A/N - Hi all the Lovelies out there!  Sorry for the late update - I've been struggling with a beatch of a chapter that has bugged me for a month (not this one) and I think I've finally gotten over the hump! Hopefully everything will go much more smoothly from here on in.  This chappie moves things along a bit (ok, just a bit)... I hope you like it!  Please let me know your thoughts, comments, complaints - and don't forget to hit the little star to vote!  Enjoy!

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It had been a relatively uneventful trip home, Ben mused morosely as they sat in a cab on the way back from the airport.  They'd quietly relaxed on the plane, with Rey watching a movie and him reading a book for most of the flight.  She'd once again softly held his hands and talked him through the take-off and landing, making it feel painless for him.  How could it not be when he was completely focused on her face as she whispered to him, all the while staring into her eyes, thinking about how much he just wanted to kiss her.

He let out a soft sigh.  After what felt like a glorious few days, he was definitely sad to be coming home.  Although he had a lot to do over the next few weeks, a tight feeling had settled in his chest at his impending separation from Rey.  The thought of being away from her for so long was weighing heavy on his mind, creating a growing sense of panic within him.  Their separation wasn't the end of the world per se, but the timing suddenly felt so wrong it left a bad taste in his mouth.

They'd grown so close these past few days, almost constantly touching; either holding hands, embracing or something as simple as placing his hand on her lower back as he guided her to their dining table.  Neither of them had seemed to mind; and neither of them had said anything.  So they both just kept doing it.

Even upon waking that morning, he'd been surprised to find them wrapped in each other's arms – almost exactly how they'd fallen asleep.  Rey's head had been nestled comfortably in the nook just below his collarbone, with her arm thrown over his torso.  He couldn't help but feel that she had fit perfectly in that space – tucked up into him.  His arm had still been wrapped around her shoulder, neither having moved much while they'd slept.  It had gone numb at some point in the night, but he didn't care.  He'd woken refreshed and happy – surprisingly not sporting a hard-on, considering their proximity – just content to have her snuggled so close.

He recalled everything about those few minutes, knowing that the memory of it would sustain him in the coming weeks.  Initially, her eyes had shown shock upon fluttering open to find herself wrapped in his arms, quickly trying to pull away from him.  "Ben?"  She'd asked confusedly, clearly also having been sleeping very deeply.  "What's happening?  Why are we...?"

"Ssshhhhh."  He'd whispered, tightening his hold on her.  His heart was pounding, afraid that she was going to suddenly bolt and end this perfect feeling, so he'd quickly tried to soothe her.  "It's okay.  We must have drifted off like this last night.  Remember, you were...upset.....so I...hugged you?"

"Oh."  She'd blushed, laying her head back down and burying deeper into his chest.  "Yeah."  She replied, settling down and no longer making an effort to move out of his arms.

"Are you feeling okay this morning?"

She'd lifted her head again and given him a soft smile, her eyes clear and happy as they'd looked into his.  She hadn't seemed frightened or annoyed to find herself so close to him, instead snuggling even closer.  "Mmmm.  Yes - I'm good."  She'd mumbled sleepily.  "This is nice.  And you're warm."  She'd sighed.  "I don't think I've ever slept that deeply before.  I must've been completely out."

"Same here."  He'd rumbled deeply, giving her a small squeeze.

How in the hell was he ever going to sleep without her again after waking up to that?

He remembered thinking how much he'd wanted to stay in that moment, contentedly laying there with her in his arms.  However, as much as he'd wanted to remain like that forever, he'd suspected that they'd slept a bit too long.  Sighing, he regretfully prodded her.  "We should get up.  I think we may have overslept."

"Shit!"  She'd cursed, sitting up quickly, grabbing her phone.  Those few minutes of absolute bliss ended so abruptly he'd almost groaned aloud.  "Okay – we're still good.  It wasn't too long.  I'd like to go for one more morning walk on the beach.  Want to come with?  We'll make it short and then grab breakfast before checking out and catching the shuttle."

"Sure."  He'd replied, glad to spend even a few more minutes with her in paradise.

He'd cherished that last walk on the beach with her in the morning sunlight – her skin practically glowing and her smile sparkling back at him like the dappled light that shimmered on the water.  That wide smile had continued throughout breakfast as she ate their last vacation meal with gusto, stuffing herself with waffles slathered with peanut butter, fresh fruit, whipped cream and topped off with a sprinkle of chocolate chips.  He'd just shaken his head and rolled his eyes, laughing at the strange combination as he'd eaten his eggs benny.

