that his ring cut through Ben’s bottom lip. “Don’t speak out of your place, boy.”

Ben refrained from touching his lip and turned his head slowly back to Ren, meeting his master’s icy glare. He felt his rage splinter through his veins but focused on his breathing to keep himself from doing anything stupid. His jaw was clenched, and he put his hands behind his lower back to hide his fists that had his nails digging into his skin. All eyes were on him, but he remained keeping his own eyes locked on Ren’s. Anything else would show either submission or disobedience. He wanted neither.

“Why do you think you have the right to voice your opinion. To even have an opinion on the matter? Are you questioning my decisions? You think you’re entitled to know my reasons?”

“No, sir,” Ben ground out.

“His bitch could very well seek out help from someone else like Kanjiklub. Or get revenge on one our families.”

The woman shook her head violently, “No, I promise-”

“Shut up!” Ren barked. “I’m in the middle of disciplining one of my curs.”

Ben tensed at that insult and the bottom of his eye twitched, but he remained unreadable. He felt a warm liquid trickle down from his lip.

“Do not challenge me boy. Do you want to be in my position? Do you want to be the master of the Knights of Ren?”

“No, sir.”

“No. Remember one thing, boy. I made you. I’m the reason you’re here and not rotting away in some prison cell, sharing scraps with the rats. I’m the one who got you out of that shit hole - who covered your stupid ass. I gave you security, financial stability, a roof over you fucking head and a family,” he pointed at his brothers as he spoke. “I can easily take that all away, and then some. Are we clear?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Good dog. Now smile,” his master said, gently slapping his cheek, “we’re getting company.”

The tires of a black Mercedes crunched behind him as it pulled up, the headlights illuminating the faces of their hostages. Ben didn’t dare look behind him and continued to keep his eyes forward, looking at nothing in particular. The car doors opened, and he noticed Kuruk shift and tense up. When Ben heard the thud of a cane on the concrete, he knew who had arrived.

“Good evening, gentlemen. And ladies,” a cold, raspy voice cut through the icy autumn air. Nobody dared to speak or move.

“Hello, Mr. Snoke. We were just wrapping things up here. We didn’t expect you so soon but now you have the pleasure of watching us give free swimming lessons,” Ren gestured to the couple who winced, pure terror in their eyes. “With a cement kick board,” he sneered. Ben couldn’t bear to look at them as guilt, fear and pity took over his every breath.

“Oh, do proceed,” Snoke said calmly. As calmly and casually as if they were in a normal corporate meeting with Ren giving a presentation of some business pitch and were not about to witness a murder. Ben looked over at Kuruk who – only noticeable to him – was equally tortured at this injustice. Ben had to do something. Anything. He knew with the First Order here, not only would he suffer the same fate as these two helpless and defenseless individuals but maybe even his family. Aridema, Kenton… and worst of all Rey. He blinked the thought away and took a deep breath. He now felt as helpless as the couple before him.

“Gladly,” Ren nodded towards Trudgen and another older Knight holding a sledgehammer. “And you,” he poked the man’s shoulder, “have the pleasure of watching her go first.”

Trudgen dragged the woman over to the older Knight waiting with his heavy, metal tool. The man began to squirm in Vicrul’s arms who had quickly stepped forward to restrain him. The woman began crying uncontrollably and frantically. Ben’s breathing became heavy, he took a small step forward and-

Snoke stood beside him, waiting with an ice-cold stare resting on Ben. Ben tilted his head down towards him and met his malicious and malevolent eyes. A boney, pale hand covered in liver spots reached towards his face and cupped his cheek. His cold, stringy thumb wiped away the blood on his lower lip. Snoke looked at the blood on his thumb and rubbed it away between his fingers and returned his attention to the frantic husband and wife.

Ben didn’t know what that had meant but he also knew in his core it wasn’t good. Hoping not to react in a way Snoke would consider displeasing, he returned his attention to Trudgen and Vicrul. He tried to cancel out the pleas as they pinned the woman onto the ground. With one swing, the older Knight came down with the heavy hammer and shattered her left knee. Her scream was unbearable and filled with agony, and Ben hoped someone would hear. The police. Bystanders who could call the police. Anybody. Please. Please, please, please. But nobody came.

As the older Knight shattered her second knee, Ben winced, drawing a look from Snoke. Ben tensed and looked ahead, right onto the skyline, trying to focus on the lights, the sound of cars, the sound of the river. Anything and everything to not have to hear or see the excruciating cries. Trudgen picked the woman up in his arms and after getting the silent instruction of his master, he tossed her over the railing and into the river.

“Let this be a reminder to everyone here,” Ren said to their circle, “of what happens when you fuck with the Knights of Ren.” Some of his brothers nodded and shouted their approval.

They repeated the same heinous act on the husband and when everything was over Ren beamed at Snoke, shaking his hand and swapping pleasantries as if they hadn’t just murdered two innocent people. Ben couldn’t hear anything being said due to his unsteady breath and his heart beating in his ears. He felt the bile rising and had to focus on exhaling the nausea away.

“Kylo! Kylo!” A voice found its way to his ears. He noticed someone grabbing him by the arm and yanking him away. “C’mon, man, let’s go.”

Ben shook his head and found his friend’s blue eyes looking up at him. Kuruk again pulled him away.

“Let’s go, we were dismissed. They’re talking business we don’t need to be present for.”

Ben began to breathe slowly and controllably. Rubbing his face, his senses became clear again. They walked over to where Ren had parked his Triumph and when Ben and Kuruk were sure nobody saw them, he found a bush and released his stomach content.

“Can you drive, dude?” Kuruk asked carefully when Ben was finished.

Ben nodded silently, trying to regain collectedness and self-control.

“OK,” Kuruk studied his face. “Let me know when you get home.”

Ben looked at his friend who uttered the same caring words that Rey had earlier. Kuruk cared. He had always cared. Ben knew Kuruk had his own kind of darkness, but he could be trusted and regardless of their affiliation, had a friend in him.

“I will.”

“Good.”

“You, too.”

Kuruk gave him a sly smile, “I will.”

And that was that. They wouldn’t speak of what they had just witnessed. That would make it even more real. By ignoring it, it wouldn’t devour them into madness.

Forty minutes later, Ben walked into his apartment. Set his keys, helmet and jacket onto the table and took a shower. He stayed under the freezing cold water for at least a half hour, attempting to stay attached to reality and not succumb to the darkness that lingered.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Rey’s arms slackened beside her, muscles aching and begging to stop. They’ve had two days together of Ben not showing her self-defense techniques – no - but just exercises that had nothing to do with self-defense. “To build strength.” He had said. She had strength, she was a ballerina for crying out loud. She was very fit, which she was proud of. She didn’t need brute force to fend off an attacker, she needed to know how to wiggle her way free or move around quickly to avoid an attack. Like he did that day.

“Ben, when do we get to the actual,” she began karate-chopping the air, “fighting?”

“Once you have enough muscles and balance for a proper fighting stance,” Ben replied, gently patting either side of her hips.

She glared over her shoulder and up at him, raising an eyebrow. “He says to a ballet dancer.”

He smiled, put his hand on her stomach, pulled her close to him. “Those muscles are obviously convenient,” he said rubbing over her abs, “but dancing and fighting require different ones.”

When her face didn’t change, he kissed her cheek.

“Look, in order to defend yourself in a fight, you also have to know how the movements of an attack work. And that comes with holding your ground and having good balance. You have perfect balance on your tippy toes. But you need to be able to maintain your position in the case of an attack, so you don’t fall flat on your ass.”

She could’ve sworn he wanted to pat hers as he said that last word.  

“OK,” she rolled her eyes.

He huffed amused before saying, “good. Show me your stance and then drop and give me thirty.”

“Wha-? Another thirty?” She exhaled vexed. “I think I’ve done more push-ups and squats and lunges in the past three days than in the past three years.”

“Well, then even better that we catch up on that,” he backed away and crossed his exposed arms over his bulky chest, his lips slightly curved upwards.

She clicked her tongue and deeply exhaled through her nose.

“Tell you what, if you give me another thirty, I’ll buy you a caramel Frappuccino thingy.”

Putting her hands on her hips, she squinted at him. That did sound pretty good right now. “Starbucks?”

“Sure.”

She bit the inside of her lip, “OK, fine. But after my date.”

“Your date?”

“Yes, with my book buddy. Like every Thursday,” she smiled coyly.

“Ah, right.”

She got into the stance Ben had showed her every day since Tuesday. Feet hip-width apart and set perpendicular, knees bent, fists covering her lower face and elbows tucked in her sides. When he was content with her stance, she dropped down and managed twenty-two more push-ups before collapsing on the gym floor.

“I’m done,” she panted, still on the floor.

“C’mon, eight more.”

“Nope. I’m done,” she mumbled onto the floor.

A deep sigh that sounded more like a growl made her turn her head. One hand slipped under her belly and a strong arm quickly but gently snatched her up from the floor. Her feet flung up and out as she let out a yelp. His mouth nuzzled between her neck and shoulder made giggles bubble out of her. She tried squirming free but to no avail. Finally, realizing she didn’t stand a chance against him, she slumped and let her whole bodyweight limp. He huffed a laugh as she turned her head to him.

“Am I interrupting something?”

They both stilled and looked over to the entrance of the school gym where Kuruk stood, arms crossed and leaning against the metal door frame.

“Hey, dude,” Ben let her go, gently setting her down, pushing his hand through his jet-black hair and nodded towards his friend.

Rey smiled at Ben’s friend and noticed Kuruk’s hair was much shorter since the last time she saw him, but she could’ve been mistaken since it was generally an-almost-buzz-cut.

“Whatcha doin?” He pushed himself off the door to walk over. “Y’know other than being all,” he made a dismissive hand gesture, “lovey-dovey.”

“Ben’s teaching me how to fight,” Rey said proudly. Kuruk glanced at Ben with a confused look. Was it confusion or concern?

“I’m not training her to be the next John Cena,” Ben raised his brow at his friend. “After … what happened, she asked me to show her some self-defense stuff.”

“Oh, OK. And here I thought your edge was rubbing off on her.”

She couldn’t tell if that was supposed to be an insult or relief on his part.

“What do you want?” Ben asked slightly annoyed at the interruption.

“Lookin’ for you. You’re helping at the house, right? I need a lift.”

Ben nodded and Rey checked the clock above the entrance doors.

“I have to get going. Don’t want my date to be waiting,” she winked at Ben who smiled and nodded.

“Date?” He glanced back and forth between them. “What - all this isn’t enough man for you?” Kuruk made large circles in the air in front of Ben.

Rey rolled her eyes. “She isn’t a man-”

“Oh, dude your girl is into chicks. Lucky bastard,” he patted Ben’s shoulder who just rolled his eyes and put his hands on his hips.

“- and is probably around forty.”

“Ah, kinky.”

“Oh, my god, Kuruk. We read books every Thursday on a bench, you sicko.”

“Sure,” he winked. She shook her head, kissed Ben goodbye and walked towards the doors.

“Later, Rey. You and your cougar have fun,” he yelled after her. Without looking back, she held up her middle finger, making Kuruk and Ben chuckle.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

“I promise you, there’s more to the story,” Finn said to a bored Kaydell stabbing at her salad.

“Finn, just because you don’t like someone doesn’t make them a criminal,” she rolled her eyes, pushing back a golden strand of hair over her shoulder.

“I’m being serious, Kaydell,” Finn put his hand flat on the lunch table. “Solo is hiding something. That incident with Kanjiklub on Sunday.” He shook his head remembering what Rose and Rey had told them. “It was too weird. And all that other stuff we’ve hear about in the past.”

“Those are all rumors, Finn.”

“On Tuesday, he met with two suspicious guys in the parking lot. Yesterday, he got a text during class and just up and left. Do you know where he was? The bathroom-”

“Oh, no, the bathroom?” Kaydell made an exaggerated shocked face.

 “- for eleven minutes. Who goes to the bathroom for eleven minutes? And then this morning, instead of going to class, he and his friend Kuruk were doing really shifty stuff in the gym.”

“Shifty? Like what?”

“Well, they were talking but Ben was sweaty, and we didn’t even have P.E.”

“Finn, you’re overreacting. He was doing completely normal things, He -,” she tilted her head. “Are you stalking him?”

“What? No. I just made sure he wasn’t dealing drugs or something.”

“Jesus Christ.”

“I’m gunna get to the bottom of this,” Finn was determined.

“OK, Columbo.”

Finn noticed he had gone on and on but failed to notice how exhausted Kaydell looked.

“Are you OK? You look… worn out.”

“Oh, I’m just swamped at work. The mayor is having major issues with this corrupt investor,” she sighed.

“Oh,” Finn tried to understand.

Kaydell smiled, “Might be a threat of corporate dependency.”

“Oh, dang!” Finn was thankful to the clarification. “So, is he or she like blackmailing her?”

“I don’t know, maybe. He’s probably like trying to get his claws into politicians or something. Maybe even higher office. Who knows. Everyone at the office is tense.”

“That doesn’t sound good. Don’t let it get to you though. You need a break.”

She smiled with tired eyes, and he gave her a compassionate look back.

“Seriously, it’s just an internship. You’re not even getting paid. C’mon, let’s do something fun and relaxing this weekend.”

“OK,” she sighed.

Finn smelled the citrus and floral scent of his best friend before she sat down next to him.

“Hey, guys,” Rey said, rubbing Kaydell’s shoulder after having noticed their friend’s exhaustion.

“I was just telling Kaydell we should hang out this weekend. Do something relaxing. ‘Cause I mean, look at her.”

“I’m in. Ben has Kenton duty tomorrow, so yeah, I’m down.”

“Oh, you’re not gunna help your boyfriend play ‘house’?” Finn nudged her side.

She scrunched her nose at him, “no, he’s very capable on his own.”

Kaydell huffed her amusement at their teasing.

“Honestly, probably more capable than me when it comes to that baby stuff,” she giggled.

To be honest, Finn was happy for his best friend. She deserved to be in love and giggly, and happy. And this past weekend proved that Solo was not as bad as he thought. He even kind of began to like him. Well maybe like was as strong word. Accepted. Tolerated? Despite his mysterious, intimidating and moody demeanor, he did see another side to Solo. One that was unexpected but almost… pleasant. Poe definitely seemed to think so. OK, fine, he liked the guy. He knew he was hiding something and didn’t want Rey to get hurt. But he understood that she was justifiably drawn to him. Plus, as Rose put it, the sunny-versus-grumpy combo was amusing. He would stay cautious, though. Especially, after the incident on Sunday.

Rey groaned as she drank from her water bottle.

“You good?” He asked, studying her to make sure she had no injuries.

“Yeah, just sore,” she answered.

“From what?”

“Oh, Ben’s relentless,” she rolled her eyes.

That drew out a ‘HA’ from Kaydell. “Well, well. Can’t get enough since the weekend?”

“Oh my god,” Rey rolled her eyes again. “Not from what you think. No, he’s been teaching me some MMA stuff.”

Kaydell huffed a laugh and winked. “Sure.”

“Oh, yeah that’s right. How’s that going?” Finn chuckled.

She tried to move her arms past her shoulders. “You tell me.”

“I hope that’s not all he’s getting sore,” Kaydell winked at Rey, which got her a napkin thrown at her.

“Amen,” Finn laughed.

“Finn,” she slapped his shoulder.

Chapter Text

“BEN!”

Ben looked over his arm that was covering his mouth and nose from the smoke completely surrounding him. The flames crackled all around him and debris began falling left, right and front. Finally, he saw a hand. A very bloody hand. Among a pile of long burnt wood beams covered by a metal wall locker that seemed to have fallen onto the pile and… Hennix, that had to be him. Was he hallucinating? The weed they had smoked earlier was rendering him lax. His eyes burned and he his lungs were bound to fill with smoke. And a trail from the top of his eyebrow along his cheek, neck and collarbone stung unbearably. He touched his face and when he looked at his hand it was covered in blood and grime.

“Henn-,” he coughed. He stumbled towards his friend whose hand was reaching towards him then slumped to the ground. Ben dodged falling metal rods, wood panels and other burning objects that could easily injure him when hit. He finally reached his friend and dropped to the ground to get as close as possible.

“Hennix?”

“Ben,” a very bloody and soot covered Hennix croaked.

“I’m gunna get you out of-”

“Ben.”

“Just hold on, I’m-”

“Ben. Take care of them,” his friend breathed heavily, closing his eyes.

“Hennix, I need you to stay with me-”

“Please, Ben.”

“Brother, stay with me,” Ben said grabbing the edge of the burning hot wall locker that was crushing his friend.

“Ben, promise me,” Hennix sounded stern, as stern as his hoarse voice let him. “Promise me.”

The locker didn’t budge. He had to find something to haul it off of Hennix. “Hennix we’re gunna be fine. I just need to-”

“Listen!” Hennix found enough strength to reach out his fingers towards him. The effort, the pain in his friend's face broke him. He dropped back on his knees and searched his eyes. Hennix curled his fingers around Ben’s hand. “Promise me you’ll take care of Ari and…”

Ben didn’t dare speak. They weren’t having this conversation. No, no, no.

“Ari and the baby. Please, Ben.”

What baby? There was a baby. Aridema was pregnant? Tears burned his eyes even more and he had great effort blinking them away. “Hennix, we’re going to be f-”

“Promise me,” Hennix closed his eyes, his grip becoming weaker.

Ben realized what he had to do. Didn’t want to believe it but he had to. “I promise, brother.”

Hennix smiled and nodded.

Somewhere a loud explosion went off and it hurled Ben ten feet back. He looked up and saw his friend, limp on the ground among the debris. And then…

“Ben!” He was shaking. “Ben!” He felt hands on his shoulders. “Ben! Wake up!”

Ben blinked and squinted at who was towering over him. His surroundings were completely dark, and he realized… Ari was shaking him, looking at him with worried eyes. Then he was awake. He sat up and she shifted back, letting him go. He was drenched in sweat and barely able to catch his breath.

“Hey,” she said rubbing his arm.

Ben rubbed his face and scooted back on the bed to sit upright.

“You’re having your nightmares again.” It wasn’t a question.

He nodded in response and ran his hands over his forehead and through his hair before resting his forearms on his knees. He took a deep breath and was too exhausted to look at her.

“Want me to stay with you?”

“Mmh? No, it’s OK. I’ll be fine.” He looked around Aridema’s bedroom and remembered why he was there. “Is he-”

“He’s asleep.”

Another tired nod. Ari said nothing, just scanned him. She silently put her hand on his. They were so warm. Or were his just extremely cold? He couldn’t tell. When she enveloped her two hands around his, he realized she too noticed the difference and it must’ve been the latter. She scooted towards him and gently wrapped her arms around him. He leaned into the comforting touch and closed his eyes. She understood. He didn’t have to explain himself. Or his nightmares.

“Friday’s his birthday,” she whispered.

Ben nodded trying to suppress his pain at the thought. “He would’ve been twenty,” he sighed.

He heard Ari sigh as well and he wrapped one arm around her. They stayed that way for a few breaths.

“Is that why you’re having the nightmares again?”

“Probably. I’ve been thinking a lot of him lately.”

She nodded in understanding. “I can feel his presence. A lot,” she tapped the spot where her heart was.

Ben looked up and searched her sorrow filled eyes. “Me too. Both of them.”

She attempted a smile, but he knew she was on the verge of tears. He pulled her in and kissed her temple. She patted his knee and inhaled deeply.

“I’ll make some tea?” She suggested.

“How about a whiskey?”

A chuckle bubbled out of her, and she scooted off the bed. He watched her make her way to the kitchen and when she was out of sight, his face crumpled, and the pain surfaced which he didn’t even try to stop. Warm tears rolled down his cheeks and he didn’t bother wiping them away.

At the house, Ben was grateful for the physical work he had to do. It helped him manage his rage, sorrows, frustration, dark thoughts… everything going on in his head and heart. Tearing down walls, ripping out concrete floors and carrying out the rubble to throw in the construction container was exactly what he needed to clear his mind. It was dirty and exhausting work, but it was honest and rewarding work. He had never thought about what he wanted to do professionally, since that liberty had been rendered redundant since joining the brotherhood. But the moment his little ballerina pirouetted into his life said thought crossed his mind more than he would let on. He didn’t know what the future would bring but he had the urge, the desire to be able to have security without the reliance of the brotherhood.

Cardo stepped next to him as Ben was pouring a large bucket of rubble into the container. He wiped his sweat from his forehead as he leaned on the container, watching Ben.

“You about ready to take a break there, kid?”

When Ben shook his head, Cardo chuckled, “you’re a beast you know that. You work twice as hard as any of the guys here. And still aren’t worn out.”

“I have a lot of energy to work through.”

“Hmm,” Cardo nodded. “I did too at your age. Wasn’t carrying a hundred of twenty-five-gallon buckets of this shit a day.”

Ben shrugged. “Gotta be doin’ something.”

“You’re just built differently, kid,” he shook his head. “So, you plan on graduating?” Cardo was the only one who lauded education in the Knights. He definitely wanted Tali to continue with school and for whatever reason he cared about what Ben did.

“Ugh, yeah probably.”

“Good, and after? What’s the plan?”

“The plan is… there is no plan.”

“Huh, no dreams? No desire to have a career?”

“I didn’t think the brotherhood allowed that?”

“It’s always beneficial to have a successful brother. The more income the better for everyone,” he shrugged. “As long as they stay close of course. Or come back,” he winked.

Ben scanned their surroundings to make sure nobody was listening. “Has anyone ever not come back?”

Cardo studied him silently.

“I mean… has anyone ever left for their career?”

“Sure, some have left the state to become successful and expand businesses or whatever. But not permanently. We’re family. We provide for each other.”

“Hmm. Has anyone ever left the brotherhood? Like for good?”

“Careful, son.”

Ben knew Cardo wouldn’t bullshit him, but he also knew he had to be cautious. Cardo always reported back to Ren.

“I was just curious. Don’t need to put any weight on it, Cardo.”

“Kylo, you know we take care of our own.” He put his hand on his shoulder. Was it because he cared or to intimidate him? Ben was unsure. “There’s no need to leave.”

“I know. Like I said, just curious.”

“All I will say is that if one of our brothers turns their back on us, we will turn our backs on them. And the betrayal will be punished.”

Ben nodded, trying to keep his face as neutral as possible.

“C’mon let’s go take a break, huh?”

Ben flung the empty bucket to the side and followed his best friend’s future stepfather.

His brothers were whistling and shouting compliments – only some would consider them compliments – and then Kuruk stepping in annoyed, saying, “oh, shut up you mongrels. Off limits, asshole!”

Ben peered around the corner of the house to see what was going on. And there she was. Rey standing in a light blue sundress with long sleeves and floral print, her hair in a half-bun and a large paper bag in one hand and her brown leather jacket in the other, waiting in front of the steps. What in the –

“Kylo, someone’s here to see you!” Kuruk shouted. “Where are you? Ky-”

Ben stepped closer, walking towards Rey.

“Ah, there’s your inamorato,” Kuruk gestured towards Ben.

“Hi,” she waved shyly.

“Babe, what’re you doing here?” He wiped his hands on his construction dust covered work pants. He leaned in to kiss her and noticed he must’ve been filthy as she wiped her mouth and began to giggle. “Sorry,” he added and wiped over his face, then took his hat that was backwards on his head, patted it on his pants to get some of the construction dust off.

“I wanted to surprise you with some food. And to make sure you’re wearing your protective gear,” she smiled.

God, she looked breath-taking. She was absolutely perfect and completely out of her gorgeous mind to be with someone like him. The others seemed to think so as well which they voiced loud and clear. Rey smiled at their side comments and handed him the brown bag.

“You’re so good to me.”

“I know,” she shrugged with a confident smirk.

He smiled at what she had brought. Half a rotisserie chicken. He looked up at her beaming face and smiled. “I’m gunna devour this. Thank you, sweetheart.”

She smiled and pointed into the bag again. He checked what else was in there.

“Since you’re clearly not wearing enough gear to protect yourself, I made sure you’d have something.”

Ben pulled out a reusable respirator with… pink filters. He blinked at it, and she burst into laughter. Kuruk was in tears, and he heard Vicrul say, “that definitely improves your ensemble, dude. Good choice, Rey.”

Ben was surprised Vicrul knew her name but smiled at his welcoming tone towards her.

“There’s absolutely nothing wrong with this,” he held up the mask to show Kuruk. “I’m gunna be diligent andfabulous.”

“Yeah, respect the drip, Karen.” Vicrul slapped Kuruk’s chest with the back of his hand.

“What the hell does that mean?” Cardo asked, clearly as someone not a part of their generation.

“Thank you, sweetheart,” he said, his lips curling as she covered her mouth to stop laughing. “I’ll definitely wear this every time from now on.”

“You better.”

He winked, “wanna go down to the river to eat?”

“Sure.”

Vicrul was still watching them and leaning on the railing with his forearms, “Kylo, don’t do anything I wouldn’t do!”

“Well, I’m pretty sure I crossed that line when I got a date. So, I’d say that’s a good start,” he grinned up at him. Vicrul gave him a vulgar gesture which Ben threw right back at him.

They found a bench to sit on and enjoyed the food. Ben particularly enjoyed the view. The absolute stunning, sweet, kind and generous Rey. His Rey.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Kaydell walked into the office and found her very exhausted and distressed boss slumped over her desk.

“Kaydell, sweetie, what are you doing here? On a Saturday evening no less,” her beautiful brown eyes studied her.

Kaydell swept her golden hair over her shoulder and set a chocolate croissant and Chai latte from Starbucks in front of the mayor. She smiled, “I thought maybe you could use a snack? I saw the light was still on in your office and thought you could use some motivation in a cup.”

She gave her a warm smile and her thick, shiny, brown braid slid over her shoulder as she tilted her head. “That is the absolute sweetest thing, Kaydell. I appreciate that very much.”

“So, any progress?” Kaydell slid into the blue velvet chair across from her.

“Unfortunately, not. Look at this list. All these people, companies, small business owners are all being sucked dry by that leech.”

Kaydell took the folder she was being handed and flipped through the pages, scanning over the names. “These are all people that came forward?”

“Some of them, yes. Others were revealed through investigation. But who knows how many others in the city are involved.”

“And what exactly happens to these businesses? I mean I get that they owe money to this investor. But what does their contract entail?”

“They’re all individual cases but for the most part there is a clause in their contract stating that the first party has full jurisdiction over the financial affairs. Company accounts are in his full control. And some people have their private accounts linked to their company’s account. New accounts are allowed to be opened under their names without their consent or even awareness. He embezzles money and puts these people and their families in debt. While simultaneously making them completely dependent on him, financially speaking.”

Kaydell new there was a lot of corrupt things going on in the city, but she never knew details on anything. “Do we have a name? Or like do we know for sure it’s the same guy?”

“Yes, SSF is the sponsor fund. It stands for Snoke Supremacy Fund and Snoke, the CEO of the company, is a crook.”

“Hmm,” Kaydell flipped through the pages some more. Goodness, did this list ever end?

“He’s approached me with a few offers as well. He’s relentless. I have to find a way to get rid of him and counteract his schemes.”

“I’m sure we will,” Kaydell tried giving her a reassuring smile.  “That’s-” Kaydell read the name Plutt and froze.

“Also, I think he might be affiliated with the mafia somehow. He just gives me the creeps.”

When Kaydell didn’t respond the mayor looked her over before gently asking, “Kaydell, is everything alright?”

“Hmm? Oh, uhm. No. I don’t think it is. My friend’s dad is listed. I have to tell her about this. Would it be alright if I send her a photo?”

“Be my guest. If your friend’s father isn’t already aware, then you should definitely give them a heads up.”

“Thank you,” she said snapping a photo of the list and sending it directly to Rey.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

As Rey was clearing out the studio for the next group of dancers, the conversation with Unkar this morning wouldn’t let her go. She couldn’t understand his reaction when she told him what Kaydell had sent her. He was more upset about the city hall knowing about his contract and getting into his business than anything else. “He’s been nothing but nice and generous to us, Rey. I trust Snoke.” And that was that. He left for the shop and left her speechless and shaking her head.

She checked her phone to see if Ben had answered her yet and reread the chat.

Wanna hang tonight? I have ballet class til 8 but I’m free after 🥰

Sure. I’ll be at the house until 7… ish. I’ll shower then I can pick you up.

Then a selfie of him wearing his new mask with the pink filters and Kuruk in the background giving her a thumbs-up.

Very good. I’ll bring Kuruk one too. You two would be the most stylish workers there.

Oh, and that’s OK, I can just come to you? I have the van. That way you don’t have to stress. Send me your address.

No school tomorrow. I could spend the night 😋

Ben?

The last three of her messages remained unread and the clock showed ten after eight. As she walked to her car, she called Tali who picked up after only one ring.

“Hey, Rey.”

“Hi, Tali. Is Ben still at the house?”

“No, he left like twenty minutes ago. He’s supposed to be picking you up right now, right?”

“No, I told him I’d just drive to his place. Can you send me his address? He didn’t read my messages and didn’t answer when I called.”

“Sure, hold on.”

“Hi, Rey!” Tali’s mom called into the phone.

“Mom, can you not?”

“How are you, sweetie?”

Rey smiled, “I’m good, how are you Mrs. Gleeson?”

“She asks how you’re doing,” Tali spoke to her mom because she probably couldn’t hear Rey through the phone.

“I’m great. Tell her,” Mrs. Gleeson’s voice grew louder, and Rey could tell Tali was rolling her eyes, “tell her I’d love to have her come over again soon.”

“I will soon, I’m sure. Thank you. I’ll talk to you soon,” Rey giggled as she heard Tali’s annoyed sigh.

“Alright, I sent you the address just now. Let me know when you get there. And if you need help finding it, just call me.”

“Thanks, Tali.”

Rey hung up and clicked on the location Tali had sent on Maps to navigate her.

When she pulled up to the building, she had not expected his neighborhood to be so well-off. She hadn’t exactly known what to expect, but she assumed as a nineteen-year-old without a steady job and still in school he would be living in a neighborhood that reflected these conditions. Maybe his parents still supported him financially beyond their fallout. She doublechecked the address and when she found it to be correct, she shrugged, grabbed her bag and made her way to the entrance. She walked into the building and was greeted by a doorman.

“Hi, I’m here for Ben Solo.”

The man didn’t have to check his computer and after looking her over and seemingly having approved that she was trustworthy, he said, “fifth floor, first apartment on the right.”

“Thank you.”

Rey checked her messages again and saw this time he had read her messages. At least he knows I’m coming, she thought. As she stepped out of the elevator and turned to the right, she found apartment 501 and knocked. She heard a metal latch being unlocked before the door opened. Ben must’ve just gotten out of the shower as all he was wearing was a black towel wrapped around his waist and beads of water dripping from his tousled black hair. She would never grow tired of his perfectly toned muscles and beautiful black hair. She sighed and agreed with Poe when he said he looked like he was carved out of marble.

“Well, hello there,” Ben longingly looked her up and down, studying her ballet outfit. His pupils grew darker, and his lips curled slightly.

“Hey,” she bit her lip and tightened her grip on the bag strap.

“Would you be overly mad if I ripped that off you and just devoured you right here, right now?”

She began to blush under his stare, “Well, seeing that this cost me three months' worth of my paycheck, I would say yes, very, very mad.”

“Hmm, OK,” he put his hands on his hips, right above the towel, “and what if I gently slipped it off you, neatly folded it on that chair,” he said pointing to one of the black chairs she only got a glimpse of from this angle, “and then splayed you out my bed for me to worship?”

She tucked her left arm under her right elbow, rested her hand on her chest and cleared her throat. “I would say, that sounds better than the first option but how about you give me a tour of your apartment first and then we grab a bite to eat?”

“Oh, I’ll be eating something.”

“Ben!” She looked around the hallway, remembering they could potentially be heard by his neighbors.

His wicked grin made her stomach flutter, and she took a step towards him, tenderly gripping onto his towel as she mouthed ‘down, boy’. He tilted his head as if to say, ‘I dare you’. Challengingly smiling back, she caressed the skin along the towel line as she walked past him into the room. He inhaled deeply and closed the door before following her.

“I don’t get a kiss?” He asked and when she looked back at him, he made a playfully pouty face. She set her bag down on the ground, lunged for him and flung her arms around his neck, pulling him down to her lips. Keeping their lips locked, he reached down even further and grabbed onto her legs, bringing them up and around his waist.

Carrying her, he walked around the apartment, “OK, so this is the kitchen and living room.” Rey giggled as she tried getting a good look at everything that he was showing her. He turned his back to whatever he would point at so she could see over his shoulder. “Bathroom over here and bedroom is over there.”

She smiled and looked down at him, shaking her head. “That’s the absolute quickest tour of any apartment ever.”

He smiled back teasingly and set her down. “Feel free to look around. I’m gunna finish up and get dressed.”

“You’re not staying like that?” She teased.

“If you want me to, I mean,” he tugged on on corner of his towel, opening one flap towards her, drawing some giggles out of her. He tucked it back, winked and slipped into the bathroom. “I’ll be right back. You can start snooping now. I know you want to.”

She raised her middle finger at him, but he was already in the bathroom.

Rey stood there for a moment looking over everything in the room. It was very minimalistic. Neat, organized and almost… sterile. The décor - if you could even call it that – was simplistic and not very personal. As if he didn’t have the desire to make this a home. A place to feel comfortable in. She thought of her own room with all of the things she loved and was passionate about. It wasn’t cluttered but she made it hers. She looked around and found only simple, necessary items. As if Ben’s apartment had been rented this way and hadn’t been changed since moving in. She peered into the bedroom and found a large bed with … of course… black sheets. At this point she didn’t expect any other color surrounding him. Ever. She rolled her eyes and closed the door.

The ceiling-to-floor windows showed the bright skyline of Hanna City. She noticed a large glass sliding door that led to a balcony and decided to look at the view from there. The cold December air gave her goosebumps. She inhaled deeply and as she was about to turn back, she felt a soft, warm fabric being placed on her shoulders. Ben placed a gray wool blanket around her and hugged her tightly from behind. She leaned into his warmth and rested her head on his chest as he rested his chin on the top of her head. They stayed that way for a moment until Rey looked down and noticed the goosebumps forming on his arms.

“What’re you in the mood for?” She asked, as they stepped back inside.

He let out a low, rumbly sadistic chuckle and she nudged his rib in response. “I don’t know whatever you’re in the mood for.”

“Well, then maybe El Pollo Loco?”

“Sure,” he said grabbing his phone.

She stared at him as he ordered their food. “Isn’t black a little… risky for bedsheets?”

He looked up from his phone and furrowed his brows in confusion.

“Y’know. ‘Cause black tends to show certain… stains.”

His lips curled and he let out an amused huff. “We’ll just have to put it to the test,” he winked. “To satisfy your curiosity.”

“I guess so,” she smiled daringly.

Rey looked over to the kitchen counter and found a picture frame. The photo was black and white, so she assumed it was one of those universal photos the frame manufacturer usually puts in. But the closer she looked, the more authentic it seemed. It was a young man she didn’t recognize with a laughing black-haired toddler in his arms. Could that be Kenton and his real father? No, Kenton hadn’t been born when Hennix passed away. Plus, this photo looked like it was taken when smart phones weren’t around yet.

“Who’s that?” She pointed at the photo.

Ben looked at her then followed her eyeline. “Oh, that’s me.”

She rushed over to the picture frame and studied it. “This is you? Oh, my goodness, you’re so cute! And is that your dad?”

“No, that’s my uncle. My godfather actually.”

She admired the photo of the loving way he was being held by the man. “Awe, you two are absolutely adorable.”

“Yeah, I was very close to Chewie growing up.”

“Was?”

“Oh, he’s still alive. I just… I mean I haven’t really spoken to any of my family members in the past two years, but he’s still…” Ben bit the inside of his lip and she noticed he decided not to say whatever he was about to say. “He was always really good to me.”

She looked at Ben’s toddler self and saw the inhibited laughter and pure joy in his big brown eyes. She set the photo back down, turned to him and hugged his torso. Sometimes no words and a simple hug was enough. He gently placed his arms around her as she pressed the side of her face on his chest.

“Do you miss him?”

“Sometimes,” he spoke silently.

“Maybe…,” she started carefully, “maybe you could call him. If it’s been two years, I’m sure he misses you, too.”

When he didn’t say anything and she felt his heart thump harder against her ear, she looked up at him. His face was unreadable.

“I know you don’t like talking about this, but some things… you shouldn’t ignore.”

“Rey,” his jaw clenched but he said her name softly.

She cupped his cheek with her hand. “Whatever happened, I’m sure you can work things out.”

“A lot happened, and I don’t know if that’s such a good idea. I don’t think they would even want to see me,” he said, taking her hand from his cheek and holding it.

“You won’t know unless you do something. Call your uncle. Call your parents. Take the first step, Ben.”

“Rey,” his tone revealed he didn’t feel like arguing. “I’m not going to do that.”

She understood that he clearly hadn’t healed from whatever happened. But she also knew that if he didn’t face this issue, he wouldn’t allow himself to heal.

Her face softened and she spoke carefully, “Ben, my parents passed away a long time ago. I didn’t get to have much time with them. I barely even remember them. Time is so, so precious. If my parents were still here… I would spend every minute with them. I would do everything to just have more time. I wouldn’t let that go to waste. So, please. Call them. Reconcile. If not for yourself, do it for everyone who doesn’t have that chance.” Her vision blurred from the rising tears, and he took both of her hands in his.

“Sweetheart,” he sighed. “I’m really, truly sorry about what happened to your parents. And that they were taken from you.” He lifted her chin to look into her eyes. “But you can’t compare families. It’s not the same. And I don’t mean to offend you in any way when I say you don’t know about my situation and my relationship to them. Or about what happened. Nor do you need to. I need you to understand that there are certain things I don’t want to discuss. I’m not ready to discuss. I wasn’t taught to talk about my feelings. Or resolve emotional stuff. In our family we just don’t. Everything was always ignored or looked over. There are things I don’t want to drag you into. Now, I’m not gunna lie about it but I also don’t want you getting in the middle of it.”

