A/N - Hi Lovelies!  Well, slowly but surely, we're getting there.  We still have some ground to cover (sorry if this isn't happening as fast as you'd all like it to but Happily Ever After takes time!!)  This chapter moves the story along a bit, and gives a bit more insight into their characters and what they're going through.  Don't worry, the heat slowly will start to turn up.  And yes, the photo above is the dress....  I hope you're liking the story so far.  Please let me know what you think and don't forget to vote if you like it (remember its that li'l bitty star in the corner)!  Enjoy!!

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Ben glanced over at Kay as he sped down the freeway on the way to his parent's house for their Thanksgiving dinner.  Ever since his heart to heart with Rey about sex a couple of days ago, he was thinking of a few things in a slightly new light.  Rey's questions about his feelings regarding Kay gave him pause.  He'd met her in his 3rd year of studies, but they didn't really start dating until the summer before 4th year.

She was strikingly pretty – in a sweet way – and he was drawn to her goodness from literally the moment he'd met her.  But she was so shy, it took her almost a month to meet his eyes in class, then another month to finally speak to him.  He'd taken it slow and steady with her ever since that time – so it wasn't surprising to him that he'd had to be equally slow and steady when it came to their sex life.  However, she hadn't been a virgin when they'd first slept together – more than a year after they'd first met – and so, at first, he had been surprised that she was so timid when it came to sex.  But he rationalized that that was just who she was.

Her timidness had continued though, to the point where Rey's questions weighed on his mind.  If he actually loved her, did he love her enough to continue to work through this.  He was 28 years old, and should be able to enjoy sex – a lot.  He'd had such a shitty life for so many years – he really wanted to find happiness.  But, was that with Kay?  Did she even want that with him?

Out of the corner of his eye, he could see her turn to look at him.  "You seem lost in thought.  What are you thinking about?"

"Oh.  A lot of things.  Work.  The future of my company.  Us."  He glanced at her with a small smile.

"What about us?"  She asked curiously.

He grinned, testing the waters.  "I was wondering when you were going to give in and finally move in with me."

Her face fell.  "Ben, you know I can't.  We've talked about this....my parents –"

"Are adults, Kay."  He cut her off, his frustrations tumbling out.  "Just because you move out doesn't mean you won't get to see them.  You can visit them all the time.  I know you – you would.  But you can't just keep putting it off – they're just getting even older.  And I hate feeling alone so much of the time.   Some weeks I only see you a few hours here and there.  I....sometimes.....it feels like a bit of an excuse."

Although he hadn't really raised his voice, he'd been speaking sharply, a hint of pleading in his voice, and he could see her almost shrink into herself.  "Kay – please.  Talk to me."

She was quiet for several minutes, her gaze turned away from him, peering out the car window.  Finally, she spoke very quietly.  "I'm not ready to move in with you Ben.  I'm sorry."

"But....why not?"  He asked in frustration.

"I can't explain it.  It just doesn't feel right – not yet.  I'm....I'm sorry."  She told him with more certainty than he thought he'd ever heard her express.

He choked down the feeling of rejection that stuck in his chest.  He very much wanted to ask her about the future.  About what she wanted – what she could see her life being.  Was it with him?  But now wasn't the time.  They were on their way to his parents, and he didn't want there to be tension between them for the rest of the evening.  Didn't want to potentially ruin anyone's Thanksgiving.  So he took a deep breath and let it out on a long sigh.  Reaching over, he brushed her cheek gently.  "Okay."

She turned to glance at him, her eyes shining a little.  "Thank you, Ben."

****

Despite their conversation while en route, Ben was able to put his concerns aside, and the afternoon and evening at his parents went well.  Like everyone, his parents loved Kay.  His mom and dad had both given her tight hugs when they saw her, chastising her for not visiting enough. Even his Uncle Luke had given her a quick kiss on the cheek and a wink.  But most surprising of all was that his Uncle had brought someone with him.  

Ben had been shocked.  While he knew that his Uncle had had companions throughout the years, he'd never brought one to a family dinner – not that he could recall.  Her name was Mara, and Luke had met her through his studio when she'd signed up for classes.  Apparently, they'd connected immediately, and had literally been together ever since.

Luke was clearly smitten with her, smiling like a schoolboy every time she looked at him.  He was positively giddy.  To Ben, it was readily apparent that his Uncle was in love – and the feeling seemed to be completely mutual - after only a few weeks.  Ben was happy for him, but it only made him reflect even more deeply about his relationship with Kay.  He didn't think he'd ever felt giddy around her.  Was that what love was?

Gazing at his parents, he tried to remember how they'd behaved with each other when they were younger.  Were they ever giddy?  Thinking back, he could remember some times when he was a child, hearing his mother shriek with laughter, as his father chased her around the house playfully.  Hmmm.  Yes, definitely giddy.

Just before they'd sat down at the table, Luke had pulled him aside, asking whether he'd spoken to Rey about her parents.  He told him about their visit, and explained everything that Obi had revealed.  Luke had listened carefully, seeming mildly surprised that Ben had gone to her parents with her, and was included in the conversation.  He refrained from commenting however, instead only nodding.  "And?  So?  What are you going to do?"  He'd asked.

