Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

BANG BANG BANG

Prince Ben Solo of House Organa groaned from his four-poster bed, his dark hair disheveled against the silk pillows. The insistent knocking echoed through his private chambers like thunder.

"Dammit," he muttered, reluctantly extricating himself from the warmth of his bed. He glanced back at the blonde woman who watched him with sleepy, inviting eyes—a barmaid he'd met at the Falcon's Rest the night before. Her name escaped him, but her company had been... pleasant.

"I'll be back, darling," he said with a roguish wink, pulling on his breeches with practiced efficiency.

The knocking persisted. Ben strode to the ornate door and yanked it open, his scowl deepening at the sight of Mitaka trembling in the hallway. The house servant's uniform was immaculate as always, but sweat beaded on his pale forehead.

"What do you want?" Ben demanded, his voice sharp with irritation.

Mitaka's hands shook as he clutched a sealed envelope bearing the royal seal. "Y-Your Highness, forgive the intrusion, but Her Majesty the Queen has summoned you. She requests your immediate presence in the throne room."

Ben glanced over his shoulder at the blonde, who had pulled the sheet up to barely cover herself, pouting prettily at the interruption.

"Can you tell her I'll be there in an hour?" Ben asked, turning back to Mitaka with barely concealed annoyance.

"I'm afraid not, Your Highness," Mitaka stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. "Her Majesty was quite... explicit in her instructions. She said if you do not come immediately, she will retrieve you herself."

Ben's jaw tightened. He knew his mother well enough to understand this wasn't an idle threat. Queen Leia Organa might rule the greatest empire in the world, but when she wanted something done, she had no qualms about doing it herself—servants or no servants.

"Fine," Ben sighed, running a hand through his dark hair. "I'll be there. Let me get dressed properly."

He shut the door and turned back to the blonde, who was now sitting up in bed, the sheet strategically draped around her curves.

"Sorry, cutie, but it looks like I'll have to attend to my royal duties," he said, reaching for his white linen shirt.

"Aww, but my prince," she purred, stretching languidly, "I'm here and ready for you." She posed with practiced seduction, hoping to entice him back to bed.

Ben shook his head, buttoning his shirt with swift, efficient movements. "My apologies, but sadly, my mother reigns above all other women." He pulled on his navy velvet waistcoat and straightened his cravat in the mirror.

The blonde pouted, but Ben was already moving toward the door. He paused with his hand on the ornate handle and glanced back with that same roguish smile.

"Perhaps we can meet up later," he said with another wink before stepping into the corridor, leaving her alone with promises as empty as his bed would soon be.

The throne room doors groaned open as Ben strode through, his boots echoing against the marble floors. Queen Leia sat regally upon her gilded throne, but her expression was one of utter boredom as she watched him approach. She stifled a yawn behind her gloved hand.

"Bennett," she began, using his formal name with deliberate emphasis, "please tell me you aren't slumming yourself with random women again. I would very much like my first grandchild to not be a bastard, at the very least."

Ben rolled his eyes dramatically. "Mother, I have no interest in sharing my activities with you."

"It doesn't matter anyway," Leia said with a dismissive wave, "as your betrothal has finally been arranged. Your bride-to-be will be arriving in a few days."

Ben's eyes widened in shock. His mother had been threatening him with marriage arrangements since he was sixteen, but he was twenty-three now. He'd almost thought she'd given up on the idea entirely.

"Who is it?" he asked warily, dreading the answer.

"She is the granddaughter of the Duke of Naboo."

Ben's face crumpled in disgust. He remembered meeting the Duke years ago—a pompous, greedy man he'd taken an instant dislike to.

"Really, Mother? You're going to marry me off to that disgusting creature's spawn? Was there no one else more worthy?"

"Oh, shush," Leia said, waving her hand again. "Trust me, I have searched and spoken to many candidates, and most of them are just so greedy to get their bloodline on the throne. I didn't even realize the Duke had a granddaughter until recently. And while I have no love for the Duke, I did promise to play fair and meet with her. She's a lovely little thing—thank goodness she isn't like her grandfather at all. I suppose it helps that she was raised mostly by servants at the keep, away from his influence, as he traveled often."

Ben rolled his eyes again.

"You need to behave when they arrive," Leia continued sternly, "and treat her properly. She's such a sweet girl."

Ben cocked an eyebrow at this unexpected praise from his usually cynical mother.

The days passed with agonizing slowness until finally, the ornate carriage bearing the crest of Naboo rolled up the cobblestone drive. Ben waited by the grand entrance, his hands clasped behind his back, watching with barely concealed dread.

The Duke emerged first—exactly as pompous and self-important as Ben remembered. His elaborate purple robes rustled as he approached with an oily smile.

"Ah, my Prince!" the Duke exclaimed, bowing with exaggerated flourish. "What a joyous union this shall be!"

The Duke turned back toward the carriage and barked harshly, "Get out of that damn carriage already, Reyna!"

Ben heard an indignant huff from within the carriage before the door burst open. A small figure jumped out, clutching her dress with both hands to keep from tripping. She walked toward them with puffed-out cheeks, clearly annoyed by her grandfather's rudeness.

She looked up at Ben with fierce hazel eyes and glared at him defiantly.

"Hello, future husband," she said, her voice dripping with sarcasm despite her youth.

Ben stared at the girl. He stared and stared, his mind struggling to process what he was seeing.

She was a child. A kriffing child!

His bride-to-be couldn't be more than twelve years old.

"What is the meaning of this, Mother?!" Ben's voice thundered through Queen Leia's private chambers. "She's a kriffing child! You're expecting me to have a child-bride?!"

His outraged shouts carried beyond the heavy oak doors, causing the servants in the corridor to scatter like startled mice, pretending they hadn't heard the Prince's scandalous words.

"Ben, calm down," Leia said with infuriating composure, seated behind her writing desk as if discussing the weather. "I know what this seems like—"

"DO YOU NOW?" Ben roared back, his face flushed with anger.

Leia regarded him coolly. "This is an opportunity for us to take the child in and mold her to our ways and customs, without the influence of the Duke's corruption and greed. She'll be raised properly here."

Ben shook his head in disbelief. "This is absolutely insane! I will NOT bed a child!"

Leia cringed slightly at his crude language. "Of course not, Ben. I wouldn't have thought you would. The... consummation can wait until she comes of age at sixteen."

Ben shook his head and pretended to gag at the very thought.

"Stop being so dramatic," Leia sighed. "And of course, you would have to gain Reyna's consent as well. Just because she turns sixteen doesn't mean she'll automatically be willing. It's not as if you haven't bedded anyone since you were sixteen yourself." She rolled her eyes at his theatrics.

Ben ran his hands through his hair in frustration. "If I'm to marry her, I will at the very least take a mistress. You cannot possibly expect me to just... wait until she bleeds."

Leia snorted indelicately. "She already bleeds. I've been informed by her servants that she can bear children."

Ben's face went pale, then green. "Oh God... a child with a... child!"

"Worry not, my dear," Leia said with a dismissive wave. "You can keep your mistresses." She sighed heavily. "But I do expect an heir eventually."

The grand dining hall felt cavernous around the small party seated at one end of the massive mahogany table. Rey fidgeted with the lace trim of her dress, the formal gown feeling foreign and restrictive compared to the simple frocks she wore at the keep.

SMACK

The Duke's hand struck hers sharply, causing her to jerk back from the fabric she'd been worrying between her fingers.

"Reyna, sit properly," he hissed under his breath.

Queen Leia, ever the gracious hostess, smiled diplomatically. "I'm so glad you had safe travels to reach us, Your Grace. The roads can be treacherous this time of year."

"Of course, Your Majesty," the Duke replied with an oily smile. "Nothing would prevent us from this momentous occasion. The union of our houses will surely—"

Rey tuned out the adult conversation, her attention drifting to her so-called betrothed sitting across from her. Ben lifted his spoon with practiced elegance, sipping his soup with the refined manners of someone born to privilege. She watched, fascinated by the differences between them.

Deciding to try the soup herself, Rey dipped her spoon into the rich, creamy broth. It was delicious—far better than the simple broths she'd grown accustomed to at the keep. She savored each spoonful while the Duke and Queen continued their political discourse.

Her gaze wandered back to Ben, who now looked thoroughly bored, stirring his bowl absently and stifling a yawn behind his free hand.

Their eyes met suddenly. She stared. He stared back.

Ben raised an eyebrow questioningly.

Rey raised hers in response, mimicking his expression.

Then she smirked—a mischievous glint entering her hazel eyes—and flicked her spoon, sending a small spray of soup directly at him.

"What the—!" Ben sputtered, soup droplets decorating his pristine white shirt.

"Are you two playing with your food?" Leia asked, looking between them with exasperation. "My goodness, Ben, it seems like you're the one who's twelve here."

Ben growled at his mother while Rey dissolved into giggles, her hand pressed over her mouth to muffle the sound.

"What was that for, brat?" Ben asked as they were both dismissed from the dining hall by his mother.

Rey giggled, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Oh, my apologies, my dear betrothed. Did I ruin your shirt?"

Ben rolled his eyes and huffed in frustration. "Great. You're a troublemaker too, I see."

Rey looked around the ornate hallway, taking in the gilded frames and marble statues before turning back to Ben. "So... where is your room?"

Ben raised an eyebrow at the unexpected question.

"I'm going to live here with you when we marry, so where is your room?" she asked matter-of-factly.

Ben groaned audibly. "I'd rather not have a child in my bedroom."

Rey huffed and crossed her arms defiantly. "I will be your wife one day. I just want to know where I'll be sleeping, is all."

Ben scratched his hair, looking decidedly uncomfortable with the conversation. "Why don't we just start small... maybe I can show you our stables first? Do you ride?"

Rey's eyes widened with genuine excitement. "I love horses! But no, my grandfather doesn't allow me to ride."

Ben grumbled under his breath as he began leading her down the corridor toward the back of the palace. "Well, you should be fine riding here. I can teach you if you want."

Her eyes grew even wider, and she stopped walking altogether. "Really? You... would?"

Ben looked down at her as they resumed their pace, raising an eyebrow at her surprised tone. "Uh, yes? I mean, child or not, I would think it would be nice if my future queen consort knew how to ride a horse."

At this, Rey beamed at him with the first genuinely happy smile he'd seen from her since her arrival.

Maybe her betrothed wasn't so bad after all.

The scent of hay and leather filled the air as Ben led Rey through the arched entrance of the royal stables. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows, illuminating rows of magnificent horses in their spacious stalls.

"These are our horses," Ben said, his voice taking on a warmer tone than she'd heard before. "We keep quite a few, but these three are the ones I use most often." He gestured to three impressive stallions. "Silence, Whisperer, and Grimtaash."

Rey's eyes were wide with wonder as she took in each beautiful animal, but Ben wasn't finished with his tour.

"And this," he said, stopping at a stall housing an older, grey mare with gentle eyes, "is Milly. She was my father's horse."

Rey was practically vibrating with excitement, her hands pressed together as if in prayer. "Can I... can I touch them?"

"Sure, go ahead," Ben said with an encouraging nod.

Rey reached out tentatively toward Milly, but at the last second, fear overtook her and she jerked her hand back with a small gasp.