She understood him, but also not. “Ben, I see it differently. Talking about these things can help you process them - help you regulate emotions. And just articulating this stuff to someone can be therapeutic. It’s a form of release. Trust me, you can-”

“Rey, stop. Please respect that I don’t want to talk about this. Why won’t you accept that?”

“Because it’s clearly a burden for you and something like that can eat you up and leave you damaged and in a dark place. I don’t want that for you.”

“Well, that’s for me to decide. Why won’t you let this go?”

“Because I love you!” She startled herself with that confession and Ben must’ve been equally surprised as he just silently gaped at her. She felt it in her core. That beautiful feeling uncoiled within her and warmed her every fiber. That combined with annoyance at his stubbornness. “I love you, you idiot!” She said and tenderly punched his chest. He blinked and then she noticed the corners of his mouth were slowly curling upwards. His eyes were full of disbelief, solace and elation.

He inhaled and just as she couldn’t bear the silence any longer and parted her lips to say something, he whispered, “I love you, too.”

She cupped both of his cheeks in her hands and raised her heels to kiss him.

He reciprocated and gently hugged her torso. “I have for a while, Rey.”

She pushed her forehead onto his and closed her eyes. “I know,” she whispered. “And I need you to understand something now.” She backed up and he furrowed his brows. “I love you. That means I’m here for you. I’m on your side, whatever that means. You’re not alone.”

He pulled her back in to him, embraced her fully. “Neither are you,” he spoke softly, reassuringly. Rey smiled into his chest and the whole world faded away. For it didn’t matter. Now she felt safe, loved and at home. Everything was right.

Chapter Text

After such a long day of physical activity, they were starving. The pair dug into their food right as it was delivered, and Ben was sweet enough to endure a Disney movie. Rey chose the movie Encanto and realized this movie about fighting families' expectations and societal expectations of oneself and the realization of your inner worth not being dependent on the ability to fulfill said expectations may have struck a nerve with him as he just sat and silently stared at the screen – especially during the emotional moments of the film. At first, she regretted her decision but quickly realized maybe it wasn’t so bad he watched and hopefully internalized some of the messages being conveyed. She was too hesitant to look at him during some of the emotional bits but thought she saw his eyes line with silver at one point.

She was curled up to his long side as they watched the credits roll. Ben’s breathing was getting deep and steady and when she peered up at him, his eyelids were heavy but still open. She had hoped he wasn’t too tired…

She wiggled out of his arm and pulled off the hoody she had gotten into before lounging on the couch. She flung it onto the armrest of the dark gray sofa, which had proven to be much softer than she’d expected, stood up, and let herself fall limply onto his lap. It drew out a low, amused grunt from him and she flung her arms around his neck.

She didn’t need to say anything as she kissed him and he immediately stood up with her in his arms, carrying her to the bedroom.

“Wanna test that theory now?” He asked and she clung to him even tighter in response.

When he set her on the edge of his bed, he pulled his black muscle shirt over his head and let it drop to the floor next to him. He helped her slip out of her white cami shirt before she reached for his shiny gray basketball shorts. She didn’t get the chance to grab onto them because he was already picking her up from under her armpits and moving her towards the headboard as if she were the weight of a pillow. He lowered himself to her stomach and slid off her blush-colored tights. When she reached behind her back to unlatch her bra, he moved quick to grab her wrists, placed them both over her head and kept them in place with one hand as the other reached behind her back unfastening the hook for her. His index finger slid under the bow keeping the cups together and moved it towards and then over her head, exposing her chest for him to admire. Still holding her arms over her head, he moved down to her now tightened slopes that longed for his touch. Ben obliged and went on an elaborate exploration with his lips and tongue. As he continued to descend towards her South, he halted and looked up, silently waiting for her permission. She dipped her chin in consent and bit her lip as he returned to where he had left off. He tugged down the last piece of fabric on her and flung it somewhere into the room. He backed up on his knees, sitting on his heels to admire the sight of her splayed out on his bed. Just as he had suggested earlier. She smiled at him suggestively, knowing the same thought had crossed his mind.

The bass of his growl rumbled through him. That animalistic sound let the heat in her core intensify. She parted her knees to allow better access as he pressed a sensual trail of kisses up her thigh until he reached her apex. This time he worshipped her more thoroughly and intensely than the last and she wondered how much he had been holding back. Pleasure split through her, and her one hand grabbed the black sheets as the other hand reached for his head, her fingers finding their way into his hair as he worked her. She whimpered, trying to remain quiet.

His dark, hungry eyes met hers as he hummed, “You don’t have to hold back, sweetheart. You can moan or scream as loud as you need to.” When she hesitated, thinking of the fact that he had neighbors, he added, “please. For me.”

She bit her lip but still wasn’t completely comfortable with that idea. He noticed it and studied her for a millisecond before firmly flipping her onto her stomach, pulling her hips towards him and saying, “grab that pillow.”

She did as she was told and leaned into his face as he continued to unleash himself on her and pushed her own face into the pillow. When her desire for more of him grew, he instantly recognized her need and freed himself, nudging at her entrance. She pushed herself up from her elbows and welcomed him in until she completely enveloped him. He was slightly more aggressive this time and she recognized his being fully aware and attentive to her emotions, well-being and desires. She smiled momentarily at the fact that this made her feel safe, well cared for and seen, allowing her to fully immerse herself and be in the moment to enjoy every sensuous touch and reactive sensation. She let go of any inhibitions, her whole presence and perception was now centered around their collision. Ben’s grip on her hips tightened and their breaths were synchronized. The sensation of their connection was ready to release her explosion. But then he reached around her hips and a digit returned to the apex of her thigh, sending shock waves through her whole body. She pressed her face so hard into the pillow that she had to remember to continue breathing. Finally, she couldn’t hold on any longer and let him drive her into oblivion. Every thought, hesitation and self-consciousness vanished, and she let her voice express what his touch did to her. Ben’s body reacted accordingly, his movements growing more intense and energetic. At last, every fiber in her body was plunged into ecstasy and release raced through her. Ben’s climax followed suit mere seconds to hers and she collapsed onto her stomach.

Their panting filled the room, and her mind was empty when she felt a warm hand glide along her spine. Rey’s eyelids were too heavy to stay open and she slowly let herself drift into the darkness.

When she awoke what felt like minutes later, she was covered in a warm blanket up to her shoulders, an arm around her waist and Ben’s body warming her side. She scooted closer into him, letting him spoon her, his body heat warming her whole back. She listened to his breathing for a while and was unsure whether or not he was asleep, until…

“I love you,” he hummed in her ear and a large hand gently combed through her hair.

She turned her head, looking back at him. He smiled and she realized the warmth spreading in her caused by this very moment was a feeling she never thought would be so strong. Didn’t know what a force it could be. All she knew was that she didn’t ever want to let that go. In this very moment with Ben, she was exactly where she wanted to be.

“I love you, too.” She was home.

Rey awoke to a gentle breeze blowing through her hair and caressing her cheeks. A familiar melody reached her ears, and she couldn’t tell if it was a dream. She opened her eyes and noticed the window had been opened a bit. When she looked over to where Ben would’ve been, he wasn’t there. The music coming from the kitchen became more apparent and she realized Ben was in the kitchen listening to… the Encanto soundtrack. She giggled to herself and got up and put on his muscle shirt that was laying on the floor close to her side of the bed. She emerged from the bedroom and found him shirtless with his silver basketball shorts pouring coffee into a plain black mug. Another mug with a tea bag label dangling from the side was set on the table, waiting for her. She walked over to the kitchen counter where Ben returned his attention to the eggs he was making, not yet having noticed her. When she got to the counter, she shifted her hip onto the edge, arms crossed and waiting for him to notice her, hoping she wouldn’t startle him. Apparently, he had noticed her – just hadn’t let that on. He smiled and moved towards her neck and kissed the spot between her neck and shoulder, making her twitch and withdraw from the ticklish touch.

“Morning,” he chuckled. When he noticed she was wearing his shirt he sucked in a breath and bit his lip but said nothing. It was basically a dress on her as it almost reached past her knees.

“Hi,” she smiled.

When she turned and he got a glimpse of what was revealed by the large cutout on the sides, he caressed her bare skin and whispered, “that’s a nice feature.”

“I bet it is,” she winked. “So, you really liked the movie last night, huh?” Holding up her palms, gesturing to the music coming from the built-in speakers.

“It was OK, y’know for a kids movie,” he shrugged.

“Oh, c’mon, you clearly enjoyed it,” she said wrapping her arms around his waist from behind, her head between his shoulder blades. “You’re listening to the soundtrack.”

“That’s for you.”

“Uh huh.”

“It was fine, I liked that Luisa girl,” he said. “She’s cool.”

“I like her too. I liked all the characters; each had their own story of personal healing.”

“Sure.”

“And like the whole thing with Bru-”

He twisted in her arms to face her and pressed his hand onto her lips. “Shhh.”

Her eyes widened, “what?” She mumbled.

“We don’t talk about Bruno,” he whispered. That drew out a hearty laugh from her. Smiling, he picked her up and set her onto the counter next to the stove. She crossed her legs and watched him prepare breakfast, still giggling.

“Is there anything I can help you with? Since you never let me make breakfast.”

“No, table is set, and I’m almost done.” He smiled at her admonishment, “I was up anyway.”

She rolled her eyes, “you always are.”

He shrugged apologetically, “I can’t help it.”

“Well next time just wait or wake me and I’ll help you,” she suggested.

He turned off the heat, set the pan to the side and moved over to her, putting his hands on either side of her legs, “is it so hard to just let me take care of you?”

“No, but I just don’t want you doing everything. Or think you have to.”

“I’m not doing everything. It’s fine, I want to do these things for you.”

“I feel bad, though.”

“Well, you shouldn’t. I like it.”

“I’m just not used to it, and it makes me feel… spoiled.”

“Because I make you breakfast once in a while?”

“No, because you make such an effort. In general, I mean.”

“Have you ever thought about the fact that I maybe want to do that?”

“I’m just saying you don’t have to.”

“Well, I want to.”

“But you don’t have to.”

“That’s what happens when you love someone.”

“OK, well-”

“Nope.”

“What?”

“Nope,” he repeated again and again, cutting her off whenever she tried saying something.

She smiled, rolling her eyes.

He waited a moment until she met his eyes again before saying, “it’s alright to let yourself get spoiled once in a while. Which by the way I don’t think I’m doing. I could do way more to actually spoil you.”

“I’m just not used to someone doing that for me,” she whispered, thinking about how she had to be there for herself everyday of her life. Unkar, of course, provided for her, but he wasn’t someone who showered her with love and support. Her friends would always be there for her and gave her the sense of belonging. But with Ben it was different. She never knew what she desired all these years. Without either of them knowing it, he was the one to nurture her whatever unidentified thing she had been deprived of.

“Well, then there’s another thing to get used to,” he tilted his head. Her chest tightened at the thought of him being that source of support, affection and reliability she so desperately – and unbeknownst to her – needed.

She looked into his eyes, gratitude in her own, placed one hand over his cheek with his scar and pressed her lips onto his. She realized to him it was no big deal but to her it meant a much greater deal than either of them were aware of.

After breakfast, Ben had hung up his punching bag and had her train some more. Rey noticed a grow in her self-confidence. She hoped she would never actually have to put her newly acquired skills to use but she definitely felt good about merely knowing what she was capable of – even if it had only been after a few sessions. The way Ben showed her the various techniques and movements made everything logical and easier to grasp. He pushed her to reach newfound limits within herself and although he may have seemed hard on her sometimes, she knew he had faith in her and gave her the feeling she should have that same faith in herself as well. And so, Rey was able to surpass these limits. She realized that in a lot of ways she had many inhibitions to overcome, and Ben was right there to help her through it without interfering.

When he wanted her to do pull-ups on his homemade pull-up bar that was set for his height and not hers, she surprisingly had a minor apprehension to jump so high to reach the bar. He never once said anything or picked her up to help her. Instead, he made her high five him to different heights until his hand was at the same height as the bar. He merely pointed at the bar encouraging her to try again. This time, she succeeded. Some things are just in your head, she thought.

A knock at the door had her wiping off the sweat that now ran down her temples as Ben made his way to the door. As she was about to turn to the window to get some fresh air into the small apartment, she heard Ben’s voice become slightly hostile as he said, “you gotta be shitting me. What the hell do you want?”

Rey stopped what she was doing to listen to whom he was being not so polite. She couldn’t recognize the person at the door, but it registered that it was a female voice.

“Oh, really,” Ben mumbled. “You and lover-boy gone polyamorous now?”

Rey heard the female voice respond but she spoke softly and couldn’t hear what she was saying. She moved around the kitchen counter and just as she recognized the person in a black, knee-length coat wearing nothing, but a red, lacey lingerie set underneath, Ben said, “I don’t care, Daz. Get the fuck out of here.”

Surprised at Ben’s harsh words Rey cut in, “Ben, don’t be rude.”

Daisy Richard’s eyes grew wide with fury and her sleek, blonde ponytail bobbed back and forth as her head jerked towards her direction.

“What are you doing here?” Daisy asked her.

“Excuse me?”

“Nobody knows about this place.”

“You know about it,” Rey raised an eyebrow.

“She’s my girl,” Ben crossed his arms, “why wouldn’t she be here?”

Daisy’s cheeks reddened – or so Rey thought.

“One day, Ben Solo,” she stretched her finger towards him. “You’re gunna regret doing me so dirty. You’re going to beg on your knees.”

“Daz, you broke up with me,” Ben’s face was stone. “You decided to end it. And I’m glad you did.”

“You’re going to realize that you and I are meant to be together. Guys like you don’t end up with goody-goody little prima ballerinas. That’s not how these stories go.”

“Alright, you made your point. Now, get lost,” Ben said calmly but full of hostility.

Rey knew better than to interfere, so she remained silent.

“I wonder how Trudgen is going to feel about how you treat his girlfriend’s little sister.”

“Is that a threat?” He seethed.

“No, I’m just reminding you how the brothers can get when it comes to mistreating their families.”

“Well, then you know how I can get when it comes to mine,” Ben retorted.

“I was that for you once,” sadness momentarily put her anger in the shade.

“Not anymore,” he said firmly.

Her face held that sadness for a moment longer until it hardened, and she replied, “I have more allies in the brotherhood than you think.”

“Careful,” he growled.

“I’m not threatening you; I’m just saying the Knights-”

“Daz!” He said sharply as he shifted, and Rey noticed how his muscles were tense and twitching.

Daisy tilted her head and the corner of her mouth curled into a sneer. “Oh, have you not mentioned that little detail about yourself to your prima ballerina?” She held Ben’s stare and then turned to Rey. “Has he not told you his oh-so-sweet secret yet?”

“What secret?” Rey looked to Ben who seemed he was ready to lunge at Daisy.

Daisy only smirked, pushed back her ponytail and said, “well, I see you have some interesting few moments ahead of you, Ben. Or should I say Kylo?”

“Fuck off, Richard’s.”

Rey noticed the slight flinch in Daisy as he addressed her with her last name. Daisy held out her index finger to him, “mark my words. You’re going to regret this.” She pointed her finger at Rey now, “both of you.”

Rey watched Daisy storm off and hadn’t noticed she was holding her breath until Ben closed the door and she exhaled the tension.

__________________________________________________________________

Ben took a deep breath and as his eyes met hers, they were filled with confusion, concern and anticipation. He had been putting it off for far too long, he knew that. And even though he was furious with Daisy for being the catalyst, he was still somewhat relieved to have that topic be thrown into the room. There was no running from the truth now. Time to suck it up and spit it out.

“Clearly we have to talk,” he said, trying to stay as calm as possible.

“Ben, I don’t know what this is about, but Daisy didn’t seem like she was trying to do me any good by blurting out you have something to hide. So, if this secret or whatever information you don’t want to reveal is something I don’t need to know about, or you think it could cause conflict then I don’t think you should tell me. She clearly did that to hurt you or me. Or both.”

God how was she so patient and understanding, he thought. “No, Rey. I do. It’s been eating me up. You have a right to know this about me. I wanted to tell you so many times these past few weeks, but I was a coward. Just plain and simple. I was afraid of your reaction and didn’t want this beautiful thing we have to end.”

“To end? Ben,” she said, and he saw the fear and shock at the severity grow in her eyes.

He sighed, “I have to start from the beginning. I told you about the fire two years ago.”

Her face softened as she nodded, waiting for him to continue.

“Well, there’s a lot more to the story. I’m the reason it happened… I started that fire,” he said it so softly, he was unsure she heard him. The pain of the truth tightened around his heart and lungs, and he couldn’t look her in the eyes as he continued. “That night, I had a huge fight with my parents. I packed my bags and went over to Hennix’s house. When I got there, I heard screaming and crying, and Hennix stormed out of the house. He and Ari too had a fight, I never found out what it was about, but he decided we should go out and do what we normally did when we wanted to forget our troubles. So, we met our friend Tai at the old paper mill on Mothma Avenue. We smoked weed, drank more beer and whiskey than we normally did and forgot our lives. A lot is a blur, due to the drugs. I don’t remember but at some point, Rose’s sister Paige showed up with her best friend Anyah. Paige and Tai were a thing - or at least becoming a thing - and so the two girls decided to follow him there.” Ben paused, the weight of the consequences of that night hitting him again.

“After a while, I got up to get some fresh air, I was alone outside for the time of one cigarette. When I was done and wanted to go back, I flicked it into what I thought was the sand.” Ben’s gut clenched so hard, he thought he was going to throw up. He didn’t dare look at Rey for the fear of losing his shit.

“I must’ve flung it near the grass or somewhere too close to the building… it all happened so fast. The flames were everywhere in mere seconds. I tried to reach the others, but I couldn’t. Rey…” he inhaled, gathering the courage to confess his worst secret. “I’m the reason Hennix, Tai, Paige and Anyah lost their lives. These two beautiful, young girls with their whole lives ahead of them. Tai who was the absolute most generous, caring and kind soul. And Hennix…” Ben could barely get another word out. But he forced himself to, he didn’t hear anything around him or knew whether Rey was still in the room with him. “Hennix, my best friend in the whole world. The one I could always talk to, who I could always count on, who was always there for me. Who understood me, loved me. And I loved him. His friendship was everything to me. And I’m the reason he’s gone. He’s never coming back. None of them are. And it’s all my fault.”

He didn’t know when his knees found the ground or when his face buried itself into his palms. All he knew was the warm, gentle pressure of Rey’s hand on his back right before she bent down to him and embraced him silently.

He let her comfort him because he had grown limp. He didn’t deserve her comforting touch or her compassion. But he couldn’t move.

After a long moment, he was able to gather himself and noticed Rey spoke to him.

“Ben, it’s not your fault.”

“It is.”

“No, it’s not. I’m familiar with the reports. There was an explosion. The old owners or workers or whoever had forgotten multiple canisters of gasoline. And there was a gas leak and faulty electric work. You can’t be certain that it was really caused by a cigarette. Plus, you weren’t the only one smoking that day, Ben.”

“Rey, it was ignited by my bud.” He looked into her eyes. “It was.”

Rey looked down at the floor silently, not knowing what to say.

“I was high and drunk, and I know it was my bud.”

“It was an accident, Ben.”

“Regardless, they’re dead because of me.”

“Ben, I know in my heart it wasn’t your fault. I wish I could do something to make you see that, too. For yourself. For your conscience. I won’t let you succumb to that guilt and darkness.”

“I already did,” he said, his voice raspier than he had intended.

“What do you mean?”

“There’s more,” he sighed.

She shifted back on her heels, kneeling before him. She looked so small.

“After I got out of the flames, I heard the sirens and was ready to have them haul me away. I didn’t care. Until Ren dragged me out. He was there, I don’t know how he got there before the cops and firefighters, but he was there and calmed me down. I had nowhere to go. I couldn’t go back to my parents, and I just lost the only person that meant something to me. Who I considered family. Ren convinced me to join him. Join the brotherhood. They’d be my new family. We’d take care of each other. He pointed out that I was at fault for the fire and would likely go to jail for the homicide of four people. I was so lost and scared that I agreed. He got me out of there and made sure my tracks were cleared. He covered my ass and proved he was loyal, trustworthy and well… there for me. In that moment he was the only person that could be.”

Rey tilted her head, her face puzzled with confusion.

“Rey, my friends aren’t just my friends. They’re my brothers. Of the,” he sighed before finally getting it out. “Of the Knights of Ren.”

Rey blinked and her faced dropped as she realized. “Ben, that’s a gang.”

He said nothing and held her gaze as she asked softly, “are you in a gang?”

His silence was answer enough.

Her eyes widened and her voice grew shaky. “I thought the people at school spreading that rumor were just being their mean Highschool assholes. But it’s true? You’re actually in a gang?” She stood up and began pacing in his apartment.

“I’m sorry I kept this from you, Rey. Just know I never lied to you about this. I just never revealed this one fact about me, and I know I should have but I just… I didn’t want to jeopardize what we have. I didn’t want to immediately lose this beautiful, bright light that came into my life.”

She made a face he couldn’t quite interpret. “Ben, you’re criminals. What the gangs have been doing. Aredoing. I mean the violence, the drugs the…” she trailed off, most likely gathering her thoughts and emotions. “Wait, so that night of the party a few weeks ago, Kuruk really was dealing drugs?”

Ben looked down and said nothing.

“Oh my god. And you? Do you deal too? All the times you skipped school-”

“No, since the fire I’ve stayed away from drugs entirely and haven’t taken any jobs revolving around them.”

“Oh! Great!” She laughed. “But you’re involved with all the violence. Wait,” she began breathing heavily as her thoughts raced. “That day. The drive home - that wasn’t a coincidence. We were targeted, weren’t we?”

Ben nodded silently in response.

Rey let out a fake laugh. “I can’t believe this,” she said holding her stomach.

“They recognized the Boss’ car and assumed I was him.”

“The Boss? So, he’s your leader? A gang leader.”

“Yes.”

Rey’s eyes widened and she began looking around the room as if she could find answers. Or anything that could help make what he was confirming logical. “Wait, Tali! Is she? The phone call. Everything makes sense now.”

Ben again silently nodded, wordlessly answering her questions.

“This is too much. I-,” just as she was about to finish her sentence her phone rang and she exhaled, annoyed at the interruption. She checked the display and decided to answer it. Ben couldn’t see who it was and silently watched her as she listened to whoever was on the other end.

“What?” Her eyes were wide again, and she covered her mouth with her hand. “Oh my god.”

There was pure worry in her eyes and Ben tried listening to the conversation.

“I’m on my way,” was all she said and hung up.

Ben, who was now standing, looked at her waiting for her to speak.

“I need to leave.”

“Rey, what’s wrong?”

“Unkar’s shop. There was a fire,” she said gaping up at him.

“Holy shit.”

“I have to go,” Rey said, grabbing her belongings.

“I’ll come with you.”

“No. I’m fine.”

“Rey, you shouldn’t drive when you’re upset or worried.”

“I said I’m fine,” she snapped.

“Please,” he said softly, “let me drive you.”

“Just-,” she threw up her palms, “stay away.”

Ben flinched at her tone and her words. “Rey.”

“Let me figure things out. I need to get to the shop.”

And with that she was gone. He blinked at the door she had just slammed.

Ben stood there a few breaths until the intercom buzzed, ripping him out of his thoughts. He quickly answered it.

“Hey, kid. Everything alright?”

“Yeah, everything is fine, Rex. Thanks,” he assured his doorman.

He gave Rey a few more seconds as a head start before he ran out the door and followed her to the parking lot where his Triumph waited for him.

He kept his distance from her van but stayed close enough to make sure she was safe or if something happened, he was there in a heartbeat.

Chapter Text

Rey ran to Unkar who was being questioned by a police officer. Her adoptive father was wrapped in a towel and his exposed skin was smeared with grime and soot.

“Are you alright?” She yelled as she sprinted towards him.

He whirled around and she saw the darks circles under his eyes. “Hey, yeah. I’m fine.”

She had to double check and looked him over for herself. “Are you sure?”

“Yes, but it’s gone. Rey, it’s all gone,” he said exhausted, desperate, with a raspy voice.

Rey glanced behind him where the store once stood. Now it was just rubble and ashes. Her hand shot to her mouth, and she couldn’t believe what was before her, or rather what was no longer before her. She stepped forward but policemen doing their job cut off her path.

Unkar was asked to answer more questions by the officers while she just stood there, watching the firemen put out the last embers. Something out of place caught Rey’s attention and she walked up to where the parking lot stopped and the sidewalk to the shop began. Three black dahlias were laying in line next to each other. Rey thought it to be unusual for flowers to land so perfectly beside each other when dropped. She picked one up and held it in her hand for a while. As she examined the beautiful burgundy color of the flower the shock of the fire lifted, and fear washed over her. What would happen now? Without the shop they had no income. They had no commercial property insurance due to Unkar not wanting to pay more than he deemed necessary. How would they rebuild the shop? How-

Rey heard Unkar sobbing, muffled words she couldn’t understand coming from him. He wouldn’t have started breaking down to a police offer, that wasn’t like him. As she turned around, she had not expected the picture of Unkar crying onto Ben Solo’s chest with Ben awkwardly rubbing her adoptive father’s back. She was simultaneously relieved and furious he was here. She looked around, spotting way too many policemen for someone who confessed being in a gang to be surrounded by.

“What are you doing here?” She asked a bit too aggressively than she had intended.

His eyes darted down to the flower in her hand. Ignoring her own question he asked, “Where’d you get that?”

“What?”

“Where did you get that?” He repeated.

“It was laying on the ground over there,” she pointed towards the sidewalk annoyed. “You didn’t answer my question. Why are you here?”

His eyes widened momentarily but softened as he looked at her and answered, “I just wanted to make sure you were both alright.” Unkar was still in his embrace, sobbing.

“You shouldn’t be here. We’re fine. Just go home, Ben.”

The face he made she almost couldn’t bear to look at, but with all the officers here, he had to leave. She moved to Unkar and looped her arm through his to find a place for him to sit and calm down.

“Rey.”

“Just go,” she said sternly. He nodded softly, looked them over with some hesitation before turning on his heel and leaving.

Rey had found a water bottle for Unkar and waited next to him on the lawn across the parking lot as they both watched the fire fighters and the police finish up their work, after having been questioned herself. She heard familiar voices shout her name and as she looked to where they were coming from, she found her friends sprinting towards her and Unkar.

“Rey, are you alright?” Rose asked.

“What happened?” Finn asked.

“Holy shit!” Poe exclaimed. “What he said.”

Kaydell reached her first and threw her arms around Rey. Rose checked her for injuries and Finn just stared at her with worried eyes. Rey felt relief and comfort warm her, knowing her friends were here with her.

“We’re alright, guys. Really,” Rey tried to alleviate their concerns. “How’d you guys know about the fire? I didn’t text anyone.”

“Ben did,” Rose held up her phone. “He said you needed us.”

She smiled and nodded, “I do.”

“Where is he?” Kaydell looked around.

“Long story, I’ll tell you later.” Thankfully none of her friends pushed and just accepted that she needed their comfort and emotional support. They all sat down in a circle around her and made everything a little more endurable. As long as she had them, she knew she could overcome anything.

__________________________________________________________________

As Ben waited for someone to answer at the Gleeson’s house, his thoughts raced. The flowers. Was this a coincidence? Maybe it wasn’t about him. Maybe Unkar had his own secrets. No, it had to be the Knight’s doing. That message was for him, he knew it in his heart. Was the brotherhood turning on him? After having found out who he belonged to, he knew Rey too would turn away from him. Everyone that he loved had the tendency to do so – it was just a matter of time.

“Hey, kid.” Cardo smiled at him, opening the door for him to enter. “Come in, Tali’s in the backyard with her mom.”

“Did you tell anyone about our conversation?”

“What conversation?”

“Don’t bullshit me, you know which conversation.”

Cardo inhaled and crossed his arms over his broad, tan chest. “Kid, I care about you, but you know where my loyalties lie. I’m in charge of keeping our ducks in line. When something like that is brought up, of course I’m going to bring awareness to the Boss. But I told him you weren’t being serious, just curious. So it’s fine.”

“No, nothing is fine. Unkar’s shop was burned down.”

“Who’s Unkar?”

“Rey’s adoptive father. He has a pawn shop on 51^st street and today it burned to the ground.”

“Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that. I’m sure it has nothing to do with-”

“She found three black dahlias in front of the ruins.”

Cardo’s eyebrows shot up. “Oh.”

Ben studied his face. After these few years with the brotherhood and occasionally having to do… what he had to do, he was very skilled at reading people’s faces and knew exactly when someone was being genuine or dishonest. Reading his facial cues and reactions, Ben realized Cardo really didn’t know anything about the fire.

“I don’t think it’s a coincidence that I talk to you about … what we talked about,” Ben said checking to see if someone was listening and lowered his voice at that last part. “And then a couple days later my girlfriend’s dad’s shop goes up in flames.”

Cardo blew air through his teeth, “don’t go there, kid.”

“What am I supposed to do with a message like that?”

“I’m sure it wasn’t for you.”

“Cardo, come on!”

“Who do you suspect?”

“Nobody else knows. You reported back to Ren. If it wasn’t you then it had to have been him.”

“You think Ren did this?”

Ben said nothing and crossed his arms, a silent confirmation.

“That’s a very dangerous accusation, son.”

“It’s a logical one, Cardo.”

Cardo put his hands on his hips and looked to the ground in thought, “fires would be his style. I honestly don’t think he would target Rey and her family. We take care of our own including the families. You know that. Enemies and people that have truly wronged us … sure, it’d be justified.” He absentmindedly began rubbing his lips. “Did Unkar maybe cross a line of some sort?”

“No, he hasn’t had any encounters with the Knights. Not to my knowledge.”

Ben thought about Unkar’s contract with Snoke but knew he wouldn’t commit arson on a business he had recently invested in – that wouldn’t benefit him. Bringing up the First Order’s highest-ranking member would not bode well for him, so he stayed silent. Cardo confirmed having reported back to Ren with something so trivial, so it wouldn’t be any different if he were to let that thought slip.

“Hm,” Cardo nodded. “Tell you what, kid. I’ll try and find some stuff out, but I can’t promise anything. Just lie low for a while and don’t do anything stupid, Kay?”

Ben shrugged which made Cardo give him a more stern look.

“Fine,” he said which satisfied his senior enough to soften his expression. Ben turned on his heel and made his way back to his bike. His feeling was usually right. He sensed Ren’s culpability on the matter and couldn’t shake off the desire to do something about it.

“You’re not gunna go see Tali?”

“Nah! Tell her I’ll text her later,” he growled unintentionally. He felt his anger rise and he knew what he had to do. He slipped on his helmet and drove off.

___________________________________________________________________

“I knew it!” Finn exclaimed, pointing his finger at Kaydell. “Didn’t I tell you?”

Kaydell nodded to satisfy his need for acknowledgment but quickly returned her worried eyes to Rey.

“Sometimes, Finn,” he said to himself, “sometimes you’re just on point. My gut feeling is always right.”

Rose shook her head, “I don’t believe it. It can’t be real. Maybe he misspoke?”

“Rose,” Poe chimed in, “you can’t misspeak when telling someone ‘I’m in a gang’.”

Rey looked at Poe whose face was so neutral she didn’t quite know what he truly thought about this whole mess. She appreciated Poe in situations like these. When her other friends reacted out of emotion, he was one to stay calm and view the situation from an objective point of view.

His eyes lacked worry, or at least he tried hiding it as he probably knew she didn’t need pity in this moment when he asked, “how’re you holding up, Rey?”

She shrugged and genuinely didn’t know what to feel. There were too many emotions bubbling in her. “I, I don’t know. I’ll deal with that later. Right now… the fire … it did way more damage than just the shop. We won’t have a source of income now.”

“What happens now?” Rose understood she didn’t want to discuss Ben anymore than just delivering the newest information about him.

“I don’t know. Unkar said we might have to sell the house and move.”

“No!” They all said in unison.

“I’d have to take a full time job somewhere but it still wouldn’t be enough. We can’t afford to keep the house.”

“You can move in with us,” Rose said. “My parents won’t mind. We can move stuff around in the pool house and have you stay there.”

“That’s sweet, thank you. But, I don’t think that’s an option for Unkar.”

The desperation in Finn’s voice almost broke Rey’s heart as he said, “you can’t leave us. You belong here. With us. Your family.”

As Ben got to the brotherhood’s safe house, he found Trudgen and Vicrul lounging on one of the sofas. Their corner’s air was filled with the smoke coming from their joint. Ap’lek was speaking to their boss who had his back turned to Ben. Behind them were a few older Knight’s examining boxes filled with vacuum sealed pouches, each containing a white powdery substance. Ben’s stomach began to clench as he approached the pair. He hadn’t been in the abandoned warehouse in so long and he forgot the smell of metal and garage oil that lingered there.

“Ah, Kylo, we weren’t expecting you here. I’d think you’d be on baby duty,” Ap’lek teased.

“No, it’s Ari’s day off,” Ben said with an annoyed undertone.

“Good evening, Kylo,” Ren said, pushing his silvery hair back.

“Hey.”

“Have you finally decided to fully join the business?”

“No,” Ben said firmly, crossing his arms and glaring at their boss.

Ren noticed Ben’s aloof demeanor and nodded towards Ap’lek, dismissing him. “Then what is it I can do for you?”

“I got your message.”

He raised both eyebrows, a smirk forming on the corner of his mouth, “ah. Let’s go up to my office, shall we?”

Ben followed Ren up the metal stairs to a room overlooking the warehouse that served as his bosses office. Ren sat down at his desk and gestured for Ben to close the door behind him.

“Well, that confirms your relationship with the prima ballerina.” He clasped his hands together and rested them on top of the desk. “Can’t really keep up with all these women lately. Ari, Daisy, Rey. But since you received my little token then you must have been with her. I guess a congratulations is in order. I’ll put her on the TBP list.”

“You don’t deny being responsible for the fire?”

“No, I don’t.”

“So, you burned down a fucking building to confirm my relationship status? Unkar or Rey could’ve been hurt! ‘To Be Protected’ seems a little redundant now!”

“Watch your tone, boy.”

Ben tensed even more at Ren’s calmness and lack of remorse. His breathing became heavy and he clenched his fists and jaw.

“I made sure the shop was empty and nobody would get hurt. It was a mere chess move.”

Ben steadied his breaths and tried to stay as calm as possible. “Why the hell did you do it then? Why did you target my girl and her dad to send me a message?”

“It’s nothing personal, kid. I had my orders. The three dahlias were just a pretty little reminder of what happens to those who betray the brotherhood.”

“I never betrayed the brotherhood, Ren.”

“No, but you were thinking about it. When I started those fires it had nothing to do with you personally. I had my direct orders from the top, and we follow orders here. That’s something you should really internalize.”

Ben did have more freedom in choosing certain responsibilities within the brotherhood, he knew that and appreciated it. He didn’t know why it was granted to him but he knew Ren gave him more liberty to choose jobs than the rest. Regardless, he always felt he followed orders and abided by their rules.

‘From the top’ – Ren only answered to one person. It didn’t make any sense.

“Ren, you destroyed his livelihood. His source of income.”

“Look, they won’t be thrown out on the street. The reasons behind it aren’t ones of your concern. All you need to know is that they will be taken care of by the First Order.”

“So, they’re completely dependent on the First Order.” It wasn’t a question.

“The compensation will be considerable after Snoke gets the insurance money and they will have it even better than before. Unkar will have a new and improved shop. Alright?”

“Not if the police find out it was arson.”

“Have you so little faith in me? I’m an old hand at this game. We have nothing to worry about.” Ren leaned back a bit with a satisfied smirk.

“This is not what I signed up for, Ren.” Ben shook his head in disappointment. He knew gangs weren’t particularly ethical organizations but he at least expected the brotherhood to protect the ones they loved or deemed their own.

“You don’t have a choice, Kylo. We’re the Knights of Ren. You think we go and hand out flowers and sprinkles? This is the business. We take, so we can provide for our own. Sometimes you have to make sacrifices. Even Darth Vader himself went to immense lengths within his family to ensure our prosperity.”

Ben knew, Darth Vader was one of the co-founders of the mother gang to the First Order, from which the Knights of Ren derived. Ben knew some of the brotherhood’s history, but he could know more. Vader was a gruesome man who had no compassion for anyone and executed the most brutal and terrifying methods to push whatever agenda they had. It was said he had a family but whatever happened to them, nobody truly knew. Rumor had it that his pregnant wife ran away, only to be gunned down by his partner Sheev Palpatine in 1982.

If he believed the stories, then Palpatine was even worse than Vader. It was said he killed his own wife, son and daughter-in-law. The most feared mafia bosses of their time were both so consumed by greed and power and allowed nobody to challenge their status or the empire they had built. They allowed no disloyalty. Nobody left. Ever.

When Ben said nothing, due to not wanting to say something he would regret, Ren continued. “Kid, it’s not like these people are stripped bare, they have our financial aid.”

“Yeah, and eternal dependence.”

“Hey, that’s the price for comfort and luxury. They all know what they’re getting themselves into when they sign the contracts. This is the life, kid. Deal with it.”

Ben knew the First Order was corrupt but to him it wasn’t fully tangible until now. Until it affected Rey and Unkar. He would have to tell them, sooner rather than later. He went through everything Ren had said to make sure he wasn’t hallucinating or misunderstanding. Until-

“Fires,” Ben’s voice cooled.

“What?”

“You said fires.”

“Yeah, and?”

“I asked about Unkar’s fire, but you said fires. Plural.”

Ren leaned back into his chair, exhaled calmly and said nothing, waiting for Ben to continue.

“What other fires, Ren?”

Again, Ren said nothing. Ben wasn’t aware of any other fires it the past couple years. And then it finally dawned on him.

