A/N - Hiya Lovelies!  We're getting closer to the end now - just a few more chappies to go!  I'm hoping you'll like them all.  This one (and probably the next) are definitely a bit tame - but wraps up a few loose ends and sets the stage for things to come.  Don't worry, there's still lots of excitement and yummy Reylo goodness to come. 😁  Thanks to everyone for their kind words and often hilarious comments!  Please continue to drop me your comments - they're really great!  And please remember to vote if you like it!  Thank you again for all of your support - Enjoy!!

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"I want to show you something."  Ben told her quietly.

They were walking through the corridors of the Finalizer, following the announcement that they made to a global assembly of the First Order – and then the galaxy – that the Supreme Leader and the Lady Rey of the Villerie family from Naboo would be joined in marriage.  Rey had vehemently protested being referred to as "Lady Rey", but Ben just shook his head and told her that it was to honor her mother's family.  After hearing his explanation, she considered it for a few minutes before she grudgingly agreed.

Prior to the staff assembly, they had quietly announced their news to the First Order Generals, and had also told them that the couple would be welcoming a child in about 4 and a half months.   None had seemed shocked and all had offered heartfelt congratulations on their news. Amala had smiled and winked at Rey out of the corner of her eye.

Rey had been at his side while he'd made the announcement, and had never been more terrified in her entire life, standing in front of all of those First Order staff and Troopers.  It also didn't help knowing that it was being broadcast to other First Order bases and stations as well as the rest of the galaxy via holovid.   Immediately after making the announcement he had turned to her and tenderly kissed her fingers, publicly showing his affection for her.  She had been sweetly touched when he did that, as it showed the galaxy that their joining was not simply one of convenience – that it was more than two powerful force users from opposing factions merging together.

Now as they made their way to wherever Ben was taking her, Rey could sense a distinct shift in the mood on the ship.   People seemed excited.  Almost all of the staff who passed them smiled broadly and offered their congratulations at the couple's upcoming marriage.  Rey was completely stunned at their behavior, but Ben just smiled down at her audaciously.   "I told you. You're their Lady Rey."

So now not only the First Order, but also the entire galaxy knew that they were a couple.  Her Resistance friends all knew that she was marrying the Supreme Leader of the First Order.  She wondered what they thought about it.  They probably thought that she was crazy – especially in light of the recent events around Vandor-1.  However, she had to admit that while there was a small part of her that wanted them to understand, she didn't really care.  This was her life – these were her choices – and if anyone didn't like it, that was just too bad.  She was done hiding it all, and would proudly become Rey Solo in a matter of days.

Ben had explained to her how dangerous it was for anyone outside of the First Order – with the exception of his Mother and Uncle - to learn about what had really happened with Vandor-1.   How it would look if anyone found out the truth, and what it would do to their ability to oversee the changes that he wanted the First Order to make.  Hopefully the story they had created to cover it up was believable enough to try to maintain some sense of trust and order within the galaxy.  The news holos about the First Order's part in the tragic accident on Vandor-1 – and their apologies and offers of compensation, were sent around the galaxy yesterday.   Thousands of Vandorian refugees who were off-world or living on other planets when it blew up had already contacted the First Order for restitution.

When they got to the doors of the main conference room, Ben stopped and motioned for her to enter.  As they walked in, Rey was enthralled by the panoramic view of the marshalling bay – the one where they had just made their announcement – below.  Stepping up to the viewing wall, she watched the hive of activity below.   "I've always wondered what this room looked like."

"Huh?"  Ben asked in confusion.

"You were standing in here during one of our connections when I was on Ahch-To.  I couldn't really see much, but caught a brief glimpse."

"I never knew that."  He smiled.  "But this isn't what I intended to show you."   He was standing on the other side of the room, next to a large viewscreen on the wall, and held out his hand.   "Come here."

Rey cocked her head and wandered over to him.   "This is what I wanted to show you."  Activating the screen, the image of a sprawling complex was shown.   "These are the plans for the First Order Galactic Center."

"Ben!"  She exclaimed.   "You did it!"

He smirked back at her, but a hint of pride showed on his face.  "Not quite yet. Its still under construction."

"Where?"  She asked excitedly.

"Yavin 4."

"I've never been....."  Her tone was wistful.

"I'll take you there."  His gaze was soft as he looked at her.   "Its very green.   There are areas of jungle, forests, many lakes, and some smaller mountains.  It's beautiful."  He squeezed her hand.   "I think you're going to love it."