Coming out of his reverie, he turned to gaze at Rey silently staring out of the window.  The cab travelled along the relatively quiet streets, nearing the downtown core.  It was late on a Sunday afternoon, so there were fewer cars on the road than normal.

"Hey – you okay?"  He asked quietly.

She turned and gave him a sad smile, nodding.  "Yes.  Almost home.  Our adventure is pretty much at an end."  Her mouth scrunched up ruefully.  "I guess I'm just a bit sad."

"Me too."  He replied.  "I said it before, but I really mean it – I had an amazing time.  It was good to get away with you.  It was a lot of fun – and I'll never forget it."

"Yeah."  She smiled gently, a hint of regret still showing on her face.  "It was fun, wasn't it?"  Her eyes lit up. "Maybe we should do it every year?  Go somewhere like that....well, if we don't have significant others who might not like it....or fuck it....we can all go together like we used to when we were with Finn and Kay."

His eyes crinkled back at her.  Hopefully by next year they'd be each other's significant other..... "I'd like that."

"Then it's a plan!"  Her gaze softened a little.  "Do you have a lot to do tonight, to get ready for tomorrow?"

"Not really."  He replied.  "Most everything is already packed in my larger suitcase and garment bag. I do have to do a bit of laundry though.  Everything else is all set."

"When's your flight?"  She asked.

"9:00 AM.  Are you still flying out tomorrow too?"

"Yes."  She replied.  "The assistant sent my ticket today.  My flight's at 9:45."

"Oh.  Why don't we share an aerocar then?  It might be a few minutes earlier than you would've left, but...."

She smiled back at him, her heart stuttering, realizing that she'd get to see him one last time in the morning before they departed.  The idea soothed the ache in her chest just a little.  "Sure.  I'd like that.  We can grab breakfast at the airport."

"Okay.  I'm getting picked up at 6:30, so lets say 6:45?"

"Perfect.  It's a plan."

As the taxi got closer to Rey's apartment, Ben could feel a sense of panic creeping up on him.  He'd known that this was coming, but suddenly, he didn't want to be away from her.  "It's going to feel a bit weird, suddenly being alone again - in my apartment tonight."

"I know what you mean."  She replied.  "We've practically been living in each other's pockets for the past few days!  It'll be....too quiet, I think."

He just nodded, unable to say anything against the lump that had formed in his throat.

"You know...."  She began in a leading tone.  "We do actually co-habitate pretty well.  Maybe....."  She stuttered, biting her bottom lip.  "Shit.  Nevermind.  That's a terrible idea."

"What?"  He asked, and she shook her head.  "Say it.  Whatever it was, Rey – just say it.  I'm really curious now."

She suddenly seemed a bit nervous, her eyes darting around to land anywhere but on his.  "Well....I was just thinking that....I mean...I don't actually need a roommate – and I know you don't either...but, well, maybe..."  Her eyes finally met his, her bottom lip still trapped between her teeth.

His eyes almost popped out of his head at what he thought she might be implying.  "Rey, are you suggesting that we should move in together?"

"I know – its stupid.  Forget I said anything."  She replied quickly.

"No – wait.  Its not stupid.  I think we'd be good.....roommates."  He said encouragingly, his inner voice shouting YES!  Very ecstatically.

Her eyes also widened in surprise at his response.  "Really?  You'd think about it?  Maybe when you get back...?"

"Definitely.  Let's talk about it more when I'm back."  His smile was beatific as he reached out and squeezed her hand.  His heart was pounding frantically in his chest.  She wanted to live with him.....

"Okay.  It might be a pain in the ass for both of us to move though...so it would really need to be worth it.  It would have to be a great place – near both our offices...."  She trailed off, her mind already thinking about it.

"Move?"  He asked stupidly.

"Of course."  She looked at him in amusement.  "Neither of us are currently in a 2 bedroom."

"Oh."  His inner balloon of happiness suddenly popped.  "Of course."  Duh he chided himself.

She looked at him oddly, before shaking her head and smiling.  "There's no rush though.  We've got lots of time to think about it – and talk about it – once you get back."