Ben chuckled softly. "Don't worry, they're very tame and won't bite."

He extended his hand toward her, palm up. Rey looked at his hand, then up at his face, uncertainty flickering in her hazel eyes. She wasn't sure if she could trust him yet, but something in his expression seemed genuine.

Slowly, she placed her small hand in his much larger one. Ben gently guided her hand to Milly's soft grey muzzle, and the mare nickered contentedly at the touch.

Rey's face lit up with pure joy. "This is the first time I've ever been this close to a horse!" she exclaimed, then her expression grew more subdued. "Usually I'm kept in the keep for long hours and not allowed to leave. I only ever saw horses from the windows."

Ben's brow furrowed with something that might have been sympathy. "That sounds incredibly boring."

"It was," Rey admitted quietly.

"Well, you can come play with the horses anytime you want now," Ben said, surprising himself with the sincerity in his voice.

"When will I learn to ride them?" Rey asked eagerly, her eyes bright with hope.

Ben hesitated, scratching the back of his neck. "Uh, we'll see. Maybe... perhaps after we wed, I can show you how to ride properly."

For the first time since she'd heard of her betrothal, Rey felt a flutter of something that might have been excitement about getting married.

Ben continued the tour, leading Rey through his mother's favorite gardens. The afternoon sun cast everything in golden light as Rey moved from flower to flower like a delighted butterfly, bending down to smell each bloom she encountered.

"Oh, they're so beautiful!" she exclaimed, burying her nose in a particularly fragrant rose.

By the fifth flower, her enthusiastic sniffing caught up with her, and she let out a loud sneeze that made her stumble backward slightly.

Ben found himself smiling fondly at the little girl's unbridled joy over something as simple as flowers. When had he last been so easily delighted by anything?

"Your Highness!" came the unmistakable voice of Lord Threepio, the Queen's royal chamberlain, as he approached with his usual stiff gait. "Her Majesty is summoning you both."

Ben glanced up, surprised to see the sun beginning to set behind the palace walls. He hadn't realized how much time he'd spent with the little duchess.

They made their way back inside, where Queen Leia waited in her sitting room with an expression of barely contained excitement.

"The Duke and I have decided that we may begin planning for the wedding," she announced without preamble. "I've already alerted my servants to start purchasing supplies and writing letters to our guests."

"That's way too soon, Mother," Ben protested.

But Rey beamed up at the Queen with sparkling eyes. "When will we be wed?"

Leia chuckled at the girl's enthusiasm. "With how efficiently my servants work, it should be by the end of this month."

Ben sighed heavily at this news.

Later, as Ben escorted Rey to the guest bedroom where she'd be staying, she pouted and dragged her feet.

"I want to see my real bedroom," she said with a sulky expression.

"Real bedroom?" Ben asked, confused.

"Yes, the one where we'll both be sleeping in!" Rey declared matter-of-factly.

Ben shook his head firmly. "Dear little duchess, I can't show you that yet. After all, we aren't wed yet."

Rey crossed her arms. "Fine, so be it. You probably have it all in a mess anyway."

"You're a little brat, aren't you?" Ben growled, though there was no real heat in his voice.

Rey stuck out her tongue at him and ran into her room, slamming the door behind her with a fit of giggles echoing from within.

Chapter Text

Rey walked slowly across her guest room, three leather-bound books carefully balanced on her head. Her tongue poked out slightly between her lips as she concentrated on keeping the stack steady, her arms extended for balance.

"You aren't walking fast enough!" the Duke's harsh voice suddenly boomed from where he sat in the corner chair. "And keep that tongue inside your filthy mouth!"

Rey startled at the sharp reprimand, and the books tumbled to the floor with loud thuds. She pouted, her shoulders sagging with disappointment.

The Duke stood abruptly and strode over to her, his hand shooting out to grip her hair roughly. "You need to walk properly down that aisle when I send you off, or you'll embarrass me. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Grandfather," Rey nodded quickly, wincing at his tight grip.

"Keep working on your posture," he commanded, releasing her hair with a sharp tug before heading toward the door. "I need to go write some letters to send out."

Rey sighed heavily as the door closed behind him, then bent down to gather the fallen books. She had to do well for her grandfather, or he would pull out the belt again. The memory of past punishments made her hands shake slightly as she repositioned the books on her head.

A few minutes later, a gentle knock interrupted her practice.

"Come in," she called softly.

Mitaka appeared in the doorway, wringing his hands nervously. "Hello, um... Duchess Reyna. The Prince sent me to ask if you would be willing to ride with him today?"

Rey's face lit up like the sun breaking through storm clouds. She threw the books behind her without a second thought and darted toward the servant.

"Oh yes, please! I would love to!" she exclaimed, her earlier dejection completely forgotten in the face of this wonderful invitation.

When Rey arrived at the stables, escorted by Mitaka, she immediately broke into a run toward where Ben stood beside one of the horses.

"GOOD MORNING, MY BETROTHED!" she yelled while running at full speed.

Ben startled and whipped his head around to see Rey barreling toward him with unbridled enthusiasm. He shook his head in exasperation.

"Little duchess, must you be so loud?"

Rey giggled breathlessly as she skidded to a stop beside him. "Just making sure you and your old ears can hear me!"

Ben scowled. "I'm not old!"

Rey ignored his protest entirely, her attention immediately captured by the beautiful horse beside him. "Is this Whisperer?"

"Yes, she's a sweet one," Ben confirmed, his irritation melting away at her obvious excitement. "Would you like to learn how to hold the reins?"

Rey nodded so enthusiastically her entire body seemed to bounce.

"Alright then, I'll lift you up now," Ben said, placing his hands on her waist and hoisting her onto Whisperer's back. "Hold on tight."

He swung up behind her, settling himself securely in the saddle. "Now, hold the reins with me, and we can start with small walks around the grounds this morning."

After a few minutes of gently guiding Whisperer around the stable yard, Rey's curiosity got the better of her.

"My Prince, when did you learn to ride?"

Ben snorted with amusement. "At this point, I believe I was trained since infancy. My father loved all the horses and taught me to ride before I could even walk properly."

Rey giggled. "That's silly!"

They continued their lesson, Rey gradually learning how to halt and navigate with the reins. After a good half hour, Ben found himself genuinely impressed.

"You're doing quite well," he told her. "Perhaps a few more lessons like this, and you'll be ready to ride one of your own alongside me."

Rey turned her head to look back at him, her face glowing with pride. "Thank you, Prince! You are a wonderful teacher!"

"Just call me Ben," he said, surprising himself with the offer. "We're to be married soon, after all."

"Yes, Ben," Rey said, testing out his name with a smile. "You may call me Rey, then."

Over the next several weeks, Ben found himself spending more and more time attending to Rey - walking through his mother's gardens and practicing at the stables. She had progressed remarkably well with her riding, and today she was finally able to ride Silencer all on her own while Ben trailed behind her on Whisperer.

"Silencer, let's go faster!" Rey called out, leaning forward eagerly in her saddle.

"I'd rather you not, little duchess," Ben replied firmly.

Rey pouted over her shoulder at him. "But I'm getting better!"

Ben nodded, bringing Whisperer alongside Silencer. "Yes, you are, but even I don't like going too fast in case I fall and get hurt."

Rey huffed dramatically. "Fiiiine."

Ben chuckled at her theatrics and led them both toward an open lake not far from the palace grounds. They dismounted their horses by the water's edge, and Ben gestured toward the pristine blue expanse.

"This is where I like to go swimming sometimes. My father used to bring me here when I was younger."

Rey smiled as she took in the sight. "It's so big!" Then her expression grew curious. "Is it deep?"

"Yes, it is, which is why you must never swim alone," Ben said seriously.

"Not to worry," Rey said quickly, waving her hand. "I don't want to swim anyway. I don't know how, so I'll just stand aside and watch the lake."

Ben cocked his head, studying her with surprise. "Why don't you know how to swim? Naboo has many lakes as well."

Rey shrugged, suddenly looking smaller. "I told you, I wasn't allowed to leave the keep much."

Ben hummed thoughtfully. "Maybe your next lessons should be swimming."

Rey's eyes widened with alarm as she looked up at him. "Wait... what if I drown? It's okay, I'm fine without knowing!"

"Alderaan has many lakes and rivers," Ben said gently but firmly, "and I have no interest in seeing a child drown."

Rey pouted, wrapping her arms around herself. "What if I'm bad at it?"

Ben's expression softened. "I wasn't a great swimmer at the start either. At the very least, I'd like you to learn how to float."

They rode back to the palace together in comfortable silence, dismounting at the front steps and sending their horses off with the servants to the stables.

As they climbed the marble steps, Ben turned to Rey. "I'll tell the servants to get you proper swim wear for the lake next time we go."

Before Rey could respond, they heard the rumble of carriage wheels on cobblestone behind them. They turned to see an ornate black carriage bearing the Naboo crest pull up to the palace entrance.

The Duke emerged first, followed by a tall, gaunt man in dark robes. The Duke spotted Ben and Rey and approached with his usual oily smile, the robed figure trailing behind.

"Ah, my dear Prince!" the Duke called out, then turned to Rey. "And my dear granddaughter. Your mother tells me you two have been growing close these past few weeks while I was away. I'm so glad."

Rey visibly shivered and stepped closer to Ben's side, unconsciously seeking his protection.

"Of course," Ben replied stiffly. "It's only natural to try and get to know my future bride... child-bride, that is." He couldn't keep the scoff from his voice.

Someone chuckled, a sound that made Rey press even closer to Ben. "Ah, she is not a child, as she has already begun her bleeding. I last checked myself just a year ago."

Both Rey and Ben tensed at these words, Rey's face flushing with mortification.

Ben's eyes narrowed dangerously. "You... checked?"

"Of course I did," the priest said smoothly. "I am Bishop Snoke, and I work very closely with all high lords and royalties. I used to provide services to your family as well, in fact."

Ben felt his skin crawl at the implication, his protective instincts flaring. "Well, I'm sure the little duchess is tired from today's activities. I shall escort her back to her room, so if you'll excuse us."

He turned sharply, and Rey immediately grabbed his arm as they walked away, clearly eager to escape.

"I shall see you both later for supper then!" the Duke called after them, his voice echoing off the palace walls.

Ben escorted Rey to her guest room, his jaw tight with tension. Once they were safely away from the Duke and Bishop, he turned to her with concern.

"Rey, what did he mean by 'checking' you?"

Rey gulped and looked away, her small hands twisting in her skirt. "My grandfather wanted to make sure I was... bleeding... before proposing me as a candidate to be betrothed to you. But your mother declined and said she didn't want children who hadn't yet..." She trailed off, her cheeks burning with shame.

"So I hid every time my cycle arrived. I hid all the evidence from the servants' sight." Her voice grew smaller. "When my grandfather grew irritated that I hadn't bled yet, that's when... that's when he had Bishop Snoke come to my room every night."

Ben's hands slowly clenched into fists as a cold dread settled in his stomach.

"He would check me every day... between my legs," Rey whispered, barely audible. "And I couldn't hide it anymore. My cycle began, and he told my grandfather, who then told your mother."

Rey was trembling now, feeling humiliated at having to share such intimate violations with Ben. She sniffled, unable to meet his eyes.

