A/N - Hi Lovelies.  These two...... what can I say?  I love them, but.... 😁.  This slow burn is still just a smoulder....but little flames are starting to break through.  Love first, right?  If you want smut now, go read my one-shot (LOL)!  Anyhoo, I hope you're still liking where this story is going.  Trust me, there's lots more to come!  Please feel free to let me know your thoughts - and hit the little star to show you like it!  Enjoy!

__________________***********************_____________________

Rey put her feet up on the couch and closed her eyes as she took a sip of her morning coffee, sighing out loud in contented bliss.  She enjoyed quiet mornings like this, where she could just relax on her own for a few minutes.  It was a bright and sunny day, Finn was still in bed, and she had absolutely nothing she had to do and no place she had to be – well, until later.  It was Boxing Day, and the world outside was still quiet – the background noise and general din of the city was muted in comparison to even a normal Sunday morning.

Christmas Day had come and gone as usual, with her and Finn spending the day at Obi and Anna's, opening their gifts and enjoying Anna's delicious turkey dinner.  It was a casual, homey affair that soothed Rey's recent turmoil over her relationship with Finn.  Afterward, Finn had helped Obi set up their new TV, while she and Anna had done the dishes and got ready to serve dessert.  It had given the two of them a chance to chat quietly.

"You and Finn seem to be getting along well."  Anna had remarked.

"Yes."  Rey had given her a small, tight smile.  "We had a really good heart to heart talk a few days ago, and things have been a little better since then.  Still a bit strained, but we've both agreed to try harder and to communicate better.  I think we're both on the same page now."  She whispered.

Anna smiled.  "That's good Susse."  She looked at Rey's face, noticing an odd look.  "Isn't it?"  She asked.

"Yes – of course."  Rey told her, before taking a breath.  "It just seems that we're so far from where we used to be.  I feel like it'll be a long way – and a lot of work to get back there."

Her adoptive mother stopped, placing her hand on Rey's arm.  "The best things always are Susse.  You already know that."

"I know.  I guess it just... makes me a little sad."

Anna contemplated her response, watching her face carefully.  "Are you sure that's it?"

Rey's eyes flicked to Anna's.  "What do you mean?"

"What does your heart tell you?"  She asked.

"I'm pretty sure that I want this to work out Anna.  We've been together for almost 3 years.  It would just seem like such a waste...."

Anna's brows shot upward.  "That sounds like your head talking – not your heart."  Rey kept silent, so Anna continued. "Susse, although it doesn't seem like it now - 3 years is nothing in the scheme of your life.  And it seems silly to keep doing something that doesn't make you happy, just because you've already spent a long time doing it."

Confusion was written on Rey's face as she asked frustratedly.  "What are you trying to tell me Anna?"

She took Rey's hands and looked at her very intently, telling her quietly.  "I only want you to be sure that this is what you really want – what's really right for you.  Obi and I – well – we just want you to be happy Susse.  And you just haven't seemed truly happy in a while."  She squeezed gently.  "If Finn is what you want – and makes you happy – we will support you 100%, and help you in any way that you need us.  But we know you.  You are stubborn – so don't let your head rule your heart.  Just be completely sure before you go so far down this road that you feel like you can't change course."

Rey was suddenly very interested in the kitchen counter, studying it intently.  Her eyes were slightly glassy when they flicked up to Anna's.  "I....."  Blowing out a breath, she'd given her another tight smile.  "Thank you Anna.  I'll think about what you said."

Gazing into her coffee cup, she mulled over Anna's words.  Did she truly not seem happy?  Even through the recent turmoil with Finn, she thought she'd felt generally happy.  They had great jobs - and great friends; even though life was busy, they'd just need to solve their relationship problems and life would be amazing once again.  Wouldn't it?

She was hopeful that their trip to the Bahamas would help with that.  Finn had seemed at least a little excited when he'd opened her gift, appearing to happily anticipate getting some tropical warmth, sand and sunshine in about six weeks time.  It was only a mere 4 day getaway, but it would just be the two of them, with no interruptions or demands from anyone else.  The trip should go a long way to helping them find that.... closeness they seemed to be missing of late.  Rey was definitely looking forward to it, and was putting a lot of faith in it to help restore their relationship.