Glancing back outside, she realized that the cab was pulling up at the curb in front of her building.  The driver immediately hopped out after popping the trunk, then went around to open Ben's door.  Ben unfolded himself from the car and extended his hand to help her step out.  "I'll help you carry your bag upstairs."  He said deeply.

"You don't need to."  She said, shaking her head.  "Its not that heavy."

"Too bad."  He told her, grabbing the suitcase, telling the driver he'd be back in 2 minutes.  She rolled her eyes but stayed silent as she followed him into the building and up the stairs.

When they reached her apartment, Rey unlocked the door and held out her hand for her luggage.  Ben gently nudged her out of the way and set it down just inside of her doorway, causing her to roll her eyes once again.  They were both silent for a few seconds, unsure of what to say now that the moment was upon them.  They both started talking at the same time.

"Thanks for coming –"

"Thanks for bringing –"

They both laughed, looking down before glancing back up into each other's eyes.  Ben gamely held out his arms and Rey took a step into them, giving him a tight hug.  "I'm going to miss you."  She mumbled into his chest.  "But right now this is only goodbye for tonight.  I'll see you tomorrow, right?"

"Yes, at 6:45 AM.  Sharp."  He smirked.

"I'm never late!  But, ugh.  Don't remind me."  She banged her forehead on his chest.  "I need to get used to waking up early again."  Looking up into his eyes, she told him again.  "I'm glad we could do that together.  I mean it – I had an awesome time."

"I did too."  He said, smiling down at her.  "Have a good evening.  I'll see you tomorrow morning."

She nodded, her eyes getting a bit glassy, squeezing him tightly once more before letting go.  "Till tomorrow."

He stepped away from her and gave her one last rueful smile before descending the stairs.

He nodded to the driver when he got back into the cab, who pulled away towards Ben's apartment.

A deep emptiness settled in his chest.  He had no desire to be separated from her any longer.  How was he going to manage it for 6 whole weeks?  He shook his head.  He was an idiot.  A complete idiot.  He should have told her.  If he had, maybe they wouldn't be spending tonight apart?  Maybe they would've stayed together.

He scrubbed his hand over his face.  No.  They wouldn't have.  They both had too much to do to prepare for their respective trips tomorrow, and would've headed to their own apartments.  They'd still be alone.  But they'd at least know that they weren't truly alone – and wouldn't ever be again.  Well, maybe.  If she felt the same.  But at this point, he was pretty sure that she did.  She wanted to live with him.  Albeit, in a 2 bedroom apartment – of course she'd say that – but he was almost certain that that wasn't what she really wanted.  He was positive now that they were already something more.  She wouldn't touch him like she did if they weren't.

So then why the hell was he finding it so goddamn hard to tell her?!

How was one supposed to go from friends to... more?  Should he have just kissed her?  Probably.  If she didn't want that, she'd have just pushed him away.  That would likely be easier to bear than admitting his feelings and have her potentially look back at him in discomfort and pity.

Now he'd missed his opportunity.  There was no way he could tell her over the phone or video call – that would be....just plain stupid.  He'd have to wait till he was back.

Fuck.  He really was an idiot.

****

Rey moved around her apartment that night as if in a trance, going through the motions of unpacking her stuff and throwing it into the laundry basket.  She briefly contemplated washing a load, but decided that she just didn't have the mental fortitude.  Pulling out her smaller luggage, she efficiently packed for at least a week away in Detroit, just in case Temiri had managed to completely fuck up the failing system.

When she was done packing, she looked around her apartment, unsure of what to do next.  She felt restless.  Off kilter.

She missed him already.  And he hadn't even left yet.  And because of that, her chest ached like it never had before.  How was she supposed to get through six whole weeks without him?

Groaning, she plunked down onto the couch and dropped her head into her hands.

It had been such an amazing trip with him.  They'd truly had so much fun, and enjoyed almost everything there was to do - together.  A smile settled on her face as she recalled swimming with him, their sea kayak battles and of course, their catamaran trip.  She also remembered their walks on the beach, their visit to the festival, and their impromptu dance.  Her heartbeat accelerated at the thought that he may have been about to kiss her a few times – still unsure whether she was just imagining it, or simply reading too much into his movements.  And the way they'd woken up that morning – literally curled around each other – she'd felt so safe and protected – and so warm.  She wanted to wake up like that every morning, seeing his softly sleepy smile and tousled hair.  Breathing in his scent.....