“Did you…” Ben rarely stumbled over words. “It always puzzled me why you were there so quick.”

Ren watched him with cold, piercing eyes as he pieced it all together.

“You dragged me out of the flames that night. You watched it all because you were there. You were there because… You set that fire didn’t you?”

“I saved you, didn’t I?”

Again, Ren didn’t even deny it.

“It was you.”

“Like I said, kid. We all have to make sacrifices.”

Ren had set that fire. Ren was the reason Hennix, Tai, Anyah and Paige were dead. Ren was the reason he lost his best friends. Ren was the reason Aridema was a widow and Kenton fatherless. Ren was the reason Hennix was gone forever.

“Sacrifices? I had to watch my friends burn alive!” He screamed.

Ren said nothing, as though not affected at all by lives lost and how it was affecting Ben.

“Why? Why did you do this? Hennix was in the brotherhood. We protect our own! That’s our number one rule.”

“We turn from those who betray us. We may have lost Hennix but we gained another valuable asset. You. We wanted you as a brother.”

“Hennix never would’ve betrayed the brotherhood. He was the one trying to convince me to join.”

“Hennix was a liability. He was planning to leave the brotherhood when he found out he knocked up that conniving bitch.”

A liability. Hennix was as decent as they came. Hennix was his best friend. He loved him like a brother. He was the only person that truly knew him and loved him for who he was.

“You killed the people I love to get me to join?” Ben asked surprisingly calm.

“With his choices he did that to himself. Besides, they were the only ones standing in our way. So, I got the orders. Two flies with one swat.”

“Families lost their daughters and sons. You took them away. You took Hennix and Tai away from me.”

Ren shrugged. “It was a necessary loss. Sometimes you have to lose in order to gain. And you gained a whole family. Not as neglecting as your actual one.”

There was no remorse, no empathy. Ben realized, the brotherhood would never be what he thought they were. They would never truly be loyal, would never truly care about anyone but themselves. Sorrow, despair and rage boiled in him and Ben felt his body begin to shake, he clenched his fists. His heart pounded beneath his chest and everything around him buzzed and blurred as he lunged forward.

Ben had no recollection of what happened as he came to. He found a bloodied Ren on the ground surrounded by glass shards. His face unrecognizable. Ben’s ears still buzzed and his vision became more and more clear as he looked at his bloody hands, then at a motionless Ren. And then around the room where his brothers all silently gawked at him. His eyes met Kuruk’s whose face was stilled with shock. Kuruk glanced between him and Ren, then to his left and his right. Before anybody could do anything, Kuruk lowered himself to one knee and bowed his head. With some hesitance, his remaining brothers followed suit. The buzzing wore off and realization of what he had done hit him like a slap across the face. He looked at his bloody hands to confirm it all and looked back at his dead boss. Ben swallowed hard and shifted into a more authoritative stance. For now, he was Ren.

Chapter Text

She found herself stomping towards the lunch tables outside of the school entrance where a group of kids she didn’t recognize were sitting with Kuruk. Rey was in a foul mood and not even the email from one of the dance academies she had applied to, accepting her upcoming dance recital as a pre-audition, could lift her spirits. Ben hadn’t texted her since they last spoke three weeks ago when he confessed to knowing who was behind the fire and what Snoke’s plans with Unkar were. Her mind had gone blank, and the world had spun as he was telling her how they were now caught in the First Order’s web. She was also furious. Furious with Unkar for striking a bargain with Snoke. Furious with Ben for keeping secrets. Furious with the Knights of Ren who had Ben in their web. Furious with Snoke for his conniving nature. Furious with the world for everything that was happening.

She had needed time and space to process it all, to organize her thoughts and ultimately figure things out. She had yelled at Ben to leave. The shock and despair in his face had made her stomach drop and her heart ache at the sight. She knew he wasn’t responsible for anything he had told her, but she needed time to herself to think. With the number of times the police had stopped by to question them more or provide new information on the fire, she knew it was best for Ben to stay away for a while. Rey was unsure how or if he would even be affected but she didn’t want to risk getting him in trouble. She had texted him that same evening, telling him to lay low for a while. And he did. Three weeks had gone by without a phone call or a single text. He had read it but never answered. That was the only sign of life from him since. Even Tali had no clue about his whereabouts and was just as frustrated as Rey. She had gone to his apartment multiple times and asked his doorman, but he told her he too hadn’t seen him the past couple weeks and Aridema was visiting family with Kenton, so nobody was there when she swung by her house.

She didn’t care that her face mirrored her anger when she approached Kuruk from behind and smacked his shoulder, probably harder than usual, thanks to her training. “Where is he?”

Kuruk barely winced and turned to her with an unaffected face. “Hello, it’s good to see you too, Rey.” Sarcasm?

“Where is he?” She repeated.

Kuruk barely glanced at the others around him before asking, “Whoever do you mean?”

“Knock it off, you know who. He hasn’t been in school for the past two weeks.”

“Why do you need to know that? I thought you two chose not to see each other for a while. So, what’s it to you?”

“His girlfriend has a right to know if he’s still alive.”

“And are you?”

“Excuse me?”

“I’m just saying it didn’t sound like you two are still a thing after,” he waved his hand in front of him, “what happened.”

“Wait what?” Rey didn’t understand what he was implying exactly.

“I don’t know what’s really going on between you two, nor is it any of my business. The fact is I can’t tell you where he is.”

“What the fuck, Kuruk?” Rey was about ready to shake him, especially when Daisy walked past them with a satisfied smirk that made her blood boil.

Kuruk glanced at the others, turned to her a bit more and lowered both his head and voice. “Look, I can’t tell you where he is, alright?”

“Why not?”

“Because I don’t know where he is.”

Rey furrowed her brows as he continued.

“He’s gone for days sometimes. I have no idea where he goes or what he’s doing. He doesn’t show up when we all hang out, he hasn’t been at the house to work, he doesn’t respond to messages. He only calls about jobs and that’s it.”

She knew what jobs meant and frowned.

“I don’t know what’s going on with him. I barely see him anymore. And don’t even bother asking Tali, she’s even less in the loop than me. She’s super pissed off at him. Not because of the whole Ren thing – she’s happy about that, but more that he’s distancing himself.”

Kuruk’s face revealed worry and frustration as he leaned in further, whispering, “I’m worried about him. He’s hurting and I don’t know what to do.”

Rey hadn’t expected that. She hadn’t expected her to not be the only one Ben was shutting out. Nor had she expected Kuruk to be so upfront with her about his concerns. But she remembered the whole reason everyone involved was hurting.

“Gangs tend to do that… hurt people.”

His face showed a hint of understanding but quickly turned stern as he remembered they weren’t alone, and someone could overhear them.

“I’m sorry I can’t help you, Rey.”

Rey exhaled and nodded, knowing he truly couldn’t do anything. She wondered how he had gotten involved with the Knights of Ren. How any of them did.

“Kuruk? Why did you join?”

He cleared his throat and Rey instantly regretted the question. “That’s a story for a different time. All I can say is, now that he’s Ren, things are a little better for me. Even if it means having to miss my friend. And you and Unkar don’t have to worry about your safety. He’ll continue to see to that.”

“He’s what?”

“Ren.”

Rey shrugged, signaling she didn’t follow.

“Y’know our master.”

“Your master, what the hell does that mean?” Rey felt even more clueless.

“Did he not tell you?”

“Clearly not,” her voice was full of annoyance.

Kuruk checked his surroundings so nobody unwanted heard their conversation, “Rey, Ben is the master of the Knights of Ren, now. He’s our gang leader.”

The blood in her face vanished and she felt her cheeks and hands grow cold. She closed her eyes and shook her head, trying to comprehend what he just said.

“I thought you knew,” Kuruk said apologetically.

“No, he forgot to mention that tiny detail,” she gritted her teeth.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

He was standing over the bathroom sink, watching the water turn red as it mixed with blood stains on the porcelain that had dripped from his blood-caked hands. Ben looked up into the mirror, not caring at all about wasting precious water, and found the darkest, most pathetic version of himself staring back at him. He hated what he was. What he was doing. He hated himself. He hated that he couldn’t get out of this mess. Even more so, now that he was Ren.

He couldn’t even remember how it happened. He had blacked out. Which wasn’t the first time. Kuruk had given him a quick rundown of how he had challenged and overthrown Ren. As Kuruk briefed him, he genuinely remembered none of what Kuruk was saying. Although, it was a fair challenge with incontestable reason, some of the older Knights were reluctant to accept him as leader. Not just because of his age. But because he had barely been in the brotherhood for a few years and the older Knights felt they were entitled to succession. Regardless of their judgmental faces, they obeyed and carried on as they had before. Ben never thought he would ever be in this position and now regretted not having paid attention more when it came to the business. He still wanted nothing to do with the drugs and gave the older Knights absolute liberty with the continuation of those specific jobs.

Snoke had sought him out only once since he had become leader, now that he answered directly to the First Order’s head. Ben could tell Snoke relished in everything that Ben had succumbed to. The violence, the darkness.

He had dived further into the dark pit of despair and let his rage fuel him. He didn’t take pleasure in the things he had to do… that were expected of him, but he didn’t hold back either. Maybe that was one of the reasons none of the other Knights challenged him. Brute strength and cunning had been his pillars and they knew that.

Of course, Rey would push him away. Of course, she wouldn’t want to be with someone like him. She was kind, caring, generous, smart, beautiful, innocent. He never deserved her or her love. And never will. She was wise to leave him. He knew that. Still, it hurt like a thousand knives slowly plunging into his heart at the thought of her. The people he loved always left or were taken from him. But that was probably because he was never worthy of their love to begin with. Nor their forgiveness. He wasn’t worth sticking around for. And one day they realize that themselves. He fails them, so they leave. He only brought sorrow to them anyway.

One day Kuruk and Tali would do the same. They were obligated by Knights law to obey and be loyal to him. But their feelings towards him - as Ben - would fade. Better to keep them at a distance while it happened so he didn’t have to witness it. But also, to keep them from seeing this pathetic, hopeless, unworthy piece of shit that was glaring back at him.

Before he realized what his body was doing, his fist shot out before him and shattered his reflection. The clattering of the glass yanked him out of his thoughts and instant regret washed over him. This wasn’t his apartment. It was Ari’s and he just broke her mirror. He quickly began picking up the shards, but the door swung open, with a wide-eyed Aridema stood in the door frame.

“Woah, Ben!”

“Sorry, sorry, I’ll clean it up. Make sure Kenton doesn’t come in.”

“Ben,” Ari gave him such a pitiful expression that he had to turn away.

“I got it. I’m sorry, I’ll obviously buy you a new one.”

“That’s not-,” she turned to the hallway. “Don’t move, I’ll get the vacuum.”

They quickly cleared the bathroom of the glass together and made sure it was safe for the bare feet of a toddler. When they had finished, Ari began tending to the cuts on his hands.

“So,” she said with a warm voice, “what was that about?”

“I slipped.”

The look she gave him made him chuckle.

“Alright, I let off steam and the mirror got in the way.”

“Maybe do that outside next time?”

No judgement on her part. There rarely was. Just concern. She cared, but she knew he had issues to sort out. She probably was familiar with this kind of behavior anyway… through Hennix.

As if she had read his thoughts, she added, “y’know, built up frustration or anger usually turns volatile. Is there something bothering you?”

“Always.”

She nodded, carefully picking out the last pieces of glass in his skin with tweezers. “Recent… developmentshaven’t been easy.”

Not a question but an observation. Ben said nothing, just watched her hands work.

“Ren deserved it, Ben. I don’t blame you. I would’ve done the same. He killed Hennix. He deserved it.”

Now he did look up at her. Her face was stern as she put down the tweezers and grabbed white bandages.

“Now that you’re master, I feel safe enough to share this.”

Ben furrowed his brows and watched as she gently wrapped his knuckles.

“That night. Hennix and I fought. I didn’t necessarily care that he was in a gang. It brought financial stability and protection. I still value that about the brotherhood. But…”

“Then you got pregnant.”

She looked up at him. “No, it’s not that. I could’ve lived with that. Knowing my child was protected by the Knights and we would have enough money to live comfortably.”

Ben tilted his head in confusion.

“The Knights of Ren may not be corrupt within the brotherhood. But the First Order – Snoke. He has secrets. And he quickly, efficiently eliminates those that find out or question him. The whole system is fucked up.”

“Everyone has secrets, Ari. I’d be surprised if he didn’t. He’s the head of the First Order.”

“No. Secrets that put him in danger. If the Knights or anyone in the First Order would find out. They would turn on Snoke. Ren may have been Hennix’s executioner, but Snoke gave the order.”

Ben leaned in, his face stone.

“It’s true, I wanted Hennix to leave the brotherhood and move our family. But because I was scared of the First Order. And I knew the Knights of Ren were subjected to the First Order. That night, I told him something, that I will now tell you.”

“It won’t go past me.”

She nodded knowingly. “Snoke isn’t who people think he is. Well, he is now. A corrupt asshole relishing in people’s misery and suffering. But he’s not mafia royalty like he’s made people believe. He was a former FBI agent.”

“Woah, are you sure?”

“I am. If that ever got out. The First Order, the Knights of Ren, everyone under him would turn on him.”

Ben nodded. He knew their distrust of law enforcement members was so deep that they instantly removed brothers if they were found out to have any affiliations. Immediate or distant. No risks were taken.

“Without proof, it’s just reason to get us hurt… or murdered. Tell no one else, Ari.”

She closed her eyes and nodded.

“Snoke suspects you know?”
“I think he suspected Hennix. And me being his girlfriend…” she trailed off. “The past couple years were fine because of you and our… situation. Maybe he thought I didn’t know or else I wouldn’t have gotten involved with another Knight. But lately…”

“Yeah, you told me.”

She finished wrapping the bandages and he took her hands in his. An attempt to comfort her. He was never any good with words, so he let his warmth do it for him. She smiled at him and cupped his cheek. “Well, I’ll try and scrub these for you,” she said pointing at his rings next to the sink that were also covered in dried blood.

He nodded, pushed off the bathroom countertop and examined her work.

“Hungry? I’m making enchiladas,” she said, scooping up his rings. 

His stomach growled in answer to which she chuckled and turned to make her way to the kitchen. Ben checked his phone and scrolled through some of the messages from Tali, Kuruk and Rey, without opening them. He scrolled to the bottom of unopened messages and realized something when he read the name. He opened that text, reading: ‘Hey, thanks again for the essay. It helped a bunch. Could you maybe send me the full list of references again?’

Ben hit the call button and after a few rings, she picked up.

“Hello?”

“Hey,” he said running a hand through his hair.

“Ben? Holy shit! You, OK?”

“Yeah, I’ll send you the references in a minute. Can you do me a favor?”

“Uhm, yeah sure. But Ben, where are you? What happened to you? Why haven’t you been at school?”

“Kaydell, I need you to do something for me,” he ignored her questions.

“Only if you answer my questions.”

He sighed, I’m at Ari’s house and nothing happened, I’m just busy.”

“That’s not-”

“You work in city hall, right? Do you have access to personal files?”

“I do. And technically I have access, but I think that’d be illegal. Or at least I’d get super into trouble.”

“I know you don’t owe me anything, but could you get some info on a guy named Snoke? Like background info etc.”

“Ben, what are you up to?”

“Don’t worry about it. Can you?”

“I’ll try. I already know some stuff about him, though. Rey probably already told you.”

The mention of Rey made his stomach clench, but he ignored it.

“Send me everything you got or will get, please.”

“OK, I can’t promise anything though.”

“Regardless, thank you for trying.”

“Sure. Ben?”

He had a feeling where the conversation was going but he could be wrong, so he waited. “Hmm?”

“Call Rey. I know I shouldn’t get involved, but-”

“No, you shouldn’t,” was all he said before hanging up.

Ben slid his phone into his back pocket after having sent the list as promised, washed his face with a washcloth and went to change his clothes, dumping the bloodied ones in the trash. He peered into Kenton’s room, the toddler sleeping peacefully in his little bed. Ben walked over to him and watched his chest and the little dinosaurs on his shirt move up and down. Though this child wasn’t his own, he loved him more than he could ever articulate. His finger gently caressed the side of the child’s face and Ben almost jumped when he heard a young voice behind him, “He’s adorable isn’t he?”

Namira, Aridema’s fifteen-year-old cousin, had come back with Ari after she and Kenton had visited her family in Albuquerque. It slipped his mind that she was staying with her older cousin for a few months, due to her father’s alcoholism and domestic abuse towards her mother and older sisters. He regretted having his own violent outburst moments earlier and felt ashamed for having exposed her to something she was fleeing from.

“He’s perfect,” Ben agreed and paused to look at her. She had short, black hair and she looked as if she were Ari’s mini me. Dark brown eyes, olive skin and the same hour-glass figure as Ari. There was no denying that they were related.

“Sorry if I startled you before. I slipped and took the mirror with me,” he said apologetically.

She played with her lip piercing and crossed her arms. “I didn’t think clumsiness was tolerated in a gang. Especially as their leader.”

Ben’s eyebrows shot up. So, she knew. “Huh.”

“Ari tells me everything. Kylo Ren,” she winked. “Don’t worry, your secret’s safe with me.”

“I’d rather you didn’t know.”

“Too late,” she shrugged. “So, what does it take to be taken in?”

“What?” He had his hands on his hips now.

“How do you join a gang?” She rolled her eyes.

“Why do you need to know that?” He eyed her.

“I don’t know. Seems like a good way to have someone protect you rather than beat you senseless.” That was her history talking.

“There are other ways to protect yourself. Besides, it’s a life of pure violence and misery.”

“Seems like I can’t avoid violence anyway. At least that way I have someone to protect me and my family.”

“Ari told me about your situation at home. I’m sorry you had to go through that.”

She shrugged it off as if it didn’t bother her at all. But he saw the pain and sadness in her eyes. The eyes of an abused and neglected child.

“Your life at home is hard. But that doesn’t mean you should want this life.”

“You joined,” she challenged.

A ring at the door was a blessing for not having to continue the conversation.

“If I had to decide again, I wouldn’t,” he said leaving Kenton’s room.

“I’m making enchiladas if you’d like to stay for dinner?” He heard Ari say to whoever was at the door.

Ben walked into the living room where their guest was standing, brown hands on his hips and waiting for, most likely, him.

“Finn?” Ben was genuinely surprised to see him.

Finn with a not-so-friendly expression turned to him, lips pressed together and now glaring at him. “We need to talk.”

Ben looked to Ari who immediately understood they needed some privacy.

She pointed towards the bedroom with her spatula, “You can go in there, if you’d like.”

Ben gestured to follow him, and Finn silently stomped after him. He closed the door behind them and waited for Finn to say something. When he didn’t, he asked, “Why did you come here?”

“You mean how’d I know you’d be here? I have eyes and ears everywhere, mister,” Finn said pointing two fingers at his eyes and then in a circle in front of him.

Ben crossed his arms and again waited for Finn to explain.

“I’m here because I need to make something clear, here.” He poked his finger into Ben’s chest as he spoke. “My friends are everything to me. And when I see them hurt. When I see Rey hurting like that…” his face became fierce. Not enough to intimidate him but Ben sympathized with his concern for her.

Ben was about to say he never intended to hurt her, but he was only respecting her wishes when they both jumped at a loud clash and a scream coming from the kitchen. Both of their eyes widened, and they stormed out to see what happened.

Ben found the door wide open, the enchiladas splattered all over the floor and Ari’s spatula in the doorway. He saw movement and found a wide-eyed and confused looking middle-aged man scurry off the porch. He didn’t recognize the man but knew by the colors of his clothes who he belonged to. Kanjiklub. And then it dawned on him. They took her. They took Ari.

Ben snatched his gun from behind the door and sprinted after the man. He shot twice at the man, each bullet a hit. His face hit the asphalt as his body slumped and went down. Car tires squeaked and Ben saw the back of the same blue Nissan as he’d seen so many times before, speed off.

Ben immediately turned to his Triumph while Finn was hunched over the man’s body. How the hell did Kanjiklub get passed the borders? Why did they come for Ari? His thoughts were racing as Ben swung his leg over his bike. He felt someone slump into his back.

“Finn, what the fuck? Get back in the house.”

“Not a chance. I’m coming with you.”

“The hell you are!”

“There’s no time for arguing,” he said jumping on the back. “They’re getting away.”

He was right, there was no time. They had to leave. Now.

“Namira, lock the doors and windows and take care of Kenton,” Ben yelled to Ari’s younger cousin, who was standing in the doorway.

Luckily, she did exactly as she was told, and Ben drove off, Finn with him.

Chapter Text

Ben felt Finn’s grip tighten around his waist whenever he accelerated to close in on the Nissan. Sometimes he felt Finn’s head with Ben’s helmet bump into the back of his helmet-free head. Once Finn got used to the weight of the helmet, he quickly learned how to keep his head steady.

Ben refocused on the car ahead. He knew what horrible things Kanjiklub did to hostages and didn’t dare want to think of the possibilities with Ari in their hands. All he knew was that they couldn’t let them reach their territorial border, or else Ari was dead. I’m on my way, Ari, he thought. He shook the horrid thoughts away and regained a clear mind to take control of the situation. When Finn didn’t move behind him, Ben patted the arms around his torso to make sure he was there and that he wasn’t losing his mind. Finn only squeezed him tighter as a response.

They followed Kanjiklub’s car for a good ten minutes through the city, swerving through traffic and barely dodging cars, bikes and pedestrians. Ben realized at some point they would either be super lucky and zone in on them without gaining the attention of cop cars or they’d lose them due to running out of gas. Ben looked around and realized another thing – they were in their territory. Which meant, he knew these streets and the city much better than them. He slowed his machine down and fell back, finding cover among the other cars in traffic.

“What’re you doing? We’re losing them,” Finn protested.

“I have an idea,” Ben said over his shoulder. He kept an eye on the car until turning into a narrow and dark alley.

“Is this a shortcut?” Finn whispered.

Ben spoke at a normal volume because there was no reason to whisper. “I have an idea where they might be going, so yeah, sort of.”

“Kay,” Finn whispered and tightened his grip again that he had released when they had slowed down.

Ben reached into his pocket and handed Finn his phone over his shoulder. “Send Kuruk a drop pin of our live location.”

Finn did as he asked and after a moment, he heard Finn open the visor on his helmet to answer the phone.

“Hey, it’s Finn. Yes, Finn. Look there’s no time to explain. Somebody took Aridema and we’re following them. Yeah-”

“Kanjiklub. Tell him Kanjiklub has Ari and to get everyone’s asses out here.”

“Are you kidding me?” Finn exclaimed as the situation must’ve just now dawned on him. He returned his attention to Kuruk who was asking multiple questions as it seemed by Finn’s overwhelmed demeanor.

“Yes, Ben is fine. Just follow our location, OK? Yeah, see you.” He hung up and handed his phone back to him. “Really? Another gang?”

“Well, who else do you think would want to harm her?”

“Well, I don’t know… I don’t know anything right now, just drive!” Finn threw up his hands and quickly wrapped them around his waist when he realized Ben twisted the throttle.

Finally, just as Ben had suspected, the blue Nissan came up on the right just as their maze of alleyways came to an end. They turned left and were close enough to see three heads turning back at them from inside. One of which was a gagged and wide-eyed Ari. Almost there, Ari, he thought. Ben grabbed his gun and pointed it at one of the tires. He shot three times and only missed once. The tire hissed and the car began to swerve from the impact. It might not stop them fully but after a while it would slow them down enough. He repeated the action with the second tire.

When Ben looked ahead, he realized it wouldn’t even have been necessary to put any bullets in those tires because he found multiple Kanjiklub members waiting for them. How the hell did they get into their territory? How did so many get passed our guys?

Ben’s confusion was ever present, but he was even more furious than anything about the fact that they were able to cross their borders. Had he really been that careless since becoming leader? Was he missing something Ren hadn’t? No, his men carried on as they did before. This was inexplicable.

The street they found themselves in was a quiet one. Mostly due to the run-down buildings of abandoned homes and businesses. The blue Nissan came to a halt and three men stepped out, joining their brothers in the middle of the street. The last one to get out was holding Ari by her hair, dragging her out of from the backseat to where the others were waiting. Ben could feel his very blood boil and the rage in him simmer. He noticed a few windows shutting and movements from within the buildings on either side of the street ceasing after that.

Ben parked his bike a few yards away, knowing they wouldn’t just gun them down on the spot. They wanted something, they would be willing to talk first. Finn got off first and Ben turned the key in the ignition and pulled the key out. He turned to Finn whose worry was written all across his face.

“Finn,” he whispered this time and held up his keys, “do you know how to ride one of these?”

Finn looked at the keys and back into his eyes and nodded. “I’ve been on one once.”

Ben sighed at that, but he had to do this. “Enough to get away if need be?”

Finn looked at the men behind Ben and then back at Ben with a nod.

“You stay right here until I give you a sign, then you drive. And you don’t look back, got it?”

“Ben, what about-”

“Do you understand?”

“But-”

“Do you understand?”

Finn nodded and took the keys.

“Finn,” Ben said as calmly as possible, and he could see the fear in Finn’s eyes. “It’s gunna be alright. You’re gunna be alright.” That’s all he could do to try and comfort Finn. He wasn’t about to show Finn in any way that he wasn’t entirely convinced of his own words, but he hoped he was right.

“What’s your plan?”

“I’ll figure it out.”

Finn gave him a look filled with concern and bewilderment, but Ben ignored it and turned to where Kanjiklub was waiting for him.

Ben walked towards them with his hands and gun raised above his head to show no harm. As he got closer, he recognized all three men from their last encounter, the other three he did not.

“So, we meet again,” the man with the limp greeted him.

“So, it seems,” Ben answered.

“Last time we saw you, we thought you were Ren. And look at you now. Now you are.”

“Last time, I recall,” Ben ignored his arrogance, “you ran home with your tails between your legs in your own territory.” Ben looked at the man holding Ari up by her hair and a knife to her throat. It was the man whose nose he had broken the last time. “Nose heal OK? It’s an improvement for sure.” Clearly it hadn’t been correctly put into place and therefore it healed crooked.

The man scowled in response and tightened his grip on Ari who whimpered in response. Ben looked at Ari with a soft look to encourage her to hold on. She looked at him with teary eyes, which made the bile in his throat rise and he knew they’d pay for that look alone.

“This time,” Ben said holding out his hands, “you’re on my territory. And you’re threatening my family. That won’t go over well for you. I won’t be so generous this time. Unless I say, you lot aren’t getting out of here alive. Even if you gun me down the Knights of Ren won’t let you cross the border. Now, since you have something of mine and you all depend on me for your lives, I’m sure we can figure something out.”

“Once again, you’re in no position to negotiate, Kylo. It’s six of us and two of you.”

“Worked out for me last time I had those odds,” he shrugged.

“If you want your bitch alive, we suggest you walk away and let us leave.”

“Why’d you take her in the first place? You want revenge? Money? Territory? Or just to lure me out and kill me?”

The man with the limp scoffed, “you’re not the target asshole, she is. But you do keep getting in the way, you annoying, little shit.”

“Can we hurry this along?” The man with the bad eye said annoyed. “His men will be here any minute.”

Ben smirked at them as he said, “look behind you, dumbass.”

Trudgen, Vicrul, Cardo, Kuruk and Tali had all snuck up behind them and were now pointing their guns at the men of Kanjiklub. Thank whoever was blessing them right now for letting them get here so quickly.

“Fuck,” one man sighed but the man with the crooked nose made sure Ben would see his shiny knife at Ari’s throat.

“Let’s try this again,” Ben said. “What is it you want in exchange?”

“Oh, kid. Whether you kill us or not, Tasu Leech will own your ass after this job!”

“And what exactly does that job entail?” Ben pushed.

The man pointed his gun towards Ari and made a gunshot sound with his mouth.

“What does Tasu Leech gain from killing her?” Kuruk asked now.

“Everything,” he answered. Ben caught Kuruk’s befuddled face and shared his confusion.

“If you don’t start answering our questions clearly, you will drop like flies,” Vicrul directed his second gun at another one of them.

“Release her, and we’ll let you go unharmed,” Ben tried again. He slowly put down his own gun, kicking it backwards away from him.

“I don’t believe a word out of your goddamned mouth.”

“I promise, you will not die today. Drop your weapons,” Ben addressed his brothers and sister.

“But-” Tali started. He knew they thought he was showing weakness. Ren never would have tolerated any of this.

“I said drop them,” he snarled at her. They did as he commanded and Kanjiklub relaxed a bit. They looked back and forth among each other before resolve took over their faces.

“We let her go, we get in our car,” he pointed at the black Ford SUV behind them, “and you won’t follow us.”

“I swear it. As long as no harm comes to her.”

The man with the limp nodded, clicked his tongue and added, “fine. Release her.”

Reluctantly, the man with the crooked nose removed his blade from Ari’s throat and let go of her hair, giving her a not-so-gentle nudge. Ari stumbled toward Ben and fell into a sprint, and he embraced her immediately. Ben tugged down her gag and untied her hands and quickly looked her over and relief washed over him. Now, Finn could take her home and he could deal with these assholes. She smiled, put a hand over his heart and exhaled, thankful to have her back.

“Go to Finn,” he whispered to her, jerking his chin over his shoulder and she nodded.

“On second thought,” the man with the limp said, “he doesn’t allow failure.”

A gunshot exploded through the silence of the street and Ben felt a warm liquid drench his shirt. He looked down on himself but there was no sting from a gunshot wound anywhere and he quickly realized it wasn’t his own blood. He looked back up and found blood spurting wildly from Ari’s head and mouth. Tali’s scream filled the air as Ben held Ari’s limp body in his arms. He looked into her empty, glassy eyes and realized he had failed. She was gone and he failed to protect her. He failed her. And he failed to keep the promise he had made to Hennix. He failed Kenton. He failed everyone. He failed.

He looked at her beautiful face and understood that he would never hear her laugh again. He would never see her smile again. He would never feel her warm embrace again. She was simply gone.

A muffled voice next to him grew louder and clearer. It was Finn.

“Ben,” he shook his arm. “Ben!”

Ben hadn’t realized he had dropped to his knees with Ari still in his arms. He couldn’t make up what was going on around him. He made out a blurred fight before him, people running frantically and shooting and punching and yelling. But all he could do was continue to hold her.

“Ben, we have to get out of here! Those weren’t the only men from Kanjiklub, another SUV just arrived. BEN!”

Ben finally snapped out of his state of shock and instead sensed his rage about to explode. He would tear each and every one of them apart. He would make them suffer slowly and for a very long time. His eyes locked onto the man with the limp.

“Finn,” he said, eyes still on the man that was firing his way to the SUV, “drive.”

He could tell Finn was hesitating. “Now! Go, and don’t look back.”

Whatever Finn had detected in his voice must’ve been enough to persuade him. Finn slipped Ben his gun, but he needed to make sure at least Finn was safe. “Keep it. You might need it.”

And with that, Ben gently lowered Ari’s body to the ground and lunged into the fray.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Finn watched as Ben tackled a large man with two blades that were waiting for him in his hands. He looked down at Aridema Sanchez who was laying lifeless in front of him. He couldn’t just leave her there, so he picked her up and moved her to the right side of the street and onto the sidewalk. Her arm swung up as he placed her down and smacked his helmet, leaving a trace of three bloody marks. Somehow, he hoped she would wake up. He gently stroked her her shoulder, thinking that maybe she could feel it and made his way to Ben’s motorcycle.

He hadn’t been on a motorcycle in over two years. He despised them after so many in his family had a crash. Himself included. He hadn’t touched one since then. But right now, it was his only chance to get away from this mess. Why did he have to follow Ben? He couldn’t have done anything anyway. No, he had to try. He always tried to help. But she died anyway. He really thought they would all make it out alive. Somehow this childish notion was something he truly believed. He blinked the thought away as he hopped onto Ben’s bike, trying to remember all the steps to get this thing going. He wondered if he was ever going to see Ben again. He didn’t particularly like the guy, but he sure as hell didn’t want him to get hurt or worse - die. He proved himself more than capable of protecting himself, so there was no need to worry. Was there?

He glanced back once and saw Ben swinging punches left and right, making people immediately fall on their backs. God, he was strong. More Knights of Ren – he assumed – had arrived to back them up. Alright, no need to worry, just get yourself out of here, Finn, he thought.

One man, he was pretty sure it was a Kanjiklub person, or whatever they called themselves, drew his gun on Ben. Finn saw it all in slow motion. Ben was too distracted with blocking punches and knifed jabs from two other Kanjiklub guys. Finn looked down at Ben’s gun, drew back the slide, pointed it at the man closing in on Ben and pulled the trigger. The man went down, clasping his right calf.

“Holy shit!” Finn covered his mouth in shock. What just happened? What just came over him? Did he actually just shoot a gun? He blamed adrenaline and fear. He missed but he also didn’t miss. Oh, thank the stars he wasn’t going to be responsible for a death today. Or any other day, he quickly added the thought. “That’s gunna hurt tomorrow,” he said out loud, feeling the repercussion in his arms.

Ben swirled around and kicked the man holding his leg in the jaw, making him fly backwards a few feet before lunging towards the others again. That was Finn’s final cue and after fumbling a bit with everything, he finally got it running and cautiously sped off. He reached the main road and didn’t know where he was going. As long as it was as far away as possible.

Just as he was about to turn onto a busier street, he felt a tingling sensation at the back of his neck, as if someone were following him. He glanced over his shoulder and wouldn’t you know it there was a car following him. But he relaxed when he realized who was driving. Tali. Ben probably told her to make sure he would get home safe. He wasn’t a child. He grew angry at that but also felt the sensation of relief ease his mind, knowing he wasn’t all alone in the middle of the night.

Tali began to honk. He briefly glanced back at her.

“Finn! Watch out!” She yelled, pointing to the left. He looked up and only saw a black SUV speed towards him before everything went black.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Ben’s fists were completely covered in red. The blood of the man he now knew as Crokind Shand. The bastard that took Ari away from him. That took her away from her son. Made him an orphan.

He looked at the pitiful piece of shit that was now tied up to a chair in the Knights of Ren’s main building. Shand’s face was so swollen, full of cuts and smeared with blood that Ben wondered if he could even see anything. He wanted answers. Now. But more importantly he wanted revenge. Ari didn’t deserve to die. She was sweet, understanding, gentle and caring. And this man’s bullet put an end to her entire being. And now at the end of this interrogation, Ben would promise the same fate for Crokind Shand. It wouldn’t be as quick. The other members of Kanjiklub that were at that fight were all packing material now, save three. The three bastards that had made it personal. Ap’lek, Trudgen and Cardo were already working on the other two, judging by their screams. But this one, he would have the pleasure working on.

Vicrul stood next to him, arms crossed and smirking down at Shand. “Why did Tasu Leech want her dead?”

“I already told you.” That earned him another blow, Ben’s rings slicing up the skin on his cheek once more.

“You didn’t tell us shit,” Ben growled.

“I don’t know any more than that, I swear.”

Vicrul huffed, “I highly doubt that. You, boss?”

Ben only nodded, his eyes pinning Shand. “Vicrul, maybe we need another approach.” Vicrul grinned back and turned away, knowing exactly what Ben was suggesting.

Ben, never lifting his eyes from Shand, said, “Vicrul here, loves to cook. He loves experimenting. You see that pot over there? He was making empanadas earlier today. His empanadas are quite delicious.” Even though Shand could barely move his facial features anymore, Ben could still see the confusion of where this conversation was going. “See, in that pot that Vicrul is heating up is the vegetable oil he used to fry them. I always tell him to wear an apron and gloves, to protect himself in case the oil accidentally hits him. Do you know what happens to human flesh when it comes in contact with burning hot oil?”

Shand glanced over to where Vicrul’s back was to them and then back at Ben.

“Viccy, do educate the man, would you?”

Vicrul smirked over his shoulder and obliged, “first-degree burns usually cause mild swelling and a bit of redness. Second-degree burns offer blistering on top of that. And third-degree burns,” Vicrul took the bubbling pot off the stove, turning back to them, “damage the nerves, cause serious swelling and turn the skin a multitude of different colors.”

Crokind Shand gulped realizing why they were telling him this.

“See, boss, that only happens on skin. I’ve only ever seen that happen on the exterior of a person. I do wonder what would happen if someone were to… swallow it,” he said grabbing a green funnel.

“As I said before, Vicrul loves to experiment.” He tried a smile but failed. “If you can’t offer any more information than that, well, you won’t be of much value to us anymore and I guess I’ll allow Viccy to find out.”

Vicrul came closer to Shand who was already leaning far back into his chair away from Vicrul.

“Alright, alright, I do remember something else,” he panted, “please.”

Ben put up his hand towards Vicrul who put the pot back on the stove. “Out with it then.”

Shand flinched at the scream coming from another room before he started. “Tasu Leech made a deal with someone that would grant him full control over the Knight’s territory if he took this job. He didn’t say why she was to die but the deal was too good not to take.”

“Who offered that deal?” Ben snarled.

“I don’t know.”

“I have a feeling you’re lying. Viccy hold open his mouth.”

“NO! No! Please stop.” He closed his eyes, “I swear he didn’t tell me his name. Tasu Leech only said, ‘I guess we answer to the same man now’.”

Ben looked at Vicrul whose face to an outsider was completely neutral, but Ben saw the disbelief in his eyes.

Ben turned to Vicrul, “I believe him.”

Vicrul looked between him and Shand, “sir?”

Ben gave Vicrul a look that told him there was no point in staying discrete in front of Shand now anyway. The slight change in Vicrul’s eyes showed him, he understood.

“Why would Snoke strike a deal with our rivals?” Vicrul asked.

“He needed a way to get rid of Ari without breaking our number one rule,” Ben ground out.

“But, boss, the First Order is synonymous with the Knights of Ren. He’s on our side?”

“Is he?”

He seemed unsure, contemplating. Good.

“Boss, what did Ari have to do with all of this?”

Ben looked at Shand and then back at his brother. “She knew something she shouldn’t have known. I’ll fill you in later. First, we finish this job.”