However, Anna seemed to be hinting that maybe Rey wanted to fix things with Finn for the wrong reasons... Was that true?  She sighed.  She'd had this conversation with herself before. Was Finn really what she wanted for the future?  Could she really see herself married to him, with a couple of kids?  Closing her eyes, she once again tried to imagine their children – a little boy and a little girl with coffee-coloured skin – running into their bedroom squealing with glee – bouncing onto the bed and on top of the sleeping couple to wake them.

At first, the vision was hazy – almost appearing to be lost in a cloud of fog.  Soon however, it sharpened up and she began to smile.  As the kids bounced on the bed, they were greeted by a loud roar as their father shot up from under the covers and grabbed the both of them – one in each arm – playfully tackling them to the bed.

Rey almost dropped her coffee as her hands began to shake.  It wasn't Finn whose image had come to mind, but instead, unbidden, the picture in her mind was of someone else.  Someone with broader shoulders and a larger frame that took up oh so much more room in the bed.  The children's skin was not a deep, milk chocolate, but rather it was much, much lighter – almost pale - and their hair was the colour of the deepest midnight.

Holy fuck.

She blew out a shaky breath.  That was not what she'd expected.

Leaning her forehead onto her coffee mug, she thought about what she'd just envisioned.  Thinking about her future, her mind had gone to Ben – not Finn.  Her heart clenched in her chest.  She'd seen them with children.  Their children.  She swallowed the lump that suddenly appeared in her throat.  Why would she think of that?

She cared deeply for him – she was able to admit that to herself – and recognized that he was one of the most important people in her life.  She also knew that sometimes she felt things that she shouldn't for him, but on some level had chalked that up to her ongoing issues with Finn.  However, he saw himself as her friend only – she was certain he did – always referring to their friendship, never doing anything that might be considered inappropriate.  Deep down, she knew he never would.  She was with Finn, and even if he did feel something for her – and she was pretty sure he didn't – he simply had too much honor to do anything that crossed the line.

If he ever did do anything like that, what would she do? How would she react?  Her heart stuttered.  She honestly didn't know.

Yes, you do........

Thankfully, a groan from the bedroom broke her train of thought.  She could hear Finn stirring, followed by a muttered curse.  Curious, she got up to see what was going on.  She found him sitting on the side of the bed with his head in his hands.  "Good morning."  She said with a smile in her voice.

Turning to look at her, he groaned once again.  "Ugh.  I feel like shit."  He told her.

She immediately sobered, coming closer.  "What's wrong?"

"Head hurts.  Everything hurts."  He complained.

Placing a hand on his forehead, she pulled back suddenly.  "I'm pretty sure you have a fever.  Lie back down.  Let me get you some meds."

Finn dropped back down onto to the bed with another groan.  "Ow."

She came back a minute later with a glass of water and two little capsules.  "Here – take these, then try to go back to sleep.  I'll call Obi and Anna to let them know we won't be tagging along today for dinner at the Solo's."

"No – Rey. It's okay.  I'm probably just going to sleep all day.  I'll be fine – you go."  He told her.

"I am not leaving you here sick and alone."  She warned him sternly, hands on her hips.

"It's fine.  If I'm any worse off later you can call and tell them then – but for now, assume you're going.  Its your family Rey - you should be with them."  He told her softly, his eyes closed as he did so.

She regarded him silently.  Finn never mentioned it often – his own lack of a family.  But when he did, she couldn't help feeling sad for him.  He didn't even keep in touch with any of his foster parents – never really having connected with any of them.

Because of his circumstances, she would've expected him to have latched onto her family and made himself a part of it – but he really hadn't.  Rey knew that if their situations were reversed, that's exactly what she likely would have done – grabbed onto them and never let go.  However, everyone dealt with their issues differently.  She knew that he liked Obi and Anna, but he'd never really tried to get to know them beyond their polite visits.

When she'd mentioned the invite to dinner at the Solo's, she'd expected him to balk.  But instead, he just shrugged, and agreed to it – never even questioning why Obi and Anna had been invited.  At first, Rey just thought it was because of the awkwardness between them, but now she wasn't so sure.  She hadn't mentioned that her adoptive parents knew the Solos.....  Something had felt off about his easy acceptance of it, but she wasn't sure what – she just didn't want to push it.

She continued regarding him for a couple of minutes, eventually letting out a soft sigh.  "Okay Finn - fine.  But you'd better tell me if you start to feel any worse!"

"Don't worry – I will."

Leaning over, she stroked his forehead before brushing it with a soft kiss.  "Get some rest."  She told him as she tiptoed out of the room and closed the door.