It looked like a small city.  He proceeded to show her show her all the components of the Center, zooming in to the different areas to see her reactions.  Tapping on a cluster that was located somewhat away from the rest of the complex, the view zoomed in, and he explained.  "This is the residential section."  She could see what looked like a barracks, several large apartment complexes, and a number of smaller multi-dwelling structures, all surrounded by houses of various sizes.  He pointed to a larger, more regal looking, gated house set away from the others and told her.   "That's our house."

Her eyes widened and filled with tears.  "Ben!"

Taking her hands in his, he gave them a brief squeeze before bringing them to his mouth to graze them with his lips.  "The location and footprint have been determined, but I left the rest – so we could decide together.  I tried to keep it modest, as far as the Supreme Leader's residence could be.   Most would probably expect something more palatial – but I knew you probably wouldn't like that."  She beamed up at him and nodded.  "Its still a large house though.  We need to choose the overall layout, the number of rooms and their size, as well as the exterior appearance."

Throwing herself into his arms, she was at a loss for words. He had done this for her.  He'd promised her a home, and was in the process of delivering on it.  A twinge of guilt pierced her chest.  Based on her recent behavior, she didn't feel as if she deserved it.  And he had clearly done this while she was....away.  Swallowing the lump in her throat, she gazed up at him with tears in her eyes.

He could feel her trepidation through the bond, and sensed the direction of her thoughts.   Leaning his forehead onto hers, he quietly pleaded.  "Please, stop torturing yourself Sweetheart."

Nodding, she wiped the tears from her eyes and embraced him tightly once again, feeling his sincerity wash through her.   He forgave her.  She knew he did.  Now she just needed to forgive herself.  Taking a deep breath, she pushed the sorrow and regret from her mind.  With time, she'd make up the hurt she'd caused him – and replace it with love.

Now that she knew about the baby, she was extremely glad that they wouldn't be living on a star ship.  Sunlight and nature were a much better environment for any child, and she was looking forward to it.  Pulling away slightly she gazed up at his expectant visage.   "I'm so excited Ben!   Thank you, Love."

His eyes softened at her unexpected endearment.   Bringing his hand up, he stroked her cheek with the backs of his fingers.   He'd never get used to her beauty, nor the softness of her skin.  He leaned toward her, and just before his lips met hers, whispered.   "You're welcome, Sweetheart."

The kiss was soft and sweet, and all too short as they were interrupted by a throat being cleared.   Rey startled and tried to jump back, blushing furiously, but Ben refused to release her from his arms.  Growling, he turned to see Ensign Tiga at the doorway, looking down at the floor with an amused smile on his face.   "What is it?"

Ensign Tiga flicked his gaze up to the Supreme Leader, unable to conceal his smile.  "Sir."  His eyes moved to Rey.  "Sorry to interrupt, but, the Lady Rey is expected for her appointment with the seamstresses."

"Seamstresses?"  She asked in confusion, looking at Ben.

"Its for your gown – for the Marriage Ceremony.  And your wardrobe."

"I don't need –"  He silenced her by placing his fingers over her mouth.

Glancing down at her baby bump, he smirked.  "Yes, you do.   The timing is perfect for a new wardrobe.  You probably won't fit into your old clothes for very much longer."

Rey started to open her mouth to speak, but was met with Ben's raised brow.  Huffing out her frustration, she mumbled.  "You're right."

He chuckled and rubbed his hands up her arms, before quietly confessing.   "It was Amala's idea."  She gave him a soft smile, but he could still see some trepidation in her eyes.   "Sweetheart, this is supposed to be fun for you, not torture."

"I know."  She told him, looking down.   "I just don't like being poked and prodded."

Tilting her head back up, he placed another kiss on her lips.  "Yes, but I'm looking forward to seeing you in a beautiful gown when we make our life vows to each other.  And the rest of your clothes should be......"  He stopped, unsure of how to continue.

She could see his struggle, could feel through the bond what he was trying to say.  "They should be suitable for the wife of the Supreme Leader."  She finished quietly for him.

"Sweetheart –"

"Its okay.  I know."  She cut him off, smiling.   "Don't worry.  I've already realized that I can't go around in my old, threadbare clothes any longer."  Giving his hands a final squeeze, she remarked.   "I am actually looking forward to some new clothes."  She gave him a quick kiss, and whispered.   "I'll see you later."  Turning, she smiled at Tiga as she walked toward him.  "Let's go."