She'd been completely serious when she'd brought up the sudden idea of them being roommates.  It was crazy, she knew, but why should either of them be lonely – living alone – when they could at least live together and keep each other company?  It would make things so much easier.  They could cook together – which they both seemed to enjoy, watch movies, go out for a beer – all without having to ever plan it.  It really was a smart idea....

Her conscience pricked at her though.  She knew that deep down, however, she'd suggested it for selfish reasons.

She loved him.

It still defied belief.  She had no idea when she'd actually lost her heart to him.  In the end, it didn't really matter; it was already his.  So, she was going to try to be selfish – for just a little while – okay, for as long as she could.  If they lived together, she'd get as much time as possible with him before....she swallowed thickly.  She didn't want to think about him dating someone – it was too painful - but that's what would ultimately happen.  Eventually, some woman would catch his attention, and that, as they say, would be that.

Until then, she'd savour every minute she got with him.  She just wished they didn't have to spend the next six weeks apart.  Life was going to feel so different – so lonely – without him around.  She already felt bereft being apart from him, even though she'd only been home two and a half hours!  Shaking her head, she chastised herself, feeling like a needy fool.

Before their trip, life with him around had just seemed so.... normal, with the two of them spending time together whenever they could, which was usually around 3 evenings a week and one day on the weekend.  And they'd texted each other all the time.  Outside of that, she worked, did her grocery shopping, visited Obi and Anna – and generally just lived – not really thinking about the times when they were apart.  But something had happened in the four days they'd spent together, and suddenly she couldn't imagine not being with him.  She didn't want to be away from him at all!  How pathetically clingy was that?

Placing her head in her hands, she leaned forward and growled in frustration.  She knew it was just his trip and the impending long separation that was making her feel this way – making her panic – but she couldn't quell the rising sense of anxiety within her.  It was insane, but she wanted him here with her right now.  Wanted to laugh with him; to talk to him.  To see if he was feeling the same.

Eying her phone on the coffee table, she contemplated.  She could call him.  The sound of his voice would probably soothe this strange apprehension she was feeling and make her feel better.  But would he think she was being too needy after such a short absence?

Fuck it.  She thought, reaching for her phone and shooting him a text instead.

'Hey – hope ur packing is going ok.  Mine's done.  It really does feel weird being alone again.  My apartment feels oddly quiet.'

After about 30 seconds, her phone dinged with his reply.

'Mine too.'

'I kind of don't know what to do with myself.  I guess I just miss you.  I wish you were here.'  She sighed as she pressed send, hoping he wouldn't think she was being weirdly clingy all of a sudden.

Her phone rang unexpectedly, her lips curling into a smile when she saw that it was him.

"Hi."  She said, the smile still in her voice.

"Hi back."  He replied.  "Miss me already?"  He teased.

Feeling suddenly shy, her voice was quiet when she answered.  "Yes."

"Funny – I was just thinking the same thing about 10 seconds before I got your text."

Her heart stuttered.  So he was feeling lonely too.  "Really?"  She asked.  "I thought you'd be too busy...."

"Nope.  I'm pretty much done now.  Just waiting for the dryer to finish a last few things."  He was silent for a few seconds.  "I guess I've just gotten used to hearing your voice in the evenings as we puttered around the room and got ready for bed."

"Yeah – me too."  She told him.  "I'm actually kind of glad I'm going away tomorrow too.  It'll take my mind off of not being able to see you.  But I'm still going to pester you with texts and phone calls."  She chuckled.

"Good.  I don't mind.  Pester away."

She smiled at his response.  "I will.  But I'll try to keep it to a reasonable amount."

"Don't worry about that.  Any time you want to talk to me, just call or text.  I mean that – any time, Rey."

Suddenly she felt much better, and was really glad she'd reached out to him. "Okay.  I will.  You'll probably regret saying that though."

"Never.  I'll miss you just as much."  He said quietly, his voice seeming deeper than it had a minute ago.

A slow smile appeared on her face and a warm feeling of - something - spread through her veins.  He'd miss her too.  Her brain seemed to have turned to mush as she struggled to find something coherent to say.  "You'll be too busy."  She croaked, before clearing her throat.  "Well....I should let you finish up."  She whispered, her voice still not quite working.

"Sure."

"I'll see you tomorrow morning then?"  She asked softly.

"Definitely.  Good night, Rey."

"'Night Ben."

It would all be fine.  She would just keep telling herself that.  And when she felt like it wouldn't be, she'd just reach out to him.  She always felt better by simply talking to him.