Ben's face had gone thunderous, his dark eyes blazing with a fury Rey had never seen before. When she looked up and saw his expression, she gasped in fear and ran to her room, slamming the door behind her.

But Ben's anger wasn't directed at her. His glare remained fixed as he strode away from the hallway toward his mother's chambers, rage burning through him at the thought of a child's privacy being violated in such a despicable way.

Ben stomped his way to his mother's chambers, his fury making the very air around him seem to crackle. The loyal guards stationed by her door straightened at his approach.

"BEGONE!" he yelled, his voice echoing through the corridor.

The guards scrambled away from the door as Ben burst through, slamming it shut behind him.

"MOTHER, did you know?" he accused, his voice shaking with rage.

Leia startled in her chair, dropping her feather pen and sending ink splattering across her parchments. "Bennett, that is not how you speak to your mother and queen!"

"I don't care!" Ben shot back. "I'm asking you to tell me—DID YOU KNOW?"

"Know what?" Leia demanded, rising from her chair.

Ben walked closer, his dark eyes blazing. "Did you know the Duke made sure to CHECK his granddaughter to confirm she bled?"

Leia's eyes narrowed, and after a long pause, she sighed. "I suppose he wanted to be sure." She looked away. "I did tell him that I wouldn't take someone who hadn't bled."

Ben's hands clenched into fists. "She's still a child to me, even if she did bleed!"

Leia shook her head. "Yes, Ben, I am aware. I wasn't planning on agreeing, but I did tell him my conditions when he first suggested it a year ago. When I received news of her bleeding, I wanted to be fair to my word. I visited Naboo and granted his granddaughter an audience."

She stood and placed her hand on Ben's shoulder. "She was a scared little thing—so sweet and innocent. She wasn't anything like the Duke. I saw potential in her, and I agreed. With our guidance, she would be a wonderful queen consort to you. She has no interest in titles or jewels or coins. She told me she just wanted to know what it was like to be free." Leia's voice softened. "Don't you think so, Ben? She would be wonderful to have in our palace."

Ben's anger began to dissipate, his shoulders slumping. "She has a pure heart, and I do not like the idea of her being sent back to her grandfather's keep." He then narrowed his eyes at his mother. "Did Bishop Snoke ever work for you?"

"Ah, yes, of course he did. After all, he officiated my wedding to your father."

Ben's voice dropped to a dangerous whisper. "He checked on Rey..."

Leia sighed. "I know you don't like it, but he is an ordained member of the clergy, and he only tries to follow proper protocols when it comes to checking women—their cycles, consummations, and virtue."

Ben shuddered visibly. "I don't want him to officiate my wedding with Reyna."

Leia raised an eyebrow. "Ben, we need him to wed you," she said firmly.

"Why not bring Uncle Luke? He was a priest too."

Leia sighed heavily. "Your uncle is off on missionary work. He will not attend just because of one wedding."

"But it's a royal wedding!" Ben protested.

Leia rolled her eyes. "Even more reason Luke won't come."

Ben grunted in frustration. "This is ridiculous! I don't like it one bit!" He turned and stomped out of the room, leaving his mother staring after him with a mixture of concern and understanding.

Rey sniffled beneath her blankets, curled up in a ball of misery. She was convinced that Ben was disappointed in her—that being touched by another man meant she wasn't pure enough for him anymore. He would cancel the wedding and send her away back to her grandfather's keep. She would never ride a horse again or see the lake or smell the flowers in the garden.

A gentle knock came at her door.

She emerged from under her blanket, wiping her eyes quickly. "Who is there?"

"It is I little duchess. Please open the door."

Rey sniffed once more and got off her bed, adjusting her wrinkled dress and smoothing her hair. She wiped her eyes again to make sure no tears were visible, then walked to the door and slowly opened it just a crack.

She stared up at Ben through the narrow opening. "Yes, my Prince?"

"Reyna, will you let me in?"

Rey gulped and opened the door wider to allow him entry. Ben stepped inside and closed the door softly behind him, then turned to face her.

The moment their eyes met, Rey burst into desperate words.

"I'm sorry I'm not untouched! I didn't ask for it, I swear! I know you think I'm filthy now," she sniffled, her voice breaking. "Please don't send me away. I promise I will be a good wife to you. I will carry as many children as you wish, my Prince!"

She sobbed harder, tears streaming down her face.

Ben was shocked by her outburst. He immediately knelt down and gently grasped her shoulders. "Rey! I wouldn't send you away. Why would you think that?"

More tears flowed as she looked up at him with heartbroken eyes. "Because you can have anyone you want. Why would you want me?"

Ben sighed deeply and pulled her against his chest, wrapping his arms around her small, trembling form. "Silly little duchess, I'm not sending you away, and you are not filthy to me. What happened wasn't your fault."

He pulled her back to look at her tear-stained face, which was now covered in tears and snot. He chuckled softly. "Aren't you a little mess now? Our wedding is in one week, and I've grown quite fond of you, little one."

Rey whispered through her tears, "You promise you won't send me away?"

"I promise," Ben said firmly. "This is your home now."

She hugged him again, not caring that her tears and snot were soaking his shirt. All she knew was that Ben had offered her his home—and being in his arms felt like home.

Chapter Text

Rey sat with her hands rigidly at her sides, her small frame stiff with tension throughout the evening's supper. Ben stirred his soup absently, listening with growing disgust as his mother, the Duke, and Bishop Snoke discussed the upcoming wedding.

"I am so pleased to officiate yet another royal wedding," Snoke said with an oily smile. "Such momentous occasions require proper... oversight."

The Duke nodded eagerly. "Indeed, Bishop. You must be sure that the consummation happens properly."

Ben's spoon clattered into his bowl as he scowled at them both.

Leia interjected diplomatically, "That won't be necessary. The marriage will be legal regardless."

Snoke interrupted with a sharp tone, "No marriage will be legal if consummation doesn't happen."

Ben's voice was a low growl. "We are right here, you know. Don't discuss this in front of us."

Throughout this entire exchange, Rey never touched her food. Her head was bowed down, staring at her full bowl as if she could disappear into it.

Ben gently nudged her foot under the table. "Please eat," he murmured quietly.

Rey looked up at him and nodded, picking up her spoon to sip the soup with trembling hands.

The Duke snorted dismissively. "The whole point of marriage is to secure an heir. How will that be secured if you don't consummate the marriage?"

"They have decided that when Rey is ready, then it shall be consummated," Leia said firmly.

The Duke and bishop continued their discussion with Leia, but Snoke became increasingly insistent. "I will need to be present during the wedding night to check on them and ensure the consummation occurs."

Ben stiffened visibly, and Leia said sharply, "That isn't needed."

Snoke's eyes narrowed. "If I don't have evidence, then the marriage will be null and void."

"I don't want my wife to be touched by you," Ben said through gritted teeth.

"Oh, Prince, you will be present, of course," Snoke said smoothly. "I only need you to lift her dress so I can see if she has bled from your bedding her."

Ben's face flushed with anger. "I can just give you a bloodied rag instead."

"A rag means nothing. People fake their virtue all the time," Snoke replied coldly. Then his voice took on a sinister tone. "Unless... she isn't a virgin..."

"ENOUGH!" Leia slammed her hand on the table. "No more. We will discuss this at another time."

Ben took Rey to the lake again, both of them riding their horses across the palace grounds. When they arrived, they sat by the water's edge and dipped their feet in, letting the cool water soak their stockings.

Rey sighed deeply. "I'm scared."

Ben glanced at her with concern. "Are you scared of being married to me?"

Rey shook her head quickly. "Not at all, my Prince. I'm just scared of Bishop Snoke. I don't want him near me again. I hate the way he touches me."

Ben's expression darkened. "I hate it too. I'll do my best to make sure Snoke doesn't interfere."

Rey looked up at him with grateful eyes. "Thank you, Ben." She blushed at using his first name.

When they headed back to the palace, a familiar blonde woman was waiting by the stables. She spotted them approaching and waved seductively.

"Good afternoon, dear Prince," she called out as Ben dismounted.

Ben turned to Rey, still on her horse. "Go ahead inside. I'll meet up with you later."

Rey narrowed her eyes but said only, "Okay."

Instead of going inside, Rey rode Silencer into the stables and took her time leading him back to his stall. When she emerged, she saw Ben holding the woman close, and watched as the blonde kissed him before sauntering away.

Rey huffed angrily and ran straight to Ben, kicking his shin hard.

"OUCH!" Ben yelped, hopping on one foot.

"You're a womanizer!" Rey sniffed accusingly before running toward the palace.

She was furious that Ben would flirt with another woman right in front of her! They were to be wed soon. She knew she was young, but that didn't mean she was stupid.

A knock came at her door, and she yelled, "Begone! I don't want to be disturbed!"

The knocking came again, more insistent this time. Rey huffed angrily and swung the door open to tell whoever it was to leave.

Ben stood looking down at her. "Why did you kick me, little one?"

Rey frowned and tried to kick him again. Ben stepped aside, avoiding her foot.

"HEY! That isn't very kind of you."

Rey shoved at his torso with both hands. "YOU aren't very kind! How dare you! In front of me as well!"

Ben quirked an eyebrow, a knowing smirk playing at his lips. "What is it? Were you jealous, little one?"

Rey's face flushed with rage. "I'll tell your mother you're bedding other women!"

Ben chuckled. "She already knows and has given me permission to keep mistresses after we wed."

Rey gasped, her eyes filling with tears. "You want to be with other women while we're married?"

Ben looked at her with something that might have been pity. "Come now, my dear. I'm a man with desires. Surely you didn't expect me to desire a child?"

Rey's face crumpled. She sniffed once before slamming the door in his face.

"I HATE YOU, BEN!"

The wedding day had finally arrived. Rey stood still as servants bustled around her, adjusting her royal wedding dress with meticulous care. They ensured every fold was perfect, her veil sat properly atop her head, and the pretty flowers and ribbons adorning her chest were arranged just so.

Rey sighed as she looked at herself in the ornate mirror. She wished she was older—perhaps then Ben wouldn't need to seek out other women to satisfy himself. She grumbled under her breath, still angry at him. They hadn't spoken or gone horse riding together for the past week. She had purposely ignored him during meals in the dining hall and taken Silencer for rides on her own.

But now the time was here.

"You look beautiful, Your Grace," one of the servants said warmly. "When you grow up, you'll be a stunning woman."

Rey touched her gown self-consciously. "Even womanly enough for the Prince?"

The servant gave her a soft, understanding smile. "Don't take it to heart. The Prince, despite his... adventures... is good at heart and will treat you well."

Rey stared at the servant thoughtfully. "I know."

The servant bowed deeply. "Future Princess of Alderaan, it would be my pleasure to serve as your first lady's maid."

Rey looked at her and smiled genuinely for the first time that morning. "You are wonderful to me, Maz. Thank you."

A knock came at the door, and Lord Threepio's voice announced, "The Duke is here to escort the bride."

Maz left with Threepio as the Duke entered the room. He stared at Rey and snorted dismissively, then walked over to her with a sneer.

"You better make sure you are with child soon after this wedding, otherwise I'll have to take you back. Our family line will be on the throne, and you better be useful to me for once in your life."