"Nothing.  Rey isn't going to do anything."  Ben replied.

Luke made a face.  "Good.  But that's not what I asked.  What are you going to do?  Because I don't believe for one minute that you're going to let this go.  Not based on the way you reacted when you found out."

Ben's lips thinned, giving his Uncle a disgusted look, staring at him for almost a full minute before replying resignedly.  "I haven't decided yet – but I have some contacts....from before.  I've asked them to see if they can find anything.  But obviously it has to be done very carefully."

"It does."  Luke replied.  "Let me know if you want any help."

He nodded.  "I will.  Thanks."  Hesitating, he continued.  "Um.  Obi....."  Luke's brow's raised questioningly.  "Obi suggested that I... maybe work with you....to learn more about your teachings..... And all that mumbo jumbo about the forces of the cosmos."

Luke rolled his eyes.  "You sound exactly like your father."

"And I am totally fine with that."  Ben smiled.

There was a beat of silence between them until Luke finally spoke.  "If you come by the studio next Wednesday, we can start some basic lessons."

"Thanks."  Ben replied.  As his uncle began heading towards the dining room, Ben added.  "Hey – I really like Mara.  You look....happy."

Luke gave him a huge, boyish grin, turning back and giving him a familial slap on the shoulder.  "I am Ben.  Thanks. I wish the same for you."

He was still thinking about everything after dinner as he helped his mom load the dishwasher, while his Dad and Luke entertained Kay and Mara in the living room.  Although she'd tried to shoo him out of the kitchen, he refused, telling her that if he helped, they'd all be able to relax sooner.  He was quiet for awhile before his mom interrupted his thoughts.  "Something seems to be weighing on you mind tonight.  Mind if I ask what?"

Sighing heavily, he leaned on the counter and turned to look at her.  "I can never keep anything from you, can I?"

She shook her head.  "Mother's intuition."

"I'm....just....trying to figure a lot of stuff out."  He said, sighing softly.

"Like things between you and Kay?"

His eyes locked onto hers.  "Is it that obvious?"  He whispered, concern showing on his face.

"No."  She told him.  "I just know your habits and behavior very well."

"Fair enough."  He responded.  "I just...don't know what I want.  I don't know what she wants.  Don't get me wrong, nothing is really wrong, but...."  He shrugged sadly.

Leia walked up to him and wrapped her arms around him.  "Oh Sweetie.  You'll figure it out.  You just need to trust in yourself to make the right decision.  And often, making the right decision is hard."

He nodded silently and hugged her a bit tighter before he heard her whisper.  "Kay is a sweet girl, and we all love her.  But you need to make sure that you do too."

"And that's the problem mom.  I....just don't know.  I think I love her....but..."

Leia pulled away and put her hands on his face, making sure she had his complete attention.  "Listen to me Ben.  I'm going to tell you this as your mother – and if you don't believe me, go ask your father.  You are a Solo.  When you love someone – truly, madly, deeply love someone – you know.  You can't stop thinking about them.  They are the first thought you have when you wake up in the morning, and the last thought before you fall asleep.  Its completely okay to be unsure, and even scared about being in love – but if you're feelings are lukewarm – if you don't feel passionately about that person – you're not being fair to yourself, or to them."  Ben's eyes widened at her candid advice.

"When your father and I first met, we didn't fall in love instantly – it took a little time.  But once we did – even before we'd admitted it to ourselves – oh there were sparks and then there was fire.  Don't cheat yourself of that.  Because even though she's a wonderful young woman – I don't see any spark between the two of you."  She patted his cheek.  "I hope that gives you something else to think about."

He let out a shuddering breath, his eyes not only reflecting his lingering confusion, but also gratitude at her candor.  "It does.  Thanks Mom."

****

Rey's phone chimed while she was on her way to Ben's apartment to meet Rose and Kay for their Black Friday shopping escapade.  Although it was still early, the roads were busy as many others were also out in search of Black Friday deals.  Checking her phone, she saw that the message was from Kay.

'Hey, come up when you get here.  Rose is running a bit late.'

Rey wrinkled her nose, hoping they wouldn't get a late start.  The sooner they started, the earlier they would finish. 'No problem.  I should be there in about 10 minutes – the roads are pretty busy.'

'Okay – see you then.'

She sat back, relaxing in the rear seat of her Uber.  While she was somewhat excited to spend the day with Kay and her new acquaintance Rose, she usually hated shopping and viewed it as a chore.  But she really did need some new clothes, and hoped to buy 2 or 3 pairs of new pants as well as 5 or 6 new shirts.  That should tide her over until the spring before she'd have to go clothes shopping once again.  She also wanted to buy a new dress for the New Year's gala that Ben had mentioned, since she didn't really own anything appropriate for something considered to be a 'gala'.

He'd been secretive about the tickets, inferring that they were donated by his mother.  Given that it was a charity event however, she didn't really believe that to be the case.  If he'd paid for them, she'd find out somehow – and kick his ass if he did.  Although it was for charity, it just didn't seem right for him to be spending $800+ on her and Finn for a night out.