****

Rey carefully tried to balance the items in her hands as she leaned over to ring the doorbell at the Solo home.  The Uber had just dropped her off and her hands were full with the pretty, multicoloured pointsettia she'd brought for Leia as well as her small purse and a bag that contained Ben's gift and a bottle of wine.

She'd left Finn dozing in the bedroom at 4 o'clock, after bringing him some soup and toast, leaving strict instructions to text or call her if he started to feel any worse.  Before he'd nodded off, he'd told that he felt exactly the same as in the morning – no better, no worse, and to go enjoy herself.

The door opened after 15 seconds and Leia's happy face appeared.  "Rey!  Merry Christmas!  Come in!"  Looking around her, she asked.  "You're alone?"

"Yes, I'm so sorry.  Finn isn't feeling well.  He's home in bed with a fever – but insisted I come anyways."  She said apologetically.  "This is for you."  She said, handing Leia the flower.

"Oh, thank you – its beautiful."  She admired it briefly before looking back at Rey.  "Too bad your Finn couldn't come – I really would've liked to have met him.  It's okay though, Ben is also alone as Kay couldn't make it either, so you can keep each other company."

Something must have flickered across Rey's face briefly, because Leia leaned over to whisper conspiratorially.  "I know dear.  It bugs me too."

Rey just looked at her in mild confusion, before blushing slightly and whispering.  "It hurts him."

Leia leaned closer and hugged her once again, whispering back.  "You're right – it does."  When she let her go, she looked at Rey meaningfully, just as Han came into the foyer, followed by Ben.

Rey could see Ben's brows crinkle as he looked around, realizing that Finn wasn't with her.

"Rey!  It's so great to see you again."  Han said, coming forward to give her a brief kiss on the cheek.  "Your parents are already here – and were just talking about you."

"Oh?"  She asked.

"Don't worry – all good stuff."  He winked at her.  "They're just really proud of you."

Turning to Ben, he looked at her questioningly as she stepped toward him to say hi.  "Hey."  He said, giving her a quick kiss on the cheek.  "You came alone?  Where's Finn?"

"Sick."  She replied, seeing his eyes narrow.  "He's got a fever – and aches – and stuff like that."

"Okay."  He said, suspicion in his voice.

Her eyes narrowed back at him in turn.  "He really is sick Ben.  Where's Kay?"  She challenged, annoyed that he was immediately distrustful of Finn.

He looked away quickly.  "She.... couldn't make it."  Flicking his eyes back to hers, he could see the solitary brow she'd raised at him.  "Touche."  He said quietly.

Taking his hand, she tugged on it gently.  "I'm sorry.  I....didn't mean to do that."

"Yeah, me neither."  He took a deep breath and gave her a regretful smile as they walked into the living room.  "Did you Uber here?"  He asked.  When she gave him a little nod, he whispered back in frustration.  "You should've called me – I could've picked you up."

"It's fine Ben.  I thought you'd be with Kay – and I didn't want to impose."  She shrugged.  Seeing Obi and Anna, she walked over and gave them each a big hug.

Ben took a deep breath to clear his head.  He didn't know why he was annoyed with her.  His emotions were on edge tonight; glad she was here, but pissed that Finn wasn't with her.  At this point, he just expected it from Kay, but not Finn.  If the guy was sick, then fine – but recent history had shown that he'd lied and bailed before when he didn't want to go somewhere with Rey.  He sighed to himself, once again swallowing down his annoyance.  He was being petty – for no reason.  Shaking his head, he turned his attention back to Rey.

Ben introduced her to his Uncle Luke and his girlfriend Mara, whom Leia had also invited.  Rey immediately liked Mara, who seemed down to earth in a nonchalant sort of way.  Her smile when she glanced at Ben's uncle was positively radiant.  Glancing over at Luke, she could see the expression on his face - the affection for Mara plain to see, and it melted her heart.  Those two are definitely in love.  She thought.  Just then, Leia stuck her head into the room from the kitchen and ordered Ben to get Rey something to drink.

"Wine would be great, thanks."  She told him thankfully.

A couple of minutes later he returned, handing her a glass of red wine, and sat next to her on one of the sofas that adorned the room.  They sat quietly for a few minutes, listening to the conversation that was ongoing between the 5 old friends.

"I should go help Leia."  Rey told him.