Once she was back home after her work trip, maybe she'd start scouting out potential apartments for them.  It would give her something to do...and hopefully keep her from missing him too much.

****

It felt really damn early as Ben and Rey walked through the airport, their carry-ons slung over their shoulders.  They'd already made their way through security, and were heading towards Ben's gate for his flight to L.A.

Rey yawned hugely, unable to suppress it.

"Tired?"  Ben asked her.

She nodded back at him.  "Yeah.  I didn't sleep well."  What she didn't say - didn't want to tell him - was that when she'd crawled into her bed, she'd suddenly felt her aloneness even more acutely – missing his warmth, his scent, his presence beside her.

"Hmmm.  Me neither."  He told her.  "All of a sudden it seemed weird to be sleeping in the middle of the bed again."

She glanced up at him in surprise.  Was he inferring that he missed her presence there too?  He just looked down at her with a mischievous smirk and raised a brow.

Shaking her head, she decided that he was messing with her again, and replied.  "I need a coffee.  Now."

Ben steered her towards a small café area, sitting down at two vacant seats at a high counter, quickly ordering a couple of coffees and muffins for them.

"Thank God."  She practically moaned, taking a grateful sip of the coffee and a bite of the muffin.

He watched her in amusement, silently sipping his own coffee and munching on his muffin.

She noticed him watching her and narrowed her eyes at him.  "What?"  She asked in annoyance.

"Nothing."  He chuckled at her.

Realizing that he was laughing at her, she shot back.  "Hey!  I really did have a bad night, you know.  Made worse by the fact that I was travelling today – remember, I wake up every hour – and because I'm just coming off of our enjoyable and relaxing vacation – I got to sleep in till at least 8 AM almost every day, and I didn't get a chance to have my first coffee before I left the house, so I feel extra shitty this morning.  And so I really, really needed this coffee."

His lips were pressed together, desperately trying in hold in his laugh.  Watching his expression, she suddenly realized how whiny she sounded, and wished that the floor would open up and swallow her.  Not only was she tired, but her emotions were running high as the minutes ticked by, drawing closer to the time when they'd have to say goodbye.  Letting out a long sigh, she glanced away before meeting his gaze once again.  "I'm sorry.  That was unnecessary."

"Its fine."  He told her, a smile still teasing the corners of his mouth.  "Remind me never to tease you before you've had your morning coffee."

She rolled her eyes and took another sip of the warm beverage.  "It was....just a really bad night."  She babbled, trying to explain, still feeling a little foolish about her outburst.  "I'm looking forward to napping on the plane.  Thank God the flight's a couple of hours long."

He watched as the caffeine kicked in and she slowly perked up.  Even sleepy and grumpy as she was, she still looked absolutely beautiful to him.  He'd been trying to keep a bit more distance between them this morning, afraid that he might do something stupid – like grab her and kiss her senseless.  It was probably best that he didn't do that, he thought sarcastically, shaking his head.  But as his boarding time approached, he realized that he didn't want to keep this space between them.  Reaching out, he silently covered her hand, squeezing lightly when she looked up at him in surprise.  His touch seemed to soothe her though, and she gave him a small, regretful smile before popping the rest of the muffin into her mouth.

It didn't take them much longer to finish their coffees.  They remained silent, glancing at each other cautiously every so often, both clearly having something on their minds, but unsure of what to say.  Eventually, Rey broke the silence, asking for a coffee refill, muttering that she still needed more of a caffeine jolt, which caused Ben to laugh and once again shake his head.  "Addict."  He said teasingly; she retaliated by casually flipping him off, causing him to laugh even harder.  However, it had broken the weird silence that had settled between them, and the mood lightened considerably.

After a few minutes, Ben glanced at his watch and suggested that they head over to his gate.  Rey nodded and drained the last of her 2nd cup as she stood, grabbing her carry on and motioning for Ben to lead the way.

****

They were just approaching the gate when they heard the announcer call that boarding was starting for Ben's flight to LA.  "Perfect timing."  Rey smiled sadly.

He glanced over at her, suddenly feeling tongue tied.  There was still a crowd of people lined up, waiting to go through the gate, so he held back a bit.  Stopping at the edge of the waiting area, he reached out and grasped her arm to stop her too, pulling her away from the crowd by a few steps.