Sighing heavily, her mind wandered to the state of her relationship with Finn.  No matter how hard she'd been trying, a feeling inside of her told her that something was off when it came to him.  He'd seemed a bit quiet yesterday during Thanksgiving dinner at Obi and Anna's.  He was typically animated and easy going around them, but appeared to be lost in thought for most of the evening.  Even Anna had noticed it, asking him if he was feeling okay.

She'd been wracking her brain, but just couldn't put her finger on what could be bothering him.  She'd been home a couple of weeks now, and wouldn't be leaving again for another week and a half.  Their troubles had all seemed to stem from that unexpected trip to Seattle, but in truth the more she thought about it, the signs of their growing distance were there before that.  She didn't want to lose him, but other than her increased travel – which she was dealing with – she didn't know what else had changed.  Recalling what Anna had told her - that relationships took work – she vowed to try harder in the coming weeks before she left again.

Arriving at Ben's building, Rey made her way upstairs and knocked softly.  Kay smiled brightly when she opened the door a few seconds later.  "Good Morning!  Happy Black Friday."  She sang cheerily.

"Hey!  Good Morning Kay."  Rey replied, giving her a brief hug with a slight chuckle.  "I don't think that's really a thing, but how was your Thanksgiving?"

"It was nice.  Ben's family is so great."  She smiled conspiratorially, before whispering.  "And his Uncle has a new girlfriend."

Rey's brows shot up.  "Really?  Ben's always called his Uncle Luke a hermit."

Kay giggled.  "I know.  She's really nice though – I like her."

"What are you two whispering about?"   Ben called out, standing at the kitchen island, drinking a cup of coffee.

Rey smirked.  "Good Morning, Stupidhead."  He rolled his eyes.  "Kay was just telling me about your Uncle's girlfriend."

"Ah.  Yeah.  Mara.  She's nice."  Taking a sip of his coffee he remarked.  "My Uncle is definitely smitten.  I've literally never seen him act that way."

"Like what?"  Rey asked.

"Like a schoolboy with a crush."  He chuckled.  "It was amusing to watch."

Kay chimed in.  "I thought it was cute."  She sighed.  "He was very sweet to her."

Something in Kay's voice gave Rey pause as she wandered over to Ben in the kitchen.  Glancing over at the young woman, she searched her face.  "New relationships are always fun to watch.  People are usually so....I don't know...lovey....with each other in that stage."

Nodding, Kay replied dreamily.  "Yes – I know exactly what you mean. Its so romantic."

Rey's brows shot up again as she took a seat at the kitchen island, giving Ben a pointed look that clearly said 'I told you so'.  He smirked back at her and shook his head.

"Want coffee?"  He asked.

"Sure. I suspect I'm going to need it today.  The roads are already really busy."

He nodded.  "I think you're nuts going shopping today – but, whatever."

She shrugged.  "I desperately need some new clothes, so I might as well do it when they're cheap, and with friends."  She leaned over and smiled at Kay.  "When do you think Rose will be here?"

"She just texted me, saying she'll be another 15 minutes.  Then we can be on our way."

"Sounds good."  Glancing at Ben, she asked.  "How was your Thanksgiving?"

Smiling, he replied.  "It was great.  Most people dread the holidays because they have to visit family – but I love it."  He grinned, a thoughtful expression on his face.  "I had a chance to have a great talk with my mom about...."  His eyes flicked over to Kay briefly, who was looking down at her phone and consequently didn't notice his gaze.  "...life."

Rey caught the subtle shift of his eyes and understood.  "Mmmmm.  Yeah, I've recently had a similar chat with Anna...."  She sighed, and Rey's lips flattened into a small, regretful smile.  "Things yesterday seemed.... quiet.  More subdued than usual."  Their eyes met and held for several seconds as understanding passed between them.

Ben's face was sympathetic as he continued to stare at her for a few more seconds, finally breaking their gaze when he turned to quickly prepare her coffee.  It wasn't long before he placed the steaming mug in front of her.  "One sugar, one cream."

"Thanks."  She told him quietly, giving him a small smile.

"What's Finn up to today?"  

Taking a sip of her coffee, she replied.  "A little work, a little chillin'.  You?"

"Same."  He answered.  "He's coming over later for dinner though, right?"

She nodded.  "Yes.  He said he'd be here around 5."

"Okay.  We'll figure out what to order then."

Kay came over and sat beside her, the three of them continuing to chat for a few minutes more before a loud knock at the door caught their attention.  Rose breezed in – a bundle of frenetic energy – her face a mask of excitement.  Giving Kay a quick hug, she looked around the room.  "Hi everyone!  Rey, are you ready to shop till you drop?!"

Rey laughed.  "Not really – but let's go."

The three of them grabbed their stuff and bustled out of the apartment.  Before they left, Ben gave Kay a quick goodbye kiss, with Rey giving him one last wave.  "Wish me luck."  She whispered to him as she stepped through the door.

He just laughed and shook his head.  "Have fun being a girl for a day."  He teased, causing her to frown and flip him off before walking out of the door.

He was still laughing a few minutes after the door had closed behind her.