He needed a different setting to tell Vicrul and the others, to feel them out to see how loyal they were to him. Or if they’d run to Snoke.

He turned back to Shand, “thank you for your cooperation. Congrats, your interrogation is over.”

Shand slumped in the chair in relaxation. For nothing, he would discover soon enough. Trudgen, who was also full of blood that wasn’t his own, came into the room.

“Trudgen,” Ben said standing up, “Vicrul could use your assistance.”

Vicrul looked surprised at him, “You don’t want to watch, boss?”

“Nah, you boys have fun. I need to clean up and check on someone.”

Ben made his way to the door, grabbed the green funnel and tossed it over to Trudgen. Crokind Shand needed to pay for what he did to Ari. But Ben had enough of death for one day. He had other things to worry about now.

Chapter Text

When Finn came to, he found himself in a hospital bed. The room was overflowing with multicolored get-well-soon bouquets. His parents were sleeping next to him in two armchairs and Poe, Rose, Kaydell and Rey were huddled together on a couch facing his bed. The sight of them warmed every fiber in his body. At his movement and slight rasping his parents awoke and jumped to his side, his dad yelling for a nurse. Everything slowly came back to him, and he remembered what had occurred.

“Where’s Tali?” His voice was strained. “Is Ben alive?”

That got him weird looks from his friends. His mother answered. “Who’s Ben, dear?”

He looked to Rey who seemed as clueless as the rest of them. “Ben,” he said to Rey as if trying to remind her who he was.

“My boyfriend,” Rey explained to Finn’s parents. “What are you talking about, Finn?” She looked at him and tilted her head.

“Is he alright?” He tried again.

Rey looked to the others again before nodding at him and putting on the smile Finn knew too well as her ‘let’s play along’ smile and said, “I’m sure he’s fine.”

He furrowed his brows and looked back at his mother who was rubbing the top of his hand with her thumb. Why were they all acting like this? Was he missing something? Had he just dreamed all of it?

Finn listened as his parents told him that he had been hit by a drunk driver and an anonymous girl found him and had brought him to the hospital. He knew that wasn’t the truth. They also told him that he had been in a coma for five days. Five days. The nurse came in and everything after that he wasn’t quite able to process. He thought about Aridema. The way the bullet hit her head and the way she slumped into Ben’s arms. And Ben’s look. That deep look of despair and pain. Ben. He needed to know that he and Tali were alright. And once he knew they were, he didn’t ever want to see them again. He wanted nothing to do with the Knights of Ren or Kunjee-whatever-club. He didn’t want that kind of danger to come anywhere near Rey. And him or Poe or Kaydell or Rose.

After a few hours, he felt his stomach tighten at the thought of food. He was so hungry, and he felt well enough to eat. Everyone was making a fuss over him, which he kind of enjoyed if he was being honest. He really did have the greatest friends and family in the world.

His mom was sliding the window open to get some fresh air into the room, when Finn heard a nurse talking to someone at the door his mom had opened moments before.

“Oh, you’re back! He woke up a few hours ago. He already has a few visitors, so be careful not to overwhelm him, please.”

“Oh, I can come back later,” a deep voice mumbled.

“No, I’m sure they won’t mind. Your friend will be happy to see you,” she said as she showed his unknown visitor into the room. Finn was nothing short of surprised to see Ben Solo ducking his head as he walked through the door in a black suit and tie, one hand in his pocket and the other combing through his thick, black hair. Well, that answered his question from earlier, then.

Everyone in the room went quiet and turned their curious heads towards Ben. “Hello,” he said in a low rumble. Finn looked at Rey, who jumped to her feet and whose face was about to crumple. His dad stretched his hand towards Ben to introduce himself and his mom smiled at him from next to Finn’s hospital bed.

The impatience made his stomach flutter and before he knew it, he rasped, “Can you leave, please?”

The combination of surprise and disappointment in Ben’s face had him turning away. “Sure,” he said.

“No, Solo. I mean,” he looked at his parents and then his friends. “Mom, dad, everyone, can you guys leave us for a minute. I’d like to talk to Ben alone.” With weird expressions from his parents, they all did as he asked. Finn caught the look Rey and Ben shared. There was so much longing in their eyes. He knew Rey wanted to ask so many questions but respected the situation and quickly turned away, hiding her tears and following the others out of the room. She’d get her chance soon enough; he knew she wouldn’t let him leave this hospital without answers.

Finn waited for his dad to close the door before asking, “Is Tali alright?”

“Yeah, she’s still… processing everything. But she’s unharmed.” Finn nodded and although he had so many questions himself, his body ached too much as to ask away. Ben pulled the soft fabric of his suit pants up his thighs as he squatted next to him, “you look like shit, dude.”

“I feel like shit,” Finn kept his lips tight.

Ben huffed his amusement before his face turned stern. “Finn, I’m so sorry.”

“Don’t be. It’s not entirely your fault.” Finn shrugged. “That’ll teach me to follow you into danger.”

He could tell Ben was guilt-ridden. Good. Maybe he, too, will learn from this. “I’m glad to see you’re somewhat better.”

“I am. I’ll be fine.” His cracked ribs, broken arm and sprained well… everything, and every other sore muscle in his body begged to disagree. “Doc said I was lucky. Should’ve had way more broken bones.”

He skimmed Ben’s face and he had to admit, Ben looked like shit, too. He didn’t seem like he had any injuries, but he realized the loss of Aridema was a whole different kind of injury.

“How’re you holding up?” Finn didn’t want to explicitly say it and hoped Ben understood what he meant.

Ben sighed, shaking his head and closed his eyes. “I don’t know.”

Finn nodded. “I’m sorry about… your loss.” He didn’t know how else to say it. Even though he saw it all, had witnessed everything… it still didn’t feel real.

Ben met his gaze and pressed his lips together. “Thanks.”

“You didn’t tell anyone what happened? When I asked about you and Tali, nobody knew what I was talking about. They said I was hit by a drunk driver.”

“Yeah, we thought it best to keep it under wraps,” Ben shrugged apologetically. “Tali brought you to the E.R. after your accident and told them that story. I don’t know why they went after you, but Tali got to them and… well, made sure they wouldn’t harm you any more than they already did. It was better for everyone that nobody else knew what happened that night.”

“What did happen after I left?” Finn asked carefully. “Why were they after Ari? And why did they kill her anyway, even after you promised to spare ‘em?”

Ben swallowed and looked at his feet and Finn regretted asking at all, knowing Ben was still grieving Aridema. He winced at his impatience.

“My guys made sure nobody from Kanjiklub got away. We interrogated the one that shot her.”

“You did? What did he say?”

“It’s best you don’t know everything either, Finn.”

“Ben, I get that. But I saw her die just like everyone else. I have a right to know.”

Ben’s eyebrows furrowed at that, but his features softened as he said, “All I will tell you is that Ari knew things she shouldn’t have known. And certain people were scared because of it and saw her as a threat. So, they… removed that threat.”

“Fuck,” Finn exhaled. He heard about gangs in the news and from the movies and knew what all that meant. But witnessing it up close was different. It felt surreal, and not at all as if any of it had actually happened. How easy it was to lose someone. How easy it was to have a living, breathing human be taken away.

“I’ve never fired any kind of weapon before,” Finn said, almost disappointed in himself.

“Good, I hope you never have to.”

“But I did. I saw one of their guys pointing his gun at you and I kind of… I don’t know what came over me, but I knew I had to do something. I shot him in the leg.”

Ben’s eyebrows shot up. “You did?”

Finn shrugged and looked down at his fingers, still disappointed in his actions.

“Thank you for having my back.” Ben’s voice was heartbreakingly gentle.

“Well, it’ll be only that one time. I’m never touching a gun again.”

“I understand. I hope you never have to ever again.”

Finn scanned Ben’s face, “What happens now?”

“That’s none of your concern, Finn. That can’t happen anymore.” Finn knew he meant getting involved in dangerous situations. Situations that came with that lifestyle.

“Don’t worry, from now on I’m staying far away from you,” Finn said, and he thought there was a hint of pain in Ben’s eyes, but he could’ve misread that.

“Good. I just came here to check on you. And make sure-”

“Thank you. I appreciate your concern.” Finn tried a smile. “And… I’m sorry about your bike. I know it meant everything to you and I-”

To Finn’s surprise, Ben put his large, warm hand on his, squeezing and met him with a don’t-challenge-me stare. “Finn, I don’t care about that. You’re more important than a metal machine, got it? She’s replaceable. You’re not.” He hadn’t really expected that. Finn thought Ben would’ve answered with an annoyed growl or huff or some eye rolling. He was the leader of the Knights of Ren. Surely, he’d be pissed about someone wrecking his belongings. But the fact that Ben put Finn’s safety over that melted something in Finn’s chest and the only response he was capable of was a grateful nod.

“OK,” Ben said as he stood and straightened his tie. Finn looked him over again as he did so and wondered what the formal attire was for, until he realized. He was probably either going to or coming from Aridema’s funeral.

“Was it today?” He asked pointing at his suit.

Ben looked down on himself and slowly nodded.

“My condolences, Ben.”

“Thank you.”

Silence.

“What happens to… Kenton, was it?”

“Her aunt and uncle will be taking him to New Mexico with them.”

“I’m sorry.” He didn’t understand anything Ben was feeling or what any of it meant but he could tell by Ben’s whole being that he was hurting. And ‘I’m sorry’ was all Finn could think of saying. “Ben?”

He turned to him just as he was about to reach the door.

“I get why you distanced yourself from Rey. That night, I was going to chew your ass about it but… I understand. It’s probably best you continue to do so. I think it’s safe to say we both don’t want her getting hurt.”

Ben’s face was stone and Finn couldn’t read him one bit. “No, we don’t,” he agreed.

“She’s gunna want to talk,” Finn said jerking his chin towards the hallway where his parents and friends were most likely waiting.

“I know,” Ben sighed.

“Good luck,” Finn said in farewell, looking at what was most likely waiting for Ben outside of this room.

“You too,” Ben said gesturing towards Finn’s current state. He gave him one last nod before leaving the room and Finn exhaled, leaning his head back on his pillow.

____________________________________________________________________________________

Rey leaned against the opposite wall of Finn’s hospital room with her arms crossed, impatiently jingling her keys under her right arm. The others, thankfully, made their way to the cafeteria, but she wasn’t going to let Ben leave without an explanation.

What were they talking about? Why did Finn ask about Ben and Tali? Why was Ben in a suit? Why hadn’t he come out yet? The uncertainty was killing her.

Rey felt a sting in her core. She couldn’t exactly name what she felt but the thought of Finn and Ben keeping something from her kind of hurt. Especially, after the weeks and weeks of Ben keeping her at a distance.

The door opened and Ben emerged. She pushed herself off the wall and waited for him to say something. He pressed his lips together, barely got out a ‘hey’ and made his way to the elevator at the end of the hall. Rey was so taken aback at that, and she felt her cheeks burn at the blatant audacity. She watched his back muscles shift under the suit as he walked away and before she knew it, she had her car keys flying towards him, hitting him right under his neck before falling to the floor with a clunk. He turned to her, shock in his eyes - slight amusement, but mostly shock.

She was stomping towards him with an outstretched finger, “How dare you!”

He turned to her fully, feeling the back of his neck with his hand, “How dare I?”

“Yes, Ben Solo! How dare you?! You were really just going to walk away without a real hello or a goodbye?”

“Rey, I-”

“No, I have a lot to say, so you better shut up and listen,” she spat as she picked up her keys that landed next to him and then planted a solid punch on his chest.

He said nothing and took it without moving an inch.

“You fucking coward. All these weeks together, I thought we were solid. I thought you felt the same way I did. You even told me so. I told you ‘I loved you’. That means something, do you understand? And then you just walk away. Shut me out completely. You just dip out. I don’t hear shit from you in weeks and then when I do see you, all you can say is ‘hey’ and then walk away as if I was some random person in the hallway you have to greet out of politeness.” A punch for every question and every claim. Her anger growing the more she spoke. “You’re really just gunna turn away from me, after everything that happened? Where were you? Why didn’t you respond to my calls, messages or any attempt at contact, you asshole? You just left. You shut me out completely. You abandoned me.” The fact he didn’t say anything and just took each punch without a reaction made her even more mad. How was he not even moving? She continued to hit his chest without looking up at him. “Why did you do that? Why did you leave me? Why? After everyth-”

Her energy didn’t allow anymore blows or any more questions, so she stayed that way, panting but not meeting his eyes. After a few seconds of letting her catch her breath, his warm hands gently wrapped around her wrists and pushed them down without letting go. “You told me to,” he explained.

“What?” She blinked. No, she hadn’t.

“You told me to leave. So, I did.”

She recalled their last conversation when he had told her about Snoke’s plans. She had told him to leave. But she meant to physically leave. To give her space to think and process everything. Not to leave her.

“Ben,” her fury faded just a little bit. “I needed time to work things out. I didn’t want you to leave me. I just needed to be alone for a bit to process everything. I told you I loved you. I am on your side. I meant that. Did you think I was turning my back on you?”

He looked to the side and his silence was answer enough.

“Are you kidding me? Ben, I was mad at you, you asshole! That doesn’t mean I was gunna turn away from you or abandon you. I love you! I want to be with you. I told you, ‘You’re not alone’, remember? That’s what being in a relationship means. We don’t give up on each other. We see things through together. We figure things out together.”

She looked at his face and saw silver line his eyes. Her shoulders slumped as she relaxed at the sight of him internalizing her words. In that moment she realized something else. Of course, he would think that. He had been pushed away by someone he loved before. He had been pushed away by the most important people in his life. Did that trauma run so deep that he automatically assumed she would do the same? Was he truly convinced that people would so easily turn their back on him? It hurt that he thought so less of her, that she would so easily give up on him.  

She reached up to his neck and pulled him down to her. One hand still pressing this neck to her and her other hand on his back. He returned her embrace with his face nuzzled between her neck and shoulder. They stayed that way for a few moments, holding each other.

She whispered in his ear, “Ben, I’m never going to give up on you. People make mistakes. That doesn’t mean that mistake defines who you are. And definitely not a reason to leave you. You’re worth staying for. You’re worth it, do you understand?”

Somehow, she knew he had to hear that, and his arms tightened their grip around her. “Thank you,” he whispered.

“Don’t ever pull that shit again, got it?”

His response was a nod into her neck.

“Ben,” she said pulling back from their embrace. “No more secrets. No more shutting me out. From now on, we tell each other things. And I know you have a lot to share. So, go.”

Ben sighed, mustering the energy or courage, she wasn’t sure, pulled her to the end of the hallway – away from prying ears - and began telling her everything that had happened the last few weeks. She listened silently and couldn’t believe what she was hearing. It was way worse than she had imagined. She checked herself to make sure her shock wasn’t going to interrupt him.

The moment she found out about the night that put Finn in a five-day coma, she couldn’t help herself and her hand shot to her mouth before she was hugging him again. And then Aridema. She was… no. It couldn’t be. The pain in his eyes confirmed everything. She wrapped her arms around his waist and let him embrace her in silence. She said nothing. She felt words weren’t necessary. Just her presence, being there for him, would speak for itself. She would hold him for hours if that’s what he needed. He had lost one of the closest people in his life and had grieved for her all alone. He had gone through all that alone. He should’ve said something. But of course, he didn’t, he thought she had abandoned him.

When he finished his story, they pulled away and she closed her eyes, running her hands through her hair, holding it in place with her hands clasped on the crown of her head. The fact he finally opened up, had relief spreading through her. She finally understood everything.

“So, what do we do now?” She asked.

He gave her a look that meant he didn’t want her involved but she raised her finger at him, waving it back and forth. “No, no, no. What did we just say?”

He tilted his head and sighed, “Rey, all of what is going to happen will be dangerous. And I don’t want you getting-”

“Oh my god, Ben! Shut up. You hard of hearing or do you have the memory of a goldfish?” He swallowed at that. “We figure things out together. You’re not doing this alone.”

“Rey, I already lost so many people dear to me. If something happened to you… I-” his whole face tightened, and he couldn’t finish the sentence. “I just can’t go through that with you.”

It’s not that she was unaware of the gravity of the situation, but she also knew she wasn’t going to let that keep them apart.

“Ben, I can’t imagine what you’re going through right now with what happened to Hennix and Ari. I’m truly sorry you are. I know you’re hurting but that doesn’t give you the right to disregard me. Distancing yourself from me isn’t gunna keep me out of their reach or out of danger. So, don’t you dare try to come up with some macho crap of ‘I’ll stay away so she won’t get hurt’. Unkar and I are already on their radar anyway. If someone wanted to hurt you, they’d already know where to strike. Whether we’re apart or not. And if I throw myself into danger to save your ass, then so be it. That’ll be my decision. Got it?”

“Fine, to a point, Rey. I’ll fill you in but you’re not going anywhere near the Knights or the First Order or Snoke, alright? I have a handful of people I can trust and who are willing to do what needs to be done. I’m not risking shit when it comes to you. Not after…” he trailed off.

“OK, I understand. I’m not completely incapable, alright? But I also know that I’m not a Charlie’s angel. I’m not delusional. But I want to know what you’re doing and where you are so I can call for help if you need it. Or y’know help some other way.”

“Fine. That’s acceptable.”

“Good.”

“Finn’s not gunna like that one bit, y’know. He encouraged me to stay away from you.”

“I love Finn and appreciate him trying to look out for me – like he always does - but he can shove it. I’m perfectly capable of making my own decisions.”

“Sure, you tell him that. See how that goes for ya.”

“Watch me.” She chuckled and looked back at the door to Finn’s room. “Speaking of, I should probably check on him.”

“OK, I’m gunna head out, start packing and spend as much time with Kenton as I can before they leave.”

Rey gave him a comforting look, knowing the loss of Kenton will most likely tear him apart. “Do you want me to come with you?”

“No, it’s alright. I’ll be fine.” She knew that was a lie.

She tilted her head at him. “Why do you need to pack?”

“I’m gunna fly out to California for a few days. There’s something I need to take care of, which I will share with you when I get back.” He held up his hands as she opened her mouth to protest. “I know what we said, but trust me on this, it’s better you don’t know- at least not yet. Kaydell found me a lead that I need to go after and - Ow!”

Rey punched his ribs, “Really? Kaydell? Who else was in on it but me?”

“I only asked her because she works in City Hall. Relax,” he said rubbing the spot on which she had just landed a solid one. Solid, thanks to his training.

“Asked her for what?”

“Anything on Snoke. Solid proof. So, I’m going to California to do some digging up, OK?”

“You wanna take down Snoke?”

“I wanna take down Snoke.”

She remembered what that bastard had done to Unkar’s shop. How he tricked Unkar into making that Faustian bargain. She knew so many families went through -many still going through - the same ordeal. The look in his eyes made her gut clench and she understood. Understood what this meant for him. Understood he had to do this for Hennix. For Tai. For Paige. For Anyah. And for Aridema.

“Good,” she said, resolve in her voice. “I’m in.”

“OK, now go check on that pain in the ass in there. I’ll text you later.”

“You better. Come here,” Rey lifted her heels off the floor and pressed her lips on his.

“God, I missed you,” Ben said after she was back on the ground, ending their long-awaited kiss.

“Well, let’s make sure you won’t have to ever again,” she smiled.

Chapter Text

Ben sat alone on the bed in Ari’s bedroom, staring at the wall full of family portraits. The room, the sheets, everything still smelled like her. The room was full of her being but at the same time so empty, lacking life. He closed his eyes, and the pictures of the funeral came into view.

The cold breeze had raised the hairs on his whole body as the casket was lowered into the ground. Somewhere a sorrowful tune was playing. Aridema’s family and friends were standing around her grave, clad in black, tears pouring and hearts aching. His own heart had splintered into a thousand pieces, and he couldn’t see the world around him. It was all a blur from the tears clouding his vision. He had held Kenton in his arms the whole time, the child silently clinging to him. He didn’t know whether Kenton needed him more or if he needed the comfort of the toddler more. He had two large, white lilies in his hand – one from Kenton and one from him – to lay on the brown wooden casket that held Aridema. Someone had been speaking to the crowd. A priest? A family member? He didn’t know. He didn’t care. He heard nothing other than the squeaks and groaning of the wooden box being lowered into the ground. The soft whimpering of Kenton in his arms. He smelled the sweet scent of the lilies in his hands and felt the icy December air in his lungs. Everything else was a blur. Except for the stinging in his chest. Knowing he not only lost one of the closest people in his life, but he was also about to lose someone else. He tightened his hold on the toddler who leaned his small head into his chest.

He walked up to Aridema’s grave, lowered himself and Kenton into a squat and let the toddler toss the flowers into his mother’s grave.  

Ben squeezed them before opening his eyes again, that were now wet with tears. He let out a deep exhale and straightened himself. He heard the others rustling outside in the kitchen and living room. A very gentle knock on the door to the bedroom had him wiping the wetness on his face with his sleeve. He cleared his throat and told whoever was at the door to come in.

Namira poked her head in, “Ben?”

“Yeah.”

“Uhm,” she fiddled with her necklace nervously, “we’re about to leave.”

Ben’s chest tightened once more. He thought they still had another hour.

“Ok, I’ll be right out.”

Namira stood in the doorway for a moment, as if there was something she wanted to say but decided not to and closed the door again. Ben straightened his now unbuttoned shirt and stood up, sighing deeply to himself.

When he walked out of the bedroom, he found suitcases near the entrance and Aridema’s family members waiting on the couch with their coats. Namira sat on the couch next to her mother and some younger cousins. Luckily, her father hadn’t accompanied them, or else Ben wouldn’t have had such a harmonious visit with Aridema’s family. Ari’s eldest aunt, Theresa, was holding Kenton who was giggling and squirming in her arms. When the child noticed Ben, he reached his chubby little arms toward him. Ben took him and couldn’t help but smile at the cheerful child. He looked so much like Ari but he also saw so much of Hennix. It was more noticeable than ever, and Ben had no words for what he was feeling in that moment. Something more than pain. He could barely take it and clenched his jaw so tight he thought his teeth would crack.

Theresa rubbed the child’s back and put a delicate, warm hand on Ben’s shoulder, “You can always come visit him, mijo.”

Ben felt his cheeks burn and the burning sensation in his throat as he nodded.

“And you’re always welcome to stay with us.”

“Thank you, Mrs. Vasquez.”

“Oh, no, no. Call me Theresa. You’re family, hito.”

Ben had no words. The fact that they saw him as family warmed his heart, yet he felt so empty at the same time. He turned back to Kenton and looked at his big, brown eyes that were filled with the pure joy of a child. He held the child’s head with his hand and brought his lips to the child’s forehead. Ben closed his eyes and rested his forehead on Kenton’s for just a moment. Tiny hands gently tapped Ben’s cheeks and he opened his eyes to see him smiling and, in the mood to play. He was glad Kenton had no idea what was going on or what any of this meant.

“I’m gunna miss you, kid,” Ben managed to whisper. So much, he added in thought. Ben thought of his best friend and of Ari and vowed he would always look after their child. Maybe when all this was over, he could find a way to be closer to him and make sure he was always safe, provided for and loved. If he couldn’t do that for his parents, he would sure as hell do everything in his power to make sure their child was cared for. But he had to make sure certain threats were taken care of before he could do so. For now, he would have to stay away.

Theresa took Kenton back in her arms and everyone began taking their bags to the cars. Ben said his goodbyes to everyone and walked out to the front porch, watching them load the cars and getting ready to begin their roadtrip back to New Mexico. His eyes glued onto Kenton. His Kenton.

Namira lingered behind him, and he almost hadn’t noticed her if she hadn’t tapped him on his shoulder. He turned to her and noticed her fearful expression as she glanced between him and the cars. Ben was unsure what to say, so he waited until she would say something. But instead, the teenager hugged his torso – tighter than he had expected. He gently put his arms around her, rubbed her back and remained silent, figuring she was just as heartbroken about Aridema as he was.

She pulled back, looking to the ground and glancing sideways at the cars again. Ben followed her line of direction and asked, “What’s wrong?”

One of Ari’s uncles shouted from an open window to hurry up. Ben furrowed his brows at that and returned his attention to Ari’s younger cousin.

“Thank you for being so kind to Ari and Kenton,” she said, still looking to the floor. Ben then realized she was unsure of what would happen to her, now that Ari was gone. She had come to live with Aridema after escaping a home that wasn’t a real home anymore. Probably, never had been.

“Namira, look at me,” Ben said, lowering his head to meet her gaze. “If things ever… get tough, you can always come back here and stay with me for a while. Alright?”

She glanced back at the cars and nodded.

“You’re never alone in this world. There’s always someone out there that will help – that will want to help.” He had learned that himself recently. “I’ll be one of those people, OK?”

Namira nodded, hugged him again and quickly made her way to where her family was waiting to go. He watched as Aridema’s family drove off and, in a way, he realized those cars were a metaphor for his old life. Once again, he was alone. He inhaled the cold winter air and remembered something: He wasn’t alone. He closed his eyes and saw her. His person.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Rey was drenched in sweat after having danced for two hours straight. She had needed to come to the studio to think. Dancing always helped her clear her mind and focus on issues at hand and find solutions, respectively. Plus, she had needed a distraction from missing Ben. It was just another day until he came home, having gotten whatever proof he had needed on Snoke. She was excited he would be back in time for Christmas which was only a few days away. As she pivoted into a pirouette, spinning and spinning and spinning, a thought came to mind and she came to an elegant halt, panting. She had to tell someone. Someone who wouldn’t try to dissuade her or yell at her for even thinking of such a thing. So, she tapped on the contact, hit the call button and a sleepy voice answered right away.

“Hey, are you free? Can you meet me at Starbucks near school?” Rey panted as she simultaneously packed her belongings and darted out the door.

“You want to do what?” Kuruk stared at her with wide eyes plopping his Americano onto the table, spilling some of the hot beverage.

“I need to speak to Kanjiklub,” Rey repeated calmly.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?”

“I’m trying a different angle.”

“Yeah, one that’ll have you laying in a ditch somewhere. They’re our rival gang. Do you know what they’ll do if they get their hands on you? They could use you as leverage to get anything they want from us. From Ben.”

“Well, it’s a good thing you’ll be there to protect me. Plus, I can be very persuasive, so there’ll be no need for intervening.”

Kuruk snorted but Rey angled her head and gave him an irritated look to show she was being serious.

He closed his eyes, inhaled deeply and tried a more calm, rational voice. “Why do you want to meet with anyone from Kanjiklub?”

“Well, preferably, Tasu Leech-,” Rey started but was interrupted by a gasp from him.

“Tasu-” Kuruk blew out with a sarcastic huff, but Rey put her hand up, gesturing to listen.

“And I want to speak to him as a neutral person to maybe find a way to come to an understanding. Ben would never meet with him after what happened to Ari. He’s too emotional to see clearly if I were to take this to him.”

“You’re not a neutral person, Rey. You’re our gang leader’s girlfriend. You’re like the biggest target for them, next to Ben.”

“Well, then he will understand what happens if someone were to hurt me. Plus, we’ll be prepared. We’ll meet in a public place with lots of people and maybe bring someone as backup,” Rey said in a calm, assertive tone and very sure of herself.

Kuruk scanned her face and sipped from his coffee as a way to process. He shook his head and his lips curled slightly. “I get why Ben fell in love with you. You got balls, chica.”

Rey put on a charming smile, batting her eyelashes. “So, can you set up a meeting?”

“Rey, do you know what Ben would do if he found out? He’d cut off my balls and then feed them to piranhas. Thanks for the offer but I like my balls right where they are.”

“Kuruk, please. If we had a united front, we might actually have a chance at bringing Snoke down. Not that I advocate violence, but if the Knights had more allies maybe it could scare him off.”

“Who says they’d be interested in taking him down?”

“Well, that would be one of the things I’d like to find out. Hence the meeting.”

“They worked with Snoke before, they murdered Ari for him.”

“They murdered Ari for a false promise. Do you honestly think Snoke would’ve actually kept his side of the bargain? He never does.”

Kuruk looked past her shoulder and out of the window in thought. “Sounds like you know a lot about him.”

“No, I just see through him.”

Kuruk said nothing, so Rey pushed, “Why are you rival gangs anyway? Aren’t the Knights and Kanjiklub sister gangs?”

“I don’t know we just are. And yeah.”

“But why?”

“Well, I mean we fight over territories and product distribution,” he explained, lowering his voice to avoid being overheard.

“I get what it means to be rivals, but I mean why and when did it start?”

“I don’t know, Ren and Tasu Leech never had an understanding and it just kind of turned into a long-lasting feud.”

“There’s another thing we could ask then. Now that Ben is the master or whatever,” she gestured air quotations, “maybe they could see that as an opening for some joint action.”

“You’re way in over your head here, Rey.”

“We’ll never know unless we try, Kuruk. Maybe he’s willing to talk it out, like an adult.”

“This isn’t a game, Rey.”

“I’m aware of that,” she said with serious calm. “Look, you all have your reasons for joining a gang. But gang or not, you’re a person and so is he. A human being with emotions, dreams, trauma, history. Maybe you should see the man - not the gang leader. I did,” she said, and she noticed his eyes soften at her implying Ben.

Kuruk blew out a breath and wiped his face and over his buzz cut. After a moment of contemplation he said, “I know someone that has a connection to Kanjiklub.”

“So, you’ll set up a meeting?”

“I can’t promise anything, since we usually don’t have a rival gang leader’s phone number,” he rolled his eyes. “But I’ll see what I can do.”

Rey tried to suppress her excitement at her getting him to agree. “Thank you so much, Kuruk.”

“You’re lucky I like you. God, I’m gunna regret this,” he rubbed his temples.

“And don’t worry, your balls will stay safe. Ben won’t have to find out until after the meeting. And I’ll take all the blame.”

Kuruk looked over her shoulder again with a yearning expression. “I miss them already.”

She couldn’t help it and laughed wholeheartedly, knowing what he meant.

The next day when she woke up, she had gotten the text from Kuruk that a meeting was on after school. She was shocked at the speed of it all. They would meet at a shopping mall an hour outside of town that was considered neutral territory. She couldn’t focus on any schoolwork during class one bit, and it killed her to keep this meeting from her friends. It made her whole insides sag. Now, something else was causing that effect.

Vicrul, one of the brothers of the Knights of Ren, was standing in front of her, arms crossed, legs a foot apart, sizing her up with piercing dark eyes. He was shorter than Ben, but taller than her and nonetheless intimidating. She didn’t let that show and lifted her chin. She had met him in passing before but never had a face-to-face conversation with him. His dark hair glistened in the sun and although he was wearing a black jacket lined with white fleece, there was no hiding the powerful chest and arms underneath. They were standing in the parking lot that was covered in snow, due to the snowstorms lately, going over the plan and security details.

It wasn’t the cold winter air that almost made her shiver but Vicrul’s intense stare, but she withstood and didn’t dare look away first. He inhaled and clicked his tongue before asking her, “You really think this is gunna work, princess?”

“I believe in humanity, so yes. And don’t call me princess,” her voice was unshaken.

His brow jerked up at her assertiveness and must’ve deemed her sturdy enough to agree to the task at hand.

“Alright. Some of our guys are already positioned in various spots around the mall. They’re keeping an eye on everything. You can go in there with ease knowing you’re being watched and covered in case something goes down.”

“OK,” was all she could counter.

“I’ll be sitting in a booth near your table and Kuruk will be near too. You can meet with Leech and talk out whatever you wanna talk out. But, Rey, one wrong move from any of them and I pull the trigger. Can you live with that?”

Her stomach content threatened to resurface but she managed to keep it down. “It won’t come to that.”

“We’ll see,” his deep voice rumbled. “How many weapons you got on you?”

“What?”

He glanced at Kuruk who shook his head. Vicrul’s eyes darted back to her, “You’re joking right?”

“I don’t need any weapons. We’re gunna be in a mall,” she gestured to the building behind them.

“The hell you don’t. I’m not letting my master’s girl surround herself with our rivals unarmed,” he growled, making her furrow her brows at him in challenge. “Shouldn’t be letting you in there in general,” he added under his breath.

“I want to appear civilized,” she said the last word as a jab against their whole mentality and lifestyle. “Bearing weapons isn’t gunna help that. Plus, for the sake of sounding redundant. We. Are. In. A. Mall.”

She was not going to touch any sort of weapon. She was against bearing arms in general, but especially not at a mall. With normal people. Families with children. She wasn’t going to jeopardize anyone’s safety by acting like these imbeciles.

Kuruk cut in before Vicrul could retort, “OK, so, you’re gunna sit at the first table on the right in front of the Taco Bell. Vicrul is gunna walk in first, order something from there and sit and eat while you and I make our way in. You and I part ways right before the Victoria’s Secret and you go ahead to the designated table. If you need help or you need out, just adjust your bun and we’ll jump in. That’ll be our signal. OK?”

Rey nodded and inhaled, readying herself for this meeting.

She felt Kuruk’s hand squeeze her shoulder. “Even if you can’t see me, I’ll be near you the whole time, alright?”

It had been her idea and she was responsible for getting herself and these guys in this situation but regardless, she was grateful he tried to comfort her, unlike Vicrul who was glaring at her, eyes full of judgement.

Kuruk and Rey watched Vicrul as he put on a baseball cap and walked through the entrance of the mall. It was go-time.

After a good while, Kuruk winked and said, “Ready to make your debut as First Lady?” His way of easing the tension.

Rey gave him a disgusted look, “Kuruk, just…no.”

He chuckled, made a dramatic bow and gestured for her to go ahead. She shook her head, but his humor indeed eased her mind a bit.

Rey sat at the metal table they had picked for them, the cold metal of the chair making its way through her jeans and chilling her skin. She looked around and saw nobody she recognized or that looked like a gang member. Except for Vicrul, who was seated right where he said he would be. She avoided looking in his direction to make sure, in case anybody was watching her – which they most likely were – it wouldn’t give away his involvement. She felt Kuruk’s stare on her back and felt the imaginary heat there to be very comforting. She began counting backwards from twenty, to steady her breathing and calm her heart rate.

She made it to seven when a slender, dark-haired man in a navy suit slid into the chair across from her in a very feline manner. His long, black hair that reached past his shoulders was slicked back in a half-up hairstyle that reminded her of every male Stark family member from Game of Thrones. He couldn’t have been older than thirty. He had a goatee and his mustache curved upwards as he smiled mischievously.

“Good evening, Rey,” the man purred.

“Hello, Mr. Leech.”

He smiled again and clasped his fingers in front of him on the table, his forearms resting on the edge of it. “Call me Tasu.”

She gave him a charming smile back and nodded, accepting the offer of being on a first name basis. “Thank you for finding the time to meet with me.”

She had no idea how to conduct herself at all. How did these meetings normally go? She decided to be as charming and sweet as possible and see this man as just another person. For now. Depending on how the conversation went.

“I’m surprised Kylo Ren isn’t here with you.”

She hated that name. It implied everything Ben Solo was not. “He isn’t aware of this meeting.”

“He isn’t? Interesting,” his eyes glistened. She swallowed. Was it a mistake to have revealed that? What did it imply?

“Uhm, no. I don’t think he would have approved.”

His eyebrow raised a bit, and she didn’t know how to read his reaction. Was she giving away too much information?

“I’m guessing you didn’t come to meet me all by yourself. Seeing as you keep looking back at your friend behind me.”

How did he know? She had been adamant about not looking Vicrul’s way.

“I may be open to reaching out with good intentions but I’m not stupid,” she said, surprised at how calm her voice remained. His eyes became narrow as he smiled in that feline way.

“How do I know you have good intentions? How do I know Kylo Ren isn’t baiting me by setting up this little dinner date with me and his significant other?”

“I could tell you all about myself and elaborate on how I’m a good person only seeking peace. But I know you couldn’t be certain that I’m telling the truth. So, I’m going to tell you that I’m putting my trust in you – naïve as it may be – by coming here. It would be too easy for you to subdue me, kidnap me or even kill me on the spot, but I came anyway, wanting to only talk. And since you agreed and showed up to this rendezvous, I’d say you already met me halfway.”

His face stayed unfazed, but he ever so slightly leaned back, watching her. She sensed he may not have been completely convinced but the fact that he relaxed a bit gave her the impression he was at least willing to listen.

“So, first off I’d like to ask why Kanjiklub and the Knights of Ren are rivals if they’re supposedly sister gangs?”

He probably wasn’t expecting that question and tilted his head, countering with his own question. “Nobody from the Knights was able to answer that for you?”

“The only answer I got was that it’s been like that for a while, but nobody knew with certainty. I think they just all assume you and Ren – the former Ren that is - had a falling out and it turned into hostility rather than cooperation.”

“That’s almost true,” he countered. “The First Order rose from the ashes of the Empire.” Rey had no idea what he was talking about but wasn’t about to interrupt him for clarification. “The First Order began recruiting people from around the area for an ‘organization’, they called it, to make money off of illegal drug trade. Seeing that they wanted to have a maximum potential of distribution, they created various gangs to have a larger reach. Ren being the leader of the Knights of Ren and my father being the leader of Kanjiklub. They planted the Knights in the city and left Kanjiklub on the outskirts, the rural areas like reservations and barren lands, which we were located on anyway. So, naturally we had less distribution possibilities and therefore less chance of income.” He paused, scanning her face to see if he should go on. She tilted her head in curiosity and gave him an innocent, encouraging look to show she wanted to hear more.

“Decades ago, when they were still both young leaders, Ren, being greedy and not prone to cooperate, had a falling out with my father. The First Order favoring the Knights with their ability to make a lot of profit in the city, never intervened and let the feud run its course. And it’s been a power battle ever since.”

“So, you have nothing personal against B-… Kylo?” She corrected herself. “It’s just an ongoing conflict started by your predecessors?”

“Not if he gives me a reason.”

“What are the chances of you… making up and resuming a cooperative relationship?” Rey asked carefully, not knowing how else to word that.