Rey gulped. "The Prince promised me you would not take me away."

The Duke chuckled coldly and gripped her chin, forcing her to look up at him. "My dear, if this wedding is not consummated, there is no marriage, and I can do with you as I please. Do you understand?"

Rey swallowed hard. "Yes, Grandfather."

"Good. Now hurry up and put your heels on. Maybe this way you don't look too much like a brat to the Prince." He turned and left the room, leaving Rey trembling in her wedding dress.

Rey's heart thundered in her chest as she stared at the giant doors that would lead her to her future. Slowly, she watched them swing open as trumpets began playing, announcing the arrival of the Princess-to-be of Alderaan.

She could see down the long aisle to where Ben stood waiting, and she hated just how dashing and handsome he looked in his princely outfit. Her eyes found Bishop Snoke standing in front of Ben, and she gulped nervously.

The Duke raised his arm for her to take, and together they walked down the aisle toward her fate.

Ben watched Rey approach—a pretty little thing who would no doubt be a very beautiful woman one day. He tugged at his collar, which felt too tight, and waited for her to reach him.

The Duke released her to Ben's care, and Bishop Snoke began the ceremony. Parchments were brought forward along with feathers and ink. Snoke had them both recite their vows to each other, with Ben and Rey swearing to be each other's and accepting their matrimony. They were then given quills to sign the marriage documents.

The prince bent down and placed a gentle kiss on his brides forehead, and Rey in return tiptoed and kissed his cheek barely able to reach it.

The hall erupted in applause. Among the crowd, some faces crumpled in disgust at the child-bride situation, but they still clapped as needed to avoid offending the Queen.

Ben held out his hand to Rey, and she accepted as he led her into their first dance as newlyweds. Rey gulped and held onto him nervously.

Ben whispered to her, "Have you not been practicing, little duchess?"

Rey looked up and frowned. "I didn't know I had to dance. And I’m a princess now!"

Ben chuckled softly. "Come, stand on my feet and I'll do the dancing for us."

Rey looked down and placed each foot on his, maybe digging her heels in purposely a little too hard. She felt Ben flinch slightly and heard him whisper that she was a brat.

Rey smirked back at him. "Well, you're stuck with one now."

Ben guided the dance for them both, and soon the rest of the wedding party joined in, filling the hall with dancing couples. Rey sighed and rested her head against her husband's chest.

Ben pulled her closer. "What's wrong? Are you still upset with me?"

Rey looked up at him, arching her neck. "Will you be taking me to your room tonight?"

Ben raised an eyebrow in surprise.

"I'm your wife now, right? We'll be sharing a room now," Rey continued, "and I don't want any mistresses in our bed."

Ben sighed and pulled her closer. "I apologize, my little wife. Perhaps I was too rude about it. My pleasure should not be my priority right now, and I did not mean to disrespect you like that. No, I will not allow mistresses in our bed."

Rey gave him a small smile. "Well... it's a start, I suppose."

Soon they moved to cut the royal wedding cake. Rey's eyes grew wide as she took in the sight of the giant tiered confection before them.

Ben chuckled and handed her the first slice. "Here you are, Princess."

"It's so delicious!" Rey exclaimed after her first bite.

She tried to feed him a piece in return but missed his lips entirely, getting frosting on his nose instead. They both chuckled at her aim, and even Queen Leia laughed from her place at the head table.

As they continued eating, the Queen rose to give a toast, wishing them a wonderful, long-lasting marriage and partnership. The crowd raised their glasses and took sips of wine.

Ben sipped his wine as well, and Rey nudged him, indicating she wanted to try some too. Ben rolled his eyes. "Here, try not to drink too much."

She took his glass and sipped it, immediately scrunching her nose. "It tastes bitter."

"Perhaps you prefer sweeter wines," Ben suggested.

"Can I have one?" Rey asked hopefully.

"No," Ben said firmly.

Rey pouted. "I'm a princess. I can just order the servants to fetch me one."

Ben rolled his eyes. "Yes, you could, but perhaps it's best to just sip some with me nearby in case you react badly to it."

Rey hiccupped and rolled her eyes. "I won't react badly."

"I'd rather my wife isn't drunk at the young age of twelve," Ben said dryly.

Rey pouted again. "I'm thirteen! I turned last week."

Ben raised an eyebrow in surprise. "What? Why didn't you tell me?"

Rey shrugged casually. "Days of birth never mattered to me. They surely didn't back at the keep."

Ben's expression darkened with something that looked like anger—not at her, but at her situation. "No, that's unacceptable. For your birthday, I shall do what my father did for my thirteenth."

"What?" Rey asked curiously.

Ben declared with mock seriousness, "You shall have rum instead!"

Rey giggled delightedly. "Okay, dear husband."

In that moment, she forgot she had been mad at him. Surprisingly, she found herself actually enjoying her wedding after all.

Chapter Text

The wedding had been a great success, with the Duke and Bishop Snoke looking particularly satisfied. Ben escorted his little wife down the corridor, but when they stopped at her door, Rey turned to him with confusion.

"What is the meaning of this? Why am I being led to the guest room? Why not your room?"

"Little wife, I will be moving my belongings to your room instead," Ben explained.

"Pardon me?" Rey asked, clearly puzzled.

Ben looked uncomfortable. "It would be disrespectful to have my wife stay in a room where I have... welcomed mistresses to my bed. I think it may be better to move to your room for a fresh start."

Rey narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "You just want to have a separate room for your ladies, don't you?"

Ben sighed silently at her accusation.

Rey pointed her finger at him. "I knew it! You're going to see another woman on our wedding night, aren't you?"

"Of course not!" Ben said frustratedly, then peered closer at Rey, noticing her eyes were glassy with unshed tears.

She sniffled. "I'm sorry I'm not enough for you, but I promise to do well if you teach me."

Ben blinked in surprise and bent down to her level. "Little wife... you know I won't make you do anything you don't want to, right?"

Rey sniffled again. "Grandfather will take me away if we don't consummate."

Ben's expression darkened. "No, he won't. I won't let him."

"He will! We have to do it!" Rey insisted desperately.

Ben shook his head. "I cannot. It's... it's not proper."

Rey began to sob. "I'm your wife! Please just do it so I can stay here. I promise I won't fight back or scream. I'll take it!"

Ben shook his head again and quickly ushered her inside the room, shutting the door behind them. He whispered urgently, "Please don't say that. This is not an easy situation." He looked around the room. "Grab a rag or something I can use."

Rey wiped her eyes. "That won't work. The Bishop said so, remember?"

"I'm not going to have him check my wife!" Ben declared angrily.

A knock came at the door. When Ben asked who it was, Bishop Snoke's voice replied smoothly, "It is I, Your Highness. I'm here to await your consummation."

Ben scowled at the door. "How did you know we were here?"

"I was told by the servants that the Prince wasn't in his bedroom and had gone to the Princess's room."

Ben grumbled under his breath. "Please allow us privacy."

"I have sworn to remain here by the door until the consummation is completed and I can inspect the Princess," Snoke replied coldly.

Rey clutched onto Ben's arm, and Ben felt his anger rise to dangerous levels. "You will NOT look at or touch my wife! That is indecent. She is a Princess and will be my Queen Consort. I will not allow it!"

There was silence for a moment before Snoke replied, "I will bring this matter up with the Queen, and we will discuss it further."

They could hear Snoke's footsteps disappearing down the hall, and both Rey and Ben sighed in relief.

Rey straightened up, trying to gather her composure. "He'll come back and see I'm still intact, and then—"

Ben cut her off firmly. "Stop thinking about that." He sighed and gently patted her head. "Little wife, I promise you'll be fine. I won't let anyone touch you. I will speak to my mother tomorrow."

Rey nodded sadly at his words.

"Go get changed and head to bed. I'll join you shortly," Ben told her. "Keep the door locked when I'm gone."

"Where are you going?" Rey asked with concern.

"I need to bring my sleepwear over, of course. I will at least spend the night with my little wife."

Rey narrowed her eyes suspiciously. "So you're not meeting another woman?"

"No, little wife, I am not. Honestly, I'm not in the mood at all. I'll be back soon."

Ben walked to his room and gathered a few clothes for himself, along with a pillow. In the hallway, he spotted Maz and called to her.

"Maz, tomorrow morning I want my belongings moved to Rey's room—except for the mattress."

Maz bowed respectfully. "Yes, Your Highness."

Ben returned to Rey's room carrying his clothes and pillow. He knocked on the door.

"Who is it?" Rey called out.

"Your husband."

Rey unlocked the door and let Ben inside. She was already dressed in her nightgown, and Ben entered, setting down his things.

"I've ordered the servants to transport my belongings to this room tomorrow," he informed her.

Rey nodded and went to lie in bed, waiting for Ben. Ben began undressing himself, and Rey squeaked in alarm, diving under her blanket to hide.

Ben ignored her reaction and proceeded to put on his nightclothes before climbing into bed beside her.

"Stop hiding, little wife. I'm not naked," he said with amusement.

Rey peeked out from under the blanket, blushing furiously. "A warning would have been nice."

Ben chuckled. "I'll keep that in mind."

And so they settled in to rest for their first night as husband and wife.

The next morning, Ben headed to his mother's chambers, but she wasn't there. He found her in the throne room, already deep in conversation with Bishop Snoke.

Ben walked closer and addressed his mother. "I wish to speak privately with you."

Leia waved her hand to silence him, her face etched with concern. "Ben, you are given one month to consummate your marriage with Rey, or it will be declared null and void."

Ben's eyes widened in shock. "What do you mean? You can't just decide that!"

Snoke smirked and pulled out the parchment scroll they had signed the day before. "Part of the marriage contract states that if a marriage has not been consummated within a month, then this contract is no longer effective and the girl will be returned to her guardian."

Ben turned to his mother desperately, but she nodded her head gravely. "This is true for all marriage contracts, even mine and your father's. We must obey it."

"This is ridiculous! You are the Queen—you can do whatever you want!" Ben protested.

"Even I am not above traditions!" Leia replied firmly. "This has been established for many years prior to my birth, and I certainly cannot just change it entirely at the snap of my fingers."

Ben closed his mouth, though his anger still simmered beneath the surface.

Bishop Snoke addressed Ben with barely concealed satisfaction. "I will return in one month and perform the necessary examination to ensure consummation has occurred."

At the dining hall, Ben sighed heavily and barely touched his breakfast. Rey was contentedly munching on eggs and nudged him to eat some with her.

Ben looked at Rey and smiled sadly, managing only a few bites before pushing his plate away.

Later that morning at the lake, Rey announced excitedly that she had brought her swimwear so she could practice swimming again. Ben nodded and told her to go ahead.

She removed her outer dress, revealing her modest swimwear underneath, and slowly walked toward the lake while Ben trailed behind her. He had removed his boots and rolled his pants up to his knees.

They spent an hour at the lake with Rey practicing floating first, then moving her arms back and forth in swimming motions. Every now and then she would grab onto Ben's waist when she became scared of sinking, but he would steady her and encourage her to try once more.

Afterward, Rey bundled herself in a towel to dry off as they sat on the grass, eating the apples and bananas that Maz had packed for them. Ben took an apple and bit into it absently.