****

The three ladies hopped on the T and made their way to the downtown shopping district.  Rose kept up a stream of happy, incessant chatter the entire way, trying to build the excitement about all the 'good stuff' they'd find.

Rey watched her in amusement.  Rose was simply too bubbly and chatty NOT to like – and Rey found herself immediately enchanted by her.  Although Kay and Rose knew each other very well, Rose never failed to include Rey in their conversations, happily explaining some of their secret jokes, and getting Rey up to speed with a bunch of things from their past.  These included fond memories of high school crushes, and their many foibles – usually orchestrated by Rose - which sometimes got them into sticky situations.  

Rey found herself enjoying the day immensely, glad that there didn't seem to be any awkward  moments around the two friends.  She had to admit that for once in her life, she actually felt like a girl – one who was accepted by others – and was part of a group of girlfriends.  She'd never had that – had never realized that she'd wanted it – but was glad to finally feel like she was a part of it somehow.

They stood in insanely long lines, waiting to get into almost every store, but the time actually seemed to fly by.  The three of them continued to laugh and chatter throughout the day while they waited, shifting easily between a variety of different topics – men, work, politics, etc.  For the most part, Kay just smiled and giggled happily without really saying much – but she was clearly enjoying herself too.

While they were in a department store, Rey spied a set of sexy lingerie that she liked.  Fingering the sheer bustier and panties, her mind immediately went to Ben.  Looking over at Kay, she picked up one that was slightly more modest and held it out to her.  "Look at this!  Isn't it gorgeous?  Its so soft and sexy.....I'd bet Ben would LOVE this."  She wiggled her eyebrows at Kay, while Rose looked on with a slightly concerned look on her face.

"I don't know."  Kay replied quietly, biting her lip.  "It might be a bit too racy."

"It's supposed to be racy Kay – you wear it to seduce him or to drive him wild when you're in the boudoir!"  Rey laughed, holding the one up in front of her that she'd liked for herself.  "Finn would especially enjoy this one, and since its 50% off, I'm buying it!!"

Rose weighed in, once again scrutinizing Kay's face.  "Only buy it if you're comfortable wearing it Kay.  There's no point in spending good money if you're never going to put it on!"

Nodding, Kay put the lingerie back onto the rack.  "I think I'll pass this time."

Rey looked at the shy young woman, thinking of the things that Ben had told her, mentally shaking her head.  Hey, she'd tried.  Sorry Ben, she thought.  "No worries Kay.  Rose is right – you have to feel comfortable in it.  No point wasting your money if you're not."  Looking at the line up for the cash register, she sighed.  "This may take a few minutes guys.  Sorry...."

"Its fine Rey."  Rose smiled.  "We'll wait in line with you."  Her smile turned devious, whispering.  "But you have to tell us all the good deets about what happens when you wear that!"  She smirked.

Rey blushed, unaccustomed to potentially sharing such racy details with other women – even at a later date.  And the way things were going with Finn, it might be a bit of a wait before she would get to wear it.  It was one of the reasons she was buying it – hoping to tempt him into bed more often, since the time between their romps seemed to be getting longer and longer.  "Sure – although it may not be quite as interesting as you think!"  She laughed, trying to diffuse some of her own tension.

After a few hours of endless shopping, they stopped for lunch, finding a cozy, but upscale looking bistro where surprisingly, they didn't need to wait for a table.  They chatted happily, but as usual Kay was very quiet.  Resolving to bring Kay out of her shell, Rey turned to face her and focused her attention on her directly.  "So, do you and Ben have plans for the Holidays?"

Although she knew that Kay was comfortable with her, she could see her squirm at the direct question.  "Um.  Just the usual I think.  Christmas Eve at my family's place, and then Christmas Day at his parent's house."

"Any trips or vacations planned in the New Year?"  Rey prodded.

"No.  But, um, that reminds me – I need to find a dress for that New Year's Eve charity gala that Ben's mom is hosting.  I assume that you and Finn are going?  You too, right Rose."  She smiled at Rose's squeal of excitement.

"Of course!  Are you kidding?  It's a gala – I can't wait!"  She grinned dreamily, before chirping happily. "Well then, looks like we're all going to need new dresses, right?!"

Rey smiled.  Rose's excitement was contagious.  The gala did sound fun.  "Yes, Finn and I are going – and I do need a new dress too.  None of mine are fancy enough for that type of event."

Rose clapped in glee.  "Yay!  This afternoon is going to be so much fun!"

The three ladies continued their excited banter throughout their lunch and the rest of the afternoon, visiting several stores trying to find that perfect dress for the upcoming gala.  While the others appeared to enjoy the experience, leisurely trying on dresses and modelling them to each other before dismissing them, it was clear that they weren't entirely committed to finding their dresses today.  Rey on the other hand knew that she was running out of time and had resolved that she would find hers during this excursion, no matter what.  She still had one more out of town business trip before the holidays that would probably last almost 2 weeks, so there wouldn't even be much time for any Christmas shopping between now and then, never mind dress shopping.

She sighed.  Finn would not be happy at another long absence.