He just shook his head.  "She told me to tell you or Anna that she'd throw you out of the kitchen if you tried.  She has everything under control."

"Okay."  She rolled her eyes and took a sip of her wine.  "How was your Christmas?"  She asked.

"It was good."  He replied.  "Same as usual – at Kay's parents on Christmas Eve and here yesterday."

She smiled teasingly as she quipped.  "Was Santa good to you?"

He rolled his eyes and smirked back.  "Yes.  I got an antique calligraphy set from my parents, and Kay got me some new ties and a tie clip.  How about you?"

Shrugging, she replied.  "Same - good.  Obi and Anna got me an e-reader and Finn got me a book I've been wanting as well as a new wireless mouse and an external hard drive."  She laughed sarcastically, teasing.  "He's such a romantic."

He laughed along with her.  "Hey – practical gifts are never a bad thing."

"I know.  He knew I needed them – but I have to admit that sometimes it would be nice to get something impractical from him."  She said quietly.

"Hmmm."  He intoned with an odd smile.  "I wouldn't have pegged that as being important to you."

"Its not."  She said, shaking her head on a sigh.  "Its just that...."  She blew out a breath.  "...every once in awhile...."  She stuttered, looking away.  "Oh fuck, never mind."

Leaning over he gently nudged her shoulder with his own.  "Hey.  I'm sorry.   I was just teasing.  Believe me, I know what you're trying to say.  Every once in awhile its nice to be given something that makes you feel....special."

Their eyes caught and held, as she nodded, smiling.  "Yes. Exactly."  He understood.

Leia called out, breaking the sudden mood between them.  "Okay everyone, dinner is on the table."

She shepherded everyone into the dining room, pointing out where each should sit.  Han and Luke were placed at either end of the table, with Mara and Leia to each of their sides.  Obi was seated on the other side of Han, with Anna in the middle beside Mara.  Ben was next to Luke, with Rey between Ben and Leia.  Even though there were 8 of them, the setting was intimate, and allowed for conversation between all of them.  Rey whispered to Leia.   "This is perfect Leia.  What would you have done if Finn and Kay had come?"

Leia whispered back.  "The table has another leaf – I took it out because it wouldn't have been as cozy.  This way we can talk comfortably without having to raise our voices."

Throughout the evening, Ben and Rey just sat back and watched the old friends catch up and reminisce.  The two of them kept exchanging amused glances as the friends laughed and bantered with each other as if it hadn't been a decade since they'd last seen each other – all of them behaving as if it were just yesterday.

After dinner, they all moved back to the living room, the lost friends relaxing and continuing to chat – still catching up and reconnecting after such a long time without any contact.  After a few minutes, Ben nudged her.   "Come with me?"  He asked quietly.

"Where are we going?"  She whispered.

"My old room."  He explained.  "I....have something for you."

She smiled back at him knowingly.  "I have something for you too."

The two of them quietly left the room, unaware of the number of eyes that silently watched them as they departed.  Rey stopped in the foyer to grab Ben's gift from her bag, smiling at him again before following him up the stairs.  He led her into a medium sized room off of the top of the stairwell.  It was painted in grey tones, looking tastefully masculine without being over the top.  A couple of items that clearly belonged to a pre-teen boy – some Lego creations and school crafts - were scattered around the room, but not much else.

"This doesn't seem like a teenaged boy's room."  She teased.

"It wasn't."  He stuttered.  "I lived here for a couple of years....after Snoke."

Her eyes met his and she gave him a sad smile.  "Oh.  That makes sense then."  She wandered around the room, noting the absence of many of the typical, personal items one would find in a childhood abode.  "No memories left over from your teenaged years in here?"

"No."  He said haltingly.  "They weren't good ones.  So I wanted them gone."  Taking a breath, he continued.  "The few things you see were from before..."

"I'm sorry Ben."  She told him.

"For what?"  He asked.

She took a step closer and looked up into his eyes, which clearly showed his discomfort.  "For the young man who had the tail end of his childhood stolen from him."

He gave her a curt nod, moving to sit on the bed and patting the space beside him.  She sat down and held out the gift to him.  "Merry Christmas Ben."  As usual, his deeply expressive eyes flicked up to hers.  Tonight, they were a light whiskey colour, holding a hint of curiosity.  "I....saw it and thought of you.  I...couldn't resist."  She said nervously, twisting her hands.  "If you don't like it, I can return it...."  She swallowed.

