Chapter 2

Rey's mind struggled to catch up, swirling with confusion and unanswered questions, leaving her momentarily speechless.

"Considering how enthusiastically you returned that kiss, have you come to offer up your virtue?" Ben's lips curved into a teasing smirk, a challenge woven into his words.

Rey shot him a furious glare, her cheeks flushing. "No, you kissed me!"

"And yet, you didn't try to stop me or prevent my wandering hands," Ben remarked, raising an eyebrow, leaning back with an air of casual confidence, as if the whole encounter was nothing more than a trivial game.

"How do you know who I am?" Rey asked, her heart pounding, a mix of anger and embarrassment flooding her.

"I'd be blind not to recognise you," Ben replied, his tone dripping with boredom, though his eyes betrayed an underlying curiosity. "I'll ask again: what are you doing here?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with unspoken tension.

Rey stared down at the polished floor, her mind racing as she tried to make sense of the strange exchange.

Glancing back up, she caught Ben's gaze, but he quickly looked away, an air of discomfort hanging between them.

"I've never seen you before," Rey finally said, her voice tinged with curiosity as her eyes searched his for answers.

"Your grandfather is currently showcasing you like a prized possession to secure a husband," Ben explained, a hint of frustration in his tone. "I've seen your picture among the proposals."

"He wouldn't want our kingdoms to unite," Rey retorted, crossing her arms defensively. "How did you even come across my picture?"

"I do engage with representatives from other kingdoms, Rey," he said, his tone softening slightly. "I've encountered it in their suggestions."

Rey processed his explanation, a mix of emotions stirring within her, and she finally nodded in acknowledgment.

A heavy silence settled in the room, thick with unspoken thoughts.

"That's why I'm here," Rey said, breaking the heavy silence that hung between them like a thick fog.

Ben raised an eyebrow, curiosity flickering in his gaze, but he remained otherwise unresponsive, his posture relaxed yet guarded.

"Aren't you going to ask me to explain?" Rey prompted.

"I already did that before," Ben replied coolly, a slight edge sharpening his tone. "I'm still waiting for an answer."

Rey huffed softly. She took a deep breath, then shifted toward the edge of the bed, leaning in closer to him. "I need to secure a proposal from a kingdom willing to stand up to my grandfather's tyranny."

"So, you're asking for my hand?" Ben asked, a playful challenge glinting in his eyes. "Isn't that the gentleman's job?"

"It is, but I highly doubt you would have proposed on your own accord," Rey shot back, a spark of mischief in her expression.

Ben smirked, amusement dancing on his lips. "What's in it for me?"

"Other than aligning our kingdoms," Rey replied, her voice steady but her cheeks flushed with a hint of pink, "I would be willing to try for multiple heirs."

Ben raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. "You do realize there's a certain… activity we would need to engage in for that to happen," he said, his tone teasing yet serious.

"Yes, of course," Rey admitted, feeling a mix of embarrassment and determination. "I am prepared to fulfill my marital duty."

"Duty," Ben scoffed as he stood up, his expression shifting to one of mock skepticism. "But how can I be sure you've maintained your purity? After all, you allowed me to take certain liberties before."

Rey's eyes widened in shock, her mouth falling open in disbelief. "How dare you?" she growled, fire igniting in her gaze. "I am a lady, and I will not tolerate such disrespectful accusations!"

Ben stepped closer, his presence commanding. "At what point would you have stopped me?" he challenged, his voice low and intense.

Rey glared back at him, unwavering. "I was about to."

"You certainly seemed invested in what we were doing," he said, taking another step forward, forcing her to tilt her head back to hold his gaze, the tension crackling between them like electricity.

"Would you have stopped me when my fingers were inside of you or perhaps my cock?"

Ben took the final step, closing the distance between them and bringing their bodies together.

Rey instinctively tried to step back but realised she was trapped at the foot of the bed, her pulse quickening. She gently pushed against his chest with her palms, seeking a moment of space.

"We've stopped, so it doesn't matter, does it?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

With a confident grip, Ben caught hold of her wrists, the warmth of his touch sending a shiver through her.

"Perhaps we should continue what we were doing and see how far we get," he suggested, his voice low and inviting.

His gaze flickered from her eyes to her lips, a silent invitation hanging in the air. He loosened his hold on her wrists and leaned closer, their breaths mingling as his mouth inched toward hers, giving her every chance to pull away if she wanted.

Rey leaned back onto the soft mattress, she kept her eyes fixed on his lips, drawn in by the tension that buzzed between them.