So it was a tremendous relief that by sheer luck they passed a store window that had a dress that caught her eye.  It was a floor length, flowing gown with a white, sequined, halter style top and a red satin skirt.  Simple, but elegant.  She could almost hear Anna's voice echoing in her head.  As soon as she tried it on, she knew it was the one, and spent very little time fussing over it.  Rose and Kay positively gushed over how she looked in it, which further strengthened her confidence in her choice.  After paying for it, she was glad that the ordeal was over, positively ecstatic with her find.

At that point, it was nearing the end of the day, and they were all happily exhausted, agreeing to call it quits.  Upon returning to Ben's apartment, arms full of shopping bags, they found both Finn and Ben waiting for them, ready to order dinner.

The three of them exhaustedly collapsed on the sofa, still excitedly chattering like hens.  Ben and Finn exchanged amused glances, watching the ladies as they laughed over their escapades of the day.

Ben opened a couple of bottles of wine, and brought them each a glass.  "Awwww.... how sweet is that?"  Rose remarked as she took the glass from his hand, causing Ben to blush.

After a few minutes, Rey got up and walked over to Ben, nudging him in the arm.  "So, how was your day?"  She asked.

"Boring, but productive."  He responded.  "I got a lot of work done."  An amused smirk appeared on his face.  "Did you enjoy being a girly-girl for a day?"  He teased.  "I noticed that you had the most shopping bags."  He wiggled his brows at her.

She frowned, holding back a chagrined chuckle and punched him in the arm - hard.  "How's that for girly?"  She laughed, smiling brightly under his amused teasing.

"Ow!"  He complained indignantly, rubbing his arm, but laughing.  "You look happy though, like you really did have fun."  He told her quietly.  "You're sort of glowing."

"I am?"  She asked in embarrassment, bringing her hands to her cheeks.  "Surprisingly, I did have fun.  A lot."  She smiled.  "I've never really done that....had a fun day with other women – well, I have with Anna, but she doesn't count.  You know what I mean."  She rolled her eyes at herself.

"I think I do."  He gazed at her with a look that Rey couldn't quite identify.   "I'm glad."

Her heart stuttered.  Once again, he understood.  He got it.  Got her.  Nobody else really did, nor ever had – other than Obi and Anna.  She gave him a small, slightly embarrassed smile, and quietly replied.  "Thanks, Ben."

Glancing over at Finn, she could see him animatedly chatting with Rose and Kay.  Looking back up at Ben, she noticed he'd caught her gaze.  "Those two really seem to have clicked."  She cocked her head.  "Is it weird that I'm kind of hoping that Finn will find something similar with Rose as what we have?"

He shook his head and took a sip of his wine.  "Nope.  Its not weird at all.  Its nice that you want that for him.  I wouldn't trade our friendship for anything."

Rey smiled back at him, a warm feeling settling in her chest.  She reached out and gave his bicep a small squeeze.  "Me neither."

The two of them stood watching the others in companionable silence, happy to enjoy the quiet, away from the cacophony of Finn and Rose laughing hysterically over something, with Kay beside them giggling quietly.

Thankfully it wasn't long before their dinner arrived.  Ben and Finn had decided on Chinese food, and once all of the little cartons were opened, everyone loaded their plates and sat down to casually scarf down their food at the sofa or the kitchen island.

After she'd finished eating, Rey started to feel really tired, feeling her eyes begin to droop.  It had been a long day, and her full belly combined with the wine she'd consumed was making her very sleepy.  She really should bug Finn to leave, but he looked like he was still having fun with Rose, who didn't appear to be running low on energy at all – even after their long day.

Ben noticed Rey starting to nod off on the couch, and glanced over at Finn, who hadn't seemed to realize that she was falling asleep.  Trying to get Finn's attention, he inclined his head toward Rey when Finn finally looked up.  "Oh."  Finn remarked.  "Is she out?"

"Looks that way."  He drolly replied to Finn.

"Shit.  She's going to be a bear to get home.  Once she's asleep, she's never in a good mood when she wakes up."  Finn walked over to her and gave her a gentle nudge.  "Hey, Rey.  Wake up – its time to go."

"Too tired."  She grumbled and rolled over to shift onto her other side, leaning her head against the arm of the sofa.

"C'mon Hon.  Just wake up a little – and we can get you into an Uber.  We'll be home before you know it."  He coaxed.

She mumbled something unintelligible and swatted Finn's hand away.  Ben couldn't suppress his smile.  "Jesus, she really is a bear...."

"You don't know the half of it."  He remarked.  "I'll probably have bruises by the time I get her home."

Kay tilted her head and glanced at Ben.  "I have an idea.  I really need to go home to my parents tonight – since I stayed here last night.  If its easier, why don't you just let her sleep on the couch, and the 3 of us can share an Uber."

Ben's eyes widened in surprise.  "You're leaving?"

"I really have to."  She told him.  "I already let my parents know I'd be home tonight."

"But....."  He let the word trail off, not sure what he could say to sway her.

She gave him a regretful smile.  "I'm sorry Ben.  I thought you knew."