"Why are you so quiet?" Rey asked, studying his troubled expression.

Ben looked at Rey, her face expectant. "I spoke to my mother."

Rey's face lit up with hope.

"But," Ben continued heavily, "we are given one month to consummate, and Snoke still insists on examining you."

Rey's face fell as if she had already expected this outcome. She shrugged and bit into her apple. "So be it, then."

Over the following weeks, Rey threw herself into learning what it meant to be a princess. Under Maz's patient guidance, she practiced proper etiquette—how to curtsy gracefully, how to hold her teacup with delicate precision, and how to walk with the poise befitting future royalty.

Queen Leia took a personal interest in Rey's education as well, bringing her into private sessions to discuss the royal duties that would one day fall to her as Queen Consort. Rey learned about managing household staff, overseeing charitable endeavors, and the delicate art of diplomatic conversation.

"A queen must be both strong and compassionate," Leia would tell her during their afternoon lessons. "She must know when to be firm and when to show mercy."

Rey absorbed every lesson eagerly, grateful for the attention and care she had never received at her grandfather's keep.

When she and Ben weren't together, he often found himself at the local pub, nursing a drink to quiet the growing anxiety about their situation. One evening, he remembered something and called to the pub owner.

"Bring me your best rum," he requested, thinking of Rey's missed thirteenth birthday and his promise to celebrate it properly.

Despite the looming deadline, Ben and Rey grew closer with each passing day. Rey had begun snuggling against him at night, finding comfort in his steady breathing and the safety of his arms. Ben allowed it, even welcomed it, understanding that she needed the security of knowing he was there.

Sometimes, as Rey lay curled against his side in the quiet darkness, she would think to herself, I could fall in love with you. The thought both thrilled and frightened her. Her feelings for Ben were blossoming slowly—a small crush growing stronger each day. He was nothing but kind to her, patient with her childish moments, and protective in ways that made her heart flutter.

True to his word, Ben had not brought any other women to their room, or anywhere near Rey for that matter. This faithfulness meant more to her than he perhaps realized, and it fed the growing affection in her young heart.

With only a few days left until the month was over, Ben and Rey found themselves yelling at each other in their bedroom. Snoke would be arriving soon to perform his examination.

"Just take me already! We don't have much time left!" Rey screamed at Ben.

Ben refused, shaking his head adamantly.

Rey's voice grew desperate and angry. "If you won't do it, I'll find someone else to take my virtue! I heard some men like it when they're younger anyway!"

Ben was outraged. He gripped her arm tightly and yelled back, "You will do no such thing!"

Rey scoffed. "You're a hypocrite! You were planning to be with other women anyway, so what's the difference if I do the same thing?"

"Risk you getting pregnant by someone else? I think not," Ben growled.

Rey's eyes flashed with hurt and anger. "Ah, I see. You're afraid I'll disgrace your reputation by showing you can't control me!"

"Enough, Rey! I will NOT allow it. End of discussion," Ben said firmly.

Rey scowled at him. "You will not allow it?" She pulled her arm from his grasp and sniffed back tears. "You're just like him, aren't you..."

Ben staggered back at this comparison.

Rey rubbed her eyes as tears began to form, then ran from the room.

"Reyna, stop!" Ben chased after her.

Rey ran to the stables, feeling the sting of his rejection. She climbed onto Silencer and kicked him to speed, telling him to go faster—that she didn't want to be near the palace.

Silencer was the fastest horse they had, and as he reached full gallop, Rey began shaking in the saddle, struggling to hold onto the reins. She lost her grip and fell off, landing hard on the ground.

She cried into the dirt, her body aching. Her legs hurt, especially between her thighs—she must have landed wrong.

After a few minutes, she heard approaching hoofbeats. Through her dirt-stained tears, she saw Ben approaching on Whisperer. He jumped off and ran to her, cradling her body against him.

"Rey, Rey, are you alright, sweetheart?"

Rey's lips trembled and she whispered that she hurt.

Ben shook his head and lifted her carefully. "Didn't I tell you not to go fast, Rey?"

Rey held onto Ben's neck and buried her face there. "I'm sorry, Ben."

Ben shushed her gently. "I'll walk back so I don't hurt you more from the ride." Whisperer followed them as Ben carried his injured wife.

Rey snuggled close to Ben and cried against him. "I'm a bad wife, aren't I?"

Ben shook his head. "No... I'm a bad husband."

"No, you're the best," Rey protested weakly.

"I'll be your only husband, okay? They won't take you from here," Ben promised.

Rey nodded against his neck, hoping desperately that he was right.

Chapter Text

After Rey's fall from Silencer, Ben carried her back to the palace with careful, measured steps to avoid jostling her injured body.

Ben arrived at the palace carrying Rey in his arms, once in their chambers, he gently laid her on their bed then immediately demanding that the servants bring a healer for his wife.

While they waited for the healer's arrival, Ben knelt beside the bed, his face etched with concern and guilt. Rey winced as she tried to shift position, and Ben quickly placed a steadying hand on her shoulder.

"Don't move too much," he said softly. "The healer will be here soon."

Rey's eyes were glassy with pain, but she managed to whisper, "I'm sorry, Ben. I was foolish to ride so fast."

Ben shook his head, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "No, I'm the one who's sorry. I should never have spoken to you the way I did. Your anger was justified."

The palace Healer quickly tended to her wounds, examining her injuries carefully. She had sustained a fractured rib along with various cuts and bruises, Ben remained at Rey's bedside throughout the examination.

He held her hand when the healer pressed against her ribs to assess the damage, feeling her fingers tighten around his as she tried not to cry out.

"She'll need complete rest for several weeks," the doctor instructed Ben. "No riding, no strenuous activity. The rib must heal properly."

After the healer left, Ben personally brought Rey water and helped her sip it slowly. He arranged pillows behind her back to make her more comfortable and pulled a chair close to the bed so he could watch over her and ordering the servants to leave her alone. He wanted to ensure she had complete peace and quiet to heal.

"You don't have to stay," Rey said weakly. "I know you have other duties."

"Nothing is more important than making sure you recover," Ben replied firmly. "I'm not leaving your side."

Throughout the night, Ben dozed fitfully in his chair, waking at every small sound Rey made to check if she needed anything. When she grew restless from pain, he would speak to her in low, soothing tones until she settled again.

The next morning, he personally helped her eat breakfast, cutting her food into small pieces and making sure she could manage without straining her injured side. 

However, rumors began spreading throughout the palace and beyond into the realm. Servants whispered about seeing their beloved young princess crying as she fled from her chambers and the palace grounds. They spoke of how the prince had brought her back bruised and broken, how she was clearly in pain, and how he now allowed no one into their private chambers.

Some courtiers began to murmur that they felt sympathy for the child bride, but to think she was being abused as well made them angry and concerned.

Finally, the dreaded month had passed, and Bishop Snoke arrived for his examination. Ben was forced to sit and watch as Snoke slowly lifted Rey's dress to inspect her. Ben's knuckles were white with barely contained rage, but his mother had ordered him not to interrupt.

Rey whimpered and kept her eyes tightly closed as she waited for the ordeal to be over. When Ben saw the Bishop moving to place his hand between Rey's legs, he couldn't contain himself any longer. He grabbed Snoke's wrist firmly.

"Don't touch her," Ben growled.

Snoke frowned. "Dear Prince, I must check if she is intact."

A knock came at the door. When Ben asked who it was, Lord Threepio escorted Rey's Healer inside.

"I'm here for the princess's daily check-up," the Healer announced.

"You need to leave. I'm busy performing a virtue examination," Snoke said dismissively.

The Healer raised an eyebrow. "Virtue check? That isn't needed. I have examined the princess and noticed she isn't intact anymore. There is nothing for you to check."

Ben's eyes widened at this unexpected development. Snoke's face darkened with suspicion.

"What?" Snoke demanded.

"During her examination for her injuries, I noticed that the child is no longer intact," the Healer replied matter-of-factly.

Snoke stared at the Healer with suspicion. "Are you lying?"

"I serve her highness in the healing profession. What would lying about this benefit me?" the healer responded calmly.

Ben quickly seized the opportunity. "See? She's been bedded. Now please leave."

Snoke glared at both Ben and Rey before saying coldly, "Very well then... we shall see if the seed takes root."

When he left the room and shut the door behind him, Rey grabbed Ben's hand and squeezed it tightly, sighing in relief. Ben squeezed back, equally relieved that the ordeal was finally over.

Over the next few weeks, Ben tended to Rey's every request out of guilt over her accident. Even her silliest demands—like asking him to hop on one foot while rubbing his belly—were met with groaning compliance. Despite his protests, he couldn't help but smile at the sound of her delighted giggles.

Rey had been recovering well and was finally able to leave their room on her own without much pain. However, the healer had strictly forbidden horse riding until she was fully healed.

"We can take a carriage together wherever you want to go," Ben offered as an alternative.

The palace servants had been doting on Rey as well, all of them genuinely happy to see her doing better. Sometimes she noticed they gave distrustful glances toward her husband, though she wasn't sure why.

Queen Leia was happiest of all about Rey's recovery. She had been so caught up in diplomatic missions that she hadn't had a chance to visit Rey during her convalescence.

At lunch in the dining hall, Leia announced, "The Duke will be stopping by to see his granddaughter. He's worried about your health, my dear."

Rey gulped down her water nervously. "Oh... right."

Later, Rey hid under her blanket in their room. "I don't want to see my grandfather!" she told Ben.

"I won't make you," Ben assured her. "I'll welcome him and tell him you're not feeling well enough for visitors yet."

Rey nodded gratefully. "Thank you."

And so Ben did exactly that when the Duke arrived.

At supper, the Duke complained that Rey had been scarce during his visit.

"She still needs her rest," Ben replied firmly.

"Yes, yes, so I hear," the Duke said with a knowing look. "Perhaps she also needs to rest more if she is... carrying?" he hinted.

Leia's brow furrowed as she looked at Ben questioningly.

Ben bit into his salad with barely contained anger. "Maybe. Who knows."

Later, Leia questioned Ben in her private chambers about the Duke's implications.

Ben told his mother honestly, "Of course I didn't do anything, but Healer Kalonia told the Bishop that Rey is no longer intact. I presume it must have been from her fall off the horse."

Leia nodded thoughtfully. "Good. Good. I mean, of course not good that she was injured, but perhaps this will keep them away from us for a while."

Ben agreed, relieved that the immediate pressure was finally off them both.

Leia looks at Ben with sad eyes "I hope it doesn't come to that"

For the first time since her accident, Rey managed to make her way across the palace grounds without help. She kept her pace slow and deliberate, one hand tucked protectively at her side, the other trailing along the cool stone wall as she walked out to the stables.

The familiar earthy scents of hay and horse were comforting, and she let herself breathe them in, feeling steadier with every step. She made a point to visit Silencer first giving special attention to him. The stallion looked up at her approach, his dark eyes bright and intelligent. Rey reached out to stroke his nose, ignoring the twinge in her ribs. "I'm not mad at you," she murmured, pressing her face into the horse's warm cheek. "I was the one who was foolish, after all. You did everything right."