His eyes narrowed with suspicion, and he crossed his slender, yet powerful arms. “On my part, I’d consider listening to a proposition, but given that I made a consequential mistake a while ago, I’d say they’re pretty low.”

Rey knew he meant his involvement in what happened to Aridema. Her heart ached at the loss of her friend and rage simmered within, but she pushed it down, knowing it wouldn’t help the situation if she let that get the better of her.

Instead, she let the sadness take over and show as she asked, “Why did you do it? Why did you… why did you have her killed?” She almost threw up on the spot at that last word. His face remained unchanged, and she didn’t know whether that was tactical or just purely apathetic on his part.

He sighed, “Whether you believe me or not, it really was a mistake. She wasn’t supposed to die. I wanted her taken in alive and as unharmed as possible. It would’ve been a way for me to find a direct line to Kylo Ren. I wanted to speak with him, and maybe that way he would’ve had motivation to listen.

“The head of the First Order, Snoke,” he clarified as if she wasn’t aware of him already, “gave us free passageway in their territory. I didn’t know why he wanted her dead. I didn’t ask. It wouldn’t have kept up his perception of me as a ruthless killer and he potentially could’ve backed out. Having that leverage gave me access to two things we desired. Snoke promised to give us our land back that was taken from us under Ren’s rule. He offered all of the Knight’s territory, but we only wanted one part of the territory back.

“You see, your boyfriend’s territory extends into our ancestral lands. There are many sacred sites to our people that we have no access to anymore. I could’ve had the opportunity to speak to Ren’s successor and work out a deal concerning our lands. But Kylo Ren was at her house that night, it complicated things. Snoke had promised to keep my guys out of sight and complete the job without interruptions. And everything went to hell from there.”

“If she wasn’t to be harmed, then why did your men kill her anyway?”

He took a few seconds before answering and Rey thought she recognized genuine regret in his eyes, “I guess even some of my guys actually perceive me as a ruthless killer and were too eager to also play that role.”

Rey gawked at him. She didn’t know how to react to those words. Ari could’ve been saved. Could’ve gone home to her child. Could’ve had a long, happy life. And it was all taken away for false promises, miscommunications and just sheer misfortune.

“So, you mean to tell me, my friend, Kylo Ren’s family member died for nothing? Her son doesn’t have a mother because of some misunderstanding?” Her voice began to shake just a bit.

“She didn’t need to die, no. But we all have loved ones that have been taken from us for no significant reason. Also on account of the feud.”

Rey let her face crumple a tiny bit before inhaling and regaining her composure.

“Everyone has lost someone they love over something unnecessary. You did, too. Didn’t you?”

She met his stare. “What are you talking about?”  

“Your parents. You lost them over something that didn’t need to happen.”

Was he taunting her? How did he know any of this? She should’ve done research on him too, since he clearly was wise enough to have done a background check on her before meeting with her.

She wouldn’t let him faze her and wouldn’t let him have her involuntarily give away any more information. “Many things could’ve been avoided. But here we are. I assume Snoke didn’t pull through with his promise. Even though, you did fulfill your end of the… agreement.”

He nodded in what she assumed was showing his respect in keeping her confident composure, and answered, “No, he did not.”

“Where do you stand with Snoke now?”

“He’s a very powerful man. He could strip us of our resources. I would say we are dependent on but not sympathetic to him.” 

Rey put on as much a charming smile as she could. “Well, that’s something we have in common, then.”

He raised his eyebrows, “I guess we do.”

Now was her chance to make her move. She, too, clasped her hands in front of her and rested them on the cold, metal surface. “I have a proposition for you.”

“Go on.”

“You’re not completely loyal to Snoke, you’re open to cooperation and the Knights have something you want.”

His eyes narrowed but he said nothing as he let her speak.

“Would you be willing to accept a truce?”

“What’s the catch?”

“You help the Knights of Ren execute a plan of action against Snoke in exchange for your lands.”

“And Kylo Ren would be willing to agree to that?”

“You let me take care of that. You’d be surprised at what I’m capable of,” she said overly confident with a wink.

He huffed his amusement and his eyes glistened, “I’m sure you are.”

He looked her over a few times, making her feel a bit too bare. “A few weeks ago,” he started, and a wave of concern washed over her of how he was going to decline her offer. “You, Kylo Ren and your friends came into our territory. My guys tracked you for the sake of being cautious with two Knights in our territory. It would’ve been a really good move on our part to have captured Ren’s most prized warrior, as he used to call him. Of course, it never came to that since Kylo Ren is incredibly capable himself,” he winked. “Whatever his reasons were for letting my guys live that day, seeing as he overpowered them so effortlessly, he did it. Of course, he did what he had to after what happened to Ms. Sanchez. I’d say we’re even. But that day, he didn’t. He could have, so easily. But he didn’t. It spoke volumes about his character, and I never forgot that small act of mercy. So, I appreciate the offer and I am willing to accept. If Kylo Ren is genuinely willing to as well, that is.”

Rey blinked and it took great effort to hide her excitement. “I will speak to him as soon as possible and contact you with an answer.”

“I’ll be awaiting your call,” he said as he graciously rose from his seat, straightened the lapels of his suit and turned to walk away.

Rey sighed with relief, slightly leaned back into her chair and relaxed her shoulders.

“And Rey,” he turned around to her once more, making her suck in a breath. “I know this was your first business encounter of this nature.”

She swallowed and held her breath.

“Well done,” he winked and mingled with the other shoppers, finding cover in the crowd.

Chapter Text

Rey had no recollection of the ride home; her head was buzzing, and she was occupied with keeping her nausea at bay. After Leech had left, Vicrul had gotten up, nodded at her to leave and she made her way towards where she had parted with Kuruk. He had been waiting for her and together they hastily left the shopping center. She didn’t know where the other Knights had gone or when they had gone but Kuruk said it was vital that they got out of there and home as quickly as possible to not risk an accidental run-in with Kanjiklub.

She was in the backseat of Kuruk’s car, Kuruk and Ap’lek most likely discussing and assessing what had occurred in the front. She checked her phone and read Ben’s text message, saying he had landed ten minutes ago, and Trudgen was to pick him up. But when she read the time that the message had been sent, she realized it had been right when she was face-to-face with the leader of their rival gang and therefore Ben’s sort-of enemy. Her legs became weak, and she was glad to be sitting. She was simultaneously excited for and dreading their reunion. Mostly dreading his reaction to her plan. Which was successful. She thought it was, anyway, since she hadn’t been murdered. To her that was a success in and of itself.

So, when Kuruk offered to swing by a Sonic Drive-in for milkshakes as they passed the Hanna City city limit sign, she didn’t mind delaying her reunion with her boyfriend for a few more minutes. She missed him and couldn’t wait to be with him again, but she knew she shouldn’t wait to tell him about her little rendezvous today. She’d expect the same if the roles were reversed.

After they enjoyed their milkshakes, they drove back to the Knights of Ren hang-out to touch base and go over the results of the evening with the others that had been there. She followed Kuruk and Ap’lek into the building and down the hall to wherever their hangout room was. Everything looked very normal, modern even, and not at all like an entire gang would reside there. Except for the smell of weed that lingered in the hall and most likely even stronger in the actual room itself. Kuruk opened the door and stepped in, Ap’lek following suit.

Rey yelped as she saw Kuruk get yanked to the side, and by the sound of the loud thump, he was now being pushed up against the wall. Ap’lek reached his arm across Rey, keeping her behind him, seemingly to guard her from any attacker, as he peered inside to assess the situation. But he quickly relaxed, walked in and jerked his head toward her, gesturing to follow. She did and when she entered the room, she saw Ben with his right forearm across Kuruk’s chest, holding him against the wall with the face of pure, unbending rage.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” Ben growled at him. Rey backed away from the pair, trying to gain an understanding of the situation. She glanced at Vicrul and Trudgen who were watching them with crossed arms and solemn expressions. The latter lounging on a couch with the former standing next to him with his legs one foot width apart. Tali was leaning against the wall near Vicrul, scowling at Rey.

Kuruk didn’t resist Ben as he said, “Kylo, we had it all under control. We were successful.”

Ben pushed his arm further into his friend, “I don’t give a flying fuck if you were successful or not. Not only did you put Rey, and everyone involved in danger, but you also officially announced her as target number one for any rivals without my knowing, risked leaking our intentions to other Knights we’re not sure are trustworthy yet, gave Kanjiklub the impression my guys don’t trust or respect me enough to fill me in and risked Ari’s murderer getting his hands on Rey.”

Rey had the overwhelming urge to defend Kuruk and say something to help him. “Ben,” she tried but he whirled his head to her, glaring.

“I’ll get to you in a minute,” his deep, angry voice addressed her. She swallowed and gave Kuruk an apologetic look. “I’m pissed as fuck at all of you cocksuckers,” he looked back at Kuruk, pointing a finger at Vicrul, “but heat least had the fucking decency to tell me about this clusterfuck of a stunt you pulled.”

Kuruk glanced at Vicrul who only shrugged. “What? You think I wasn’t going to tell him? He’s our brother, our master. He deserves to know. Has the right to know. Secrets and lies are poison.”

Kuruk winced, realizing the truth in that.

Ben continued, “You should’ve waited for my return.”

“I’m sorry. Next time-”

“There won’t be a next time,” Ben growled so deeply that Rey felt the vibration of his voice’s bass in her own chest. “If you ever put her in danger like that again, I’ll throw you out.”

Kuruk’s eyes widened at that, his face full of shock and despair and even Vicrul looked up at that in surprise before glancing at Rey, who had no idea what that meant. She couldn’t read what was in Vicrul’s look but she quickly looked back to Kuruk and Ben.

“I know I fucked up… and I’ll take responsibility for it,” Kuruk said remorsefully.

“No, Kuruk, you really fucked up. I don’t blame Rey. She’s not familiar with the rules or this lifestyle, but you are. I trusted you to make sure there would be no reason for her to be in any type of danger. You may have been successful with this plan and thank whatever forces out there that nothing happened, and that Rey is as brilliant as she is to have succeeded, but you have no idea what other messages this sends. You better hope to fuck Tasu Leech stays true to his word and doesn’t royally fuck us all over.”

There was a moment of silence as Ben not-so-gently let go of Kuruk and someone, somewhere in the room blew out a long breath and said, “Spoken like a true master.” That also earned him a glare from Ben, and whoever he was quickly threw up his hands defensively.

Rey knew her ass-chewing would be next, but a small part of her was relieved to know Ben at least recognized and voiced that she wasn’t incapable.

“Viccy, Ap’lek you’re coming with me in two days to meet with him again to oversee some damage control. Vic already briefed me on everything that happened and what was said. I’m gunna need a full report from Rey and hear her side of the encounter,” he said gesturing to her, then putting his hands on his hips and looking at her so casually as if she wasn’t an outsider or a complete novice at this, “and then we’ll discuss the details for our course of action regarding Leech and everything else.”

“Yes, sir,” Vicrul and Ap’lek said unanimously. They were older than him, so it was weird to Rey that they addressed him with ‘sir’.

“What do you want me to do?” Kuruk asked carefully, rubbing his chest and Trudgen snorted at him.

Ben’s eyes darkened. “I want you out of my sight for the rest of the day.”

Rey was shocked he would speak to his friend that way. She could never in a million years speak to any of her friends in that manner. Judging by Kuruk’s reaction, it was normal. She wondered if Kuruk had ever spoken to Ben that way. She wasn’t clear on how the Knights normally behaved towards each other but assumed gang members didn’t typically consider people’s feelings. But Ben and Kuruk were friends, gang or not. She looked over to Tali who was still frowning at Kuruk and raised an annoyed eyebrow at her when she noticed Rey’s eyes on her.

Kuruk kept his head down and walked out the door, Rey made to follow him. She couldn’t let him leave like that. “Kuruk, wait.”

Ap’lek cut her off by blocking the door.

“Please let me through, Ap’lek.”

“No,” he smirked.

Kuruk turned back and gave her a reassuring smile, “It’s alright, Rey.” When she gave him a worried look, he added, “promise.” And with that he strode out. She glared at Ap’lek for so rudely denying her passage to go after him.

“He royally fucked up,” Ap’lek plopped to the side to lean in the door frame. “He needs to own up to it and await his punishment.”

“His punishment?” Rey blurted and then threw Ben a confused but enraged look.

Ben rubbed his temples and sighed as Ap’lek continued. “When someone falls that out of line our master deals a befitting punishment.”

She whirled on Ben, “what kind of punishment? That wasn’t enough?” She gestured toward where he had pinned Kuruk.

Ben silently crossed his muscled arms and loudly exhaled through his nose. His stern face revealed nothing, and she realized he wasn’t going to explain himself either. Not with an audience.

Ap’lek obliged. “That’s none of your concern,” he said in that voice they were trained to use for intimidation.

“Hey,” Ben barked sharply, reprimanding his Knight, reminding him not to speak to his girl like that.

Ap’lek’s whole body stayed stiff and didn’t budge, except for eyes which obediently shifted to Ben. When he returned his focus onto Rey, he quickly softened his voice, “what I meant to say is, you don’t need to worry about that.”

Rey huffed her annoyance and crossed her arms in challenge.

“OK, that’s enough of that,” Ben sighed. “Leave us. Tali, Vic wait outside for us, the rest of you, go home.”

Everyone strode past them as Ben kept his eyes on Rey. She lifted her chin and met his stare, allowing one glance at Tali who gave her a disappointed look before walking out the door with the rest of the Knights.

When the door closed, she straightened her back, awaiting a harsh scolding, although she wasn’t going to let him speak to her the way he had to Kuruk just now.

His whole body relaxed, and he took two large steps to reach her. His face softened completely, and he looked her over as he asked, “Are you OK?”

She had expected him to yell at her and throw a lecture in her face after that spectacle he offered. “I’m unharmed, if that’s what you mean,” she spat.

“I can’t tell you how relieved I am that you’re alright,” his face crumpled, and he placed his hand on the back of her neck, pulling her in his embrace.

“Aren’t you gunna yell at me too?” She stiffly asked against his chest.

“No,” he said, squeezing her tighter and pressing a kiss on the crown of her head. “I don’t need to repeat myself. I’m just relieved you’re safe.”

“Well, that’s not fair,” Rey backed up, pushing away from his chest.

“What? You want me to yell at you?” Ben furrowed his brows.

“No, don’t you dare think about talking to me like that. I’m just not OK with how you treated Kuruk just now.”

“I’m pissed at you both, Rey. But again, I already said everything that needed to be said. I’m sure you both understand what the consequences are of this… meeting. Kuruk doesn’t take certain things seriously enough. I needed to show him in a way he’d understand. Plus, as their new… master,” she could’ve sworn she heard regret in his voice, “I can’t let these things slide. The older Knights are watching my every move.”

“Ben, everything was fine. Nothing bad happened and I got the info I wanted.”

“That’s all great, Rey, and I’m really impressed how you handled Leech. But you have to understand how terrified I was watching you with him, imagining all the possible outcomes of this little dinner date.”

“Watching me?”

Ben held up his phone. “Vic had me on video call the whole time. I heard and saw it all. I saw you across from that creep and there was nothing I could’ve done. It nearly tore me apart. I was completely helpless and all I could do, besides watch, was to just pray to every entity out there to keep you safe. I almost threw up all over Trudgen’s car.”

She hadn’t thought about how triggering that could’ve been to him after having lost Ari. “I didn’t mean to make you go through that. I would’ve told you right after, but Vicrul beat me to it.”

“Look, I get why you did what you did. You were being you. You always try to see the good in people - to speak to their humanity. It’s one of the things I love about you. So, I’m not gunna make you feel bad about something that makes you… you. It was reckless what you did. And so many things could’ve gone wrong.”

Rey opened her mouth to tell him that nothing went wrong but he put up his hand, gesturing to let him finish.

“But they didn’t. It was reckless, yes, but it was also very helpful. You saw something that we never in a million years would’ve thought of. It took guts what you did. And I have to admit, I’m impressed and really proud of you. And of your courage and persistence.” He paused and scanned her face. “I think what stung the most – you know, besides losing my mind over the threat to your safety – was that you said we were a team. No more secrets.”

“You’re right. I won’t go about it that way again. But I had to try, and you said you didn’t want me anywhere near Kanjiklub or Snoke or the First Order or whatever, so I knew you never would’ve agreed to that. Especially after Ari.”

“You don’t know that.” He said softly. “You didn’t ask.”

“Would you have agreed?” She asked carefully.

“I don’t know.”

She put a hand on his chest. “OK, I’m sorry, Ben.”

Ben smiled softly, appreciatively, accepting her apology.

“And of course, we are a team,” her smile was full of sincerity.

“Next time a heads up would be nice. And I’ll listen to your ideas, whether I agree or not, I’ll listen and consider them. Deal?”

“Deal.” Rey’s smile grew larger, and she tightly hugged his torso. “Ben,” she said pulling back. “Please don’t punish Kuruk. He was only trying to help, and I didn’t really give him much of a choice.”

Ben waved it off. “Oh, I already forgave him. He did his job well. He kept you safe and did what he had to do to ensure your plan was seen through. I know Kuruk would never half-ass a plan of action and he wouldn’t have agreed to anything if he hadn’t been convinced your hunch was right and the plan would work.”

“OK, good,” she eyed him.

“Plus, I don’t want to be like… him. Ren demanded blind obedience, I want trust and earned loyalty. I’m not gunna punish him for doing a good job. Yes, I’m angry he didn’t check back with me, but I think I was pretty clear that it wasn’t OK and I think I got through to him. I’ll let him dangle a little to make sure it sits. But no, I won’t enforce any barbaric punishments to ensure obedience.”

Rey knew gangs had harsh methods, but the way Ben said the word ‘barbaric’ made her mind wander. Her face must’ve revealed her exact thoughts.

“No need to remember his ways, it’s over now anyway. And I’m gunna handle things differently.”

Her simper barely came through, nevertheless she nodded her approval.

“OK, we good?” He asked and looked up from under his brows.

“Yeah.” She tilted her head. “So,” she ran her flat hands over his chest, “mine or yours?”

Ben gave her a wicked grin, brown eyes twinkling, “I have to drop something off at a friend’s house but after that I can come over if you like?”

She nodded hastily and as she rose to her tippy toes to plant a kiss, he stopped her, holding her chin between his thumb and index finger.

“I need to apologize to you too,” he whispered as he eyed her mouth. “I’m sorry I gave you the impression you couldn’t come to me with your plan to meet Leech.”

Her eyebrows softly pulled together, and she placed her hand on his cheek.

“I have a lot of… issues and just a lot of shit to work through. So, I’m gunna make mistakes. But you’re the one thing in my life I really don’t want to make a mistake with. I want us both to feel safe with each other. Not just physically but y’know emotionally or whatever.”

Rey pushed her lips together to suppress an amused smile.

“I don’t want you to feel like you can’t talk to me,” he sighed.

“Thank you, Ben.” She scanned him for a moment. “Y’know it’s OK to make mistakes. That’s how we learn. That’s how we improve. As individuals and as a couple.”

He tilted his head, waiting for her to continue.

“I don’t mind if we make mistakes. Just as long as we clear it up and grow from them. Together.”

“Gotcha. Open, clear communication,” he winked, referencing their conversation from a few days ago.

“Exactly,” she lifted a brow in response.

“Alright,” he flicked her nose. “Tali will take you home and I’ll drive with Vicrul, when I’m done, I’ll swing by.”

“Hurry up, OK?”

“To start with our makeup sex? You bet I will,” he winked, and she pinched his backside. “Cruel little thing.”

She giggled as he grabbed his coat and stepped outside to meet the others.

On the drive home, Tali was silently brooding next to Rey, eyes on the road with a stern face. Rey didn’t exactly know what to say, she’d never really had a conflict or disagreement with Tali. So, she was uncertain how this would go.

“You’re mad, too.” Not a question.

“Observant,” Tali said sarcastically, without taking her eyes off the road.

“Can we talk about it?”

“Oh, now you wanna talk?”

“Tali-”

“You know, Ben may have forgiven you.” She wiggled her fingers in Rey’s direction. “But I haven’t.”

“I know it was reckless and-”

“Oh, please. I do reckless shit all the time. So does Ben, so does Kuruk. That’s not what I’m mad about.”

“Then why are you mad?”

“Well, not only did you not think about what you-being-in-danger did to both of us after Ari’s death. But… I thought we were friends, I though you would’ve trusted me enough to at least tell me this. Hell, or even asked for help. It couldn’t have hurt to have me there to help in case shit went down. I was in town. I was available. Instead, you went to Kuruk and Vicrul. I guess I misjudged our relationship.”

“Well, technically I didn’t go to Vicrul, I went to Kuruk.”

Tali glared at her before huffing out her displeasure and returning her eyes back to the road.

“Tali, I’m sorry. Of course, we’re friends. And you’re right I should’ve told you. I do trust you. It’s just… I thought you’d try and talk me out of it. I just thought the less know, the better. I was wrong.”

Tali said nothing for a few moments until her voice cracked as she said, “I loved Ari so much. Just as much as Ben did. She was one my closest friends. Ben is hurting, but so am I. I don’t want to have to cry at yourfuneral, too.” She could’ve sworn she had tears in her eyes. “Ari was kidnapped. But you deliberately put yourself in danger. I hope you never lose someone, Rey. I hope you never have to learn that lesson, to understand the gravity of our situation and what it means to live this life.”

Tali pulled into her and Unkar’s driveway and kept the motor running as she waited for Rey to step out.

Rey turned in her seat to face Tali fully. “Tali,” she put her hand on her shoulder. “I’m really sorry. I won’t ever put you or Ben through that again. You’re right, I don’t know what it feels like to lose someone. I only know how it feels to miss someone, every day to the point it hurts. Wishing they’d come back for me, even though I know they never will. Wishing I could’ve known them, wishing I could have a life with them. But I know that’s impossible. So, I hang on to the people I love most. And I’ve definitely come to loving you to, Tali. So, I’m sorry and I promise I won’t go rogue anymore. At least not without filling you in. I now also know what it feels like to be clueless about certain things. So, from now on, open book.”

Tali looked her over a couple times before softening her expression. “OK, thank you.”

Rey leaned in for a hug and when Tali embraced her, she squeezed her tight enough that Rey had to chuckle. She smelled the familiar coconut scent on Tali’s long, copper hair and smiled at her friend as she leaned back. “Good night, Tali.”

“G’night, Rey. Don’t get into trouble in the few minutes you’re alone.”

Rey rolled her eyes. “I think I did pretty well before you lot came into my life.”

“Touché.”

Rey winked at the ginger and made her way inside. Tali waited in the driveway until Rey was fully inside the house and she watched as the youngest of the Knights of Ren drove off.  

It took Ben less than half an hour to drop whatever he needed to drop off and now he was lounging on her bed, hands behind his head, listening to her report on her and Tasu Leech’s conversation. When she was finished, he asked, “You trust him?”

“I’m sure it wouldn’t be smart to trust him completely.” Ben huffed his agreement. “But I do believe him and his motivations. He seemed genuine in his reasoning. I’m aware of how many tribes still suffer from the repercussions of colonialism. I’m sure – gang or not – his guys have reason to cooperate to get their land back. The reason for wanting the land isn’t greed or power. It’s about more than that. It’s about his people. The culture, something sacred to them.”

Ben hummed pensively, looking out the window that revealed it began snowing. “OK,” he said after a few deep breaths. “I’ll keep that in mind. I’m meeting with him the day before Christmas.”

“I could go?” She suggested carefully.

“No,” he said sharply.

“Ben, you’re still hurting about Ari. Maybe I could make sure you stay calm and y’know not lose your shit.”

“I’m not that volatile,” he spat and she gave him a challenging look. “If what he told you is true… then he’s not the true enemy. Snoke is. Always has been. He is the reason Ari is gone. Leech…,” he sighed, “Leech’s man may have been the one to pull the trigger, but Snoke gave him the gun. Always in the shadows, pulling the strings. I have enough self-control to not rip Leech’s head off his shoulders and get the job done. To get to the real target. I know the end goal, alright?” His voice was eerily calm as he spoke, and a chill went up her spine.

“Alright.” She plopped down on her blush bedsheets next to him. “I’m assuming you have a plan.”

He leaned his head on the headboard and crossed his toned arms. “Maybe.”

“Do tell.”

He closed his eyes and took a long breath. “Soon. I’ll tell you all about it when we meet the others. But right now, I’m an ass hair away from passing out.”

It may have slipped her mind a bit that he had a long day of traveling and excitement behind him. She smiled daringly and slid her finger under his black leather belt, tugging at it in request.  

“Oh, that’s right. We had plan of our own. I almost forgot.”

She raised an eyebrow, “No, you didn’t.”

His dimples revealed themselves as a wicked grin formed on his lips. He gripped her wrists and pulled her onto him. “It’s good to be back.”

“Welcome home,” she smiled as their lips connected.

Chapter Text

“He sounded genuine.” Vicrul said who easily matched Ben’s long strides as they walked to their cars outside the parking lot of the Chandrila Fountain Casino, unlike Tali who couldn’t keep up with her much shorter legs.

Ben slowed down for her as he realized it and she must’ve realized it too because she gave him a sarcastic smile. “Yeah, I don’t trust him fully but enough to work with him just this once,” he agreed with his second in command.

Vicrul silently agreed with a nod.

“Are his men enough though?” Tali asked slightly concerned.

“Not enough for us to be at ease about it,” Vicrul answered. “But definitely better than nothing.”

“Boss, I just cleared jobs for the next supply runs,” Ap’lek said putting his phone in his back pocket as he pushed up from the hood of his car.

“How many?” Ben asked.

“So far seventeen. Three of them being direct lines. But I might get more if Cardo is successful tonight.”

“Perfect, good work, Ap’lek,” Ben said, and he could’ve sworn he saw the hint of a proud smirk on his face before Ben reached in his pocket for his own phone.

“Speaking of Cardo,” Tali addressed them all, “he’s been talking about how some guys from the First Order have been talking about a certain FBI agent in their midst. Cardo says some of them are growing suspicious and a little nervous.”

“Ha! I’ll be damned,” Trudgen said opening the door to his truck. “That was quick. Kuruk is good, man. On all those runs in the past weeks I never once overheard him planting that seed in their ears. But he’s getting it done.”

Ben nodded. “And he’ll continue to do so for all those other runs as well,” he readdressed Ap’lek. “I’ll send you the contact from one of Leech’s guys. He’ll be the middleman for the tribal police.”

Ap’lek put two fingers to his imaginary hat, gesturing a salute.

“You know what, I’ll send you another one, but I need to talk to him first.”

As they all got into their cars, Ben sent the contacts and then dialed one of them.

It rang once, “Hey, I need your help.” Ben stepped into the passenger seat of Trudgen’s truck, and they drove off.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

Rose and Kaydell were sitting with her on Rey’s living room floor with papers scattered all over the coffee table, going over everything Kaydell had found.

“So, these are all the contracts of the people that came forward or I reached out to,” Kaydell hovered her hands with spread out fingers over all the contracts in front of them. “They’ve all signed the new agreements for the termination and now we need Snoke to sign them as well.”

“How many are there?” Kuruk asked, admiring Rey’s and Unkar’s Christmas tree and taking a sip from his soda can. Rey ignored the buzzing concern in her stomach at the thought of Snoke. At least Kuruk was seemingly unaffected by it all.

“Sixty-three and counting. Out of a hundred seventy-eight,” Kaydell rolled her eyes. “Is he gunna be around more often now?” She whispered so loudly that Rey knew Kaydell wanted him to hear her.

Rey looked at the Sprite can in Kuruk’s hand that he had taken from their fridge without asking and huffed her amusement. “Yeah, looks like it.”

“I know I’m not much to look at, Blondie.” He said and was over her shoulder in one swift movement. “But I make up for it with my great sense of humor,” he winked and blew her a kiss.

She backed away and looked him up and down in disgust. “Yeah, you’re gunna have to show your work on that.”

Rose tilted her head at them, and Rey took a gulp of her own drink.

Kaydell turned back to Rey, “I already digitized and sent them to Ben, just in case. Also, Tali helped out with something that I wanna run by you guys when the others get here.”

“Thank you, Kaydell.” Rey said and turned to Rose, “both of you.”

“Ugh, duh!” Rose blurted. “Of course, we’re gunna help. Even if this is the most stupid and reckless thing we’ve ever done. Y’know, helping a gang. No offense.”

“None taken,” Kuruk said from where he returned to the Christmas tree, not even glancing in their direction.

“Besides,” Rose’s eyes grew a bit darker with pain, “we all have our reasons to take this asshole down.”

Rey knew what she meant, and she noticed Kuruk’s mouth part to say something but was interrupted by his phone. He looked at the message and then met Rey’s eyes.

“They’re done. Ben is on his way now.”

Rose blew out a breath, slumping into the bottom of the couch and Kaydell tensed as she carefully put the contracts back in a folder.

Rey stood up and walked over to Kuruk as Kaydell and Rose began concocting multiple different scenarios of why this was probably a bad idea.

“Hey,” she put a flat hand on the back of his shoulder. “About what happened-”

“Don’t worry about it, Rey,” he smiled down at her.

“But I do worry about it. I don’t want to be the reason you two are on bad terms. It was ultimately my fault.”

“Rey, relax. Ben and I are fine.”

Rey looked him over and arched a brow in question.

Kuruk grinned, “Really. I did something stupid, he got mad.” He shrugged. “We don’t hold grudges. It’s fine.”

“But the way he treated you and-”

“Oh, relax. My chances within the brotherhood would be pretty steep if I were that fragile. Besides, he’s done fucked up things before too and I reacted the same way. It’s normal. We brawl and then we forgive each other. He came by my house right the next morning with a bouquet of roses and a box of chocolates,” he winked.

“He didn’t,” Rey’s hand flew to her mouth.

“He did. You should’ve seen the card,” Kuruk laughed, putting up one hand as he blew out a ‘whew’. “We had this deal a while ago that we would do something uber romantic and sappy whenever we’d get in a fight or if things ever got too heated.”

“Oh my god,” Rey giggled.

Kuruk looked out the window onto the snowy front yard, “in the end no matter what, we have each other’s backs. Always have, always will. He’s a closed-off moody asshole sometimes but I love him.”

Rey couldn’t help but smile since she shared that exact sentiment. “He loves you too y’know.”

“Of course, he does,” he said smug with a wink. “Consider me his work wife.”

Rey laughed wholeheartedly and gave him a pinch in the bicep.

“You’re gunna have to share him, Rey. He’s too much to handle for just one person. That kid is a lot of work.”

“Oh, well aware. And I am absolutely OK with sharing him with you.”

“Good,” he said putting his heavy arm around her shoulders, “I always knew I liked you.”

She gave him a playful punch and watched as a truck pulled up into their driveway.

“I’d do it again, y’know.” He said with a more solemn face. It took her a moment to click. “You have good instincts, and you did one helluva job that day. None of us would’ve taken that approach. It was such a normalthing to do.”

She put an arm around his waist in thanks and waited for him to continue.

“I think we’ve all been so consumed by this life that we can’t see that anymore. But you, Rey, you see the humanity beyond the savagery. I’m glad you’re in his life. You really are a light in his darkness,” he said fully turning to face her as two people walked up the front porch and the truck backed up out of the driveway again.

“He’s lucky to have you in his life too, Kuruk.”

“I know,” he winked and the playful sparkle in his eyes was back. “He’d be lost without me.”

The doorbell rang and Rey opened the door to Ben and Tali covered in snow, slightly shivering.

“Where’s my husband?” Kuruk teased making Ben roll his eyes as he took off his jacket. Rey wrapped her arms around Ben’s neck and kissed him in greeting. Kuruk playfully pushed Rey to the side to get to Ben and also planted him a kiss.

“Ugh, dude!” Ben said wiping his mouth and stumbling backwards. “The fuck?”

Kuruk turned to Rey, rolling his shoulder in a seductive and slightly feminine way and mouthed ‘work wife’ before sacking into Unkar’s recliner. Tali just snorted and gave Ben her jacket that he hung up on the coat rack.

Tali and Ben found spots on the couch with Tali behind Rose and Ben behind Rey who wiggled herself between his legs. Ben and Tali reported about their meeting with Tasu Leech and discussed only the necessary details that everyone present should know.

“So, Ben,” Kaydell started when they were finished. “We actually found something pretty interesting.”

Ben leaned forward, resting his elbows on either side of Rey’s shoulders and folding his hands atop her head. “Let’s hear it.”

Kaydell pulled out some files and a spreadsheet regarding multiple companies.

“OK, so as I was going through all these contracts and getting insight on the agreements, Tali got some interesting info from her stepdad.”

“Future stepdad,” Tali corrected.

“Oh, that’s what you wanted to tell me in the car?” He asked.

“Yeah, but I needed visuals in order to explain.”

“Gotcha.”

“So,” Kaydell continued. “I had the list of all the companies he’s invested in and ultimately con-ned, right? And I made an Excel sheet,” she said pulling out her tablet. “Some are continued companies but most of them are start-up ones. Five of them are off-shore but exactly one is a blind-filing.”

Tali cut in, “it’s called Order 66 and it has a P.O. Box as an address, which is weird. And it doesn’t even have a board of directors, even weirder, right?”

“It’s been operating at a total loss in Puerto Rico, and we found out the bank connected to it is the Bancrédito International Bank & Trust in San Juan, courtesy to Cardo,” Kaydell added. “I asked Rey for some bank transfers from Unkar.” Kaydell showed them one of the wire transfer agreements Rey had snuck out from Unkar’s desk and copied. Unkar wasn’t the tidiest person in the world, so it was easy to copy without him even knowing they were gone.

Ben read through it as Kaydell continued, “now, I’m guessing since Unkar signed these, all of the other agreements are like that, too. So, we asked Cardo to check into it and he found that’s not necessarily the case. On most of these bank documents there is one reoccurring name. We thought it would be Snoke’s, but his name isn’t on any of these documents.” Kaydell handed him a copy of another wire transfer form.

“Holy shit,” Ben said, scanning it, then handing the form over to Kuruk whose eyes widened.

“And turns out all these transfers are for Order 66,” Tali added.

Kuruk gave Rey the form and her eyes widened as well. “Brendol Hux.”

“As in Armitage Hux’s dad?” Rose asked.

“The very one,” Kaydell smiled proud.

“Hux’s dad works for the First Order?” Rey turned her torso to face Ben.

“Apparently,” he said looking pensively at something in the room.

“So, you didn’t know?”

“None of us did,” Kuruk said. He looked over at Tali and Ben, “I’m assuming.” And they both shook their heads in answer.

Rose pressed her hands on both of her cheeks and began slightly rocking, “this is so fucked up. How many people we know are involved here? Jeez.”

“Not only does he work for the First Order,” Kaydell got everyone’s attention again, “Snoke made him CEO of Order 66, so he’s more or less Snoke’s fall guy. Snoke can’t be touched because his name isn’t anywhere on these documents. Hux’s is.”

“That means Armitage’s dad could go to jail if we’re not careful,” Rey concluded.

“Yup,” Ben sucked in a breath. “I think I’ll swing by his house later.”

Rey looked at him with a disappointed look.

“Tomorrow,” he corrected himself.

Rey gave him an even more disappointed look. “How about we wait until after Christmas. No need to ruin that for anyone,” she suggested, and Ben gestured a sarcastic bow to her, making her pinch his calf.

“Thank you so much, Kaydell,” Ben said in a gentle tone. “You’re low-key a fucking menace. Seriously you’re amazing.”

Kaydell’s cheeks reddened at that as she shrugged off the compliment and Kuruk eyed her with a hint of a proud smile.

“Ugh, excuse me?” Tali put her palms out.

“Oh, we all know you’re a menace, too,” Kuruk rolled his eyes.

“A menace? She’s a fucking gremlin,” Ben corrected him earning him a punch in the bicep. Ben huffed his amusement as he slapped the side of Tali’s knee in retort before wrapping his thick arms around Rey and pulling her in to him. She closed her eyes for a moment, enjoying the warmth of him surrounding her.

As the others continued their conversation about all the new information today, Ben leaned forward and whispered in her ear, “So, what’s going on with those two?”

Rey followed his eye-line and realized who he meant. “I’m not sure, but I kinda wanna know what happens.”

He let out a deep, content hum which made her spine arch before saying, “Me too.”

Two days later, Ben walked up the stairs of Hux manor. He took the cold metal ring of the door knocker in his hands and let the Hux household know of his presence. He looked around the festively decorated neighborhood and memories of his childhood flashed through his mind. He hadn’t come to this part of town since the night of the fire two years ago. He glanced toward the road that led to his own home. One that wasn’t his home anymore. He was whipped back to the presence when the door opened. Armitage stood in the doorway and the shock in his eyes alone was worth his trip here. Shock quickly turned to skepticism and slight hostility.

“Well, this is an unpleasant surprise,” Armitage crossed his pasty arms that were exposed by his rolled-up sleeves in front of his slim frame. He was almost as tall as Ben but a third of his size in mass. Don’t football players usually have a much bulkier build?

“I’m not here to see you, asshole.”

“Merry Christmas to you too, Solo,” Hux tilted his head and his eyes narrowed.

“Is your dad home? I need to talk to him?”

Armitage’s eyebrows shot up. “Ah, are you getting convicted or something?”

“You’d like that wouldn’t you?”

“What could you possibly want from my dad?”

“Is that any of your concern?” An older version of Armitage stepped out from the hallway behind him. Brendol Hux really was Armitage in twenty-five years. The same ginger hair, in a perfect pompadour’s cut that Ben only knew rich people and businessmen usually had, same icy blue eyes and an unwavering arrogant expression. They both wore turtleneck sweaters paired with suit pants, most likely by Armani or Gucci. Brendol Hux was the most successful attorney in all of Hanna City County and he let that show in his house, cars, boats, clothes and every other detail of his luxurious life. Why would someone as successful as Brendol Hux be affiliated with the First Order? It couldn’t be about the money. He had a shit ton of it. Ben wasn’t the slightest bit jealous. All the money in the world couldn’t make him want Armitage’s life. He grew up to be a pompous, pretentious asshole who never heard a ‘no’ in his life.