His eyes softened, and his lip quirked up in one corner.  "Why are you so nervous?"  He asked, his voice laced with amusement.

She wiped her suddenly sweaty palms on her thighs.  Why was she so nervous?  It was just a Christmas gift – wasn't it?  It was a watch for God's sake!  A really nice, expensive watch – but still just a watch.  But something deep inside her seemed to tell her that it was so much more....

He'd continued to study her, watching the emotions and nerves play across her face.  Looking down at the small, wrapped box, his heart fluttered with happiness.  She'd got him a gift too. Glancing back up at her, he smiled again.  He always seemed to smile around her.  He wasn't like that with others – just her, and his family.  She always seemed to give him a reason to smile. She probably doesn't even realize that....

Tearing off the wrapping, he tossed it aside and lifted the lid off of the box.  Seeing what was inside, his heart stopped, and a tingling feeling suddenly shot through him.  It was the watch. The watch.  The one he'd wanted.  He'd seen it while Christmas shopping for Rey, and for some reason had been drawn to it.  He'd briefly considered buying it for himself, but it was a bit expensive – almost $1,500, and he just couldn't justify it.  His business was doing well, but wasn't that successful – yet.  He had promised himself though, that he would buy it for himself as a celebratory gift if he took his company national, and opened offices in LA and New York. How in the hell had she known?

Rey watched him gaze at the watch in what looked like stunned shock.  She began to squirm uncomfortably as he continued to stare at it.  "Um.  Like I said....I can return it if you don't like it."

Her voice broke the trance he seemed to be in and he finally looked up at her.  "No.   Rey, that's not it.  I love it.  I really do.  Its absolutely perfect."  He swallowed thickly.  "But I can't accept this."  He said regretfully.

"Oh."  She said, confused, her heart squeezing.  She'd been so excited to give it to him – its why she'd been nervous, so her voice was sad when she asked.  "I don't understand.  Why not?"

He was staring back down at it again.  "Its too much Rey.  Too expensive.  I can't let you do that."

Her eyes widened in understanding before her face shifted to smug chagrin.  "Really?  Come on Ben, its not like it's a $4,000 Breitling or anything like that.  Like I told you – as soon as I saw it, I wanted – no, I needed to buy it for you.  I could literally picture it on your wrist.  Every successful CEO needs an impressive watch!"  She smirked.  "I....I know it's a little expensive for a Christmas gift....but....it was on sale."  She shrugged helplessly.  "I don't spend that much of my money – I have lots of savings.  Please Ben – if you really do like it, don't make me return it – not because of the money – it probably wasn't as much as you think."  She said unapologetically.

Still marveling over her gift, he inhaled deeply, swallowing the lump that had formed in his throat.  He was still baffled.  How had she found the one thing – the one thing – that he'd actually wanted?  Did they simply know each other that well – or was fate – those cosmic forces that Uncle Luke spoke about - intervening – trying to tell him something.  He had a feeling it was those damn forces.  They seemed to be interfering more and more of late.  He should probably listen to them then.....

Rey watched as he stared and stared at the watch, uncertain as to what was going through his head.  Afraid that he was going to continue to fight her on it, she continued her empassioned entreaty, trying to inject some logic into her plea.  "Ben.  You're one of the most important people in my life.  And I just wanted to show you that.  Its got nothing to do with the money – and everything to do with how perfect that watch is for you.  It felt perfect from the minute I laid eyes on it.  Even you said it was perfect."  She sighed once again.  "But if you're that uncomfortable with it....I'll return it.  It'll break my heart, but I'll return it."

His eyes flicked up to hers once more.  He was still shaken, but knew there was no way he would ever turn it down now.  "I love it."  He said quietly, his heart still pounding furiously in his chest.  "I really do.  I'm sorry I was an ass, and made such a big deal over it.  I should've just said thank you and accepted it graciously.  You have no idea how much this means to me.  You really did buy me the perfect gift – and I'll treasure it, always."

Rey's face it up, transformed by a huge, relieved grin.  "I knew it!   I knew it was perfect!  Something told me that it was!"  Leaning closer, she threw herself at him in a happy hug.

He laughed, dropping his head to her shoulder.  "Thank you."  He whispered.  "Sometimes, I really am an ass."  He gave her a squeeze.  "Every time I look at it, I'll think of you."