"Wrong direction, sweetheart," Ben said with a teasing smirk, his voice laced with desire. "That's exactly where I want you to go."

Caught in the moment, Rey blinked her eyes as if breaking a spell, her thoughts strengthening. She finally looked away, breaking the intoxicating connection.

"Ben, I don't have long. I need to know if you agree to a union."

Ben huffed as he stood taller, brushing off imaginary dust from his clothes.

"That would mean you will be the mother of a Skywalker," he said, a mix of incredulity and disbelief in his voice.

Rey met his stare with a smirk. "And you would be the father of a Palpatine," she countered, her tone playful. "What's your point?"

He glanced up at the high ceiling, as if searching for answers among the beams. "How do you expect this proposal to be made public?" he asked, curiosity lacing his words.

A smile spread across Rey's face, lighting up her features. "So, you agree, then?"

"Yes, but now you need to start answering my questions," Ben said firmly.

"Of course," Rey replied, letting out a relieved sigh as she felt the tension ease between them. "There will be a grand ball next month."

"For your birthday," Ben added, raising an eyebrow.

"Yes, how did you know?" she asked, genuinely surprised.

"No matter," he waved the thought aside, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "So, you expect me to propose, then?"

"Yes, it's the last day my grandfather is giving me to make a decision, or he will take matters into his own hands," Rey said, her voice laced with uncertainty. "You'll propose in front of everyone, and I'll accept, ensuring he can't disagree."

"And what about the courting season? How will that work?" Ben inquired, a hint of concern in his voice.

Rey sighed, glancing out the window at the vibrant autumn leaves swirling in the breeze. "You can't make an appearance until the ball. I'll be dancing, enjoying chaperoned walks, and I must make him believe I'm seriously considering other suitors."

"Fine," Ben replied, his brow furrowing. "But make sure none of them touch you inappropriately. No wife of mine will have a wandering gaze."

Rey raised an eyebrow, a playful smile on her lips. "Fine, then no more mistresses. I won't have a husband ending up in someone else's bed."

"Deal," Ben said, his expression softening. "How about we seal it with a kiss to make it official?"

He leaned closer, the air between them thick with unspoken promises and the weight of their choices.

As Ben leaned closer, his intentions clear, Rey instinctively leaned back, feeling the warmth of his body as he began to envelop her in a protective embrace on the bed. Her gaze flickered between his deep eyes and inviting lips, a flutter of anticipation making her eyelids grow heavy.

Suddenly, the bedroom door burst open with a thunderous crash, shattering the moment.

Startled, Rey slipped farther up the bed, her heart racing. "We weren't— we didn't," she stammered, her cheeks flushed with a mix of embarrassment and surprise.

Ben acknowledged the intruder by turning his head sharply, his expression darkening. "What are you doing here, Mother?" he growled, his voice low and dangerous.

"I tried to warn her that you had a guest," Han replied, his voice slightly muffled as he stood half-hidden behind Leia.

With an air of authority, Leia strode into the room, eyes fixed on Ben.

"He won't be needing your services, dear," she announced with a glance at Rey, her tone icy and resolute. "No son of mine will sire an illegitimate heir," she declared, sending a fierce glare in Ben's direction that hissed with disapproval.

"Don't talk to my future wife like she's some common whore," Ben retaliated, his protective instincts flaring as he faced his mother with defiance.

"Future wife?" Leia exclaimed, her voice rising in disbelief as she whipped around to confront Rey, shock etched across her features.

Rey gracefully slipped off the edge of the bed, her movements fluid and poised, and performed a deep curtsy. "It is a pleasure to see you again," she said, her voice filled with warmth.

"Ha... that's Rey Palatine," Han chuckled, a playful glint in his eye as he watched her.

"Palpatine," Leia corrected softly, the weight of history heavy in her voice.

Turning her gaze back to Ben, Leia narrowed her eyes. "What are you up to?" she asked, her tone both challenging and protective as she began to close the distance between them.

"Nothing," Ben muttered evasively, his eyes darting away as he sidestepped her approach. "She asked for an alliance, and I agreed," he added, his expression evasive.

Leia's brows furrowed as she turned her attention back to Rey. "Your grandfather will never agree," she warned, concern etched across her features.

Rey's gaze flickered with determination. "That's why I have requested a public proposal on my birthday—something he can't refuse," she replied, the resolve in her voice unmistakable.

Leia pondered the situation, her brow furrowing with concern. "Why our kingdom?"

"She needs our protection," Ben replied, his tone serious and resolute.