“I hope you’re not here to sell my deadbeat son any drugs.”

Ben couldn’t help but notice Hux flinch at his father’s tone and accusation, in front of company no less. Ben had always assumed Armitage was the pride and joy of the family, hence all the expensive gifts and luxurious lifestyle they allowed him to relish in.

Armitage must’ve noticed Ben’s eyes shift to him and quickly stiffened. “I’m the captain of the football team, dad, I have to be sober at all times.”

“That doesn’t magically prevent you from being stupid enough to disregard the rules,” his father’s tone had cooled and his icy blue eyes pierced daggers into his son’s gaze.

Ben tried to remain as calm and controlled as possible. He wanted no part in this and wanted no reason for Armitage or Brendol to falsely interpret his reactions even though he had a lot to say.

“You have no reason to suspect an exchange of that nature between your son and I, sir,” Ben countered for Armitage, keeping his voice as indifferent as he possibly could. Ben knew Armitage and Kuruk had an encounter once or twice, but Ben was never fully present to explicitly witness what happened during them. So, he wasn’t lying. He didn’t know why he felt the need to defend that asshole, but he did.

“Well, I can’t be so sure of that, now, can I?” Brendol’s gaze slid back to Ben.

“His grades wouldn’t be as good as they are if that were the case.” Why was he still putting any effort in defending him? Ben didn’t like Armitage, but it turned out he disliked his father even more.

Ben felt Armitage search his face, mimicking the surprise Ben felt as well.

“You’re Solo’s kid, aren’t you?” Brendol’s question dripped of disgust.

The Hux family knew his own family well, so what was the intention behind that question? Other than reminding Ben that he wasn’t worth remembering or that Brendol Hux clearly still held a grudge toward Han. Either way he didn’t let a reaction slip.

“Looks like it,” he answered, fully aware of the similarities between him and his father which were pointed out on the regular growing up.

Brendol lifted his chin, failing to conceal his disdain for his affiliation to Han Solo.

“I’m not here for a coffee-klatsch Mr. Hux, I need to talk to you about more pressing matters.”

Brendol’s nostril curled as he frowned but said nothing. Ben realized if Brendol Hux really was knowingly, willingly working with Snoke and The First Order then he knew damn well what Ben’s position was and who he came to be. As if he could read his mind he nodded and turned to his son.

“Armitage, go fix young Solo here a glass of bourbon.”

“No thank you, I’m not twenty-one yet.” He wasn’t going to make any mistakes.

When Armitage didn’t budge his father glared at him. “Then go be somewhere else and make yourself useful for once.”

Ben wasn’t going to let his shock at how Brendol spoke to his son show. Even when he and his parents fought, his father never looked at him with that much disgust. Disappointment and anger, sure. But never disgust and with so much venom in his gaze. Ben shook away the thought of his dad and returned his attention to a defeated Armitage who gave Ben one more glance which he couldn’t quite interpret, turned on his heel and stalked off.

“Come in,” Brendol finally said when Armitage was out of sight. They walked down a dark hallway that led to Brendol’s office. As a child Ben had been at their house multiple times and remembered most of the layout. At the end of the hallway, Brendol opened the door to an office with hardwood floors, moss green tapestry and dark wood interior. A massive desk was placed in the middle of the room with a large family portrait of the Hux family hanging behind it.

“Take a seat,” he gestured toward a similarly fashioned chair in front of his desk. Ben sat down, crossing his right foot over his left knee and waited for Hux to sit down opposite him. But instead, he leaned on the edge of the desk on Ben’s side, raising an eyebrow down at him. Power move at its finest.

“I’m surprised you didn’t come sooner,” Brendol crossed one foot over his other and brought his hands to the edge of the table for support.

“So, you’re aware of why I’m here?”

Hux snorted. “You think I got to be this successful by being oblivious?”

Ben said nothing in order to avoid saying the wrong thing.

“Look, I know about your little gang and what recently happened to Plott’s trinket shop and that Sanchez girl. And I’m aware you’re plotting some sort of revenge, am I right?”

Ben narrowed his gaze. If Hux was aware of recent events and speculating about the Knight’s objectives, then what could Snoke already know?

“You don’t have to confirm or deny anything,” Hux said to Ben’s surprise. “Snoke’s sticky fingers eventually find their way into everyone’s lives.”

“I take it you’re not happy about him finding his way into yours?” Ben asked carefully.

“I never said he was.”

“I took it as an implication.”

“Now it’s my turn not to confirm nor deny.”

“You don’t have to,” Ben said, pulling out the folder Kaydell gave him with the copies of all the forms she had accumulated that he had tucked under his jacket.

Brendol took it and scanned each page. “Where did you get these?”

“I have my ways.”

Brendol glanced at him and then held up the folder. “This is very valuable and sensitive information. Are you here to blackmail me with this?”

“No, sir.”

“Then what do you want? Because this,” his hand hovered an inch over the folder, “is very dangerous knowledge, son.”

Of course, Hux would think Ben was trying to manipulate him into getting something in return for his discretion. Hux was currently in a very precarious situation regarding Snoke and the authorities and they both knew that.

“I’m here to warn you. And ask for help.”

After repeating everything Kaydell had learned, Hux glared at him, probably still waiting for the revelation of some selfish plan on Ben’s part.

“You’re the CEO of three companies, sir. One wrong move from Snoke or yourself and you could go to jail.”

“Well-aware, son.”

“Look, all you’d have to do is empty and close those accounts in San Juan and return the money to the families.”

Hux scoffed and it sounded like Trudgen’s cat whenever she had to cough up a fur ball. “Why would I care about other people’s problems? I’m in a very comfortable position. Snoke may not be human of the year, but I haven’t had any problems so far. I’m quite content.”

“Until he leaves you to the wolves when shit goes down. Again. You. Could. Go. To. Jail. And not to mention lose your very comfortable life.”

“I have nothing to worry about. I always find my way out of anything. Hence why I’m the best in my field of work.”

Ben was trained to recognize lies and fear, and although Brendol Hux seemed calm and sure of himself, Ben didn’t miss the fear that momentarily flashed in his eyes.

“If you don’t want to do anything about getting out of being Snoke’s fall guy, fine. But at least return the money. Your name is all over these documents. You have full access and control over these accounts.”

“Kid, I know why you’re really doing this. You want your little girlfriend and her lazy, loser, sorry-excuse-of-a-father to find a way out of Snoke’s grasp. But look around, if they stay loyal and beneficial, they could live this life, too. Plott finally has a chance to offer his daughter a good life. He’d be stupid not to take it.”

“You don’t know that. You don’t know if that’s what’s gunna happen. It didn’t happen to any of the other families that are in major debts because of Snoke and his schemes.”

“Some sheep have to be sacrificed in order for the wolves to feast.”

Ben couldn’t believe what he was hearing. Hux had no intention of helping him. He wasn’t getting anywhere, and he had a feeling he wasn’t going to either.

“Who are you going to be, Solo? A sheep? Or a wolf?”

Ben was done, he was only wasting his time. He stood up and pointed at the folder that Hux had set on his desk. “There’s no reason to be concerned. I have no intention of revealing any of this knowledge to authorities or anyone that could cause harm to you or your family. There’s no reason to see me as a threat. You know the real threat.”

“How’s your mother?” Hux asked, ignoring everything Ben said.

“What?” Was this another power move to show him he knew where to strike in case he didn’t stay true to his word?

“I haven’t seen her in a while. Is she well?” The face Hux made was something Ben couldn’t decipher one bit. Which was frustrating after his two-year training.

“I’m sure.”

“Good. Wouldn’t want her to be worried about what her son has been getting himself into.”

“Guess not.” His voice of indifference stayed true. Hux searched his face and after a few seconds began nodding with a disappointed smile. He pushed himself off the desk and gestured towards the door.

Hands tucked in the pockets of his black leather jacket, he made his way down the stairs and to the driveway. Armitage was leaning against Trudgen’s truck, no doubt waiting for Ben.

“Did you steal this?” Armitage’s smirk made Ben’s fists clench in his pockets.

“I borrowed it from my friend, and if he saw you be-flecking his truck like that, he’d cut off your balls.”

Hux rolled his eyes and pushed himself off the truck, arms still crossed. “What’d you need to talk to my dad about?”

“That’s classified.”

Armitage looked back at the house for a few heartbeats until he asked, “Why’d you do that?”

“Do what?” Ben said, unlocking the truck and opening the door.

“Well… Defend me.”

“I don’t know, did I?”

“Hmm,” Hux hummed, still looking at the house.

“Does he always talk to you like that?”

Hux shrugged as if it didn’t bother him, but his silence revealed more then he probably intended.

“I thought you were his pride and joy. Is there a particular reason for his… bitterness?”

“That’s classified,” Hux used his own words against him.

Ben nodded and slid into the driver’s seat, but before Ben could close the door, Hux grabbed it and moved closer to Ben.

“I know weird shit has been going on. My dad thinks he’s super secretive, but I see and hear shit. Plus, Daz talks.”

Ben sighed at that name and gave him an annoyed look. “So?”

“There’s something going on isn’t there? With the Knights and my dad? Is there anything I need to know?”

Ben was sure as hell not going to bring Armitage into this or trust him in the slightest with sensitive information. When he met his gaze, he saw worry and couldn’t help but feel a bit empathic.

“Armitage,” Ben started. Alright, selective truths. “This doesn’t concern you in the slightest. Your dad’s a smart man, I’m sure he knows what he’s doing.”

“So, there is something going on?”

“Whatever you think there is or isn’t going on, stay out of it.”

“Did he borrow money or a favor from the Knights?”

God he was so off, luckily. “Ask him yourself if you want to know so badly.”

The face Hux made almost made Ben smile. They both knew Brendol wasn’t going to tell him shit.

“Right, like that’s an option.”

“Well, I’m not either.” With that Ben reached for the door and Hux stepped back for him to close it. Ben glanced back at him through the sideview mirror and saw Hux with his arms crossed watching him drive off.

Chapter Text

“Did he take the bait?” Vicrul asked Ben who was texting someone on his phone, one of his Knights, no doubt.

Rey felt uneasy about being here, in Trudgen’s garage where most of the Knights of Ren spent their time drinking, getting high or other things Rey had no intention of imagining. Not only was Trudgen’s girlfriend, Dalia Richards, staring daggers into her face and every other part of her body, but all the gruff gang members – some much older than Ben – sneering at her or checking her out. Rey had no idea how many members there were in the brotherhood but there was at least a dozen of them in the room, all loyal to Ben and willing to take down Snoke with him or for him.

“Looks like it,” Ben answered, not looking up from his phone.

Kuruk sauntered over to where Rey was sitting on the edge of the couch. He offered her his beer before settling into the spot next to her. She shook her head, and he shrugged, taking a big gulp before leaning into her. Rey was a bit disappointed Tali couldn’t make it tonight. Ben had sent her on some errand that apparently couldn’t wait. At least Kuruk was there.

“Hey, First Lady, everything alright?” He nudged her leg with his knee.

“Stop calling me that. And yes. No. I don’t know,” Rey answered, looking around the room at all the people that had experience and dealt with more violence in one week than she had in her entire life. She still couldn’t really grasp the fact that she was amidst an actual gang.

“Anyone bother you?” His eyebrows furrowed.

“No,” she sighed. “It’s just… I’m not used to being surrounded by so many…” she trailed off.

“Thugs?”

She looked at him, who was anything but a thug. “Individuals exposed to so much violence,” she corrected him.

He shrugged and took another sip. “Eh, you get used to it.”

“But you shouldn’t have to, it’s just-”

Ben’s booming voice cut her off as he addressed everyone in the room, “Listen up.”

Everyone immediately stopped their conversations or whatever they were doing to bring their full attention to their leader.

“I just received word that Snoke wants a meeting. He’s grown aware of our efforts and sent word that he would like the First Order and the Knights to have a chat.”

Some nodding and mumbling from all around the room made it clear that they were all anticipating this. Rey looked to Kuruk who gave her a thumbs up. She managed a half-smile even though the thought of this meeting happening twisted her guts.

“Now, I know everyone in this room has their own reasons for wanting to push our agenda against Snoke. Whether it’s loyalty to me, to the brothers, revenge, wanting justice etc. I still give you all one more chance to back out. There will be no hard feelings and no repercussions. I value all of you and am truly grateful to each and every one of you for showing me the communal support and loyalty that we all initially sought for when joining. If you are truly certain and willing to continue with this plan, then stay. If not, you may leave.”

Rey watched Ben speak with so much confidence and the ability to keep the full attention of his audience. She had to admit to herself that she felt an ounce of pride, even if it was an objectionable audience with an objectionable occupation.

Of course, she had her concerns about this whole plan and a multitude of things could go wrong. But something in her told her everything would be all right. She trusted Ben fully and knew they would find a way to end all this madness.

Ben waited and looked around the room, waiting for someone to leave. After a few seconds nobody budged, and they all smiled proudly at their leader.

And then, Kuruk of all people, stood up with a raised hand and motioned toward the door. Some appalled grunts came from different corners of the garage. Ben looked at his friend, brows raised, anticipating an explanation. Rey furrowed her eyebrows as well and didn’t dare to move.

“I’d just like to say,” Kuruk looked sternly at all the Knights and then to Ben, “that I’m super hungry and if we could get this over with it’d be much appreciated.”

Trudgen pulled on Kuruk’s arm and reached for his head to nudge him away. Various chuckles and grunts of playful annoyance made Rey relax. The corner of Ben’s mouth twitched, and he let out an amused huff.

“What?” Kuruk put up his hands defensively. “It’s not like anyone in this room was actually considering leaving your sorry ass.”

Ben rolled his eyes and shook his head. Kuruk slid back into the seat next to Rey and winked in her direction.

“Alright then,” Ben said, his muscles shifting underneath his shirt as he moved into a more relaxed stance. “We’re aiming for a meeting on New Year’s Eve. If it comes to drawing weapons, the fireworks will cover us, and the cops will be focusing on social events and parades.” How was he saying this so casually? “Meeting point isn’t settled yet, but I’ll text you all the location as soon as it’s confirmed. I’ll be briefing the brothers with individual tasks and for now all of you know what you need to do.”

Ben had mentioned he would only share the full plan with his inner most circle to avoid any leaks. Although he assured her, he trusted every brother in the room with his life, he still hadn’t deemed it necessary for everyone to know all the details. Which of course was smart.

After Ben briefed them with the necessities, they all dug into the pizzas Kuruk had ordered. Ben was still going over some things with Vicrul, Ap’lek and Trudgen as Daisy Richard’s older sister slid ever so elegantly onto the couch arm next to Rey, looking down at her, ruby red lips curled into a condescending sneer.

“I’m surprised Ren let you come to this meeting tonight,” she crossed her spray-tanned legs and stretched out her arm onto the headrest behind Rey for support. It was the middle of winter, yet Dalia Richards wore a short red satin long sleeve dress that complimented her curves perfectly.

“Hello, Dalia,” Rey smiled up at her as Daisy’s older sister swished her thick blonde ponytail over her shoulder. No reason to not continue being civil, even if her younger sister hated her guts.

“So, having fun spending his money yet?” She twirled the end of a blonde strand around her finger.

Rey slightly squinted up at her, “Excuse me?”

“Oh, sweetie, we all know why you’re with him. It’s so blatantly obvious and all the Knights here tonight know it, too,” her tone became icy, dripping with disgust.

She knew the Richards sisters were pretty nasty and exasperating people to deal with. Daisy was definitely a “mean girl” but harmless… with Dalia, the older sister, Rey felt every word coming from Dalia’s mouth to be a threat.

“What exactly are you implying Dalia?”

“You’re only with Ren for the shit ton of money he gets for being Master of the Knights of Ren. What? You didn’t think we can’t see that? You and your father are more on the – oh how do I put it? Impecunious side… oh, wait, adoptive father since you have no real parents, isn’t that correct?”

“It’s sad you think that, Dalia.” Rey wouldn’t let that get to her. She knew Dalia was trying to provoke a reaction out of her. But she had to admit, deep down Dalia’s words struck hard in a soft place within her and it stung more than she wanted to admit.  

“Well, enjoy it while it lasts you little slut, that money is meant for my sister. And I think it’s just a matter of time before he realizes with whom he truly belongs.”

“He already has,” was all Rey could say. She wished she was better with comebacks and that Dalia didn’t make her wildly uncomfortable, but regardless she tried as hard as she could not to show it.

Dalia gently caressed Rey’s cheek and took a loose strand of her hazel-brown hair from her half-up bun in between her fingers as she calmly said, “Don’t get too comfortable. It’ll be over sooner than you think.”

To an observer, the gesture would’ve seemed affectionate, but Rey recognized it for what it was – a threat.

Rey repeated the words she had said to Daisy a few weeks ago, “We’ll see.”

Dalia’s red painted lips formed a deceitful pout. “Mmh. Yes. We. Will,” she playfully flicked Rey’s nose, and that smirk returned.

The couch cushion shifted under someone’s weight next to her and she turned to see Kuruk with three slices of pizza on his plate unalarmed and and unaware of their conversation. Trudgen found a seat in the chair next to Dalia and began caressing her thigh, a beer can in his other hand. Ben had two plates in his own hands as he walked over to them, handing Rey one of the plates with a slice of pepperoni pizza.

Ben had a dark glimmer in his eyes as he narrowed his focus on Dalia who must’ve noticed his wariness and snorted at him.

“Oh, relax. Don’t be so protective there, big boy. I was just trying to get to know your lady a bit.”

Dalia got up as elegantly as she had sat down, brushed her long hair back over her shoulder and put a hand on her hip as she got in between her and Ben.

Ben only grimaced at her, not buying her claims one bit.

“I’m just feeling her out a bit, now that I will be seeing more of her. Besides, I got all I needed to know about her and her gold-digging… endeavors.”

Kuruk stopped chewing and frowned up at Dalia, his entire body tensing and shifting forward as if he were ready to pounce if given the order. Trudgen only rested his chin onto his propped-up fist, giving no reaction or clue to how he felt about Dalia’s claim.

“Watch it,” Ben growled down at her.

“Whether you agree or not, Ren, I’m only looking out for you,” she batted her eyelashes up at him.

“Good, if that’s the case, I’d appreciate if you don’t call my girl a fucking gold-digger. In fact, you won’t call her anything other than her name. Understood?”

“I wasn’t calling her a-”

“Understood,” Ben growled, the voice of a gang leader, not allowing anyone to talk back.

She blinked but quickly covered her surprise with a smile and slid her hand up his chest. “Of course, Ren.” Her second hand found its way onto his chest as well. “We’re all your obedient subjects,” her words dripped with sarcasm.

The look he gave her would have had anyone running the other way, but it was Trudgen who spoke in lethal calm.

“Take your hands off him.”

Dalia threw him a glance over her shoulder, “Babe, relax I’m only-”

“Take. Your. Hands. Off. Him.”

In that moment, Rey realized he wasn’t being a protective boyfriend. No, Trudgen was being a protective gang member. Protective of Ben. His leader. His brother.

The surprise and confusion were written all over Dalia’s face as she slowly backed away from Ben. Rey herself didn’t dare move, the silence in the room had a chill slithering up her spine and even Kuruk next to her showed no signs of breathing.

“You ever touch or disrespect him like that again, you won’t like having ever met me.”

“But-”

Trudgen slammed his hand so hard onto the wooden table next to his chair that Rey jumped and seriously wondered why it didn’t break. Dalia gasped and Rey almost felt bad for the fear she saw in her eyes. If everyone in the room wasn’t listening before, they sure as hell were now.

“He’s our Master and you’ll show him the utmost respect, is that clear? And while we’re at it,” he jerked his chin to Rey, “same goes for her.”

The fury that flashed across Dalia’s face had Rey wincing.

“If I find out you haven’t, I’ll be the one to deal out the consequences.”

“You’d actually put her above me? I’m your girlfriend.”

Rey admired her female defiance. Whether it was to undermine her or not, she was still impressed.

“And she is my Master’s. My loyalties lie with him. Always. Now, come here,” Trudgen patted his thigh.

Dalia looked back up at Ben who glared down at her, muscled arms crossed over his broad chest. Dalia demonstrated her submission by nodding once at Ben. She had the mind to apologize to Rey, however quiet it was and walked over to Trudgen, letting him pull her onto his lap. For a moment Dalia looked like a scared little girl and Rey fought the urge to comfort her somehow. But then the pure hate that looked back at her as Dalia raised her eyes to Rey, had cleared her guilt and sympathy for good.

Rey ate her pizza in silence as the others joked around, ate, drank and continuously tried getting a word with Ben, their Master. God, she hated that word, or the sentiment, or both. Why was she even here? This wasn’t a place for her. This life wasn’t something she desired. She looked up at Ben who was in light conversation with Ap’lek. Just him, she thought, I just want him. And after their plan to take down Snoke, she would. She would get him. Her Ben. After being apart for the time they were “separated”, she had him back now and wouldn’t let him go. There was always a way.

Chapter Text

Later that evening, they both lay in her bed, heads on opposite ends of the bed. Ben gently caressed her thigh with his warm, calloused hand. His other hand behind his head as he looked up at the ceiling, his mind clearly somewhere else. Now that the plan stood and everyone knew what to do, she still felt sick to her stomach at the thought of having to go through with it. They had agreed she, Rose and Finn would spend the evening together, doing something, anything to keep her mind occupied. And far away from the meeting spot. Poe and Kaydell were the only ones Ben allowed to have a part in this. They would be watching over and handling the contracts.

A deep and loud sigh, thinking of what that meant. Ben’s hand squeezed her thigh in response.

She propped herself up onto her elbows and searched his face. His dark eyes slid to her, and she sighed once more. “So, that was intense today.”

“What was?” He continued rubbing her leg.

“All of it,” she huffed out a breath.

“I’d like to say it’s normally different but… it’s not. Today was a quite good… chill day even.”

The face she made got a chuckle out of him.

“Trust me, I’ve seen much worse.”

“Well, that’s a relief,” she said sarcastically, letting herself fall back onto the mattress.

“Trudgen surprised me today though,” Ben reached over to rub one of her bare feet. “I never doubted his loyalty but… I didn’t think he was that…”

She watched him look for the words before he sighed and shrugged with one shoulder.

“In the almost three years that I’ve known him, I’ve never witnessed him speaking to Dalia that way. He loves her, I know he does. Very much. But…”

“He loves you more,” she finished for him.

He seemingly thought about it but shook his head, probably not knowing how to respond to that. To that sentiment.

After a quiet moment, he said, “I know my guys will always back me up. But still… it felt good to have Trudgen really back me up. Not just physically like in a fight or whatever but,” he patted his heart with a flat hand.

Although she hated gangs, a small part of her understood the notion of wanting to be a part of one. Knowing someone would always look out for you. Protect you. Support you. She still had a hunch this particular gang was an exception and that most gangs aren’t held together by love but more by fear. She could never admit to it but a small part of her was glad Ben had that in his life. That feeling of unity. For however long that may be. And for whatever high a price came with it.

She never took the love her and her friends shared for granted, but she also knew how rare it was and not everyone was as lucky to have what they had.

“You ever talk to me like Trudgen did to-”

His eyebrows shot up and he chuckled, “Never! I like my balls right where they are.”

She stuck out her tongue and he pinched her thigh, making her yelp. He watched her a moment and his smile faded.

“I have something for you,” he said, reaching into his back pocket. He brought forth a folded envelope. He handed it to her, and she made to open it, but he put his hand on hers, his face calm and determined. “After.”

She glanced between the envelope and his face, “Ben.” She didn’t want to know what he was thinking, why he needed her to not open it now but after the meeting.

He shook his head, smiled solemnly and repeated, “After.”

She opened her mouth to protest but he swiveled, his legs now hanging over the edge of his side of the bed and brought his lips to her forehead, a large hand cupping the back of her head. When he retreated a bit, his thumb brushed her cheek.

She didn’t want to think of the possibilities, what the content in that envelope was and what it meant. The thought of what could happen on New Year’s. What could happen to him-

She felt her throat closing and the stinging that came when her body announced tears. He noticed her body tense and moved to gently embrace her.

“Everything is going to be fine, sweetheart.”

“How do you know that? How do you know the plan is going to work?”

He cupped her cheeks and made her look at him. “Everything is going to happen exactly as it should.”

“What if ‘how it should be’ isn’t how we want it to be?”

“Then we’ll cherish every moment that already happened. Every moment we were given.”

“What if it’s not enough?” She sniffled.

“To me, it’s already more than I ever imagined I’d get,” he said, gently pulling her back into his arms.

“I love you,” she whispered onto his chest.

“And I’ll always love you,” he kissed the top of her head, then pressed his cheek onto that spot. She closed her eyes and breathed in his scent, took in his warmth, the feel of him. They held each other for she didn’t know how long.

Chapter Text

Rey watched Finn pace in her living room, one arm still in a sling that he technically didn’t need anymore. But his parents were too cautious. ‘About everything’, he would say in an eye roll while Rey secretly wished her adoptive father would cluck his concern for her like a mother hen.

She was nervous enough as it was, so his inability to stay still wasn’t making her feel better. But then again, he was allowed to be worried as well. Kuruk, who Ben had assigned as her ‘security detail’, was lounging in Unkar’s recliner, the perfect image of relaxation. That had made Rey feel better. Not the fact that Kuruk was here for her but the fact that he was so calm and seemingly unnerved. Today was the day the Knights of Ren and The First Order would meet. Rey hadn’t been able to rest one bit, let alone sleep at all that night. She was too busy going over the plan with Ben multiple times until he rolled his eyes and decided that her mind needed some distraction. The play fighting quickly turned into him covering her with kisses and ending in them entwined with each other. Naked.

Rey shook the thought of Ben and his perfectly molded body that made her feel incomprehensible things and returned her attention to Finn who jumped at the doorbell. Rose was perfectly on time and shuffled inside with multiple tote bags in both hands when Rey opened the door.

“Doritos, cheddar popcorn, caramel popcorn,” Rose began listing the snacks she had brought, shoving them into both Finn’s and Rey’s hands. “Hershey’s chocolate, Kinder chocolates, check mix, aaand Bigs Dill Pickled sunflower seeds.”

“Are you feeding all of Rohan?” Finn asked, eyeing the food Rose had brought for their sleepover.

“I just thought it best to have some edible distraction,” Rose held up two bags of snacks.

“Since when do you eat pickled sunflower seeds?” Finn asked, nose scrunching in something along the lines of disgust.

“Those would be for me,” Kuruk stretched out his hands at Finn to toss them. Once he did, Kuruk tore them open and popped a handful in is mouth. “You got a cup or something I can spit these into?”

“Ew,” Finn shook his head as Rose reached into her tote and handed him a pack of red Solo cups.

“Thanks, Rose,” Rey tried a smile.

Normally she would’ve immediately dug into all of it, but her appetite hadn’t returned since yesterday.

Finn’s stomach on the other hand answered differently at the sight of all the food.

He held his stomach, “Maybe we could order some regular food off UberEats first.”

“You guys can, I’m not hungry,” Rey sighed.

Rose looked at her with so much compassion that she had to look away, but Rose quickly snapped back out of it.

“How about Chili’s?” Rose asked, knowing that was Rey’s favorite chain restaurant but she could only shrug.

Finn chimed in, “I’m down! And after we could do a Harry Potter marathon and –”

“Rey, Ben is gunna be fine,” Kuruk ignored their suggestions, returning her attention to exactly what Finn and Rose were trying to distract her from.

Rose threw up her hands in resignation and Finn rolled his eyes.

“He’s very capable and so is everybody with him tonight,” Kuruk kept his full attention on her.

“OK,” was all she could say.

“Look, I’ve seen him do some … improbable things. If I had any doubt that he wasn’t prepared enough or capable enough to go through with the plan, I wouldn’t be here. He can take very good care of himself, alright?” And so can Tali and Vicrul and Trudgen and everyone there.”

Rey tried a confident nod, but her face crumpled regardless of his words.

“He’s not master of the Knights of Ren out of sheer luck.”

She realized the truth in that, regardless of how she felt about it. Her answering nod was more convincing this time.

“I’m not gunna lie and tell you there’s absolutely nothing to worry about. The First Order, Snoke, they’re ruthless and are in the positions they have for a reason, yes. But I know Ben, he’s smart and I have full confidence in him. The past two years have shown me what he’s capable of.”

“I’ve seen it too,” Finn added disapprovingly. “I wish I hadn’t but Ben’s…” A long inhale, looking for his words. “Competent.”

At last, Rose joined in as well, “We saw it too that day, Rey. A glimpse of it probably but still it was … something.”

“OK. I hear you,” Rey tried a smile again.

“Good,” Kuruk said and then his tone turned lighter again, “so, what do you feel like doing?”

“Movies, games, drinking, whatever you wanna do,” Finn’s smile made her ease up a bit. “We could go to the movies. Or bowling or –”

“Let’s go to the studio,” Rey said.

She knew what would help.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Flanked by Vicrul, Ap’lek and Astraal-Talik, Ben walked into the side building of the old sawmill that had been untouched by the flames two years ago. Ben knew exactly why Snoke had suggested this spot. He knew instantly when his men sent the location and time, why he had chosen this particular location. Intimidation tactic my ass, Ben thought. This reminded him of how much he hated Snoke and definitely helped in focusing on his goal. It was more a help than a distraction.

The rest of his Knights were distributed evenly around and within the building, much like Snoke’s men. Most were hidden to give the illusion that this really was just a simple meeting for negotiations, but Ben knew it was much more than that. He would make sure of that.

Vicrul subtly checked his smart watch and gave him a curt nod, indicating he had gotten the message from Tasu leech that he and the rest of Kanjiklub were in position as well. With that, they entered the door leading to the large warehouse where he saw Snoke already lounging casually in a metal chair with two of his men standing on either side of him. His demeanor was casual but predatory. Good, let him think he has the upper hand.

They came to a halt about ten feet away from The First Order’s leader. He needed that distance to keep himself from lunging and strangling the bastard with his bare hands. Instead, Ben gave the man in his gold suit a low, obedient nod in greeting and stayed silent until his superior opened the conversation.

“Well, good evening my loyal Knights,” Snoke’s piercing glare rested on Ben. “You’ve been quite busy, Ren. Well, you’ve got my attention, to what do I owe this pleasure?” He enunciated every word.

His voice made Ben’s blood boil, but he stayed as relaxed as possible.

“There have been some unfortunate developments involving your business involvements,” Ben answered as frank as possible, showing no emotion.

Snoke huffed a laugh, “That isn’t anything unusual in my line of work. But my educated guess would be that you’re here for a specific business involvement.”

No shit, asshole. Is what Ben wanted to say.

“Yes, sir.”

“Unkar Plutt,” Snoke said the name as if he were an infestation whose extermination was overdue.

“Yes, sir,” he repeated.

“Since Mr. Plutt hasn’t expressed any displeasure, I do wonder why the Knights of Ren are coming to me on his behalf.”

“He’s unaware of my intention in discussing his contract with you.”

A smirk played on Snoke’s lips knowingly.

“Mostly because he’s unaware of how… misleading his terms have been outlined.”

“I admire your willingness to protect your girlfriend’s family, although there is no reason for you to be … vigilant.”

Ben nodded to Ap’lek who was holding two beige folders and gave him the first one. Time to be a bit more direct.

“I’ve come here tonight to request a signature for a retraction contract regarding your and Unkar Plutt’s business agreement.”

One of Snoke’s men came forward, accepting the sheet of paper Ben had taken out of the folder. The folder contained more than just Unkar’s retraction contract, so he wasn’t going to show his hand just yet.

Snoke barely even glanced at the piece of paper his man was holding up to him and waved it off.

“Loyalty is a very valuable source of motivation is it not?” The old man sneered.

Ben gave no reaction other than another. “Yes, sir.”

“It can also be a very dangerous thing when put in the wrong place. I’d say you are, as an individual, a very loyal person. Would you agree?”

“I am.”

“Loyal to your Knights. Loyal to your superiors. Loyal to your romantic partner.”

Ben kept his face blank; he had a hunch where this was going.

“You’re young. You have much to learn but you are already a great asset to us all,” he gestured to everyone in the room. “But youth comes with inexperience. And worst of all naïveté. Which can cause perilous consequences.”

“I value every chance I’m given by my seniors to improve on my skill set and wisdom,” he countered.

“Hmm,” Snoke eyed him cautiously.

He didn’t know if he had been appeased or felt threatened by his response.

“I trust you’re aware of the risks that arise when personal attachments begin to outweigh certain … established loyalties.”

“Loyalty like trust is earned. And maintained with care. I understand the weight of every choice I make. You won’t find me to be careless,” another obedient nod to emphasize his claim.

A glitter in Snoke’s beady eyes had Ben rigid as stone.

“Good,” he finally said. “I don’t allow carelessness within my organization. Which brings me to an inquiry of my own.”

__________________________________________________________________________________________

After having shown her companions around the studio, Rose having already seen every inch of Rey’s favorite place in town, she decided to dance off the tension. She had suggested they join her but everyone except Kuruk of all people had accepted the offer. Finn and Rose sat on the floor of the studio, their backs to the opposing mirrorless wall, watching Rey and Kuruk as they did some warmup exercises like it was their favorite show. She couldn’t tell if Kuruk was doing this because he was genuinely interested in trying this out for the fun of it or if he was humoring her to help distract her by giving her a task. Either way she was enjoying herself and found Kuruk to be more flexible than she gave him credit for. Well, come to think of it, it was his enthusiasm that made it seem like flexibility.

She let him line up in front of the mirror and guided him through the same routine she had given her ten-through-twelve-years class at the start of the season. Finn and Rose were clearly amused by the scene, judging by their humorous but encouraging side comments as Kuruk attempted the next position, arms curved awkwardly at the barre, arms held out stiffly like he was being directed by a GPS. Rey patiently stood beside him, a more graceful version of his display, trying to guide him through basic positions.

“Okay, and now plié. Heels on the ground. Just bend your knees –,” Rey demonstrated smoothly.

“What do you mean ‘just’?” Kuruk grunted dramatically. “My knees don’t bend like that unless I’m sitting on a couch with booze, weed or food in my hands.”

“Poor thing,” Finn smirked through the mirror. “Someone get him a tutu and a juice box.”

“Hey, don’t knock it. He’s out here living his Black Swan dreams,” Rose gestured to the pair plié-ing.

“Exactly, this is elegance in progress. You’re witnessing the birth of a ballet icon, here. Call me Kurukerella,” Kuruk straightened up, panting like he had run a marathon.

“Kuruk, your arms are supposed to be light and graceful,” Rey giggled. “Not like you’re holding a watermelon.”

“Well, it feels like I’m holding a watermelon,” Kuruk mumbled. “An emotional watermelon.”

“You look like you’re bracing for a meteor strike,” Rose giggled.

“Next time I’m stressed, I’m picturing this moment. Kuruk, in socks, arms flailing, declaring himself ‘Kurukerella’,” Finn added through giggles of his own.

“I bring flavor,” Kuruk turned back to them, almost losing his balance. “This is performance and comedy. I’m the whole package.”

“Kuruk, if you survive this without pulling a muscle, I’ll buy you a glitter leotard,” Finn replied.

“Laugh it up, amateurs. But you try doing a tendu without accidentally launching your leg like a catapult.”

“You didn’t launch it,” Rey couldn’t hide her smile. “But you did almost kick my water bottle across the room.”

“Art is chaos, Rey,” Kuruk stated matter-of-factly.

“Not in ballet, it isn’t,” she shook her head in amused defeat.

“Tell that to my hip flexors. They’re writing their resignation letter as we speak,” he countered through pants of strained posture.

When they were finished, they all were eager to watch her do the one thing that grounded her when everything else felt like too much. The one thing that silenced the noise in her head and filled the hollow spaces in her chest. Dancing didn’t just move her body—it restored her. It’s how she breathed when the world felt too heavy. How she spoke when words fell short. Every movement was a kind of prayer, a kind of freedom. This is where her soul felt most at home.

After the exercise she finally was able to admit to a growing appetite, and they decided to go to Chili’s. Finn and Rose headed for the car while Kuruk waited for her as she turned off all the lights and made sure everything in the studio was in place for the next day. Kuruk’s phone rang and she heard him say “Hey, Blondie” as he stepped outside and she mentally checked off all her to-do’s for closing up the studio. Behind the counter she decided to check the schedule for after Christmas break and heard the bell above the door ring, indicating someone stepping back in.

She looked up as she said, “Sorry, I just wanted to check something really quick. I’m coming. Oh – Hey. What are you doing here?”