A warm feeling of rightness flowed through her.  "I am soooooo glad you like it!"  She grinned at him again.  "But...why did you...?"

He shook his head on a deep sigh as he released her.  He couldn't tell her – she'd freak out.  It was just too weird.  "I'm really sorry."  He stressed.  "I ruined that moment – your moment.  Can we please just forget it?  I....can't explain why I reacted like that."  He smiled and leaned forward to give her a chaste kiss on her cheek.  "But I promise, I really do love it.  Thank you."

Removing the watch from the box, he slipped it onto his wrist and closed the clasp.  Holding out his arm, he proudly showed her.  "It's great.  Fits perfectly.  No adjustments required."

She grinned back, reaching over to run her fingers over it.  "It looks amazing Ben – like it belongs there.  I knew it!"

The light brush of her fingers on his hand and wrist sent a tingle up his arm.  He huffed out a breath and pushed the feeling away, giving her a small nod and a smirk.  Still watching her, he turned slightly to pull open a drawer on the night table.  When he swiveled back, he was holding out a small box wrapped in red paper with a gold bow.  "Merry Christmas, Rey."  Giving her a chagrined look, he said quietly.  "Hopefully your reaction will be much more tactful than mine."

Smiling brightly, she took the gift from his hand, saying pointedly but playfully as she laughed.  "Thank you Ben."

He rolled his eyes at her intentionally patronizing tone.

Ripping off the paper indelicately, she popped the lid off of the small box and gasped.  Her eyes flicked up to his in brief surprise, then back down to the box.  Inside, was a small pendant suspended from a silver chain.   The pendant was fashioned in the shape of a small, three-dimensional atom.  It was delicate and stunning, with a dark, turquoise blue, opaque stone in the center, and small, white crystal electrons, suspended on graceful, silver ellipsoid orbits.  To describe the jeweled setting sounded cheesy – but effect of the design was strikingly exquisite to her.  The 'electrons' caught the light and sparkled brilliantly, as if lit with an inner fire, and combined with the blue of the crystal nucleus in the center, set it off perfectly.  It was impressive and dazzling to her, and it was from Ben. She loved it.

"Oh Ben!  It's so beautiful!"  She whispered reverently.   Her eyes were glassy when they met his.  "I love it."  She gave him a tremulous smile.  "Its absolutely perfect!"

She felt overwhelmed.  Her heart was stuttering frantically with....something that she couldn't name, and her eyes were softly luminous as she gazed at him in both wonder and appreciation. No one had ever given her anything like this before.  No one.  Oddly enough, not even Finn.   It was her turn to lean towards him and kiss his cheek.  "It's the most beautiful thing anyone has ever given me, Ben.  Thank you."

His own heart stuttered again as he watched her teary reaction to the gift.  She was studying the pendant intensely, looking at the facets of the stones, smiling when she noticed something particularly interesting about it or something she liked.

As soon as he'd seen it, he'd known it was the gift for her.  He knew that she didn't wear much jewellery, but it just seemed to be so.....her.  From afar, it looked like a delicate flower.  But when you looked closer, you could see that it was indeed an atom.   He knew it was perfect for her.  Atoms held immense power – more than a bomb - and they were strong – almost unbreakable.  That was exactly how he saw Rey.

Now that his shock over the watch had abated somewhat, he felt even more awful about his reaction to her gift.  He was such a hypocrite – claiming that it had been about the money – when in reality he'd just been so shocked and oddly terrified by the magnitude of the sheer coincidence – which simply couldn't be a coincidence - that his brain had short circuited, and he'd said something stupid.  His gift to her was probably just as expensive as the watch.  The chain and pendant were actually white gold, while the center stone was a raw blue diamond and the tiny electrons were small white diamonds.

"Would you help me put it on?"  She asked, removing it from the box and gently caressing it before holding it out to him.  Shifting slightly, she gathered her hair and moved it off of her neck to give him access.

He stared back at her for a few seconds, the intimacy of the requested task causing his heart to pound slightly.  He nodded, before adding.  "I'll try.  My fingers might be too big and clumsy though."  He murmured quietly.  Taking the delicate necklace from her hands, he brought it over her head to her neck, and connected the clasp.  Still pretending to fidget with it, he took a minute to admire the delicate column of her neck and the curve of her shoulder, lightly brushing his fingers along it, trying to make it seem as if he accidentally did it while fastening the pendant.  He wasn't sure, but he thought he may have felt her shiver at his touch.  He sighed.  He shouldn't have done that.  It was wrong... He felt like a complete shit again – but it was as if he just couldn't help himself.