"From what exactly?" Leia asked, pressing for more information with an intensity that matched her worry.

"My grandfather," Rey said quietly, her eyes reflecting a mixture of fear and resolve.

Han's expression turned puzzled. "But you're his only heir, aren't you?"

Rey let out a deep sigh, feeling the weight of their reality. "What do you know about how my parents died?"

Leia took a moment to reflect, her voice softening as she spoke. "Your father was killed bravely defending your mother from an intruder during your birth. Your mother then succumbed to consumption when you were just a child."

"That's the story my grandfather wants everyone to believe," Rey said, her voice steady yet filled with an undercurrent of frustration.

"Oh, this is good," Han said, rubbing his hands together eagerly, his eyes sparkling with intrigue as he settled down on the edge of the bed.

Once he was comfortable, he leaned forward, clearly eager to hear more.

Rey watched his movements and smirked, a hint of defiance in her expression, and continued. "My father fell deeply in love with a commoner, much like the two of you." She cast a quick glance at Han before looking back towards Leia, her tone playful yet somber.

"I'm anything but common," Han quipped, a cocky grin spreading across his face.

Leia rolled her eyes, exasperated but unable to hide a small smile.

Rey's demeanor shifted slightly as she delved into her past. "My grandfather always looked down on her, convinced that marrying a commoner was disgraceful. When she gave birth to a girl, it infuriated him."

A shadow passed over her features as she continued, "My father tried to protect me and my mother from my grandfather."

"He died in the process, but because I was the only heir left, my grandfather allowed my mother to live... for a time. She lasted until I was five, and then he had her killed too."

"That's horrific," Leia said, her heart aching for Rey as she reached out to grasp her hand, offering silent support amidst the weight of the story.

"I'm expected to be engaged before my 20th birthday, then married and starting a family before I turn 21. Once I've had a son, I fear he will get rid of me."

"What if you have a daughter?" Han asked, his brow furrowing with concern. "She will be killed," Rey replied, her voice heavy with resignation.

"Over my dead body," Leia growled, her protective instincts kicking in. "He will not lay a finger on any of my grandchildren or their mother."

Rey smiled, a glimmer of hope in her eyes.

"Well, welcome to the family," Han said warmly, a broad smile spreading across his face, filling the room with a sense of belonging.

Ben was lost in thought, his gaze drifting aimlessly until he snapped back to focus on Rey. "We need to get you home before he realises you're missing," he urged, his voice laced with concern. "Did you bring anyone else with you?"

"I was dropped off," Rey replied, determination bright in her eyes. "It's just me."

Ben's eyes widened in disbelief. "You came here alone?" he exclaimed. "You ventured into enemy territory all by yourself?"

Rey shrugged nonchalantly, a hint of defiance in her posture. "I can take care of myself."

"Debatable," Ben retorted, raising an eyebrow.

Rey shot him a fierce glare, the tension crackling between them.

"Father," Ben called out, his expression turning serious.

"Already on it," Han responded, urgency in his tone as he hurriedly exited the room.

"Han will escort you home," Leia added, her voice steady and reassuring.

"Thank you, your highness," Rey said with gratitude.

"It's Leia, or even 'Mother,' if you would prefer," Leia said with a warm smile, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.

"We're not even wed yet," Ben groaned, running a hand through his hair in mild exasperation.

"Minor detail," Leia replied, her confidence unwavering. "I'll begin preparations immediately."

"Thank you, Leia," Rey said, feeling a swell of gratitude.

"The wedding will take place six weeks after the announcement of your engagement," Leia explained, her tone brimming with excitement. "Now hurry along!"

With that, Leia beamed at Rey and gently tugged her into the expansive corridor.

As they made their way through the castle, Leia's excitement was palpable. She animatedly pointed out the breathtaking artwork that adorned the walls, each painting a small window into the history of their lineage. Vivid colours and intricate details whirled past Rey, each corridor revealing a new story.

Ben trailed behind them, a quiet presence in the whirlwind of Leia's tour. Rey's gaze often drifted toward her intended. She caught Ben stealing glances at her, his expression thoughtful, or concentrating hard on something just beyond her shoulder, his eyes reflecting contemplation.

As they finally stepped out into the crisp air, a magnificent carriage awaited them with Han standing confidently beside the open carriage door.

At the helm sat a towering man, whose strong frame commanded attention. He expertly held the reins of two majestic white horses, their coats gleaming like freshly fallen snow. With long, wavy brown hair cascading down his shoulders and a thick, bushy beard framing his face, the driver exuded a rugged charm.