Chapter Text

Ben lifted his chin in confidence, feigning interest.
“It’s come to my attention that in the past few weeks, the monetary deliveries of the Knights’ distribution efforts have not been received,” Snoke sighed his annoyance.
Ben was wondering when he was going to come around to that.
“Sir, I have no insight in the finances of The First Order. My men have distributed the appointed supplies as ordered,” he stated facts. “And the monetary deliveries have been handed over per usual.”
“Well, I’m sure you can understand my displeasure when three million dollars – the amount of multiple weeks’ worth of supplies – haven’t come in.”
“I’m sure that money has been placed in the right hands already. I can assure you, the The Knights of Ren have done our part in the matter,” Ben said. 
Selective truths. However much he hated the former Ren in the end, he was thankful for having learned that skill under him.
“Let’s hope for the sake of everyone involved it comes in as soon as possible. And for those closest to us are left untouched of our choice’s consequences,” his eyes and his smirk mirrored pure threat.
Ben’s gut sank just a bit at the implication of anyone he loved getting hurt.
“We all know that’d be a mistake, seeing what his value is to you,” the now familiar purr of Tasu Leech reached their ears as he stepped into the light next to Ben. His long black hair was slicked back in a low bun and his copper brown hands were donned with silver and turquoise rings which glistened in the light as he crossed his arms. Ben smelled that familiar scent of sweet grass on Leech. A scent he’d known since childhood. How he’d snuck past them was beyond Ben and if he weren’t sure Leech was on his side, he’d have all his alarm bells going off at how easy it was for him.
“Ah, I see the sister gangs have found back to each other,” Snoke’s smirk faltered, and his men grew tense at how easily he had slipped past them. Good, let them be nervous for once too.
“No thanks to you,” Leech countered. “Since his rise to master, we’ve found that working together is much more efficient than against each other.”
“Ah,” Snoke’s sighed, his eyes searching Leech.
No doubt wondering if Leech had revealed his little secret operation in getting Aridema killed. He didn’t show much of it, but Ben caught the shift in Snoke’s demeanor at the revelation of the The Knights of Ren and the Kanjiklub collaborating once more.
“I couldn’t perhaps just ask politely for Unkar’s retraction contract?” Ben asked, redirecting the conversation to his goal, with more sass than he had intended. 
But what could he do? He was a Solo after all.
“I’m still waiting for the explanation of how this arrangement wasn’t designed solely to serve your interest,” Snoke’s gaze grew lax.
“We’ll get to that later,” Leech gestured dismissively. “But for the three million dollars, I think I can help with that particular mystery.”
Did he have a death wish? Ben didn’t know the nature of their dynamic, but he knew the former Ren would never have shown any disrespect like that, even wrapped in a gesture as small as that. 
Snoke’s beady eyes watched them both as Leech spoke.
“We’ve been helping. Silently that is. Ensuring the last few supply shipments ended up in … safer hands.”
“Safer. You're producing more riddles than solving the mystery, Tasu,” Snoke’s boney hand rested on his knee.
“Let’s say – hands that don’t leave trails. Ones that protect the product. Rather that profit off it prematurely,” Leech crossed his arms.
Snoke went rigid. “And yet I find myself short of three million dollars.”
“That money has been … redistributed,” Leech smirked back at Snoke.
“Redistribution. A noble word for theft,” Snoke crossed his boney arms, mimicking Leech’s stance. “I take it this redistribution wasn’t sanctioned?”
“By you or your men? No. By the people who’ve bled for this system? Absolutely,” he answered.
“You see,” Ben noticed the shadow moving along the mezzanine of the building, providing him with the confidence he needed. “We didn’t just move the product. We rerouted the entire line. Strategically. Every package, every deal – sent over the land you thought was under your thumb.”
“Everyone in this organization answers to me,” Snoke seethed.
“Not on tribal territory,” Leech offered an explanation. “The route has been run straight into the hands of the tribal police. Our source tells us they’ve been quite cooperative.”
“They’ll be confiscating future shipments in their entirety,” Ben added. “One of the many things crippling the indigenous communities. And the money was given back to the those that bled for it.”
“How altruistic of you. That’s an attribute I find… undesirable in this business. So, you admit to stealing from me?” Snoke’s jaw ticked beneath a pleasant veneer.
They had to be careful now. One wrong move and he’d give the order to make them all packaging material.
“Did your ancestors ask when they carved up our lands? You can’t steal something that isn’t yours to begin with,” Leech’s jaw tightened as well.
There goes ‘being careful’. 
Though to his surprise Snoke sat quietly, ripping Leech up in red ribbons with his gaze, but said nothing.
“My people had thousands of acres once. Sacred land. Sovereign land. Before paper treaties and guns and broken promises,” Leech continued, the air shifting slightly as he spoke, as though something older had entered the space.
Ben would never consider Tasu Leech a confidant or companion in any way, but what he stood for, and his purpose was something Ben could believe in.
“They came with crosses and contracts. Said we’d be protected. Said we’d have peace. All we got was less and less – until even the dirt beneath our feet was borrowed. Until we had to answer to men like you for permission to live on land that was ours,” Leech paused, looking around the room. “Ring a bell?”
Snoke’s glance to his men was barely perceptible, but Ben caught his superior revealing his need for assurance.
“History’s full of bells,” Snoke leaned forward slightly, his voice like a blade in velvet. “And the ones who ring them usually don’t live long enough to hear the echo.”
Leech had his eyes on Snoke but Ben had his eyes on the men of The First Order surrounding them. He knew how Snoke spoke right before giving the lethal order. Vicrul and Ap’lek shifted slightly and Astraal-Talik was still as a statue. 
Ben put his hands behind his back, gesturing subtly to his men to ease up.
“I gave the The Knights of Ren land because they moved like professionals. Not like wounded ghosts clinging to old maps,” Snoke continued, seemingly unbothered. “You call it theft – I call it consolidation. That’s how empires are built. And if you didn’t learn that from your ancestors, maybe it’s time you learned it from me.”
Leech let out a frustrated huff, “Spoken like a true colonizer.”
Snoke’s sneer made Ben’s blood boil, neutralizing the dread that had been slowly rising within him.
“To your approval we did learn though,” Leech continued while Ben checked the mezzanine and along the walls of the lower floor. “That’s the part you missed. We learned how you set your board. Gave them land that was ours – just enough to survive, not enough to see the trap. Watched us tear each other apart while you sat back and played kingmaker.”
Silence stretched tight, ready to snap. Leech turned his head to look at Ben, offering a shared moment of unity.
“We stopped playing your game. We put the pieces together and while you were polishing your throne, we cut off your foundation. That’s how some empires fall. Not with a bang – but with silence. With your men waiting for a call that doesn’t come. With supply lines that dry up like old rivers. Unless you give us what we came for – the kid’s retraction contract. Our lands. Otherwise, your empire becomes just another story. Told in past tense.”
Ben had to admit, Tasu Leech knew how to give speeches. Both his and Leech’s attention rested on Snoke, waiting for a response.
Snoke let the silence hang for a moment, then leaned back slightly. His voice was smooth but the threat unmistakable.
“I could just kill you both. Replace your men. I’d remove you and then restore the line – make a few calls, send a few dogs.”
Ben answered this time. “That’s a lot of confidence for someone calling checkmate with half a board missing. Your infrastructure is fractured. If you kill us, you don’t stop the damage, you’ll seal it. Every file we offered the tribal police goes public. Names. Routes. Sums. Accounts. And your men? How do you think it was so easy for us to redirect the lines? You have rats in your lair.” 
He was bluffing, he had no idea if Snoke’s men would stay loyal or not. However, the doubt and mistrust had spread and that was something. Courtesy of Kuruk and Tali.
“Haven’t you heard the whispers?” Leech asked Snoke rhetorically, then looked at Ben. “Former law enforcement officials in their midst?”
“Yeah, I have been hearing those things here and there, too,” Ben answered. “Knowing how The First Order – and, well all of us,” he gestured around the room, “feel about anyone in your organization having ties to law enforcement, I did some digging. Being in my senior year of high school and all, doing research comes naturally now.”
Ben glanced at Ap’lek who understood immediately. Ap’lek walked toward the man that had handed over the retraction contract, handing him the rest of the file the contract had been in. 
Which contained Snoke’s full profile of his years in the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Information that if released to his men could potentially be his downfall. 
Snoke opened the folder, staring at the file Ben had retrieved from his contact in California. He didn’t even look through all the pages. Ben guessed he probably didn’t need to since he knew his own file better than anyone else. 
“I’m sure Agent Turner wouldn’t want this to get out,” Leech gestured to the folder Snoke slowly closed, his eyes glaring at them through his thin, gray eyebrows.
“Well, whoever this Agent Turner may or may not be, doesn’t really matter,” Snoke’s jaw was so tight, Ben genuinely wondered how he was forming words.
“Oh, I wasn’t aware you now allowed former FBI agents in your ranks,” Ben raised a scarred eyebrow, feigning surprise. “Is that a current decision?”
“I don’t,” Snoke’s words were clipped, “however I’m quite cautious when it comes to accusations as detrimental as this. I have full faith in the loyalty of my subordinates. And who’s to say this isn’t all a lie? It could have easily been orchestrated and faked.”
“Hmm, that’s true, it could be. However, it’s quite real. Plus, if a high school student like me can so easily find that information, I’m sure your resourceful men can do the same, much more efficiently than me,” Ben gestured to the two men standing next to Snoke. 
Ben even caught the right one trying to steal a glance at the file.
“You boys are playing a very dangerous game with forged paper and cheap psychology. And I’ve outlived worse than rumors. Still,” he glanced at his right man who immediately stiffened back into his position. “Even whispers can sour good men. And soured men tend to disappear. Along with their root and stem.”
The implication that their families were targeted, as well, revealed exactly how false and fickle the notion of ‘protection’ among the organization was.
“We aren’t playing at anything,” Leech smirked. “Only making sure the truth can find its way home. If the right exchanges are made.”
“I don’t take kindly to blackmailing,” Snoke growled.
Let’s drop the third bomb, shall we? Ben thought.
“You ever hear of the Avengers Initiative? Nick Fury? One eye, long coat, really good at finding people with particular skill sets?” Ben crossed his arms, waiting for the old man’s response. “S.H.I.E.L.D.? Avengers? No?”
The left man leaned down to Snoke, whispering something in his ear. Most likely explaining the references. Snoke raised two liver-spot-ridden fingers, dismissing the man who obediently returned to his position.
“Fury didn’t just recruit heroes. He looked for leverage. Pressure points. Something that made each of the Avengers need the team as much as the team needed them. It made walking away… complicated,” Ben continued. “Everyone of them had a reason to stay. Some knew it. Some didn’t.”
“And what exactly is the purpose of this cinematic lecture?” Snoke asked almost bored.
“You asked at just the right time,” Ben gestured to Ap’lek once more who handed over the second folder. “We thought the model was… familiar. So, we made our own list. Just to see how deep that kind of strategy goes when applied locally.”
Snoke took the second folder from his man, his cold eyes promising murder that finally left Ben, and focused on the background information – that he was able to gather through Kaydell’s help over the past weeks – covering a good chunk of The First Order’s members. Each with a reason for dependency on The First Order. Whether they knew about his deceit or not.
Ben continued, “we got about sixty percent so far. Patterns, decisions, ties. The kind that keeps people in orbit. Even when the center’s starting to crack.”
“We’re not here to blow it up,” Leech chimed in. “We’re just saying, we know how it works now. And if we can figure it out – not to sound redundant – so can others.”
Secretly he hoped they’d all figure it out. He was sure most of Snoke’s men probably stayed for similar reasons he had himself. Absence of hope. Or nobody else to go back to.
“This one’s on the house,” Ben dared a smirk, his confidence growing. “Keep it, or don’t. We have copies, so if we walk out of here with what we came for, we’ll never mention either of those folders again.”
Now they had him. He was sure of it. They had enough leverage to secure the minor demands they’d come for. Leech glanced at Ben with a confident look, expressing the same thought. Ben gave him a curt answering nod and returned his full attention to the most dangerous man in the room. And in his life.
Snoke closed the folder, placing a hand on the file without looking at it, absentmindedly. The he leaned back in his chair, scrawny fingers tapping against the beige folder. 
“Clever. All of it. The files, the whispers, the comparisons. You’ve been busy,” he said in a calmness that made the hair on Ben’s arms rise. “I’ll admit… however reluctantly, that I am quite impressed. I respect the ambition. You’ve proven why you are an asset to the The First Order. Or as you so dramatically put it… ‘empire’.”
Leech shifted next to him, still the perfect image of stoicism.
“You built quite the little narrative. Very cinematic. Very dramatic. But –,” Snoke tilted his head, searching both of their faces before continuing. “It’s still missing a third act twist.”
Ben’s jaw clenched, a gut-wrenching hunch slowly taking over. Snoke slowly rose to his feet, straightening his golden jacket.
“While you were gathering names and threading strings into conspiracies, I’ve been tending to something far simpler. Something real. Immediate. Something…” he acted as though he were looking for words, walking in a slow circle as if pacing through thought. “Soft. Fragile,” he finally concluded.
Vicrul and Ap’lek shifted behind Ben as Snoke walked up to Ben, stopping in front of him and fixing him with a faint, unreadable smile.
“If the things you’ve shared with me are so transparent then I wonder if you were intuitive enough to know how I function. What my next move would be.” 
Ben clenched his fists behind his back as Snoke came to him and Leech close enough so only they could hear him as he whispered.
“You think you’ve got me backed into a corner. But you’ve made one miscalculation. You assumed I wouldn’t play dirty. You assumed I hadn’t already,” his soul-piercing blue eyes scanned both of them intently. “I refuse to yield to an insolent teenager and a warrior who wears honor like a mask but possesses none beneath it.”
Although the insults should have stung, oddly it gave him a bit of steadiness. The barb, veiled as it was, had been an admission that never would’ve been said aloud – that Snoke had been outmaneuvered. Yet the flicker of hope in Ben’s chest slowly faded at the realization that Snoke was unwilling to meet their terms. Not because he couldn’t. A single retraction, the return of the land – none of it would meaningfully dent his fortune or dismantle his business. That wasn’t the issue. It wasn’t money. It wasn’t strategy. It was pride. Principle.
Snoke would sooner burn the board than acknowledge he’d been bested by anybody – especially someone younger, someone beneath him. Conceding now would mean more than a contract. It would mean breaking the illusion he had so carefully crafted: that he was untouchable, invincible.
“Tell me,” Snoke directed the question to Ben. “How is she?”
Every one of Ben’s muscles grew taught at who Snoke was referring to.
Leech must’ve caught on because he responded for Ben.
“Leave our families out of it. Remember, either one of us is harmed or any of our men or any one of our closest people, our outside sources release all the information we’ve provided you with today and you can watch your empire crumble at your feet.”
Snoke glanced at Leech, acknowledging his words.
“But the harm would be done and irrevocably so,” he stated, shifting his eyes back to Ben with a smirk.
Before Ben or Leech could respond in any way, Snoke turned on his heel and spoke louder to everyone else present.
“But I digress,” he put a hand on his chest, facing them again but with much more distance between them than a few seconds ago. “We could just ask her ourselves.”
A cold shower went down Ben’s spine and every muscle in his body went harder than the stone his alias was named after, as Snoke gestured behind him, revealing Daisy Richards with two of Snoke’s men holding a bound and gagged Rey.

Chapter Text

They dragged her in like a trophy – bound at the wrists, gagged, her tennis shoes scraping against the cold concrete, and her heart was a drumbeat against her ribs, echoing louder with every step they forced her forward. Cold sweat stuck to her like a second skin stitched by something she had never felt before: Existential dread.
The metallic scent of oil and dust hung heavy in the air, mixing with the bitter taste of the gag forced between her lips. Fluorescent lights buzzed above, flickering with age, casting skeletal shadows across the warehouse walls. She shifted slightly, just enough to glimpse the cluster of men standing several feet away. They were talking, arguing. Posturing like wild dogs around a fresh kill.
Two men flanked her – strangers, muscle, faceless. But it was the girl trailing behind that made her stomach twist. Daisy Richards. Her smile was casual, almost pleasant. Like this was an errand, not revenge. The same smile she gave their mutual teammates when they were dealt a scolding for not playing by the game plan she had concocted. 
Rey’s knees ached against the cold concrete floor, arms straining uselessly behind her back where they were bound too tight as they dropped her off to the side, visible to all but out of reach. Her eyes scanned the inside of the warehouse instinctively. She locked eyes with Ben. For a moment, she didn’t see the street-hardened gang leader everyone now feared. She saw the boy who had shown her love in a way she hadn’t known since her parents died, the one who listened when no one else did, the one who just gave and gave. And now he was frozen, fists clenched at his sides like he was stopping himself from shattering. He didn’t speak, at least not yet. But every inch of him screamed tension. His shoulders were pulled taut beneath his black jeans jacket; jaw set like stone. Even his scar seemed much more pronounced. His eyes – those dark, storm-tossed eyes – were locked on her like he was memorizing the moment in case he had to live with losing her. Which was a real possibility given the circumstances. Never had she felt so helpless and scared.
“You bitch!” Rey heard a familiar female voice growl in Daisy’s direction. Tali.
Daisy only curtsied before casually putting a hand on her hip, her eyes resting on Ben, who took a step closer; his voice cut the air like broken glass. 
“Let her go right now.” It was a plea buried in layers of fury.
“Careful,” the old man wiggled an admonishing finger at Ben’s attempt to come closer. “You know the protocol, Ren.”
“I told you, you’d regret it,” Daisy purred, swishing her blonde ponytail over her shoulder.
“I always knew you were a cold-hearted bitch,” Ben spat.
“Takes one to know one,” she countered. “That’s what makes us great together, Ren. You and me. We were meant for each other. She’ll never make you happy.”
“You couldn’t find happiness with a GPS and a user manual,” Tali’s words were laced with venom.
“Well either way,” Daisy gestured to Rey and the situation she was in, “this makes me happy.”
“You’ll get what’s coming for you, Richards,” Ben growled so low the vibrations were almost palpable.
“Neither of you will be around to see that though,” she said with a false pout.
“If I find so much as a scratch on her, no corner of this earth will keep you safe from me,” Ben’s voice wasn’t his own anymore. 
And Rey wasn’t sure if he was talking to Daisy or Mr. Snoke or everybody in the room tonight.
Mr. Snoke stood in the center of the room; smugness painted across his face like a mask. He lifted a hand and gestured toward Rey like she was little more than a chess piece placed carefully on the board. 
“Funny,” Mr. Snoke drawled, “how easily loyalty shifts when you touch the right nerve. Or the wrong one, depending on your point of view.” 
He turned those soulless eyes to Rey, it took everything in her to stare right back, as defiantly as she possibly could. The pain from the zip tie around her wrists fueling something that replaced her fear now. Indignation. And she felt her body react, readying itself to act on it.
“From an outside perspective you’d think she was smarter than dealing with rats like you,” Mr. Snoke added.
Rey saw Tasu then, leaning forward, his face unreadable, eyes flicking to her and then to Ben, then back to Mr. Snoke. She didn’t need to guess the math he was doing in his head, and his voice was much calmer, but still stern when he spoke. 
“Let the girl go, she has no business in our quarrels.”
“Rebellion comes at a cost,” Mr. Snoke directed his attention to Tasu. “Besides, since when do you care about innocents getting hurt? Or need I remind you of your previous involvement with Ren’s love life?”
She turned her gaze back to Ben. He wouldn’t meet her eyes now, well, not fully. She knew what that horrible man was doing, realizing he was only trying to get them to turn back on each other. Ben’s fingers were trembling, just barely. It was only noticeable because his silver rings were glistening from the movement. It was the kind of tremble that came from holding back too much. Rage. Fear. Regret. Maybe all of it combined.
And then it hit her – her wasn’t just scared for her. He was scared of what he might do. Of how far he’d go. For her. She hoped it wouldn’t have to come to any of the scenarios that were running amok in her mind. For his conscience and for her own.
Mr. Snoke smiled like a man who believed the war was already won. “Tell me, Ren,” he said softly, “how valuable is a peace offering… when someone’s already bleeding?”
“Depends,” Ben raised his scarred eyebrow, a smirk playing at the corner of his lips promising more blood. “If you’re fond of your skin, that is.”
Rey was simultaneously proud and anxious at the way Ben was speaking to Mr. Snoke. She admired his defiance but didn’t enjoy watching him walk the line of the old man’s patience. 
The guard in all black next to her shifted forward and she realized he had the hood of his black sweater now pulled over his eyes. Did he have a black braid before? Of course, she hadn’t been focused on details when she had been ambushed by Daisy and knocked unconscious by these thugs. The other guard to her right had left. She hadn’t realized when… or that he had at all. But how could she when all she could do is watch Ben?
The head of The First Order’s lips thinned – a flicker of something dark crossing his face. He leaned in just slightly, his voice smooth but edged with warning. “You really are your father’s son, aren’t you? But let’s not waste breath on theatrics. Let’s return to actual negotiations.”
“Alright,” Tasu crossed his arms while Ben’s brows furrowed, “you let the girl go, give us our lands and an autograph. We walk out and your empire maintains its existence.”
“Or,” Mr. Snoke spoke as though they were discussing which restaurant to order dinner from. “You exchange your demands for the girl’s life.”
“Or,” Ben played along with the charade, “you meet our terms, and you won’t have to start clipping coupons or better yet learning the lunch schedule at county.”
“The things you’ve presented to me today are not enough to topple me. It’d be an inconvenient disruption, however none of this could bring me to my knees. Now, I’ve already granted you more time than I usually deem acceptable. Take it or leave it and Ms Plutt can finally leave this place. Whether she leaves warm or cold is up to you,” he said bored.
“Tell me, sir,” Ben asked, “how secure do you feel about those Puerto Rican accounts? The ones you tucked under Brendol Hux’s name. I’d hate to find out someone rerouted your retirement fund.” 
By Tasu’s reaction, Ben hadn’t told him that tiny detail. When they had gone over the plan together, Ben had told her if he had to bring that up, he’d be giving up his last bargaining chip. It was a bluff, since Mr. Hux had made it clear, he wanted no part in helping them. So, this meant, all his other leverage attempts had failed, and he was playing his last card. 
Ben stood straight-backed, lips tight, dark eyes locked on Snoke. Every inch of him was tension and fire, but she could see it in his fingers – twitching, clenched, pulsing against his leg. He was running out of options. Snoke regarded Ben like one might study an insect. Cold. Detached. Dangerous. Then Ben continued. Calm but laced with venom.
“You know,” he said, tilting his head slightly, “it’s funny what a few stray documents can tell you. For example… I happen to know about the bank accounts at the Bancrédito International Trust & Fund in San Juan.”
That got Mr. Snoke’s attention.
Her breath caught behind the gag, and she felt her pulse throb against her skull. This was the play. His final one. Ben went on, painting the picture with maddening clarity. Brendol Hux – an oblivious lawyer turned unwilling scapegoat – listed as CEO of some nothing startup. A few accounts opened in his name at Bancrédito International Bank & Trust. Multiple offshore companies, all tracing back to shadows. And a blind filing called Order 66, with only a P.O. box to its name. No board. No oversight. All funneling through Puerto Rico. Operating at a total loss.
Mr. Snoke said nothing, but his jaw locked, the muscle twitching like a live wire.
“See,” Ben continued, casually brushing dust from his sleeve, “the thing is, if Hux decided to empty those accounts… you’d be out fifty million. Just – poof.” He snapped his fingers. “Gone.”
Fifty. Million. Dollars.
Rey saw it land behind Mr. Snoke’s eyes, a fire igniting behind them. A silence stretched over the warehouse like a wire about to snap. Even the guards seemed to shift uneasily. Mr. Snoke’s fingers curled into fists while his jaw tightened. 
“You don’t know what the hell you’re talking about, boy.”
“No?” Ben asked, coolly. “Because from where I’m standing, Hux has full legal control of that money. All fifty million of it. You made him the face and that makes him the key.”
A muscle twitched in Mr. Snoke’s cheek. He didn’t speak, but his silence was telling. She watched his mind spiral, searching for angles, threats, contingencies. Ben had hit a nerve.
“And here’s the best part,” Ben added, gesturing to Ap’lek who got his phone out and in position. “If I so much as drop a line, if I give the signal – he could empty it.”
Still calm. Still in control. He wasn’t pleading. He was warning.
Rey didn’t know whether it was true. She didn’t think Ben knew if it was true. But Mr. Snoke didn’t know either. And that made it real.
“You bluff well,” Mr. Snoke muttered, finally. But his voice was lower now. Less certain.
“You want to find out?” Ben asked. “You think I’d be here if I didn’t already have a backup plan?”
The moment stretched. Unbearably so.
Then Mr. Snoke barked a short laugh, low and bitter. “You think this saves her?” he asked, motioning to Rey with a flick of his fingers. “You think I won’t bleed her dry just because you’ve got teeth now?”
“I think you want something more,” Ben said, sharp now, stepping closer. “Influence. Control. Not just this street-level power play. You want reach. You want politics. You want to own people in suits.”
Mr. Snoke didn’t answer. But he didn’t deny it either.
“You want my loyalty?” Ben continued. “Fine. I’ll offer you ownership.”
That stopped the old man cold. Tasu’s jaw dropped slightly. His full attention on Ben now. 
Rey heard Tali let out a soft ‘no’. And she felt every one of his Knights turn to him in shock. Their reactions made the blood in her veins freeze. She didn’t know what any of that meant, what it entailed. But judging by everybody’s reactions she knew it was something big.
“You’re going to give me your loyalty. Unshakable. Undeniable. And you’ll wear it. Branded on your chest. Something that tells the world who owns you,” Mr. Snoke offered the explanation.
Ben hesitated. She could see the war in his eyes. But then his gaze flicked toward Rey – just for a moment. And certainty washed over him as he nodded.
“If that’s what it takes,” Ben said. His voice didn’t shake one bit. “Rey walks out of here. You sign the retraction contract. You give Tasu Leech the land. And all my men remain unharmed.”
She saw Vicrul and Ap’lek shift towards Ben who waved them off with a subtle gesture. Then a long silence.
Mr. Snoke left no room for hesitation and instantly snapped his fingers. 
Men moved. Phones lit up. A pen scratched across paper as Mr. Snoke signed the retraction contract. Another man was already on the phone, confirming transfer of the land. It was happening.
Then Mr. Snoke turned to one of his men. “Get the brand ready. Light the fire.”
He turned back and looked at Ben like he was a piece of art he was trying to decide how best to ruin.
Ben’s footsteps echoed off the warehouse walls, heavy, deliberate. He was walking under his own power, but it didn’t matter. Mr. Snoke’s men flanked him like predators, close enough to strike. One of them gripped his shoulder tighter than necessary. Another shoved him forward when he slowed. It wasn’t about guiding him – it was more about reminding him how little power he had.
Rey’s chest twisted as if an anaconda had a death grip on her.
The Knights were standing off to the side, clustered near the edge of the room but she saw it in their faces – the tension, the disbelief, the barely held fury. One of them took half a step forward, fists clenched. Another muttered something under his breath, teeth bared. But Ben looked back at them – just once – and gave the smallest shake of his head. Stand down. They all froze. Their helplessness was palpable, the betrayal of doing nothing as their leader, their friend, was walking toward something that felt like a death sentence. And still, Ben went. 
Mr. Snoke was watching him like a man savoring a fine wine. Smiling, calm, victorious.
“Strip him,” Mr. Snoke said simply, dripping with satisfaction as the two men flanking Ben stepped closer to him.
“No,” Rey choked against the gag, the sound useless and muffled. She leaned forward, her whole body twisting against the zip ties. Now she didn’t care about herself anymore. Heat rose to her head as she felt complete and utter dread for him.
They grabbed Ben’s jacket first, ripping it down his shoulders with a sharp tug. One of them smacked the back of his head when he mildly resisted – nothing brutal, but enough to make a point. Her whole body shook as fury surged in her throat, burning behind her eyes. She wanted to scream at them, to rip them apart for touching him like that – for acting like he was some thing to be processed, not a person who’d just given everything to save someone he loved. He showed some hesitation due to his pride, but he didn’t fight them. Not once. There was something in his eyes – something defiant – that even Mr. Snoke’s thugs couldn’t touch. 
She watched as they pulled the fabric from his back, exposing skin to the growing heat of the iron. The circular brand glowed faint orange in the brazier someone had brought, a symbol of ownership forged in fire. And she couldn’t look away. She’d never been more afraid for him than in that moment. Not when they took her. Not when they dragged her here. Not even when Mr. Snoke threatened her life. Because now – now he was giving himself up. Not to save his own skin. But hers. And they were treating him like he was nothing.
The guard next to her shifted. And she found a knife sliding out of his black sleeve, along his thigh. She watched the copper-brown hand grip the weapon. And then she saw it. Dangling beneath the sleeve of the man standing at her side. A small metal medicine wheel, worn and unmistakable. Her heart slammed in her chest. Jay.
She looked up, wide-eyed. He gave her a quick wink, then slipped the gag from her mouth just as quietly as he’d arrived and gestured to stay silent. The knife cut the zip tie binding her wrists with such ease that nobody, not even Daisy, who was focused on watching the scene before them with a satisfied smirk, noticed.
Relief poured through Rey like Niagara Falls. She didn’t know why he was here, but his presence did wonders to her emotional state. 
Jay leaned down, whispering into her ear with a smile she hadn’t seen in what felt like a lifetime.
“Get ready.”
And so, she did.
The ritual of ownership was beginning now – a metal brand still heating on the small brazier. Mr. Snoke was turned away, basking in his victory, oblivious to the quiet storm brewing just behind him.
The iron hissed in the flames. Orange-hot, glowing like something pulled from hell itself. Ben didn’t flinch. He was stripped to the waist, breath slow, face unreadable. He’d accepted it. Not for himself – but for her. For Tasu. For everyone who’d been crushed under Mr. Snoke’s boot.
Mr. Snoke stood nearby, arms folded, savoring every second. His men surrounded the ritual like vultures around a carcass, waiting for the sear of flesh. One of them reached for the brand with a pair of iron tongs.
And then –
“Step away from him!” The voice cracked through the warehouse like a whip. Sharp. Commanding. Absolutely not one to be ignored. 
Every head turned – Rey’s included.
A door slammed open, bouncing off the wall with a thunderous clang. A woman strode through in heels and a dark tailored coat, flanked by two Native aides, one man, one woman with thick, long braids, and her own private security detail that made Mr. Snoke’s thugs look like mall cops. It took a heartbeat for her brain to catch up with her eyes. 
Leia? Her Leia? Thursday-noon-bench Leia? Her sweet, bookish reading buddy who always brought cinnamon apple tea and asked about the characters like they were real? The woman who had once cried reading Kingdom of Ash by Sarah J Maas with her was now standing between a criminal empire and its prize like she owned the entire world.
Snoke took a half-step forward, recovering fast after being baffled by how she must’ve gotten past his men as well. 
“Mayor Organa,” the old man said with oily charm. 
The way she looked at Ben – her voice shaking just once when she said, “Get away from my son!” 
Ben’s eyes were glued to Leia. “Mom?”

Chapter Text

The silence that followed was deafening. Then it clicked at the same time, like a gut punch. Leia … was the mayor. And Ben’s mother… Organa. Mayor Organa. How did she not put two and two together until now? It all made sense. Did it? Rey didn’t know what to think. She looked up at Jay who gave her a subtle ‘yeah, I know, right?’ look.
Daisy had backed up a few steps. Insecurity and anxiety written all over her face.
“To what do we owe this –,” Mr. Snoke started but was cut off by a woman with the wrath of a mother lion.
“Cut the crap,” she snapped, waving a hand. Her voice was laced with steel. “Brendol Hux called me. He told me everything. About your accounts. About your offshore holdings. About your plan to use my son like a key to the front door of politics.”
Ben’s head jerked up at that. His face – his eyes – were a storm of confusion and disbelief. He hadn’t known. None of them had. That’s why he had always referred to Ben as an ‘asset’. Conjured up the whole scheme to make him join the Knights.
“You wanted influence,” Leia continued, striding forward, past Mr. Snoke’s frozen men, her security close behind. “You wanted access to my office. To the mayor’s seat. You proposed business arrangements to which I said no. Again, and again.”
She stopped in front of him. He towered over her only in height but not in presence.
“Well,” she said quietly, “you win. I’ll sign.”
Mr. Snoke blinked. A slow, greedy smile spread across his face. “Oh?” he said. “Finally seeing reason?”
“I’ll give you everything you asked for,” she said. “You can have your contract. Your alliance. The influence you’ve been so desperate to taste. In exchange, you release my son. You release Rey.” A small smile was directed toward her at that before returning to stare daggers into Mr. Snoke. “And you honor the land transfer to Tasu Leech,” she added sharply, pulling a sleek black iPad from her personal security detail. How did she know all this? Kaydell…
Mr. Snoke gave a small, mocking bow. “Of course. That was already in motion. You’re quite the negotiator, Madam Mayor. I see the family resemblance,” he added with a sharp look at Ben who was still shocked at his mother’s presence.
Who were all these Native men and women? Were they Kanjiklub?
The wrinkles in his face shifted as Mr. Snoke raised an eyebrow. “Digital? You trust that?”
“You’ll be able to see the contract before you sign,” she said smoothly. “I have nothing to hide.”
He hesitated. Then nodded.
The hiss of the brand was still echoing in her ears when everything changed. Leia – no, Mayor Organa – stood like a wall between Ben and Mr. Snoke, not a flicker of fear in her voice as she negotiated her son’s freedom like a seasoned queen in enemy territory. The digital contract glowed from her iPad and Mr. Snoke took the stylus with a lazy sort of smirk, like he already thought he’d won. He didn’t even hesitate. One slow, triumphant stroke of his name across the line as his signature sealed everything.
“Pleasure doing business,” he said, handing the tablet back. 
Leia didn’t smile. She simply nodded, her eyes already shifting to Ben. 
“Let’s go home,” she said softly. Then she turned, her gaze landing on Rey. “Rey, sweetie, come with me.”
Rey’s throat tightened. She wasn’t sure if it was shock or gratitude or the fact that she’d never in a million years imagined that her Thursday-reading-buddy was the damn mayor. But she moved. She took one shaky step forward to get up from her knees – only for Mr. Snoke to raise a hand.
“Oh no, no,” he said smoothly. “Everyone stays. You, Madam Mayor, may go. Alone.”
Leia turned slowly to face him. “I’m not leaving without my son. Or the girl.”
His expression darkened. “You leave now,” he said, voice dangerously low, “and your son stays alive. Or no one leaves at all. I don’t think you understand how fragile peace can be.”
Her jaw clenched and for a second, Rey thought she might call his bluff.
“Ren here and I have an understanding to ensure. He has some rules to follow. Once they’re engrained, he is free to leave. Oh, I sense hesitation on your part, Ren, master of the Knights of Ren.”
Rey knew he added his title to taunt Leia, since she probably didn’t know about how deeply entrenched into the gang he was. Leia’s reaction confirmed her thoughts, as Ben looked to the side. Whether it was shame or indifference she didn’t know.
“You don’t want to go back, do you?” Mr. Snoke continued. “Your family hasn’t been a family to you, have they?”
“Ben,” Leia tried, “we’ve said things, yes, we’ve made mistakes, but please come home. We miss you. We love you.”
Mr. Snoke huffed a cruel dismissal. “What makes you think he wants to go back, after all the lying, Madam Mayor? Have you ever told him?”
“Told me what?” Ben asked nobody in particular.
Mr. Snoke smiled and the whole room grew tenser than a trigger half-pulled.
Leia’s stern look was directed at Mr. Snoke. “Don’t.”
“Tell. Me. What.” Ben repeated. 
Mr. Snoke ignored Leia as he directed his question at Ben, “Who your grandfather was. Madam Mayor’s father.”
“Yeah, of course I know who my granddad is. Bail Organa. He’s an amazing grandpa. Something you’ll never know.”
“No,” Mr. Snoke’s crooked teeth were on full display. “Your biological grandfather.”
Rey looked to Leia who apparently also had a stepfather or an adoptive father like Rey.
“Anakin Skywalker. Ring a bell?”
Ben’s mouth parted in shock. Rey had no idea who that was but even Jay tensed a bit at Rey’s side.
“That’s a lie,” Ben spat but then looked at his mother. “He’s lying.”
Not a question. But Leia closed her eyes in defeat.
“Holy shit,” Tali and Ap’lek said at the same time.
Again, she had no idea who they were talking about. But the face Ben made, and his entire body language told her enough that this revelation was not something he was particular happy about. Rey hoped he wouldn’t do anything that could potentially escalate the situation.
“Darth Vader himself. Your bloodline is of mafia royalty,” Mr. Snoke watched Ben as if this were the most entertaining show on reality TV. “I’m surprised the former Ren never told you that. You were his prodigy after all.”
“So many secrets. So many lies…” Ben trailed off in thought.
“Ben,” his mother looked at him with so much sorrow, even Rey couldn’t take looking at her anymore.
“Leave,” Ben said quietly.
“Please,” she tried again.
“Leave!” He almost shouted now.
Rey’s head snapped toward him. Leia froze, looking back at him like he’d slapped her.
His voice didn’t waver, but something in his eyes did. “Just go. Please.”
Mr. Snoke smiled. Not wide – just the barest curl of his lips. That self-satisfied, poisonous kind of smile that made her blood boil. He thought he’d finally broken him. He thought he’d won.
“You heard him,” the disgusting old man purred, gesturing to the door.
Leia looked between them all, then at Ben one more time. Rey saw the war in her eyes, the weight of it. But then she nodded once and walked out, her security team falling in silently behind her.
The warehouse seemed to exhale once she was gone. Like it had been holding its breath.
After Mr. Snoke gave Ben a rundown on the expected rules he had to follow, he straightened his coat and gestured to his men. “Alright,” he said, his tone almost bored now. “Wrap it up. We’re done here.”
Ben’s shirt was tossed back at him, and he caught it without comment. Rey stayed close to Jay but silent with her jaw tight and heart hammering.
Mr. Snoke turned to his entourage. “I am the last to leave,” he said. “Make sure everything’s clean. I’ll hand over the girl personally.”
His men exchanged glances but nodded. No one argued. This was his show, after all. They moved slowly, methodically. People started gathering their things. Rey stayed beside Jay, barely breathing. His eyes were locked on Mr. Snoke, unreadable and quiet.
And then – a sharp buzz. One of Mr. Snoke’s men pulled out his phone. Looked at it and completely froze. His face turning as pale as the belly of a beluga whale. 
That was when Rey knew: whatever peace they thought they had – it was about to shatter.