He shook his head, swallowing his disappointment.  Looking over at Rey, he shrugged.  "I guess its fine for her to stay there."  His voice still held a note of displeasure, which caused an awkward silence to hang over the room.

Finn finally broke the uncomfortable moment, saying to no one in particular.  "I'll order the Uber."

Ben went into the kitchen and began loading the dishwasher, wanting to be alone.  Kay followed him in, wariness written on her face.  "I'm really sorry Ben.  I thought you knew I was going back home tonight."  She told him quietly.

He stopped what he was doing and placed his hands onto the counter, leaning over, looking down.  "Why Kay?  It's a holiday weekend?  Why wouldn't you stay?"

"I....I told them I'd be home.  Please understand."  He could hear the pleading note in her voice, but this time it just made him angry.

"Understand what?  That my adult girlfriend can't bear to stay with me more than one night at a time?  You used to stay over for a few days at a time.  What happened Kay?"

She was quiet for half a minute before stuttering.  "I..."

Turning his head to look at her, he could see the confusion on her face, but only raised his eyebrow in question, waiting for her to finish whatever she had been going to say.  She never got to finish, because Rose suddenly called from across the room.  "Kay – Uber's here!"

He didn't break his stare, until she finally whispered.  "I have to go.  I'll call you tomorrow?"

Swallowing the angry knot in his throat, he gave her a curt nod and turned away from her.  Just then, Finn came into the kitchen.  "Are you sure you're okay with this?  Both of you?"  He looked between Ben and Kay, keenly aware that he'd interrupted something.  Shifting uncomfortably, he waited for their answer, unsure as to what was going on, wanting to make sure that everyone was good with Rey staying over.

"Its fine."  Ben replied curtly.  "I'll bring her home tomorrow morning."

Kay leaned up and gave him a soft kiss on the cheek, feeling him stiffen when she did so.  "I still have some clothes here.  She can borrow them if she wants to be more comfortable."

Ben nodded at her, and Finn gave him a friendly slap on the shoulder.  "Thanks, man.  She would've been a real pain in the ass to get home."

Something about the way Finn had said that pissed Ben off, but he wisely held his tongue, and just nodded in response.

Rose called out from the door.  "C'mon guys, gotta go!  Bye Ben!"

He waved at them all, still too upset to trust his voice, and went back to loading the dishwasher.

Once they'd all left, he let out a deep sigh, clutching the kitchen counter tightly.  Fuck.  What was wrong with him, that his girlfriend of more than 2 years didn't even want to sleep in the same bed with him very often, never mind have sex with him?  Noticing a stray wine glass on the kitchen island he leaned over, intending to grab it and put it into the dishwasher.  However, when he touched it, instead of bending down to put it into the rack, his temper surged.  "Fuuuucck!"  He screamed loudly, and violently hurled the glass across the room, shattering it against the wall.

He leaned on the counter once again, heaving, trying to calm himself down.  Tears pricked his eyes.  He'd tried so hard, and for what had seemed like so long – almost a year - yet nothing was changing.  Things with Kay were not getting better.  Scrubbing his hand over his face, he glanced out into the living room to see Rey still fast asleep on the couch.  At least he didn't wake her with his sudden outburst.

Grabbing a broom and dustpan from the closet, he cleaned up the shards of broken glass before going back into the living room to check on Rey.

Standing in front of her, he gazed down at her sleeping form.  He wished she was awake.  He desperately needed to talk to someone – the only person he knew he could talk to.  But he would never intentionally wake her up, just to burden her with more details of his fucked up relationship with his girlfriend.  Nor would he knowingly let her sleep on the couch.

Ever so gently, he picked her up in a bridal carry, and slowly started to make his way towards his bedroom.  She felt so light in his arms.  If she were his girlfriend, he'd never leave her like Finn did – regardless of the fact that it was with her best friend – her male best friend.  He would've picked her up and carried her to the fucking Uber in order to get her safely home.

But Ben wasn't complaining – he'd be happy to have her here in the morning when he woke up – especially since Kay had bailed on him.  His chest tightened with hurt, frustration and anger once again, and he forcefully pushed the feelings away.  Thinking back, he tried to recall if he'd ever carried Kay like this, for any reason.  He was pretty sure that he never had.

He could feel her shift in his arms, and was surprised when her arms came up to circle his neck.  Suddenly, he could feel her face nuzzle into the crook of his neck.  "Mmmmmm.  You smell so good."  She murmured quietly, her voice deep and rough.  It sent a shiver of awareness through him and he felt his dick twitch.  No.  No no no no.  Down boy!  Do not start this...

Get a hold of yourself Solo!  He told himself.  Those words were not meant for you.  She's dreaming of her fucking, irresponsible boyfriend!  Taking a deep breath, he pushed the sensation aside, breathing deeply and evenly until he felt like he had himself under control.

Continuing on to the bedroom, he sat down at the end of the bed with her on his lap, tugging the comforter down.  Standing again, he gently lay her down between the sheets and covered her up.  He stood there for a minute, watching her breathe in deeply and snuggle into his pillow, her eyes still closed.  Smiling indulgently, he shook his head and turned to grab some sleep clothes before moving to leave the room.