Han tilted his head toward the imposing figure. "Chewie," he said, offering an introduction with a nod of familiarity.

Chewie responded with a deep, rumbling grunt, greeting Rey.

"Hello," Rey said, her smile radiant and graceful, as she took in the scene before her.

Leia, with a glimmer in her eyes, pulled Rey into a tight embrace. Rey melted into the hug, feeling the warmth and comfort.

"We'll see you soon," Leia promised, her voice filled with both hope and affection as she drew back, her eyes lingering on Rey's face.

Rey turned to face Ben. She noticed him crossing his arms over his chest, a playful smirk dancing on his lips.

"What, no hug for me?" Ben quipped, his voice teasing. "Or do I get a kiss?"

Rey rolled her eyes, a gesture filled with amusement, and turned her back to him. "Goodbye, Ben," she called over her shoulder.

Taking a few purposeful steps, she approached Han, who stood waiting with a reassuring smile. He extended his hand, helping her gracefully into the ornate carriage.

With a proud salute to his wife and son, he offered them a momentary farewell.

"I'll see you soon, Rey," Ben called out, his voice trailing behind her as the carriage began to roll away.

Leia watched the carriage with a concerned glance at Ben. "Does she know?" she asked, her brow furrowed with worry.

"No, and she's not going to find out either," Ben replied, his tone resolute.

Together, they stood side by side, watching as the carriage made its way toward the imposing iron gates in the distance.

Ben looked up to see his majestic eagle soaring gracefully across the treetops. With a practiced motion, he raised his arm, and the eagle landed softly on his outstretched limb.

As the bird settled, Ben noticed a note tied securely to its foot. With a mixture of anticipation and concern, Ben unfurled the note, his eyes scanning the elegant scrawl that he instantly recognised as Emperor Palpatine's handwriting.

The princess is missing.

Find her.

Ben's heart sank at the implications of those words. "He knows she left the castle," he said, his voice steady despite the weight of the situation.

Beside him, his mother frowned, processing the ominous news. "I guess Kylo Ren is going to take her back."

Ben nodded, determination setting in. "At least I already know where she is," he responded, his gaze drifted toward the distant carriage.

"You didn't get to spend the whole evening at home," Leia pouted, her brow furrowed with disappointment.

Ben sighed, his expression resolute. "That's the responsibility I took on when I agreed to infiltrate the enemy," he said.

He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to his mother's cheek. "I promise I'll see you soon, Mother."

He walked across the cobblestone courtyard to the stables to collect his horse.

Meanwhile, Rey peered out of the carriage window, a familiar bird soared overhead before disappearing into the distance.

Is Kylo Ren's eagle following me?

"Hey, kid," Han's voice sliced through the thick silence.

Rey's gaze snapped to Han, who lounged across from her, his posture relaxed yet alert as he stared out the window, watching the world outside with a keen eye.

"Do you have a weapon?" he asked, his tone shifting from casual to serious.

Panic surged in Rey's eyes, a flicker of fear that betrayed her composure.

Han shook his head, a snort of disbelief escaping him. "Of course you don't. My son would have swiftly taken it from you if you did." His words held an edge, a hint of concern beneath his casual demeanor.

With a deliberate movement, he leaned forward, his hand slipping beneath the cuff of his pant leg to reveal a small blade.

Its sharp edge catching Rey's attention. She watched his every move, her heart pounding in her chest as she struggled to keep her rising panic under control.

Han extended the handle of the blade toward her, his expression unreadable. "These roads aren't safe," he warned, the weight of his words hanging in the air.

Rey cautiously grasped the hilt of the blade, her fingers brushing against the cool metal. "Thank you," she said softly, settling the weapon beside her on the seat.

Han looked at her, a warm smile spreading across his face. "You know, I've always wanted a daughter," he confessed, his voice filled with a mix of nostalgia and hope. "I imagine she would be just as brave as you."

"Stubborn, don't you mean?" Rey shot back, a hint of humor in her eyes. "I didn't really consider whether your family would be welcoming." She met his gaze, her expression turning serious. "Your son isn't exactly the easiest person to get along with."

Han let out a chuckle, the sound rich and comforting. "Yes, he can be quite frosty. But don't worry; he'll warm up to you. He'll capture your heart just like you've managed to capture his."

Rey let out a snort of disbelief. "Accepting my proposal hardly guarantees that he's in love with me."

"We'll see," Han replied, chuckling again, a teasing smirk dancing on his lips as he leaned back, the twinkle in his eyes suggesting he knew more than he let on.