Rey gulped to try to loosen the sudden tightness in her throat.  A small shiver coursed through her at the feel of his fingers brushing over a sensitive spot at the back of her neck, and she took a deep breath to collect herself.  She was touched by the gift, happy that he'd thought of her, and amazed that he'd found something that was so wonderful and completely perfect - for her.

Turning back towards him, she brought her hand up to touch the pendant.  The chain was long enough that it dangled just below her throat at the top of her chest.  "Its absolutely beautiful Ben.  I have never owned any jewellery as exquisite as this.  Thank you so much."  She smiled sweetly, giving him another hug.  "I'll cherish it forever."  She vowed.  "It's a wonderful and thoughtful gift."  Taking a breath, she whispered, her eyes teary once more.  "It makes me feel....very special."

Ben's eyes shot to hers, emotions suddenly roaring through him.  Taking a deep breath, he tamped them down and gave her a genuine smile.  "Good.  I'm glad.  You deserve that."

Reaching out, she took his hand and gently squeezed.  "You do too, Ben."

His lips thinned, and he gave her a small nod, getting up from the bed and extending his hand to her.  "We should get back.  Everyone is probably wondering where we've gone."

"Okay."  She hesitated, getting up to stand in front of him.  "Ben?"

He raised a brow in question as he looked down at her.  "Merry Christmas."  She said softly, stepping forward to embrace him in another hug.

He sighed deeply, closing his eyes in contentment.  "Merry Christmas Rey."

****

A couple of hours later that evening they were in the car, headed back into the city. Both were strangely quiet, lost in their own thoughts.

Ben was thinking back to their gift exchange, still a little bit awed over everything that had happened.  The fact that she'd felt somehow compelled to buy him the very watch he'd wanted – out of hundreds of possibilities, was simply too much to comprehend.  He'd definitely have to try to discuss it with his Uncle sometime soon, without revealing too much.  The last thing he needed was his nosy Uncle Luke questioning his relationship with his best friend.

Glancing over at her, he could see that she too was also lost in thought, and he sighed.  Not wanting to disturb her, his thoughts drifted back to the rest of their evening.

When they'd gone downstairs, everyone had asked where they'd disappeared to.  They'd both tried to nonchalantly mention that they'd had some gifts to exchange, blushing in the process.  Of course, everyone had asked to see them – so they'd reluctantly showed them the watch and the necklace.  Han had whistled quietly, eyeing first Ben, and then Rey with an odd look.  "Those are some pretty trinkets."

They'd both shrugged, trying to brush off the comment, but Han had seemed unconvinced.  "I guess they're a nice token of your friendship, right?"  Han said, a teasing note in his voice.

Ben had shot a swift warning look at his father, and Leia had quickly interjected.  "Han!  Leave them alone!  I think they're very nice gifts."  She'd said, giving Ben an apologetic smile for his father's behavior.

Afterward, his Uncle Luke had pulled him aside.  "It's been a few weeks since you've come by the studio."  He'd remarked casually.

"I've been busy."  Ben had replied, his voice a little defensive.

Luke's brow had raised in question.  "Do you not want to continue with any more lessons?"

"I.....yes, I still do."  He said abashedly.

"Good."  Luke nodded.  "I think there is a lot I can teach you Ben, if you'll let me."

Ben looked at his Uncle, sorry he'd stayed away.  He really had been busy these last few weeks.  "I'll come by this week."

Luke had smiled fondly.  "I look forward to it."  Leaning closer, he whispered.  "Any progress on finding out about....things?"  He asked, glancing surreptitiously at Rey.

"Yes.  A little.  I'll tell you more when I come by in a few days."

"You're being extremely cautious, right?  There can be no slip ups Ben.  Her safety may be at stake."  He warned.

Ben frowned.  "Don't you think I know that?  I still have my old connections – and they're careful – they live by it – operating anonymously on the dark web and other nefarious corners.  These people are pros.  Rest assured, there will be no slip ups."

"Good.  We can try to figure out the next moves when we talk again this week."

Ben rolled his eyes.  "No offense, but I am a strategist.  I don't need your help for this, Uncle."

"In this case Ben, yes you do.  Trust me.  Please - let me help you."  He'd implored.