As he was walking out, from behind him he could hear her whisper again.  "I love the way you smell, Ben."

He stopped dead, shock rippling through him, before whirling around to face the bed again.  She was still sleeping!  But.......

Backing out of the room, he quietly closed the door and leaned against the wall, trying to calm his suddenly rioting emotions.  She hadn't been thinking of Finn.  But, that meant......

Holy fuck.

****

Rey inhaled deeply and rolled over in bed, snuggling deeper into her pillow as she began to wake up.  She'd had the best sleep.  She loved weekends.  Loved being able to sleep in on those lazy mornings.  Quite simply, they made the early mornings during the week more bearable.

Breathing in deeply once again, she savoured the warm comfortable feeling that washed over her at the familiar scent.  Ben.  The pillow smelled like Ben.  Her brain scrambled at the thought.  Wait – why did the sheets smell like Ben?  Confused, her eyes snapped open, catching sight of her surroundings.  Realizing that she wasn't in her own bed, she sat up suddenly.

What the fuck?  Why was she in Ben's room?  In Ben's bed?

Swinging her legs over the bed, she tried to make sense of her surroundings.  How did she end up here?  Getting up, she realized that she was still in yesterday's clothes.  Okay, one more clue.  Wandering into the bathroom, she peed, washed her face, and turned to go into the living room in search of Ben.

She found him standing across the room, staring out of the window.  "Good Morning."

Startled out of his thoughts, he turned to face her, his gaze raking over her wrinkled form with an amused smile.  "Good Morning.  Sleep well?"

Frowning, she replied.  "Yes, but what the fuck am I doing here?"

He smirked again.  "You fell asleep on the couch after dinner yesterday – and Finn couldn't move you, so he decided to leave you here."

­Her mouth fell open in shock.  "He left me here?"

"In his defense, it was Kay's idea."

Rey looked around.  "Oh.  Where is she?"

His gaze shifted to the floor.  "She went home last night,"

"Oh, Ben.  I'm so sorry!  Its my fault, isn't it?"  She asked.

"No.  Its not.  She would've left whether you stayed here or not.  She had every intention of going home last night – she'd just forgotten to tell me in advance."  He glanced at her briefly before looking away. 

Rey could see the hurt on his face and walked over to him.  Wrapping her arms around him, she gave him a tight hug.  "I don't know what to say."  She could feel him shrug.

Pulling back, she looked up at him.  "So, if I fell asleep on the couch, how did I end up in your bed?"

He shrugged again.  "I carried you.  I wasn't going to let you sleep on the couch."

Her eyes narrowed.  "And where did you sleep?"  She asked suspiciously.

His lips quirked.  "On the couch."

"Why?  Why would you do that?!"  She bit out.

Once again, he lifted his shoulder in a nonchalant shrug.  "Never say that chivalry is dead."

"Honestly Ben!  That couldn't have been comfortable!  I'm much smaller – you should've just left me there.  And....you carried me??!!"

"It was fine."  He told her softly, before smirking.  "You're not heavy at all."

She rolled her eyes, her gaze locked onto his.  "Thank you."

"You're welcome.  It really wasn't a big deal.  I was glad to have you here.  I... didn't really want to be alone..."

She searched his face, able to hear the strain in his voice.  "Are you okay?"  She asked quietly.

Taking a deep breath, he gave her a small nod.  "I'll be fine."

Tilting her head, she stared at him.  "No – you're not.  Talk to me."  He sighed and looked down at her, silently studying her face.  "Have you had coffee yet?"  She asked.  When he shook his head, she pointed to the couch.  "Go.  Sit.  I'll make the coffee – I just need to find the pods."

"2nd cupboard on the left."  He sighed, walking over to sit on the couch.

After she'd found everything and made the coffees, she brought the two cups of steaming brew over to the couch and handed one to Ben, sitting down next to him.

"Thanks."  He replied, and took a tentative sip, giving her a nod to let her know it was good.

She smiled.  "Black, half a sugar."  His eyes flicked to her briefly as he smirked back at her.  "So, what happened?"  She asked.

"I'm not quite sure.  I thought she'd be spending the weekend with me.  But in all honestly, we didn't talk about it."  He sighed.  "I just don't know why she would have to go home.  She acts like her parents are invalids – but they're not.  Yes, they're older – maybe in their late 60s, but they don't have any issues that I know of or can see."  He let out a deep breath.  "I just don't know.  It's like she doesn't want to be with me."

Sitting back on the couch with her own coffee, her legs were tucked under her comfortably.  "I can't see that being the case, Ben."

"Unfortunately, I think it is."  He said dejectedly.

"But, she doesn't act like that when I'm around you two."  She smiled.  "She looks happy."

"Does she look like she particularly wants to be here?  Close to me?  Or does she just look comfortable?"  He challenged.

"I...."  Rey began, but then stopped to consider his question, thinking about Kay's behavior and body language – what she'd seen of it – around Ben.  "I'm not sure....."  She answered honestly.

He sighed again, scrubbing a hand over his face.  "That's what I thought."  He looked away. "What the fuck is wrong with me?  I feel like such a failure...I can't even...."  He swallowed, shaking his head.