_____________________________________________________________

Ben stood there in silence as the warehouse shifted around him. People moving, footsteps echoing, tension curling like smoke under a closed door. His shirt was back on, but he felt colder than he had bare-chested. Mom was gone and the sting of all the lies and secrets in his life consumed him. She looked exactly like he had remembered her. The hope and relief of seeing her here for him surged through him like molten honey. She had come in flanked by two gang members he hadn’t recognized. They weren’t Leech’s men. But they must have known she wasn’t on The First Order’s side. After he told her to leave, she merely walked out with straight shoulders, but her face revealed anything but victory. He had to make her leave. He had to get her out because he knew he didn’t want her hurt or witness any of what he was contemplating. He never thought their first encounter after two years would’ve panned out like this. Ben would have to mull that over later, now there were more pressing matters. One goal. Rey.
Leech’s men had successfully disabled Snoke’s men outside. Or else they would’ve signaled Snoke of his mother’s arrival. Relief spread within him, making his heart lighter. They weren’t outnumbered anymore. But now Snoke had what he wanted. Power. Leverage. And control.
“I’ll hand the girl over personally,” he said, waving his hand like the whole thing bored him. “Once the rest of you are gone.”
His men closed in subtly, like a slow-closing trap. They didn’t touch Ben, but they made it damn clear he wasn’t walking to Rey. Not yet. He made his way back to his Knights, each of them tense, coiled, just waiting. He found Ap’lek first, standing like a statue, phone in hand.
“Ren,” he said low, flipping the screen toward me. “You need to see this.”
A message from Kaydell lit up the display.
“We’ve got it. All 178 retraction contracts. His e-signature validated across every doc. They’re free.”
He stared at it. One beat. Then two. 
Mom. 
The iPad. The signature. That wasn’t just for Snoke’s contract – it was for all of them. Every single person he’d ever had under his thumb. She played him. She gave him what he wanted – and took everything else from him in the same breath.
Goddamn, he thought. Pride spread in his chest and his chest rose as he inhaled a breath of success.
His jaw clenched as he looked over to where Snoke stood at the far side of the warehouse, smug and still completely unaware that the foundation beneath him had just crumbled. But not for long. A sharp buzz came from one of his men’s pockets who pulled his phone out, glanced at the screen, and the blood drained from his face. He turned to Snoke fast, whispering something too low to catch.
Snoke stiffened. “What?”
The man showed him the screen and Snoke’s face turned to stone. Then came the explosion – verbal, not yet physical.
“HUX!” The old man roared, voice bouncing off the metal walls. “He emptied the account!”
Everything stopped.
Then: “Kill them. Both of them. All of them!” Snoke pointed at Rey. “Her first.”
Time shattered. His reactions were languid and and everything was a haze as he shared a look for one precious second with Rey. Two men reached for her and two shots rang out. Clean. Controlled.
Jay.
He stepped out from next to Rey, his gun still raised, expression cold and focused. The two guards dropped, stunned but alive, groaning and twitching on the floor, each holding their leg. And then Chaos exploded. 
Tali launched herself at Daisy, slamming her to the ground before the blonde could even properly react. Ap’lek and Vicrul surged into motion. So did Leech and his men.
Ben turned to Jay. Their eyes locked.
“Get her out!” He barked.
Jay gave him one sharp nod. “On it.”
Ben heard Jay turn to Rey, voice low but urgent as he already began tugging her away from the fray. “Okay, focus up. Ben’s gonna be fine. My dad’s here. He won't let anything happen to him. Let’s go.”
Rey’s eyes widened and returned her gaze to Ben. “Ben!”
But Jay was already pulling her behind a crate, moving with practiced precision.
Ben had zero time to lose but he took two precious seconds, memorizing her face, trying an encouraging smile and said, “I love you, Rey!”
Jay would get her out; there was not one ounce of doubt in his mind. They moved and he refocused. The second Snoke turned to run, Ben saw red. Everything narrowed, sounds went muffled, bodies blurred. But Snoke? His slender silhouette fleeing like a rat. That was all he saw. All he cared about, now that he knew Rey was with Jay.
He lunged forward, cutting through the fray like a blade. A man moved in front of him, one of Snoke’s, thick-necked and armored in arrogance. Ben didn’t stop. His elbow crashed into his jaw, snapping it sideways with a sickening crack. The bear in a suit dropped like a sack of cement. Another came at him swinging a baton. He ducked under the arc, drove his knee into the man’s ribs, grabbed his collar and hurled him into the concrete pillar. He hit with a thud and slid down, unmoving.
More came. Three. Four. Didn’t matter. Ben moved like lightning – he was fists and fury, wild and unrelenting. One man grabbed his shoulder, Ben twisted, slammed the man’s arm into Ben’s knee until it snapped. Another tried to blindside him with a knife, but he caught his wrist mid-strike, twisted it out of his hand, then headbutted him so hard he collapsed with a grunt. Ben barely noticed the throbbing in his own forehead from the collision. Ben’s knuckles bled, his breath was ragged, and still he kept moving.
Snoke was almost to the far exit. His personal guard formed a wall in front of him – men twice his age and size, trained, armored, armed. None of that mattered. All he felt was rage, so he charged.
First one met him head-on, swinging wide. Ben ducked, came up under his arm, and drove his shoulder into the guard’s gut like a battering ram. He stumbled while Ben grabbed him by the vest and threw him into his friend. A third tried to grapple him, but he was quicker and went low, swept his legs out, slammed him into the ground and drove his fist into his temple – once, twice. Lights out. He felt something graze his shoulder, but he was numb due to his rage. 
“ENOUGH!” Snoke shouted, his voice panicked now. “STOP HIM!” 
The old man was scared. Good. Ben’s boot crunched on broken glass. Blood – he didn’t know if was his own or someone else’s – dripped from his knuckles. One last bodyguard blocked his path, snarling like some loyal pit bull. Ben hit him so hard his feet left the ground. Until there he was. Snoke. Cornered. Sweating. Still holding on to that last shred of superiority.
“Don’t,” he said. “Don’t you touch me.”
Ben stepped in, grabbed his collar, slammed him against the wall so hard his teeth rattled. He brought the knife he had tucked in his boot to his throat – ready to end it. Right here. Right now. Then – 
A warm, firm hand on his shoulder.
“Ben,” came Cliff’s voice. Calm. Grounding. “Don’t.”
He froze, chest heaving. He hadn’t registered when Cliff had joined the brawl, but his presence was more than comforting.
“You’ve done enough,” Cliff said. “Let us handle the rest.”
Beside him, Leech stepped out from the shadows and took his place on the other side of Ben. He didn’t say a word – but his eyes were all the promise Snoke needed to see. The old bastard was done.

________________________________________________________________

The warehouse exploded into chaos behind Jay and Rey. Gunshots cracked, bodies slammed into concrete, shouting blurred into a wall of noise. Rey barely had time to think before Jay grabbed her hand and pulled her toward the side exit, weaving through the fight like a ghost.
“Stay low!” he hissed.
Her heart hammered so loud she was sure anybody in a five-mile radius could hear it, but she pushed it down, just like Ben had taught her. Stay sharp, stay quick, stay standing.
One of The First Order’s men lunged at Jay from the side, but before she could even react, Jay spun, blocked the strike, and dropped the guy with a swift elbow to the throat.
Another thug cut in, aiming straight for Rey.
She didn’t think, she moved. Ben’s voice was in her head: No hesitation. Hit first, hit fast.
She sidestepped the first swing, then drove her fist into his gut, just like they had practiced. When he bent over gasping, she brought her knee up hard, catching his chin. He went down with a groan. Adrenaline sang through her. Then her fist began to throb and she began shaking the pain away, exhaling an ‘ow’.
Jay flashed her a quick grin. “Nice.”
Then they were moving again. Two of Tasu Leech’s men, well women, flanked them, clearing a path through the worst of the brawl. Rey recognized the two girls to be from the Kanjiklub, tough and fast, fighting like their lives depended on it.
They burst out the side door into the cool night air. And there, waiting like some scene out of a Wild West dream, were the backup gangs – riders on horseback, moving fast and silent through the shadows. No roaring engines to alert The First Order’s men. Just hooves pounding the dirt and war cries tearing through the night. That’s how they must’ve slipped past them.
Fireworks lit up the sky around the city, it must’ve been around midnight then. Happy New Years, she thought sarcastically.
“Go!” one of the Kanjiklub members shouted, tossing Jay a set of reins, then following the other indigenous men and women into whatever hell was happening in that warehouse.
Jay didn’t hesitate. He swung up onto one of the horses, then reached down, grabbed Rey by the waist, and hauled her up in front of him like she weighed nothing. He had spoken to them in a language she didn’t understand but heard before from the Tsosie family. Jay kicked the horse into motion before she even found her balance.
Shots rang out behind them. Men shouting at them with their footsteps pounding. But the horse was faster. Rey clung to the saddle horn, Jay steady behind her, one arm wrapped around her waist to keep her anchored. They didn’t slow until they reached the edge of town. 
When they came to a halt, a battered old mobile home was parked in the shadows, far enough off the main road to be invisible. A safe house, she imagined. Jay slid off first, then reached up to help her down. Rey hit the ground shaking, every muscle buzzing with leftover adrenaline. He handed her the reins and slid the horses saddle off, hauling it into the back of the red Ford Ranger that was parked next to the mobile home. Then he slid off the bridle and patted the horses back. She watched the beautiful creature dart off into the night.
Without hesitation he pulled her inside the trailer fast, shutting and bolting the door. Only then did he let out a relieved exhale.
“We’re clear,” he said, scanning the windows. “For now.”
Rey slumped against the nearest metal wall of the mobile home, heart still hammering, lungs stinging from exhaustion.
“How are you here? Your dad? What the hell just happened?” She gasped in between pants.
Jay leaned against the door, running a hand over his thick black hair, his braid having come slightly undone by the chaos they left behind.
“Well,” he said, voice low, “Ben called me a few days ago. He needed help. Clearly.”
“Yeah,” she rubbed her arms.
“Our plan was simple,” Jay continued. “I was supposed to stay a shadow. Light feet. Quiet. Take out Snoke’s men one by one while the others prepped for extraction. And since I realized how bad the situation was, I told my dad. He must’ve called Leia and I guess that’s how she knew where to go. I didn’t tell her, so…”
It sounded like he was analysing the situation himself while explaining.
She blinked, “Cliff!”
“Don’t worry about him. We have enough guys to have the upper hand.”
“Oh, no reason to worry then,” she blew out sarcastically, throwing up her hands.
“Yeah,” he gave a tired grin. 
“And who were those other guys? On horses!”
“We figured if The First Order even sniffed backup coming, they’d expect the Kanjiklub and call for their own backup. But they wouldn’t expect other native gangs. They’re under their radar.”
 She shook her head, trying to absorb it all. “So, you’re part of a gang too?”
“No,” he said stern, shaking his head. “But I almost was. It’s a long story. But now they owe me one, or well maybe not. Ben took care of that. They got their land back too, y’know.”
Rey rubbed her hands over her face, exhaling exhausted. She remembered him taking out the guards inside. Silent. Deadly. Like he was barely touching the ground.
“But when they brought you in…” His jaw tightened. “I had to be closer. My dad took care of the rest while I made my way down to you.” He swallowed hard.
Tears burned behind her eyes, but she blinked them back. Not now. Not yet.
“Ray’s safe, too, by the way,” Jay added gently. “Leech’s guys got him out. Took him to a motel on the Rez. Your house’s probably under watch. Too risky.”
She hadn’t even thought of that. She closed her eyes, lacing her fingers through her hair.
“There’s a phone in the drawer over there,” he pointed to the little kitchen counter behind her. “If you wanna call him.”
She slowly nodded as her mind was all over the place.
Then a thought crossed her mind. Rose. Finn. Kuruk.

_______________________________________________________________

Ben looked back at Snoke who was panting like an animal, eyes darting for an escape he knew wasn’t there. His fear was real now, no mask, no performance. And for a brief moment, that almost made it worse. Because it meant Ben could kill him. And walk away.
Ben leaned into his space. “Look at me,” he growled. “Look at me, you piece of shit.”
Snoke tried to straighten his jacket like he could pull himself back into control, but Ben slapped it away.
“No more games,” he said. “No more lawyers. No more fake deals. You’re gonna say it. Out loud. Everything you did.”
“I don’t owe you anything –”
His hand slammed into the wall beside his head, loud enough to make the asshole flinch.
“You owe me everything!” Ben shouted. “Say their names.”
He stared at Ben, face twisted.
“Say them!” His stomach clenched, “…Hennix. Tai. Aridema.” 
He only huffed. No remoarse.
“Paige. Anyah,” he hissed. “The two innocent girls who burned to death because of you. Say their names too.”
He hesitated. He grabbed him by the front of the shirt and pulled him forward.
“They weren’t just names on your books,” Ben said, low and savage. “They were people. My friends. My family.”
“The two girls were unintended casualties,” Snoke finally got out through pants. “That was not my intention.”
“No,” Ben countered. “You just didn’t care, as long as the intended were wiped out,” his voice now cracked, but he didn’t back down.
“You destroyed Aridema’s family. You left Tai’s mother with no one. You killed Hennix, who trusted you, The First Order, the Knights.”
Snoke tried to turn away, but Ben shoved him back into the wall again, not letting him look anywhere but at him.
“You broke me,” Ben whispered. “You broke my entire goddamn life. My family fell apart. And you just kept going. Like we were all numbers on your expense sheet.”
His mouth parted like he might speak, but nothing came out.
“You think branding me was going to make you powerful?” Ben spat. “You think turning me into your puppet was going to fix your pathetic excuse for legacy?”
Finally, he took a step back, shaking with fury, but still standing.
“You’re a coward. A parasite. You ruin people and pretend it’s business. But you’re not a businessman.” Ben leaned in close once more, voice low and steady. “You’re just a pathetic, scared old man with nobody. All alone in this world.”
Snoke stared at him, no smugness left, no façade. Just something hollow. Something small. And it wasn’t enough. Not for what he did. But it would have to be.
Ben turned to Tasu Leech and placed his knife in the equally bloodied hand of the leader of the Kanjiklub. “He’s all yours!”
Leech gave him an understanding nod, clasping his forearm in respect.
“You’re not worth my soul,” Ben muttered to Snoke, not looking back, not caring what would happen next.

_______________________________________________________________

Jay was as calm as could be, while Rey’s heart was jumping into her throat again.
“Jay… my friends, Kuruk, do you know where they are? What happened after I was taken?”
Jay checked his phone, his fingers moving quick, texting who-knows-who.
“They’re safe. Sort of,” he finally answered.
Her chest squeezed painfully. “Where are they?”
“They’re okay,” Jay reassured quickly. “Kuruk tried to stop Snoke’s men. Took a serious beating for it – broken ribs, a concussion, maybe internal bleeding. They got him to the hospital right after. Rose managed to send a text to Kaydell,” he added. “Told her something was wrong. Kaydell flagged it immediately.”
Rey swallowed hard. She could see it perfectly… Rose crammed into the van, trying not to get spotted, texting Kaydell through pure instinct and terror.
“They’re safe now,” Jay said. “Rose and Finn are with one of the backup crews. Kuruk’s in the hospital, guarded.”
She exhaled shakily, pressing her palm against her lips.
“Rose wants to call you,” he said, holding up his phone with their conversation open.
Rey nodded and took his phone.
“Rey!” Rose said through tears. “Where are you? What happened?”
Rey felt her own tears roll down her cheeks as she explained everything to her best friend in the world. Hearing her voice did wonders. And in return Rose told her what happened to them after she had been taken away: Daisy had approached Kuruk first and having thought her presence was strange he had told them to stay in Ray’s van. Then it all happened so fast. Daisy slipped into the studio while Kuruk got the lights beat out of him. When they left, they called the ambulance and went to look for Rey. Kuruk was taken to the hospital, and they searched everywhere for her until Ap’lek had texted Kaydell that Rey was taken by The First Order.
They agreed to update each other on the situation but Rey would stay with Jay until it was safe again for everybody. The silence in the trailer was deafening. She pressed her back harder against the wall, trying to breathe through the storm inside her. Her hands were shaking now, matter of fact, her whole body was shaking. Ben was still in there.
Jay watched her carefully, cautious, like he could see the fight building under her skin before she even moved.
She pushed off the wall. “I have to go back.”
“Like hell,” Jay said immediately, stepping between her and the door.
“You don’t understand,” she snapped, voice cracking. “He’s still in there – he’s still –”
“Rey.” His voice was low, steady. The voice of someone who knew panic because he’d lived it too many times. “Ben made a choice. He knew exactly what he was walking into. You going back now would just distract him.”
The words exploded out of her before she could stop them. “I can’t just do nothing. I can’t, I won’t just sit here while he –”
“He’s not alone, Rey” Jay cut in sharply. “My dad’s in there. Leech’s in there. His Knights. You think we don’t have his back?”
She froze, breathing hard, trembling.
He stepped closer, voice softer now. “You’re not the only one who loves him, Rey. You’re gunna have to trust me. Trust us.”
She squeezed her eyes shut. She knew he was right. She knew it. But the fear didn’t listen. The terror didn’t just dissolve. She sank down onto the old couch in the nook of the mobile home next to the kitchen area, burying her head in her hands. Jay crouched in front of her, staying close without crowding her.
“You fought your way out,” he said gently. “You trusted him. Now trust him to fight his way back.”
She nodded shakily, wiping at her eyes. “He’s everything to me,” she whispered. “I can’t lose him.”
“You won’t,” Jay said. No hesitation. No doubt. He reached out and gripped her shoulder, solid and grounding. “You won’t.”
Jay stayed crouched in front of her, not saying anything for a long moment. Just being there. Just letting her fall apart because he knew sometimes surviving didn’t feel like winning.
Outside, distant gunshots echoed against the hills. The battle still raged. Maybe it was the fireworks. Maybe both. But inside the trailer, she clung to the only thing she had left – the belief that Ben would come back to her. He had to.

Chapter Text

One Month Later – January

The world didn’t end when Snoke fell. It just… changed. He was dragged to the reservation, handed over to the tribal police by the very people he’d spent years pretending didn’t exist. He went quietly. No big speeches. No threats. Just a hollow man walking into the consequences he thought he’d never face.

Jail. Not death. A worse fate for someone like him. Knowing he’d lost everything, with nothing left but concrete walls and the memories of everything he couldn’t get back.

Rey should have felt satisfied. Triumphant, even. But mostly, she just felt tired.

Ben had been wounded that night – a bullet grazing his shoulder during the chaos. Cliff had taken him straight to a safe house, where an old traditional healer stitched him up the old way. Quiet. Careful. No hospitals. That way there would be no questions since a bullet wound always had to be reported. He stayed off the grid for weeks, healing. Physically and mentally, she supposed.

Jay stayed close to him too, until things settled. He told her in a short, clipped call that he’d be in New Mexico for a while, laying low, watching. Making sure The First Order didn’t try to claw its way back.

She didn’t blame him. What she did blame – what ate at her every night – was the silence. Ben hadn’t called. Hadn’t written. Not a text. Not a note. Nothing.

Leia reached out sometimes, though. Little check-ins. How are you holding up? Is Unkar okay? Need anything? Have you heard anything from Ben?

Rey told her they were fine. It was a lie, but what else could she say? And nothing from Ben.

Unkar and Rey moved within a month, packing up what little they had of their life. Her friends were devastated by the decision, but they understood. Plus, even though it was two cities away, it was still in the same state. They had helped, along with Tali, Kuruk, and some of the Knights. They had all known there still were risks. The First Order might be broken, but spite ran deep. It didn’t take much for people like them to lash out. So, it was safer this way. Cleaner.

She clung to the letter Ben had given her the evening before that night. She made a habit of reading it every day, right before bed.

Rey,

Now that you’re reading this, it means either things went perfectly and I already told you the content of this letter personally, or things didn’t go the way I planned. So, if that’s the case… here it goes:

I’m sorry. For all of it. For leaving you behind even for a second. For not being there to tell you this in person. You were never supposed to get pulled into my mess. You deserved better. You still do. You are the best thing that ever happened to me, Rey. You are everything good that I never thought I deserved. That I could never be but only aspire to. You made this broken life of mine mean something. If I couldn’t come back, I needed you to know that. You are my home.

I’ve set up a few things – not enough to make up for the time we lost, but something to help you keep moving toward the life you always deserved to have. There’s a bank account in your name. It’s not much, but it should cover some of your schooling. Maybe towards a college fund for dancing. Maybe to help you find something bigger than all of this. Whatever you want. It’s all yours.

I left my apartment to Tali – she’s stubborn, but she’s family. I signed the Mercedes over to Kuruk – he’s a good friend, and I know if it comes to it, he’ll fight for you as if he were me. The families of Hennix, Tai, Paige, Anyah, and of course Kenton – I made sure they got something back too. It’s not enough. It’ll never be enough. But it's what I had. Or what The Knights of Ren had. The Knights won’t be too happy about this, but this money is from the account left for ‘Ren’. I trust you with everything. That’s why I know you’ll know what to do.

I need you to know something else. I love you. I loved you the moment I met you. And I will love you with whatever’s left of me, no matter where you are or what happens next. You were my new beginning. My reason. My everything.

I hope you continue to dance, Rey. I hope you laugh again. I hope you live the way you were always meant to – free, and fearless. And I hope, if there’s any part of me left that stays with you, it’s the part that always believed you could do anything. Because you can. And you will. With or without me. At least this way I had a way of providing an option for you. I’ll always be with you.

Ben

P.S. Always remember – you’re not alone.

Along with the letter was his security will and all the documents he had mentioned in the letter. She pressed the paper against her chest, curling in around it like it could somehow bring him closer. He hadn’t abandoned her. He’d just… needed time. They all did, she realized.

A few months later – May

Graduation came like a blur, everyone in caps and gowns – smiling, laughing, pretending everything was normal. Everyone but Ben and Daisy. They weren’t there. One by choice, one by consequence. Tali had told Rey that when everything went to shit, she was the one to go after Daisy. She had tackled and beaten Daisy senseless until one of Tasu’s men interfered. Later, Tali had found out through Trudgen that Daisy had been taken to the hospital by someone – they figured one of the other Native gang members – and later declared mentally unfit to stand trial and quietly transferred to a long-term psychiatric facility. They said she broke somewhere along the way. Too unstable. Too far gone. There were no charges, no visitors, just silence. She had been a pawn in Snoke’s game too – manipulated, discarded, and ultimately broken by the same man who nearly destroyed them all.

Rey sat with Rose, Finn, Poe and Kaydell waving from across the stadium. Kuruk was there too, still recovering but smiling, the signed title to the car tucked somewhere safe. Unkar clapped the loudest when her name was called. It wasn’t the future she thought she’d have. But it was still a future. And maybe – just maybe – there was still time to build something better. And depending on when… or if Ben ever came back, maybe even a future with him. Only time would tell.

Another month later, the world felt lighter than it had in a long time. The night of Mrs. Gleeson’s wedding was alive with golden light and laughter. Strings of fairy lights crisscrossed the open garden, casting a warm glow over rows of white chairs, silk-draped tables, and flower petals scattered like soft rain across the dance floor. Tali’s mom looked beautiful – radiant in a simple lace gown, her beautiful auburn hair crowned with fresh flowers. She laughed easily in Cardo’s arms, the two of them spinning together like they were the only ones in the world.

Their table – a chaotic mess of familiar faces – was tucked close to the dance floor. Vicrul and Trudgen were already halfway through a drinking competition with two of the Knights of Ren, their laughter booming over the music. Tali kept flicking almonds at Ap’lek’s head when she thought no one was looking. Unkar was parked next to Kaydell, Finn and Rose, who were deep in conversation with Cardo’s younger cousins, trying to explain what a gaming console was. Even Kuruk was there – moving a little stiffly but smiling in a way that made her chest ache. Alive. All of them. Kuruk had filled her in with the information he’d been briefed with by the other Knights about what happened after she and Jay got to safety. Some had been in pretty bad shape. One Knight lost his vision on one eye, a few had been shot – not killed but enough to keep them couch bound for weeks – others got away with bruises and cuts. What happened to the disloyal Knights, Kuruk kept to himself. And if Rey was being honest, she didn’t want to know.

The music drifted through the air, soft and lilting at first, probably an old love song someone’s uncle had insisted on. People laughed and toasted and swirled around the dance floor. For once, there was no fear, no shadows, just… joy. Rey let the laughter soak in. The music. The smell of fresh flowers and the delicious scent of roasting meat from the long buffet tables.

She had smiled when Finn challenged her to a dance. She had laughed when Tali threatened to spike the champagne. She had even let Rose drag her into a group photo where they all had to wear ridiculous paper crowns, sunglasses and mustaches on popsicle sticks. But deep down, all she could think was that there was a piece of her missing. A piece shaped exactly like him.

Kuruk appeared at her elbow, offering a hand with a sheepish smile.

“May I have this dance?” he asked, a little stiff but so earnest it made her heart warm.

She smiled and stood, setting her glass aside. “Of course.”

Kuruk led Rey onto the dance floor, moving carefully. The air was warm with the scent of crushed petals and cologne, laughter and low conversations weaving around them like a net. Kuruk moved stiffly at first, careful, like he was afraid of hurting her or taking a wrong step. His hand was firm at her waist, but not heavy. His other hand holding hers with surprising gentleness, the way someone might hold something fragile – not because it was weak, but because it mattered. They swayed awkwardly for a few beats, laughing under their breath, and she let herself relax – just for a moment.

Kuruk chuckled as she nearly tripped over his foot. “Maybe I should’ve let you lead.”

“Probably,” she teased.

“Well, I’m gunna ask Blondie to dance after a few shots, so thank you for being my practice partner,” he pushed his lips together, cheeks reddening slightly.

Katie smiled knowingly.

“You think she’ll say ‘yes’?”

“She’d be out of her mind not to.”

He let out an embarrassed huff.

“Your ballet skills are definitely better, though,” she winked.

His smile disappeared at that. And Rey momentarily thought she had insulted him.

“I don’t think I ever apologized,” he said not meeting her eyes. “I’m so incredibly sorry, Rey.”

“What do you mean?” She asked.

“About not being able to…” he exhaled in deep shame. “For not protecting you.”

“Kuruk,” Rey blinked. “There is absolutely nothing to apologize for. We were ambushed. Tricked by… someone we trusted. Or at least never thought to be capable of something like that. You did everything right. Everything you could.”

“No, it never should’ve come to that,” he almost let her go. “I should’ve done more, I should’ve –”

“Stop,” Rey squeezed his hand that was still holding hers. “Kuruk, it's not your fault. You did everything right, OK? I’m here. You’re here. Everyone is here.”

“Not everyone,” he met her eyes now.

The song changed – slower, deeper.

“I know,” she gave him a sad smile.

They continued with the new rhythm and the dance floor filled up instantly. Many couples using the chance to slow dance in each other’s arms.

Kuruk leaned down, murmuring quietly, “You’re not gonna have to wait forever, you know.”

She blinked up at him, confused.

He smiled, slow and sure. “He’s coming back.”

The knot in her chest loosened just a little. “How do you know?” She whispered.

Kuruk shrugged lightly. “Because I know him. And because a guy doesn’t move heaven and earth for a girl just to walk away after. At least he wouldn’t.”

She barely noticed when a new hand touched Kuruk’s shoulder lightly. A quiet tap. A silent request. Kuruk stepped back instantly without a word, giving way. And when she turned, her breath caught in her throat. Ben. His beautiful dark eyes locked on her like he hadn’t breathed properly until he found her again. For a heartbeat, neither of them moved. The warm golden light caught the sharp lines of his face, the dark sweep of his hair, the slight stubble ghosting his jaw like he hadn’t bothered shaving for something as formal as a wedding. He wore a black suit – simple, no tie. The jacket open, just enough to look effortless, like he didn’t belong in stiff clothes but made them dangerous anyway.

And then she finally sucked in a breath at his eyes. God, those eyes. Dark and burning. Locking on her like she was gravity itself. Like the entire world had narrowed down to the space between them and he was holding onto it for dear life. There was something raw in them, something stripped bare. No walls, no armor, no distance. Just him. Standing there, asking without a word. She drank him in, the tension in his jaw, the tightness in his shoulders, the slight tremble in the hand he lifted toward her. The music blurred in her ears. The laughter and clinking glasses faded. All she could hear was his breathing. Steady and grounding. And the quiet, broken sound that slipped out of her as her heart cracked wide open.

She threw herself into his arms, hard enough that he stumbled back half a step, caught off guard. But he caught her, wrapping his arms around her so tight, so fiercely, like he could anchor her there with sheer force if he had to. She buried her face against his chest, clinging to his neck and shoulders like if she let go, the whole world would come crashing down again.

She felt him breathe out – a shaky, broken exhale that cracked against her ear. And then his hands were in her hair, at her back, everywhere, holding her just as desperately. Neither of them spoke. They didn’t have to. There were no words big enough for the grief and the relief and the love bleeding out of both of them.

“You’re here,” she finally got out.

“I’ll always find my way back to you,” he said solemnly. “In any life. In any world. In any galaxy,” he teased. “I’ll always find you.”

Tears blurred her vision, but she didn’t care.

“If you’ll have me,” he added.

“Always,” she whispered, her voice shaking through sobs. And then he gave her something she hadn’t seen before. A genuine smile. His teeth were on display and his dimples formed just for her. His arms tightened around her, like he could hold all the shattered pieces together.

“God, I missed you,” he whispered.

“I missed you more,” she grinned right back at him.

His hand left hers and his fingers curled under her chin, tilting her face up to his. His thumb brushed a tear from her cheek.

“You’re not alone,” he whispered, so soft only she could hear it.

Her chest caved in as she answered with a smile, “Neither are you. You never were. And you never will be.”

She surged up onto her toes, and he met her halfway, catching her face in his hands and kissing her like it hurt not to. The kind of kiss that wasn’t frantic or desperate. It was slow. Deep. Full of every word they hadn’t said, every promise they hadn’t been ready to make until now.

When they finally broke apart, he pressed his forehead against hers, breathing her in like someone who finally, finally made it home. And in that moment, she knew: Whatever came next, they’d face it the same way they were always meant to.

Together.

Always together.

Chapter Text

The sun was slipping low in the New Mexico sky, casting golden light through the windows and turning the dust motes into something almost magical. Their new apartment was small, the walls bare, the air still carrying that new-paint-and-cardboard scent, but to Rey it already felt like home.

She was on her knees in front of a freshly assembled bookshelf, sliding the last of her fantasy novels into place next to Ben’s. Her fingers lingered on the spines – old favorites worn at the edges, stories that provided magical worlds to escape into. Places she could travel to and dream. Now, they had a new home. Just as she did.
Behind her, Ben was shirtless, tugging the last of the boxes towards the wall, his thick, dark hair sticking to his forehead in wild waves. He blew loose strands out of his eyes with a huff, then straightened up, brushed his hands on his black jeans before pushing his hair back and glancing around the space.

“I think that’s the last of it,” he said.

Rey stood, brushing her palms on her baby blue leggings.

“This might be the best part of moving,” she said, admiring the bookshelf, a quiet smile tugging at her lips.

Ben walked over and nudged one of the shelves gently with his knuckle. “You built a shrine to dragons and morally gray fae High Lords.”

“And strong women who save themselves,” Rey added, giving him a sideways glance. “Don’t forget that.”

He chuckled – a low, warm sound that filled the room – before kissing her temple. “Never. How could I? I’m dating one,” he smirked, followed by a wink.

Her cheeks flushed, but she didn’t look away. They stood there for a moment in the quiet, both of them barefoot, tired, and strangely at peace.

“I still can’t believe you came with me to Albuquerque,” he said, quieter now.

Rey sighed, brushing a loose strand of chestnut brown hair behind her ear. “For the thousandth time, Ben, I didn’t choose you over my dreams. I’m getting everything I want. A degree in dance and being with you.”

“I still feel like I’m holding you back. You could’ve gone to Juilliard, UNCSA, Boston, San Fransisco …”

Rey wrapped her arms around his bare waist and stood on her tippy toes as a failed attempt to be at eye level with him. No matter how much she lifted her heels, he’d always tower over her.

“I told you once and I’ll tell you again. Or however many times you need for it to register in your head,” she poked his right temple, “I go where you go. You want to be closer to Kenton, understandably so. And I want to be near you, so University of New Mexico it is. Besides,” she dropped her heels back down to the floor, “I want my own studio one day, not stardom.”

Ben’s arms shifted as his hands stayed on her waist, “Alright, alright. I hear ya. Although, in my expert opinion you’d have the stuff for stardom. And then some.”

She placed a gentle, appreciative kiss on his full lips. “Thank you, but I don’t want that. I’m happy right here, with you.”

“Hmm,” he smiled onto her lips with a returning one.

Without breaking the kiss, she mumbled, “And if you think I’m only here because you paid for my tuition, instead of poking you, I will smack you upside that stubborn, pretty head.”

He snorted, backing up to look at her. “I don’t think anyone has ever called me pretty before.”

“Get used to it, Solo. Because you are,” she flicked the tip of his nose with her not-so-freshly-manicured nail.

Ben reached for her hand, his fingers rough but gentle. “And I want you to know that I never chose Kenton over you.”

She squeezed his hand in return. “I know that. But even if you did, I’d understand.”

“You’ll always be my priority, OK?” He moved their interlaced fingers under her chin, holding it in place to emphasize his declaration.

She nodded in acceptance, scrunching her nose at him.

Ben lowered their hands and kissed her forehead. “Good.”

From the window, the desert stretched out in soft pinks and golds, the mountains distant and patient. The light shifted over their faces, their joined hands, the shelves of books that had traveled with her like old friends. It wasn’t perfect – there were bills to pay, classes to start, hard days ahead – but it was theirs.

Since having left Hanna City, Ben was able to get his high school diploma – courtesy of the credit recovery course during the summer – and a job at a construction company close to Rey’s campus at UNM. The Knights were very displeased with Ben’s decision to leave the state, and therefore their territory. Meaning he was somewhat out of their protective reach. Officially, he was still their ‘master’, but Ben gave Cardo full command in his absence. They were still working out what to do with the brotherhood. For most of his Knights, the dissolution of the brotherhood would have too many devastating consequences. But he decided to keep his distance for the time being, and Rey knew they still had to be careful when it came to The First Order. Or its remnants. But for now, Ben was safe and away from that way of life.

“Wanna go celebrate with greasy food?” Ben asked, checking his phone that had vibrated, signaling a notification. “Maybe scout out a Chili’s?”

Rey smiled. “Please. I’m starving!”

After they both showered and got ready, they found a Chili’s not too far from their new apartment and plopped into a burgundy booth, ready to assuage their growling stomachs.

“OK, before you look at the menu – we both know what you’re gunna order anyway – I have a surprise for you,” Ben half-smirked at her, his strong arms resting on the table between them.

“Oh, really, smarty pants? What am I gunna order?” She cocked an eyebrow.

“Southwestern Egg rolls and the White Skillet Queso,” Ben crossed his arms triumphantly, knowing he was right.

Rey rolled her eyes, “Damn it.” She mirrored his posture, trying to mimic his level of cockiness. “Fine, what is this surprise?”

“Well, I won’t have enough time to explain it, but we won’t be eating alone tonight,” his eyes left hers, glancing at whatever was behind her.

Rey turned in her seat just as a body sunk into the booth, right next to her.

“Peanut!” She yelped.

Finn put his arm around her shoulders, grinning as though he wanted to show every single tooth in his mouth. She immediately hugged him back.

“What’re you –,” she started.

“We’re getting acclimated, duh!” Rose said as she came from behind Finn, reaching over him to hug Rey as well and then moving over to plop down next to Ben.

Rey genuinely didn’t know what to say or think.

“What do you mean acclimated?” Rey began her question just as Poe came to lean on the backrest of their booth with his hip, arms crossed.

“Well, we want to get acquainted with the place we’ll be living in for the next four years,” Poe answered for the group.

Rey looked between her friends and then at Ben whose sparkling dark eyes just watched her with silent delight.

“What?” Rey needed to hear it. Really have one of them spell it out for her so she’d believe it.

“We’re all moving here for college,” Rose obliged, ending her confusion.

Rey’s hands flew to cover her mouth, to stop herself from squealing like a piglet in the Chili’s they’d probably be frequenting the next few years.

“Finn, I thought you wanted to go to CU Anschutz like your parents?” Rey asked.

“Albuquerque as a medical school, Sherlock, I enrolled in UNM SOM,” Finn explained, nudging her teasingly.

“And I can get my B.A.Ed. at UNM, too,” Rose added.

They all looked at Poe, waiting for his contribution.

“Oh, yeah, I’m not going to college. At least not right now. I figured its cheaper rooming with this one,” he pointed his thumb towards Finn. “Plus, I’ve always wanted to see the Carlsbad caverns.”

Rey shook her head, huffing her amusement.

“You knew and didn’t tell me?” She directed her questioning at Ben now.

“Mmh,” he nodded with a proud half-smirk.

Rey bunched up her napkin and threw it playfully at that smirk.

“I mean c’mon Rey,” Rose rested her elbow on Ben’s shoulder, who gave her an answering grimace that she didn’t even notice. “That was always gunna be the plan. We graduate, then go to college together. The end.”

“Exactly, New Mexico needs doctors too,” Finn nodded in agreement.

“And I,” Poe paused for dramatic effect, “I don’t have a plan. So, I’ll go where you guys go. I’ll find a job somewhere. Maybe where you work, Ben.”

Ben raised his scarred eyebrow, “Uh, sure. Sagebrush Construction are always looking for people. I can ask.”

“Or…” Poe finally slid into the booth with Finn and Rey, “you start your own construction company.”

Ben’s eyes slid to Rey’s who couldn’t resist a knowing smile.

“Hmm, maybe,” he covered the hint of a smile with the same fist that his chin was propped on.

“See, everything will work out just the way it’s supposed to,” Rose grinned at each and every one of them.

Later that night, as they lay on the frameless mattress on the floor, Rey’s head rested on Ben’s bare chest which shifted as he reached to his bed side table to turn off the last lamp. She smiled into the darkness, finally feeling a sort of lightness. She felt as free as a feather being carried in the wind while simultaneously having the sense of security of being grounded.

She finally found her place. She was exactly where she was always meant to be.

“Ben,” She exhaled blissfully.

“Mmh.”

“Welcome home,” she smiled, closing her eyes.

He drew her in closer and kissed the top of her head. “Finally.”