She stayed that way for a while, letting herself unravel a little, her fingers combing gently through the horse's mane. Silencer nickered quietly and nudged her shoulder, as if he understood the apology and accepted it.

Ben arrived a few minutes later, his boots echoing in the stone corridor that led to the stables. He paused in the doorway, watching Rey with a soft, almost pained expression. She straightened but didn't move away from Silencer. "Are you supposed to be out of bed?" Ben asked, voice gentle, not scolding.

Rey shrugged, the motion making her wince despite herself. "The healer said I could walk. Slowly." She offered a tentative smile. "And I wanted to see the horses. They probably missed me."

Ben chuckled and came closer, stopping an arm's length away, his hands tucked awkwardly behind his back. He glanced at Silencer, then at Rey, and for the first time in days, the lines of worry on his face seemed to ease. "If you're going to be here," he said, "you should help."

"Help with what?"

Ben grinned. "It's bath day. The servants usually do it, but..." He hesitated, then shrugged. "Maybe this time you might like to help."

He asked the servants to let them tend to the horses that day. For the rest of the afternoon, they worked together in the stables, sleeves rolled up, hands and faces soon splattered with water and mud. Arm in arm they led the horses out, dousing them with buckets and scrubbing them clean. Rey was careful with her injured side, but the rhythm of the work was soothing, and Ben hovered nearby, always ready to steady her if she faltered.

At one point, as they rinsed the soap from Whisperer's back, Ben unexpectedly flicked a handful of suds at Rey's hair. She squeaked in surprise and retaliated in kind, giggling as the foam dripped down Ben's nose. 

Rey felt genuinely happy during these peaceful moments. That evening, when they headed to bed, she gave Ben a goodnight kiss on his cheek. He responded by gently patting her head, a gesture that had become routine between them.

At first, she didn't mind his head pats. But as time went on, she found herself wishing he would kiss her back sometimes. She began to pout when he patted her head instead.

"I'm sure husbands don't pat their wives' heads goodnight," she complained one evening.

"Well, you're the first then," Ben replied teasingly, ruffling her hair playfully.

Chapter Text

One afternoon while wandering the palace corridors, Rey came across a young boy crouched by the wall, carefully positioning what appeared to be a wooden trap. Curious, she approached him quietly.

"What are you doing?" Rey asked.

Startled, the boy jumped up and immediately bowed deeply. "Your Highness!" he stammered, his face flushed with embarrassment at being caught.

Rey waved her hand dismissively. "It's okay, no need to bow. I'm just curious about what you're doing. I'm Rey and you are?"

"My given name is Finn" He bowed again.

"And what is this here?" Rey points towards the device on the palace floors.

The boy, who appeared to be around her age, gestured nervously toward the trap. "I'm setting up traps for mice in the palace, Your Highness. It's my given duty. The Queen... well, Queen Leia isn't very fond of smaller animals, so I make sure the vermin stay away from her chambers."

Rey found this both amusing and practical. "Could I watch? I've never seen how these traps work."

Finn looked uncertain, shifting his weight from foot to foot. "I'm not sure if I'm supposed to have anyone watching, Your Highness."

Rey put on a mock-serious expression and deepened her voice. "I command you to let me watch!"

Finn's eyes widened and he bowed again quickly. "Yes, Your Highness, of course!"

Rey immediately giggled and dropped the act. "I'm not actually ordering you! I just want to watch if it's okay with you."

The boy sagged with relief, a smile finally breaking across his face. "Yes, of course! Allow me to show you how to set the traps up properly."

"What's your name?" Rey asked as he knelt back down to demonstrate.

"Finn, Your Highness. I'm the palace rat keeper" he said with a grin.

Rey laughed. "Well, Finn the palace rat keeper, teach me everything you know."

Rey and Finn crouched behind some wooden crates, watching the trap intently. After what felt like an eternity, Rey grew restless and puffed at a strand of hair that had fallen across her face.

"This is quite boring," she said with obvious impatience.

Finn turned to her apologetically. "I'm sorry, Your Highness, but sometimes being a rat keeper can be dull. There don't seem to be as many rats as there used to be, which I suppose is good for the palace but makes my job less exciting."

Rey's curiosity was piqued. "How did you come to be a rat keeper in the first place?"

Finn settled back against the crates, clearly pleased to have something to talk about while they waited. "I was seen one day by a knight capturing a rat from one of the alehouses in town. The knight was impressed with my technique and offered me a position at the palace - gold per capture in return."

Rey found herself drawn into his story. "Were you always capturing animals?"

"Originally I caught small animals for food, mostly," Finn explained, his voice growing quieter. "But now with the gold I receive, I'm able to afford better meals. Real bread, sometimes even meat."

The contrast between their lives struck Rey - while she had always taken meals for granted, Finn had once relied on catching his own food to survive.

Suddenly, a loud SNAP echoed through the corridor.

Both Rey and Finn's heads whipped toward the trap, their conversation forgotten in the excitement of a successful capture.

They rushed excitedly toward the trap and peered inside to see a small rat caught in the wooden cage. Finn picked up the little cage with practiced ease.

"What now?" Rey asked, still fascinated by the whole process.

"Now I kill it, of course," Finn said matter-of-factly.

Rey gasped in horror. "What? No! Why not release it to the wild?"

Finn looked at her with confusion. "But then it might just come back to the palace."

"You don't know that for sure," Rey protested.

"Rats are pests, Your Highness. No one will miss them," Finn explained pragmatically.

Rey snatched the cage from his hands. "No, I won't allow it! Just because they're little doesn't mean they don't deserve to live." Her voice rose with emotion. "They're just trying to find food!"

Finn shifted uncomfortably. "Your Highness, it is my duty to get rid of the rats."

Rey shook her head firmly. "No. This time I WILL order you to release them to the wild. They are just looking for food - surely you would know what that is like, wouldn't you?"

Finn pursed his lips and stayed quiet for several seconds, clearly struck by her words. Finally, he bowed his head. "Very well, Your Highness. I shall take them to the forest and release them."

Rey scowled at him suspiciously. "Promise me!"

Finn bowed properly. "Yes, of course. I give you my word."

"I shall go with you," Rey declared.

Finn glanced at her with concern. "Is that wise with your injuries, Your Highness?"

Rey considered this. "Perhaps not today, but I will arrange for us to ride to the forest tomorrow."

"Very well then. Shall we meet again by the palace grounds?"

Rey nodded decisively. "Yes."

That night when Ben arrived at their chambers, he noticed Rey was already asleep and tucked into bed. He smiled at the peaceful sight and quietly went about his evening routine, removing his boots and shirt before pulling back the covers to lie next to her.

Just as he settled into bed, he heard strange squeaking noises coming from somewhere in the room. Ben sat back up, looking around in confusion. His eyes fell on the chair near the window, where something was covered with a small blanket.

Curious and slightly concerned, Ben got up and walked over to investigate. He carefully lifted the blanket to see what Rey had hidden there.

Ben yelped loudly and jumped backward.

Underneath the blanket was the wooden cage containing the rat Finn had trapped earlier that day. The little creature was scurrying around inside, making the squeaking sounds that had caught Ben's attention.

His exclamation woke Rey, who sat up in bed looking startled. "Ben? What's wrong?"

Ben pointed at the cage, his voice higher than usual. "Rey, why is there a rat in our bedroom?"

Rey's eyes went wide as she realized she'd been caught. She had brought the cage up to their room to keep the rat safe overnight before their planned trip to the forest the next day, but hadn't expected Ben to discover it so dramatically.

"I can explain," she said quickly, pulling the covers up to her chin as if they might protect her from his reaction.

Ben crossed his arms and fixed Rey with a stern look. "Go on and explain, little duchess. Why do we have a vermin here in our chamber?"

Rey shifted sheepishly in bed. "The palace rat catcher was going to kill it! And I didn't want that to happen, so I ordered him to release the rat to the wild tomorrow in the forest."

Ben narrowed his eyes. "You want to release a rat?"

Rey nodded vigorously. "Yes! We must release it!"

Ben shook his head and sighed deeply. "I did not expect to come to bed with two vermin..."

There was a pause as Rey processed what he had just said.

"Heeeeeey!" Rey exclaimed indignantly, realizing he had just called her a vermin too. She grabbed a pillow and threw it at him. "I am not a vermin!"

Ben ducked the pillow with a smirk, clearly pleased with his teasing. "Well, you both seem to have invaded my peaceful bedroom and are making noise when I'm trying to sleep."

Rey grabbed another pillow threateningly. "Bennet Organa Solo, take that back this instant!"

The rat squeaked from its cage as if adding its own protest to the conversation.

The next day, Rey rode in the carriage with Ben and Finn sitting opposite them. Finn was visibly nervous, twiddling his thumbs in the presence of the Prince. Rey held the little cage on her lap with the rat still inside—the creature seemed to have grown fond of her after she had fed it cheese earlier that morning.

Ben had insisted on attending this "rat release expedition," much to Rey's delight and Finn's obvious anxiety.

Once they arrived at the forest edge, the carriage halted and they all exited. They took a short stroll deeper into the woods until Ben declared, "This should be far enough to ensure the rat won't return to the palace."

Rey handed Finn the cage. With careful movements, he opened the latch and gently encouraged the rat to leave. "Go on, little one."

The rat scurried out of the cage, then paused and looked back at the three humans. It squeaked once, as if in farewell, before darting off into the underbrush.

Rey clapped her hands together with delight. "The rat shall live its life in freedom now!"

Finn turned to Ben and bowed respectfully. "I apologize for taking your time to watch a rat keeper this morning, Your Highness. I'm sure you have far more pressing matters to attend to."

Ben waved off his concern. "Nonsense. I didn't come here for a rat release—I just wanted to make sure Rey didn't decide to bring home a wild boar to our chambers next."

Rey huffed indignantly. "Why would I do that when I already live with one!"

Finn tried to stifle his laughter at their exchange, though his amusement was clearly visible.

As they made their way back to the carriage, Ben's eyes swept the surrounding forest area with the watchful gaze of a trained warrior. The council meeting from the day before weighed on his mind—he felt uneasy about Rey venturing into the forest lands without protection, especially with concerns about Exegol spies potentially operating near their borders.

When they arrived back at the palace grounds, Ben turned to Rey with a serious expression. "I need to run an errand for Mother and will see you later tonight. Don't wander away from the palace grounds."

Rey nodded lazily at him. "Yes, yes."

After Ben departed, Rey turned to Finn with renewed curiosity. "Other than rat capturing, what else do you do around here?"

Finn shrugged. "Not much, really. I sometimes make time to play with the other servants' children when I'm able to. We play with a ball sometimes and see who can throw it the farthest."

"That sounds fun," Rey said, her interest piqued.

Finn brightened at her enthusiasm. "Would you like me to show you where we meet to play?"

As they walked toward the servants' quarters, Finn glanced at her curiously. "What is it like being married to the Prince?"

Rey considered the question. "It's... well, it's good. He taught me to ride horses and was helping me learn to swim as well, though I had to take a break due to my injuries."

Finn gulped nervously. "How did those injuries come about?"

Rey's expression grew somber. "I was being reckless and sped up on my horse, then fell." Her face brightened slightly. "But Ben came and carried me back and took care of me until I was able to walk again."