Her brows drew together, furrowing as she looked up at him.  "What?  What is it?"

His mouth opened, but no words came out, so he promptly closed it.  Clearing his throat, he tried again.  "Rey....I..."

The expression on his face made her heart start to race.  His eyes were deep and softly pleading, his expression showing that he clearly wanted to say something.  When he was still silent after a few more seconds, she reached out and grasped his hand.  "I'm going to miss you."  She told him, softly.  "So damn much."

Bending slightly, he placed his briefcase on the ground, grasping her other hand too.  Swallowing, he squeezed both her hands tightly and nodded.  "Me too."

"You'll be too busy to miss me."  She quipped.  "But I'll text or call you every day to remind you of where home is.  I need to make sure you don't get seduced by the palm trees and warmth when its barely 55 degrees here!"  She laughed, trying to lighten the heavy mood.

"No Rey – I will really miss you."  He stressed.  His voice was deep and genuine, and he tugged on her hands for emphasis.

Her heart warmed at his sincere declaration.  She smiled up at him, hearing them announce another boarding call for his flight over the PA system, noticing that the group of people around the gate had begun to thin out.  "You'd better go."  She whispered.  Leaning up on her tiptoes, she wrapped her arms around his neck and gave him a tight hug.  "Goodbye Ben."  She inhaled deeply, his scent calming her, but making her sad knowing that this would be the last time she'd experience it for more than a month.  "Please don't fall in love with LA.  I want you to come back."  She could feel his arms snake around her waist and pull her completely flush with him as he embraced her fiercely.

Her hug surprised him.  Normally, when she hugged him, she put her arms around his waist.  This time, however, she'd leaned up and wrapped her arms around his neck in a more intimate embrace.  Her proximity caused his breathing to stutter and he pulled her even closer, wanting to lose himself in her and everything he was feeling.

Rey's breath hitched, feeling him pressed against her so tightly, his face skimming her neck ever so briefly, causing her to shiver.  I don't want him to go.  She thought, clinging to him even more firmly for an instant.  He released her suddenly, looking deeply into her eyes, willing her to understand everything that was unsaid through them alone.  Taking a deep breath, he spoke quietly.  "Goodbye Rey.  I'll be back in six weeks.  Its really not that long."  He said, as if trying to convince himself.  Reaching down, he picked up his briefcase, giving her one last look before turning towards the counter at the gate.

He took three steps away from her, then stopped.  Unexpectedly, he turned back towards her, his face suddenly determined.  Rey looked at him, perplexed.  Confusion was plainly written on her face.  He took the same steps back toward her, once again staring intently into her eyes.

She cocked her head at him, wondering what he was doing.  "What?"  She asked.

His face appeared uncertain – nervous – and it looked like he was breathing heavily.  She watched as he put his briefcase down and took one more step forward, bringing them extremely close together once again.  Her eyes were still caught in his, so she didn't notice that he'd brought his hand to her face until she felt his warm touch.  His thumb grazed her cheek and his fingers slid around into the hair at the nape of her neck, his large hand cradling her entire head.  Her breath froze momentarily, and she shivered at the sensation of his fingers tangled in her hair.  Her heart was pounding furiously in her chest, and she watched in rapt fascination as he leaned closer and closer to her.  It wasn't until the last second that her muddled brain realized what he was doing.  He was going to kiss her.  Finally.  Please....

Her eyes fluttered closed as his lips brushed over hers softly.  At the touch of his lips on hers, every rational thought left her mind, and warmth suffused her entire being.  The kiss was soft and sweetly tentative, but somehow filled with emotion at the same time.  Her brain was misfiring though, and she simply couldn't think.  She could only feel.  Could only focus on the heady sensations flowing through her.  That and her lips slowly moving in rhythm with his as she kissed him back.  Of their own accord, her arms started to move upward to snake around his neck.....

It was over all too quickly.  Her hands had barely reached his collarbones when the PA system blared, announcing the final boarding call for Ben's flight.  He suddenly let her go and stepped back, panting.  His face and ears were red as he placed his hands on her shoulders, still staring at her nervously, but intensely.  His words came out in a determined rush.  "Six weeks Rey.  I will not fall in love with LA – and I'll be back in six weeks.  Promise me you won't fall in love with anyone while I'm gone.  Promise me Rey."  He said sternly.  She could hear a note of desperation in his voice, his arms giving her a little shake as he said it.