****

Later that day, she was lying in bed relaxing, after waking from her afternoon nap.  Although she knew her body needed it, she was starting to feel a bit guilty – and felt lazy sleeping so much.  She'd have to talk to Ben about finding something to do.  She couldn't simply laze around all day - eventually she'd go crazy.  Maybe she'd ask the doctor if she could train – lightly – for an hour each day.  That should help.

Her belly growled, and she realized she'd need to get up and eat something soon.  While she really did like to eat, being hungry almost all the time was starting to feel weird.  Amala had suggested that she try something called peanut butter, saying that it was tasty, and that a couple of spoonfuls every few hours might help if she didn't have time to stop and eat.  She resolved to ask the meal staff about whether they could put some in their small kitchen.  Thinking about it, she decided that there were definitely worse things in life than having to eat so much.   Remembering her life on Jakku, she shuddered.  Yes, there were many things that were a lot worse.

All in all, she had to admit, her experience with the seamstresses wasn't that bad.  They had been very careful with her, and accommodating with her tastes.  They had started with the dress for the marriage ceremony, since that was the most urgent piece to have completed.

Rey had been surprised when they'd handed her a white lace concoction and directed her to put it on.   The head seamstress – Alia, had told her that the Supreme Leader had provided it, noting that it had been his Grandmother's.  She'd been puzzled at first, wondering how he could have that dress, but then realized.  Leia.  She thought.   He must have gotten it from Leia.  Recalling how intertwined their families were – how Padmé and her grandmother Reyla were friends, gave her a sense of comfort to be wearing Padmé's dress for her marriage.

The dress was simply beautiful – Rey had never seen anything so fine.  The lace extended to the floor and trailed behind her.  There were small crystals embedded here and there, and a matching headdress that went with it.  Glad that she was of similar stature to Padmé, the dress fit well, but needed some minor alterations because of her still small baby bump.

In terms of the rest of her wardrobe, she'd been surprised that they'd actually listened to her preferences.  She had no intention of walking around in dresses every single day, and they helped her come up with a number different outfits that reflected her own unique style and desire for comfort – albeit a lot nicer than her typical wraps.   At their insistence, she did allow them to create some dresses too, aware that there would likely be formal events she'd have to attend.  They also told her that they'd stagger the sizes so she'd be able to have some to wear as her belly grew.

Thinking about it, she was glad that Amala had suggested it and that Ben had arranged this for her.  She did need new clothes, and was happy she'd have more choice than the same one or two outfits as she'd essentially had her entire life – even after joining the Resistance.  And even though her new outfits would be similar in style to her normal attire, they'd be prettier – a bit more colourful – and would be new, not worn out.   Smiling, she hoped Ben liked the way she looked in them.

Her belly rumbled once again, and she rolled out of the bed, deciding that it was past time for her to grab some food.

****

The shuttle banked as it dipped to fly over a large, beautiful lake that was surrounded by a lush forest on Yavin 4.  They were in the cockpit of the Supreme Leader's command shuttle, accompanied by several First Order staff.  Ben had decided that for this trip they needed to follow protocols and so had some staff and Troopers escort them.

The Supreme Leader had instructed the shuttle pilot to take them on a bit of a tour of the area before landing at the construction site, so that the Lady Rey could get a better feel for the planet, and of the general environs that they would soon call home.

Rey's eyes were glued to the natural beauty, her body leaning forward in her seat, trying to see all she could – not wanting to miss a thing.  A smile teased at the corners of Ben's lips as he watched her, certain that if she could, she would've plastered herself to the window to get a closer look.

As they continued on, Rey could see the terrain change in the distance, and a waterfall came into view.  Gasping, she turned to Ben with a bright smile.  She was spellbound by Yavin 4.  It wasn't the same as Naboo, but it had a raw, natural beauty that excited and enticed her.  She almost couldn't believe that this beautiful planet was going to be their home.

The vegetation rapidly changed and became jungle-like.  In the distance she could see a very large, cleared area that was a mass of activity.  Her heart began beating wildly and she glanced over at Ben again.  He was watching her carefully, studying her reactions.   Leaning closer, she reached out her hand and entwined her fingers with his.   "I love it."  She told him, earning her a smug smile.  Rolling her eyes, she went back to studying the area.