She went quiet for a moment, then added softly, "But lately he's been very busy. I know he has duties to attend to, but I miss having him around more often."

The loneliness in her voice, Finn felt sympathy for the young princess.

When they arrived at the servants' children's play area, a group of young boys and girls immediately gathered around, curious about Finn's companion.

"Who's your friend, Finn?" one of the older children asked.

Finn straightened up importantly. "Show respect to the Princess."

The children's eyes widened in shock and they immediately dropped into deep bows, some nearly losing their balance in their haste.

Rey waved her hands quickly. "Please don't bow! I'm just here to see what you all play with."

The children exchanged uncertain glances before slowly straightening up, still clearly in awe of having royalty among them.

One brave child held up their makeshift ball—really just scraps of cloth and leather stitched together into a rough sphere. "We like to compete to see who can kick it the highest and farthest," he explained proudly.

Rey's face lit up with genuine interest. "May I try?"

What followed was a delightfully chaotic game as Rey joined in enthusiastically, laughing as she attempted to kick the makeshift ball skyward with the rest of the children. For the first time in weeks, she felt truly carefree and happy.

After a while, her healing ribs began to ache, forcing her to take a break. She sat down on a wooden crate and watched the children continue their game, humming contentedly to herself.

As the afternoon wore on, Rey found her gaze drifting to the horizon beyond the palace walls. She wondered where Ben had gone on his errand for the Queen, and when he might return.

Chapter Text

When three years had passed and Rey was now sixteen, she lay in bed beside her husband one night, staring up at the ceiling in the darkness and thought of their time together.

Three years slipped by as if they hardly amounted to the time it took a raindrop to traverse a windowpane. Rey, now sixteen, had grown almost as tall as some of the palace maids, and though her hair refused to behave, she had learned to braid it herself each morning, proud of the skill she learned from though sh still prefers it when her husband does it for her at nights. She spent her days flitting between the halls of learning, the palace gardens, and the stables, a quiet observer of the world and her own heart. Every night she fell asleep beside her husband, always closer than the night before, as if drawn by gravity to the mass of his warmth.

This evening she lay in bed, her legs tucked close beneath the covers, and watched the shadows on the ceiling stretch and merge as the moon drifted behind slow clouds. Ben slept beside her, one arm thrown protectively over her waist, his breathing deep and even. Rey stared upward, listless but wide awake, and let her mind wander through the little moments that had accumulated into something soft and devastating.

She remembered the day Ben had coaxed her into the palace kitchen, where he'd arranged the bakers to show her how to make tarts. He'd stood behind her, his large hands guiding her smaller ones as they pressed dough into tins, his voice low and patient. She recalled the nights he’d read to her from old books in the library, tracing the words with a finger and looking up sometimes to see if she was listening. She remembered how he never mocked her for her questions, no matter how naive, and how he had begun to consult her opinions on matters of the household and, occasionally, even those of state.

She remembered the expeditions to the gardens, how he’d walk beside her, always matching his steps to hers, and how he once knelt to fasten the strap of her sandal when it broke, not caring about dirt on his knees or the stares of the gardeners. She remembered the time she caught a chill, and he had spent an entire night awake at her bedside, dabbing her forehead with a cool cloth, refusing to leave her side even when half the palace insisted her fever was not so grave. All these things spun circles in Rey’s chest, tightening with a kind of joy that was almost pain.

It was tonight that the realization arrived—unbidden but not unwelcome—that this was love. Not the storybook kind she had once imagined, but something more ordinary and therefore more precious. She loved Ben. She loved him in the mornings when his hair stuck up in a hundred directions and he grumbled at the cold; in the afternoons, when he played with the palace children because he claimed it was the only way to keep them from staging a coup (though everyone knew he simply liked their company); and at night, when he held her with a tenderness that belied his enormous hands and stern reputation.

But for all the realization’s warmth, a chill pricked at the edges of her thoughts: Did Ben feel the same way about her? Or was she, in his mind, still just a child , someone to be humored and protected, a duty rather than a delight? He was kind and attentive, but he never spoke of love, or of anything sentimental at all. Most nights he only patted her head or kissed the top of it before falling asleep, as if he were comforting a beloved younger sibling rather than a wife.

She wondered if he would ever see her as an equal, or if he would always keep her at arm’s length, trapped in the space between child and woman, wife and ward. The thought made her chest ache, but she refused to let it sour the happiness she felt when she was near him. Instead, she resolved to keep loving him, quietly and steadfastly, in the hope that one day he might love her back in the way she wanted most desperately.

Eventually, Rey drifted into sleep, curled into the crook of Ben’s arm, comforted by his unconscious closeness. The last thing she noticed before dreams claimed her was the weight of his hand resting on her hip, heavy and reassuring, as if anchoring her to this world and to him.

Rey stretched out her body in the early sunlit morning, groaning softly as she settled back against her husband, who was holding her waist. She felt him pull her closer in his sleep, and she smiled contentedly.

A knock at the door interrupted the peaceful moment. Rey groaned loudly, "Go away!"

Maz's voice came through the door. "The Duke is here to see you, dear Princess."

Rey sat up straight and shook Ben's shoulder urgently. He grunted and opened his eyes, his blurred vision slowly clearing as he looked up at his wife... who looked... quite beautiful in the morning light. He shut his eyes and shook his head, sitting up abruptly.

"What is it?" he asked, trying to focus.

"My grandfather is here," Rey told him.

Ben frowned. "That old man again."

"Come on, let's get dressed," Rey said, climbing out of bed.

Ben watched as Rey shimmied out of her nightgown and into her day dress. He couldn't help but notice how much she had grown over the past three years. Her hips had developed curves, and she had filled out in other areas as well. Ben shook his head, forcing himself to look away, and proceeded to get dressed.

They arrived in the hall to find the Duke waiting, greeting them both with elaborate bows and asking about their morning.

Ben grumbled in response, "I prefer spending it in bed."

The Duke smirked knowingly. "Sounds wonderful. Working on the heir, are we?"

Rey's face flushed red. "G-Grandfather!"

The Duke waved her off dismissively. "Do what you must, though it has been a few years and we have yet to hear of any pregnancy, have we?"

Ben replied carefully, "If she were pregnant, I wouldn't want to announce it willy-nilly."

The Duke bowed slightly. "Yes, of course. With enemies on the rise, after all, we must be careful."

Over the past three years, there had been ongoing conflict between Alderaan and Exegol. The fight was over territorial disputes, as it often was, and sadly, small villages on both sides had been razed in the conflict. Queen Leia had been busy managing the front lines, trying to find diplomatic solutions, but the ruler of Exegol had proven unhelpful. In fact, he had escalated by attacking more villages on Alderaan's side, calling the Queen unfit to lead and claiming she didn't deserve the land.

Ben had warned his mother that this matter would not end well.

Spies had been sent to discover what the Emperor of Exegol was planning, but the intelligence gathered was grim. They had even received a "gift" from him—the severed head of their spy, much to Leia's horror.

Rey had unfortunately seen the gruesome delivery as well and spent the entire week plagued by nightmares, crying on Ben's shoulder about the terrifying image. This had made Ben furious at the escalating brutality.

At the dining table, they discussed military matters with the Duke, who would naturally be siding with Alderaan and sending additional forces to join Leia's armies against Exegol.

"Just in case, we may need to find better ways to secure the throne if they send assassins," the Duke suggested ominously.

Rey frowned and turned to Ben. "Are they going to come kill your mother?"

Leia shook her head. "No, their main target would be the heir—that's Ben."

The Duke nodded grimly. "If the prince were to die, there would be no heir after our queen. Exegol would stop at nothing then, invading and taking the entire land."

Rey's hand instinctively reached out to grasp Ben's, her fingers intertwining with his.

The Duke offered what he considered a solution. "We should have Reyna hidden back at my keep once she is with child, to ensure we secure the line of succession."

Ben's grip on Rey's hand tightened protectively, and he fought back immediately. "I refuse to send her away, especially if she's carrying my child!"

"This isn't a negotiation," the Duke said firmly. "It's a matter of protecting the kingdom."

Unfortunately, Leia found herself agreeing. "The stakes are higher now, and the Emperor isn't one to trifle with."

That night, Rey hugged Ben's back as he sat polishing his sword, preparing for the uncertain times ahead.

"I'm scared," she whispered against his shoulder.

"Don't worry," Ben said without turning around. "I won't let anything happen to you."

"I'm not worried about myself," Rey replied softly. "It's you I'm worried about."

Ben set his sword down and turned to face his wife—a beautiful woman now, no longer the frightened child he had married. He gently comforted her, pulling her into his arms.

"Nothing will happen to either of us. I promise you that."

She stared up into his eyes, smiling, then leaned closer and whispered, "Ben... can I have our first kiss now?"

Ben cocked an eyebrow. "I've kissed you plenty."

"No, not my forehead," Rey said, her cheeks flushing. She looked directly at him. "I'm a woman now, you know."

"Yes... I am aware," Ben replied, his voice lower than usual.

She leaned even closer. "So kiss me like you do other women."

Ben stroked her face gently. "Now, now, little wife. Did you drink some rum?"

Rey blushed deeper. "Maybe?"

She recalled finding the stash of rum Ben had hidden in their room a couple of years earlier. She had indulged in it despite the terrible taste, wanting to feel grown up. Ben had scolded her for drinking it all without him—every birthday since, he bought her more rum and they would drink together occasionally. She still thought it tasted awful but on special occasions, she would ask Ben for two sips instead of one, and he would allow it only under his supervision.

"What did I say about drinking without my watch?" Ben growled.

Rey pouted. "I don't need you to watch me every time now. I only had two glasses, and I'm better at controlling my dizziness."

Ben went to where they kept the rum and took a swig himself, then set it down and wiped his mouth.

Rey huffed. "Well, don't drink it all now!" She went to take a swig as well, grimacing at the taste.

"You don't even like it," Ben observed.

"But you got it for me," Rey said shyly, smiling at him.

Ben smiled back. "Perhaps I should get you a gift with flavors you actually prefer."

Rey giggled. "Perhaps."

She began to undress, and Ben found himself staring as she put on a silky, semi-transparent nightgown. She turned to face him.

"What do you think? My handmaiden made this for me. Does it look good?"

Ben took another sip of rum as his eyes traveled over her figure. He could see the outline of her form through the delicate fabric. He set the rum down and sat on the bed, removing his shoes.

"Yes, very pretty. Let's go to bed now."

Rey hopped onto the bed and got under the blanket, waiting for her husband to remove his shirt, leaving only his breeches. He joined her under the covers, and she snuggled against his chest, kissing his cheek.

He patted her head, and she protested, "Stop patting my head."

"Never," he said with a chuckle, pulling her closer to his body as she giggled in response.

Chapter Text

There were days when the palace felt more like a sprawling mausoleum than the seat of a kingdom, and despite the constant bustle of servants and courtiers, the only living thing Rey could see in the gilded halls was her own reflection, multiplied endlessly in the polished marble and tall narrow mirrors. She had become a master of walking these corridors without drawing attention, of slipping through tapestries and service doors to escape the nervous whispers and sideways glances. The handmaidens gossiped, the old lords muttered, and the Queen herself seemed to float on a current of icy composure, her eyes never quite focusing on Rey as she passed. It was only Finn’s presence—a constant, earnest, and sometimes bumbling shadow—that made the place feel less suffocating, even as the war stole away every last scrap of comfort or predictability.