Rey's head was still spinning, her mind not quite able to put everything together so quickly – it had all happened so fast.  From start to finish, the whole thing was literally over in less than 10 seconds.  He was still looking at her very keenly, awaiting her answer, so she forced her lips to form the words, her brain not even registering their meaning.  "I.....I promise Ben."

Swallowing deeply, he nodded at her, giving her another quick, hard kiss before letting her go.  Turning around, he grabbed his briefcase and walked to the gate quickly without a backward glance.  He handed his boarding pass to the agent and strode down the jetway, still not looking her way.

She was shaking, her legs feeling like jelly, threatening to give out on her.  Her mind was in a daze – yet reeling - unable to process anything around her.  After a few deep and determined breaths she began to calm down slightly, and for the first time in several minutes, actually became aware of her surroundings.  Noticing the nearby seats in the waiting area, she took a couple of shaky steps toward one and dropped herself into the small chair.  Holy fuck – he really did just kiss her.  Like, kiss kiss her.  Not a sweet, best friend kind of goodbye kiss on the cheek, but instead a different kind of kiss all together.  She held her fingers to her lips, remembering.  And he made her promise not to fall in love with anyone while he was gone.

Hope blossomed in her chest.  Did he maybe feel it too?  Could he feel the same way she felt about him?  She shivered, recalling the feel of his hand sliding into her hair, and the soft feel of his plush lips on hers.  Her eyes drifted closed.  It was like an electric charge had burned through her when they'd kissed, and it was still softly sizzling in her blood.

She wasn't sure how long she'd sat there in her dazed state, but she finally looked up when his plane pushed back from the jetway.  She watched as it pivoted and taxied out of sight, heading toward the runway.  Reaching up to her collar, she fingered the necklace he'd given her for Christmas, closing her eyes.  Goodbye Ben....

Checking the time, she realized that she still had 45 minutes until her own flight departed.  Her legs were starting to feel a bit steadier, so she decided that it was time to get up and slowly try to find her own gate.  Her brain was still not functioning normally though, her mind drifting back and forth to everything that had happened between them over the past few weeks.

Even though she was still euphoric over their kiss, little doubts began to creep into her mind.  Was it possible that he really felt something other than friendship for her?  He hadn't really said anything – other than wresting that promise from her - so she had no idea what he was thinking – what he felt.  It also seemed that before the kiss he'd been acting weirdly intolerant of any physical closeness, and seemed to have been trying to keep some semblance of physical distance between them.  If he felt something for her, why would he do that?

And what about that crazy promise – not to fall in love with anyone while he was gone.  What the fuck was that all about?  Who else would she fall in love with?  But that was probably a sign that he wanted more, wasn't it?  Wanted her to wait for him?  Of course she would!  If she thought he wanted her like that, she'd wait as long as it took.....

Her head was still spinning.  She was so confused.  If he wanted them to be more than friends, why hadn't he said or done anything while they were in the Bahamas?  He'd certainly had plenty of opportunities.  They'd slept in the same bed for Christ's sake!  She recalled those few instances at the hotel where they'd seemed to be on the brink of something physical, but he'd suddenly hurried away from her, or the first morning when she'd woken with her hands on his chest and he'd jumped out of bed and basically ran away from her.  That told her, more than anything else, that he wanted to maintain the distance between them – that he had wanted to remain as friends only.  But then there was yesterday morning when they'd woken in each other's arms.  He'd seemed so .....calm that she was there.  Happy.  Content.

She sighed deeply.  She truly had no idea how he was feeling; these conflicting signals were totally confusing her.  If he'd only wanted to be friends, then why the sudden kiss?

Wait!  She thought, stopping suddenly as she realized something.  Is THAT what he wanted to tell me that night at dinner – when I stopped him?  Closing her eyes, she took in a deep breath.  You idiot!

Her mood had gone from one extreme to another in almost the blink of an eye.  Taking another cleansing breath, she realized that she'd arrived at her gate, and dropped into one of the seats in the waiting area.  Her mind continued to work through everything though, her emotions a tangled jumble of excitement, euphoria, happiness, confusion, fear of losing him, and choking sadness at his absence.  Although she wasn't entirely sure what the fuck had just happened between the two of them, whatever it was, she was pretty sure it was probably going to change their relationship forever, one way or another.  And she was suddenly terrified.