As they approached the site, Ben spoke loud enough for everyone to hear.  "On the left over there you can see the Training Complex, which will be next to the main hangars.  The large area over on the far right is the Residential Complex, with barracks, apartments and even houses for more senior staff.  Just beyond that is the Recreational Complex, with fitness and entertainment facilities."  Even the normally staid staff on the shuttle seemed excited and could be seen glancing at the structures he pointed them out.  After all, it would be their home too – on a rotational basis, as many staff would shift back and forth between the base and First Order ships for periods of time.

He leaned closer to Rey and whispered with a small smile.   "Right behind them you can see the beginnings of the Supreme Leader's residence.  We'll meet with the architects while we're here to choose the layout we'd prefer."

Her eyes sparkled when he brought her hand to his lips and kissed it, his eyes full of promise.   "When will it be completed?"  She asked eagerly.

"They've been given exactly two months from today."  Her expression changed and she started to speak, but he cut her off.  "Not a day longer.  I want you to be comfortable in the last few months before the baby comes.  So I've told them that there will be no delays."

Rolling her eyes again, she could see that there were still glimpses of the commanding and domineering parts of his personality – but she had to admit, sometimes that was okay.

After landing, they toured around the site for awhile before Ben introduced her to the architects.   He told her that he had to leave her for an hour to attend a meeting, but suggested that she start looking at the plans for their house while he was away.  With literally no experience, Rey felt a bit overwhelmed.  The architects however were very patient with her, and showed her four different layouts from which to start.  After working with them for a little while, they helped her to pick the one that she thought both her and Ben would prefer.

Returning after his meeting, Ben was astounded at the progress she had made in the short time he was gone.  Her mood was ecstatic, and she eagerly showed him which of the plans she'd chosen, as well as some of the alterations she'd already made.   He'd had a few suggestions of his own and they both continued working with the architects until they were happy with the end result, and were able to finalize the plans.  Rey was excited to see how it would look when it was complete, and almost couldn't wait to move in.  It would be her first real home.

Once they were done at the site, they boarded the shuttle for the trip back.   "I have another surprise for you."  He told her quietly.  Her brows raised as she waited for him to fill her in.  "The modifications to the Ascendancy are complete.  There will be a short ceremony where I'll be formally accepting delivery of her tomorrow, and we'll be moving there immediately afterward."  He looked at her uncertainly.  "Is that okay?"

Cocking her head, she nodded.   "I guess it doesn't really matter.  One star ship is the same as another to me."

He shook his head at her.  "Do not say that about the Ascendancy.  It is a state of the art spacecraft."  He chastised.  "Trust me – you'll like it.  Our quarters will be much more comfortable – more like an apartment.   And the layout of all First Order ships is almost identical – some are just slightly bigger or smaller, so you shouldn't have too many difficulties finding your way around."

He also let her know that his most trusted Generals would be transferring to the Ascendancy too, while the remainder would remain on the Finalizer.   In addition, he'd promoted Pride to Allegiant General, who would accept overall command responsibility of the new flagship.

She remembered her resolution to start training again, and wondered about the training facilities on the Ascendancy.   "We have our own private training room there. Its far nicer – and bigger than the one on the Finalizer."  His eyes narrowed.   "But you won't be using it given that we'll be moving to the Center in 2 months."

Her face was intent as she gently implored.  "Ben, I'd really like to spend an hour or so training each day. I'm bored.  And I haven't had the desire nor the chance to train much at all for the past few months."  She could see the stern look on his face.  "I promise that I'll take it easy."

"No."

"Ben.   Please.  I'm not fragile – and I don't want you to treat me like I am.  Its not dangerous for me to train – I'm pretty sure that its actually better for the baby if I stay in shape.  I won't do any one on one training – I'll just do some moves and stretches, and run through my forms."  Her face was pleading,  "We can talk to the doctor first...."

She could see him starting to waver, and she reached out to grab his hand.  "I really need something to do each day – even more than an hour of training.   Some type of responsibilities or duties.  I'll go out of my mind if I keep sitting around all day in between my naps and snacks!"

He let out a deeply resigned sigh.   "I'll consider it – but only if the doctor okay's it."

Getting up from her seat, she sat on his lap and threw her arms around him.   "Thank you.  Normally I wouldn't let you boss me around, but since I'm carrying your child, in this case you get a say."