"Don't say that!"  She told him harshly.  "I refuse to believe that this is your fault.  You're not an idiot!  You're intelligent, insightful, thoughtful... and based on what you've told me, this is bothering you – really bothering you.  You know its taking a toll on your entire relationship – and you're trying to find a solution.  So there is no way you're some bumbling oaf in bed who can't figure this shit out.  There has got to be more to it than that!  I know its awful to point fingers, but the problem is likely hers, not yours!"

He looked at her in wide-eyed shock before his face broke out in a huge grin.  "Wow!  Um.  Thanks for that.  I think."

"Sorry."  She mumbled quietly.  "Ever since you told me, this has been bothering me too, and I guess I just lost my temper."

They sat silently, both of them staring at nothing in particular for several minutes, before Rey spoke.  "What are you going to do?"

"I don't know."  He replied softly.  "I don't know what I can do anymore."

She looked at him speculatively.  "If you want to keep trying, why don't you move ahead with the romantic evening we talked about?  Food, flowers, the whole nine yards.  You saw her expression when we talked about your Uncle yesterday.  She thought it was romantic.  So, maybe she wants a little romance?  Then give her romance."

Gazing across at her, he gave her a sad smile.  "Okay."

Smiling back at him, she held out her hand.  "I'll help you plan it."

He took it and she gave it a soft squeeze.  "How are things with Finn?"  He asked.

She wrinkled her nose a bit.  "Not bad really, but not different either.  I have to go out of town again for 10 days starting Wednesday next week – so I'm sure that'll put a strain on things again."

His eyes flicked up to hers.  "Yeah, I can see how that might be a problem for him – especially so close to the holidays."

"I was thinking that as a Christmas present I'd give him a romantic getaway somewhere – to reconnect.  Maybe a few days in the Bahamas in February."

"That's actually not a bad idea."  He told her.  "You'd have each other to yourselves, with no interruptions."  He thought about it a bit more.  "If Kay didn't suddenly seem so averse to sleeping in the same bed as me – never mind doing anything else – I'd consider that for her too.  But not the way things are right now...."

Rey pondered that for a moment.  "Why don't you just start with the romantic night out, and see how that goes?"

He nodded.  "Yeah."

"So....things are no better....in the boudoir?"  She asked hesitantly.

Staring at her pointedly, he told her.  "There is nothing happening in the boudoir, Rey."

"I'm sorry Ben."

"I'm used to it – as sad as that is."  He murmured, shaking his head.

Very carefully, she mentioned.  "I actually tried to gently persuade her to buy a negligee yesterday...."

"You what?!"  He practically yelled.

"Calm down Ben. I didn't say anything!  I never would!  I just hinted that men like that kind of stuff for bedroom activities."  She smirked.

He raised a brow.  "Aaaanndd?"

"She passed on it.  She said she wouldn't be comfortable wearing it.  I'm sorry..."  She said, regret evident in her voice.

"Figures."  He replied, looking dejected once again.

It really bugged her that Kay really didn't seem to get how much of an issue this was.  If she did, she would be really trying to get over these 'problems' – and buying that lingerie would've at least shown Rey that it was important to her to fix it.  Since she hadn't, it told Rey that it was likely one of two things.  Either Kay didn't really understand how big of an issue it was to their relationship, or she just didn't see it as a big issue.  But how could someone not understand that sex and the intimacy it brought was a key part of being a couple.

The longer this went on, and the more Rey understood about it, she began to think that Kay really wasn't the right woman for Ben.  He was clearly unhappy, and apparently even he was starting to feel that, well, she just didn't seem to be that into him.....

Her heart went out to him.  He deserved to be happy.  Deserved to be with someone who was crazy in love with him, and would give him everything he needed – and that included activities in the bedroom.  Fantastic activities in the bedroom.  However, based on everything she'd seen, 'crazy in love' did not seem to fit how Kay acted with Ben.

What type of woman would he really be drawn to if he had another chance to find love?  Would she be tall, dark haired and gorgeous, like him?  Or blonde and sultry?  Would she be able to satisfy him in bed?  Unbidden, the image of a tall, naked woman straddling him in bed flashed across her mind, swiftly followed by an unexpected stab of jealousy.  Her heart clenched.  What the fuck?

Something must have showed on her face, because Ben suddenly frowned at her.  "What are you thinking about?"

A flash of alarm surged through her, and she answered quickly, a hot blush surfacing on her face.   "Nothing."

He raised a brow, noticing her pink cheeks, but didn't say anything in reply.  She studied him silently for a few minutes again.  "Ben.  I don't want to tell you what to do here.... but...."  She took a deep breath.  "I think that maybe, if you want, you try the romantic evening, and then, if that doesn't work.... well....."

His eyes were a bit glassy when he replied resignedly.  "I know Rey.  I know."

Reaching out, she grabbed his hand again.  "Regardless of what happens, or whatever you decide, know that I'll be here for you.  Always."

He gave her a small smile.  "I know that too.  I couldn't ask for a better friend.  Thank you Rey."

"You're welcome Ben."