Studying his uncle carefully, he'd given him a curt nod, getting a pat on the shoulder in return before walking away.

Rey looked across at Ben in the driver's seat.  He seemed distracted – lost in thought.  She wondered what was preying so deeply on his mind after such a nice visit.

Hers was still softly thrumming with happiness.  It had been a wonderful evening.  She'd watched her adoptive parents joyfully reconnect with old friends, had another fantastic meal, and she was able to spend some time with Ben.

Recalling their gift exchange, she smiled.  He'd clearly been overwhelmed by her gift.  She'd known that watch was perfect.  Something about it had almost called to her, and despite the price, she'd just had to buy it.  And he had loved it – she was certain of it.  She wasn't lying, she really didn't spend a lot of the money she earned, beyond splitting the cost of rent and food with Finn, so she'd managed to save a lot of money in the past couple of years.  Although it seemed like a lot, it was easily an extravagance she could afford.  And she had really wanted him to know how important he is to her – had almost felt compelled to let him know....in case he didn't truly understand.....

Her heart warmed when she thought of his gift to her, and she absentmindedly fingered it at her neck.  It was so beautiful.  She couldn't even put into words what it meant to her.  He'd given her something she'd cherish – something special.  It almost felt as if she now had a part of him with her all the time.  She'd probably rarely take it off.

Rey heard Ben sigh deeply beside her.  "You seem preoccupied."  She observed.  "What are you thinking about?"

He gave her a brief glance.  "Just...everything."  He said cryptically.

She smirked.  "Everything......about what?"

"Just.....today."  His gaze flicked to hers and then back to the road.  "It was nice to see your parents reconnect with mine – and my Uncle."

Smiling, she replied.  "It was, wasn't it?  Do you think they'll stay in touch now?"

He nodded.  "Yes.  People tend to value friendships more as they age.  I think they feel their mortality creeping up on them."

Rey blanched.  "Don't say that!  Obi and Anna are only in their mid-sixties!"

Hearing the real fear in her voice, he immediately apologized.  "I'm sorry Rey.  I didn't mean to say...I...I'm sure they'll live for many more years."

She blew out a breath.  "I'm sorry too – I may have overreacted.  I just....I can't think of them not being here...."  He could hear her inhale deeply before quietly continuing.  "They told me that I used to have nightmares – after my parents died – about being left alone.  I guess that somewhere deep inside it still bothers me."

"You're not alone." He said quietly.  "You never will be."

"Neither will you."  She replied.

Reaching over, he gave her a small smile and squeezed her knee gently.  "Don't worry – they are still young – they'll be around for a long while yet."  He paused.  "Sometimes I really do say stupid things."

"No.  You're just real."  She smiled mischievously.  "Like your mother, you don't bullshit about anything.  I love that.  It's so refreshing."  Pausing, she continued.  "So many people are so full of shit these days.  It drives me crazy."

His voice was laced with amusement as he smirked back at her.  "Me too."

Ben pulled up to the curb as Rey realized they'd already reached her apartment.  Turning to look at him, she took a deep breath.  "Home sweet home."  She grinned.

"How are....things?"  He asked cryptically.

"Better."  She smiled.  "We talked it out a bit.  There's still a long way to go though."  She looked up at him nervously.  "And I have to go away for two weeks in the 2nd week of January.  I'm training my new assistant....but I suspect he's going to be pissed at a two week trip so early in the year."

His expression tightened, but he just regarded her silently, so she added.  "The good thing is, once the new guy is fully trained, I shouldn't have to travel as often, and when I do, the trips hopefully won't be as long."

"I'm sure Finn will understand – this trip is a step you need to complete in order to get there."

"Exactly!"  She agreed excitedly.  She stared at him for a few more seconds.  "I should go."  She added quietly, suddenly seeming shy.  "Thank you again, for the necklace.  I love it."

"You're welcome Rey.  I'm glad you like it.  It just seemed so...you."  He looked down at his wrist.  "And I love the watch too.  Thank you."  He blushed.  "I thought I'd keep it simple this time."

She laughed as she leaned over and gave him a hug.  "You're welcome.  And thanks for the ride." Opening the door, she glanced back at him.  "I'll see you Friday at the Gala."

"Yes.  Tell Finn I hope he feels better."

"I will."  She replied, and gave him a small wave.  "'Night Ben."

"Good night, Rey."  He stayed there watching until she was safely inside before pulling away and heading home.