He leaned closer and nuzzled her ear, surreptitiously placing a soft kiss just below it.    "I know.  I wouldn't usually try to stop you....."  He laughed.   "Normally I couldn't stop you – you wouldn't let me.  By the way, you still owe me some "making up".

Rey gave him a mock sigh, and told him in a falsely aggrieved tone.   "I knew you'd eventually bring that up.  But you're right – I did promise to spend my life making it up to you, so....."

Chuckling, he quietly muttered.   "No.   Once you have the baby, I'm sure I'll be spending the rest of my life thanking you..."

She looked into his eyes, her heart melting in happiness at their light banter.  She was surprised that with all of the staff around them that Ben was allowing her to sit on his lap, and had even gone as far as to bury his face in her neck.  Those very staff were diligently trying to ignore the couple and their affectionate behavior.  She gently stroked his cheek, desperately wanting to kiss him.

Later.  He said through the bond, causing her heart to speed up.

Giving him a secret smile, she leaned over to whisper seductively into his ear   "Count on it."  Her tongue secretly brushed his earlobe, and she felt him shiver before slithering off of his lap and back into her seat.

****

Later that afternoon, Rey sat at the desk in their quarters, inspecting the two halves of the kyber crystal that remained after Luke's lightsaber had split apart on the Supremacy, when Ben – no Kylo – and her had battled over possession of it.  It was just after he'd offered her his hand....She let her mind drift back to when that happened, recalling how amazing it had felt to fight the Praetorian Guard with him, and how devastated she'd been when she realized that Kylo had taken over again.  Swallowing sadly, she shook herself out of it.  That was all behind them now, so there was no need to dwell on that heartbreak any longer.

She'd been trying to find some time to be able to pull these out and look at them again, but so far hadn't been alone long enough to do it.  Once they had arrived back on the Finalizer after their excursion to Yavin 4, Ben let her know that he needed to attend a few meetings, but would be back in time for dinner.  That suited Rey just fine, as she was tired from their trip and wanted nothing more than to have a quick snack and then climb into bed for a nap.  She also knew that that would give her enough time to have another look at the crystals after she woke up.  An idea had popped into her head a couple of days ago, and she'd wanted to see if she could make it work.

That lightsaber – and now the crystal pieces – were Ben's family legacy, and a part of his heritage.   But the saber had called to her that day on Takodana, and in the forest of Starkiller, so it was a part of her too.   When she thought about it, and how everything fit together, the two halves of the crystal seemed to represent her and Ben.  Two halves of a whole – the two that are one.  It all just seemed too highly symbolic to her, and she couldn't help but feel that Ben would see it the same way.  And with that, she thought she might be able to have the pieces made into something that they could each carry to signify both their bond and their commitment to one another.  It would be the perfect wedding gift for him.

As she looked at them again, she tried to figure out what they could be made into.  She turned the pieces over in her hands repeatedly and reached out with the Force, seeing if anything would come to her.  Her mind flowed, trying to picture it – looking for a flash of insight.

Maybe, a piece of jewellery of some kind?  She thought.  Hmmm.  The pieces were too big to incorporate into rings, but maybe.. a pendant?  One that could be worn either around the neck or on the wrist.  Yes!  That's it!  She could almost see it – could picture it in her mind.  However, having it made without Ben knowing would be a challenge here on the Finalizer.  First of all, she wouldn't even know where to start.  Also, they were moving to the Ascendancy tomorrow – so that would make it even more difficult, as she had even less information on that ship.

If she had the tools, and the parts, she could probably make them herself.   They may not look as beautiful or fine – but they'd be made with love.  Unfortunately though, she had neither tools nor parts, and had no easy way of getting them.  She supposed she could try to find the fabrication shop, but given their move tomorrow, that would further complicate the process.   And it definitely increased the possibility of Ben finding out – and she really wanted it to be a surprise.

Sighing, she knew that she'd need some help.   The only person she could ask was Leia.  Leia would at least know how to go about getting the pieces made and mounted.  Maybe someone on the Resistance Base could make them?  Time was of the essence however.  She'd need to talk to Leia and get the pieces to her sooner rather than later.  It would likely require a visit to the Base as well, which was probably not a bad idea, since she really wanted to talk to Finn too.   Tomorrow would be a busy day however, so her visit would have to wait until the day after.  She just hoped that Leia would be able to help her, and that there would be enough time to have them finished before they had to leave for Naboo.