****

Ben sat back in his seat and sighed heavily.  He was an idiot.  What was he thinking, kissing her like that?   She'd looked so shocked – dazed, but shocked - when he'd pulled away from her, hearing that final boarding call.  He'd had no intention of doing anything so rash, but when he'd first turned and walked away from her, he suddenly knew that he just couldn't leave without letting her know how he was feeling.  Not when he was going away for so long.  His emotions had been in a state of turmoil the whole morning, and the longing that had been building in his chest had suddenly stabbed at him, and he'd felt like he'd splinter apart into a million pieces if he didn't kiss her.

Scrubbing a hand over his face, he chastised himself once again.  As he'd walked away from her that last time, he'd had to keep repeating 'don't look back, don't look back' in his head.  He'd had to.  Because he knew – just knew – that if he'd turned and taken even one look at her face, there was no way he would've gotten on that plane.

He shuddered, remembering their kiss.  He'd tried to keep it gentle, not wanting to overwhelm her with the passion that had been building steadily over the past few weeks.  The longing for her that had settled in his chest – around his heart.  Their trip to the Bahamas had only made it worse.  Now he was barely even able to be around her without touching her.  He knew it was only a matter of time before he slipped up and did something stupid – like kissing her.  And of course, he did.

But when his lips touched hers, it had been positively electric.  There were simply no other words to describe it.  He could have stayed in that moment forever, happily kissing her lips, feeling that blissful warmth surge through him.  Even that small touch of their lips had been enough to begin quenching that yearning he'd been feeling in his soul – at least a little bit.  And she had kissed him back – at first tentatively, then ardently as the shock began to wear off.  He was sure he could feel her lips moving against his and was almost positive that she'd been about to wrap herself around him.

But it had ended far too soon.  The PA announced the final boarding call, and startled, he'd literally torn himself away from her.  And then.....he was an even bigger idiot.  Holy shit!  He'd actually made her promise not to fall in love with anybody while he was gone.  Where the fuck had that come from?

Deep down, he was terrified of leaving her for so long, especially so close on the heels of her breakup with Finn.  Although she'd said she was over that unfaithful prick, he was worried that she was still a little raw from it, and would probably be ripe for falling for someone on the rebound if she met anyone new.  She'd probably be especially vulnerable - and lonely - while he was away.  That made it even more likely that she'd fall for someone who made her feel even just a little bit better.  Happier.  He shuddered out an uneasy breath at the thought.

What had she thought of his strange plea?  Probably that he was crazy.  She'd looked at him like he'd had two heads, barely answering him.  He'd felt like he'd almost had to force her to respond!

And, what if she'd actually been upset by that kiss?  She'd seemed so shocked.... friends did not kiss like that.  So maybe she was just trying to figure out how to react to it.  But, he'd been so sure she'd responded... Covering his face with his hands, he let out a disgusted sigh.  Fuck.  He was so confused.....Kissing her was supposed to end the confusion goddamn it!

This trip – opening an office in LA – had seemed like such a good idea at the time.  But now, he had no desire to be away from Rey for even a couple of days, never mind six whole weeks.  He really was an idiot.  In his defense, he'd made the decision about two weeks after Kay had ended things, and Rey had still been with Finn, but away on one of her business trips.  At the time, he'd figured that since he no longer had a girlfriend, he might as well move forward with his plan to expand his business.  Except that now, the timing couldn't be worse.  Six weeks.  What the hell was he going to do without her for six whole weeks?  Probably go insane.

They'd grown so close – especially during their trip – and he now felt as if they were on the brink of something... something life changing.

However, dwelling on it would not help anything.  He'd wait and see how she'd react the first time they spoke – or texted.  If she didn't mention anything about the kiss, he certainly wasn't going to.  And if she was pissed, upset or uncomfortable about it, hopefully the time and distance would help to lessen her anger and discomfort.  At worst, he could just try to convince her that he was saying goodbye....and just got carried away.... Ugh.

Enough!  He'd tortured himself enough for one day, and could feel a headache brewing.  It was time to try to clear his head like Uncle Luke had taught him; hopefully it would also calm his frazzled nerves.  He closed his eyes and stretched his legs out – thankful that he'd splurged for the Business Class ticket.  It was three times more expensive, but at least he wouldn't be limping when he got off of the plane.  Breathing deeply and evenly, he cleared his mind as he slowly slipped into a state of deep relaxation for the rest of the flight.