Other than Ben, Finn had become her closest friend, especially with Ben being so distant lately due to the ongoing conflict with Exegol. She spent most of her time with handmaidens or wandering the corridors, seeking entertainment through conversations with Finn.

She found him, as usual, in the eastern gallery where sunlight streamed through the windowpanes in fractured shafts of gold. He was pretending to dust the ancient suits of armor, but really he was waiting for her, as always. Rey slipped up behind him in silence, her slippers making no sound on the woven rug, and tapped his shoulder. He spun around and nearly dropped his rag.

“You move like a ghost, Princess,” Finn said, and tried to bow, but the motion was awkward with the cleaning supplies in his hand.

“And you’re terrible at pretending,” Rey replied, smiling for the first time that morning. “Don’t let the Queen catch you slacking.”

He grinned sheepishly and set the rag aside. “Nobody ever comes here except you,” Finn said, and she shrugged.

“Maybe that’s why I like it.”

They drifted toward the window and stood side by side, looking over the tangled palace gardens. Rey pressed her forehead to the glass.

“She’ll come for me soon,” she said. “The Queen. She always does, when Ben is away.”

Finn nodded, but said nothing.

“I haven’t seen him in three days,” Rey added, her voice barely above a whisper. “I barely even see him when he’s home. The council has him up before dawn and keeps him until dark and then he’s off to the barracks, or out riding with the officers.”

“He’s busy,” Finn offered gently.

“I know.” Rey drew a small circle in the condensation on the window. “But sometimes I wonder if he’s avoiding me.”

Finn fidgeted, and Rey could see in his eyes the urge to say something comforting, something to fill the gap where her marriage was supposed to be. Instead, he just stood there and let the silence settle between them like a blanket.

“I asked him to kiss me,” Rey said at last, cheeks reddening despite herself.

Finn’s eyebrows shot up. “You did?”

She nodded, not meeting his gaze. “I thought…maybe if I started it, he’d feel something. But… ”

He asked shyly, "Are you not... intimate?"

Rey blushed deeply. "... I wish we were." She then scolded herself. "He probably prefers experienced women over me."

Finn tried to reassure her. "Princess, you are wonderful. I'm sure that's not—"

She shook her head. “It’s stupid. I’m not even sure what I want from him. I just wish…” She trailed off.

Finn cleared his throat, awkwardly. “You know, if you ever need anything, I mean, someone to talk to—”

“I know,” Rey interrupted with a smile. “Thank you.” She hesitated, then said, “Finn, can I ask you a question?”

He straightened, suddenly nervous. “Of course. Anything.”

“Have you ever…” She hesitated again, the words catching in her throat. “Have you ever kissed anyone?”

Finn’s ears turned scarlet. “Uh. No. Not really. I mean, just my mother, when I was a child. And once a girl at the harvest festival dared me to, but she ran away before I could.”

Rey laughed quietly. “That sounds nice. The harvest festival. It’s always so lively, even here.”

Finn nodded. “It’s my favorite time of year.”

There was a long pause, and then Rey looked up at him, eyes earnest and searching. “Would you show me?”

Finn blinked. “Show you…?”

She looked away, her voice suddenly small. “How to kiss. Just so I know what it’s supposed to feel like. I don’t want to embarrass myself next time I see Ben.”

Finn’s face went through several shades of red, and he stammered, “I’m flattered Princess, I— I couldn’t. That isn’t— It would be—”

“Treason?” Rey finished for him, a wry smile on her lips.

He nodded, but the word hung heavy between them. “You’re married to the Prince. If anyone saw— kissing you would betray the crown”

Reyna’s lip trembled. “Ben probably kisses other women whenever he likes.”

“Don’t think that way,” Finn said softly. “The prince always comes back to you.”

Reyna managed a small smile. “You’re a good friend.” Finn bowed

“No one ever comes here,” Rey repeated, and for a moment her mischievous side emerged, banishing some of the earlier melancholy. “Just a lesson,” she said. “One kiss, so I won’t have to wonder anymore.”

Finn looked mortified, but also strangely proud to be trusted with this secret. He swallowed hard. “I suppose…if it’s just a lesson…”

Finn’s eyes widened, but he did not move away. Rey leaned in, tentative, and pressed her lips gently to his. It was a feather-light touch, more hesitant than passionate. She broke away, giggling at herself.

Finn looked embarrassed, but he managed to say, “How was that?”

Rey smiled. “It’s alright i suppose.”

Finn returned her smile, but then remembered himself and stepped back, bowing low. “I hope that helps, Princess.”

She grinned. “It does, actually.”

They stood there, when a voice like thunder rang through the corridor. “REYNA!”

The name echoed, rolling down the hallway from the far end. Finn flinched. Rey froze. She recognized the voice at once: the Duke, her grandfather, a man whose temper was like a summer storm—quick to ignite.

He strode forward, tall and severe in his military coat. face dark with fury, boots thudding on the marble, and seized Rey’s arm with a grip so tight she winced.

“What is the meaning of this?” the Duke bellowed. His gaze skewered Finn, who shrank under the weight of it. “Did I just see you lay your lips on this—this filth?”

Finn’s face drained of color. He dropped to one knee, head bowed in shame. “Your Grace, it was nothing. I would never—”

“Silence!” The Duke’s glare could have shattered stone. He turned to Rey, fingers digging into her arm. “You dishonor your House with this behavior. You are a wife now, Reyna. Do you think the world will forgive you for taking a commoner as your lover?”

Rey tried to pull away, but his grip was iron. “Grandfather, it wasn’t like that. It was just—”

He shook her so hard her teeth rattled. “Do not lie to me, child! I saw it with my own eyes. Is your honor so cheap that you would throw it away for a lowborn rat?”

Finn stared at the floor, trembling. Rey’s cheeks burned with humiliation.

“This—this is high treason!” the Duke bellowed. “Touching the princess like that! Rat boy belongs in the sewers!”
Reyna struggled to pull away. “Grandfather, it was innocent—”

The Duke sneered. “You’ve made a fool of yourself, and the Prince, and our entire House. The prince will hear of this. The Queen will hear of this. The whole court will know what kind of wife you are.”

Rey felt the old fear clawing at her throat, the same fear that had haunted her since she was a child: that she would never belong, never be good enough, never measure up to the expectations that smothered her like a velvet shroud.

Pointing at Finn, he roared, “Guards! Seize him and throw him in the dungeons! He is to remain there, in chains, until the Prince determines his fate.”

Reyna sobbed, reaching out as Finn was dragged off. “Stop! Don’t hurt him!”

He slapped her, open-palmed and vicious. The sound echoed down the stone corridor. Rey tasted blood, but did not cry out.

“You shall tell everything to the Queen and Prince. Let’s see what he has to say.” His voice dropped to a venomous whisper. “He’ll have him hanged—and you whipped—if I must.”

Rey’s voice quivered but defiant. “Ben would never—”

“YES, HE WOULD!” the Duke snarled, spittle flying. “The moment word reaches him, he’ll do whatever it takes to tame you! Tell me what do you plan to explain yourself to him hmmm? that while he was out there saving the Kingdom his wife is at home trading pleasure with the servants?”

The guards seized Finn, who did not resist. He shot Rey a desperate, apologetic look as they dragged him away.

"I'm not doing that!" She yells at him her voice trembling.

"Silence! You have no right to speak after this disgrace!"

He proceeded to drag her away as Rey's tears fell freely.

Ben slipped from his carriage and into his commoner’s robes, Mitaka lingering at the curb to wait for him. “I’ll be quick, wait here” he murmured, then crossed the lantern-lit street to the brothel’s entrance. Inside, he nodded to the proprietor. “My usual,” he said. Her knowing smile deepened at his tone. “It’s been a while, lad,” she replied, then waved him onward.

He was led down a carpeted hallway to a heavy door. When it swung open, the blonde courtesan he’d known before his marriage—leaned back on silken sheets and smirked. “Your Highness,” she purred. As the latch clicked shut and locked behind him, Ben strode to the curtained windows and secured the drape. Turning back, he found her reclining gracefully. “My sweet prince,” she teased. “I didn’t expect you today—I haven’t seen you in years. Finally run out of patience and come for me again?”

Ben held up a hand. “Not tonight, Phasma. I came for something else: information on the Exegol kingdom.” At his words, her smile faded.

She sat up, reached out to tug at his trousers, and whispered, “And what about payment?” He drew a pouch of gold and tossed it onto the bed beside her.

“There.”

She frowned. “Not even a kiss?”

“I’m not here for pleasure,” he said firmly. “Give me what I need.” She rose, crossing her arms.

“First you ignored me, ended things between us, then you send a letter asking for my help.”

Ben grimaced. “You went to Exegol last year. I need your insight for the war that’s coming.”

Phasma’s lips curled in a bitter laugh. “And how’s your little bride? Does she satisfy you? Give you what you need?” She scoffed bitterly "You chose to go through with that wedding and let me go."

He stiffened. “Phasma, what did you expect? That I’d cancel my marriage?”

She advanced, so close he could feel her breath. “Yes,” she hissed. “I wanted you. all to myself” Ben shook his head.

“I have a duty and a kingdom to serve.”

She pressed herself against him, hot and urgent. "What about me? Do you not care for me at all?"

He gently stepped away. “I don't mean any offense to your beauty, you are truly beautiful and I’m sure you will find the happiness you seek without me as I cannot grant what you wish. I care for your well being still. As for right now I only want the information.”

She turned, snatched up the gold, and counted each coin with a slow, deliberate motion. “I met several Exegol knights on my journey,” she said softly. “They paid well—and in return, they want more than secrets.” Her eyes glittered.

"Were they harsh with you?" Ben asked with genuine concern.

She shook her head. "Nothing I wasn't accustomed to."

“You are a strong woman, I always admired that about you” Ben nodded. "Did you learn anything valuable?"

At last she tucked the pouch into her robe and met his gaze. “Oh, you have no idea. They promised me land… that they plan to claim on their next attack”

"What land? Where will they attack next?" Ben demanded urgently.

Phasma looked directly into his eyes. "Right here, my sweet Prince."

Before Ben could react, he felt a sharp, searing pain. Phasma slowly backed away, holding a dagger coated with his blood.

Ben stared at the weapon, then at her face, then touched his abdomen where warm liquid was seeping through his fingers. He looked down at the spreading crimson stain on his stomach.

Staggering to his knees, he stared at the blade—then at her face. She looked at him with a cold calm. "And now I'll finally get what I want, a Kingdom just for me" she whispered.

His vision blurred as he slowly collapsed to the floor. "It did not have to be this way my prince, I was very fond of you but alas I have found a second route I can take"

Phasma turned toward the door. “The poison on this blade will finish you—painlessly, over time. but don't worry—you won't be awake to experience it.”

With that, she slipped out and closed the door, leaving Prince Ben crumpled on the floor as his blood pooled below him.

Chapter Text

Rey’s knees hit the throne room marble with a dull, sickening thump where she sobbed. The Duke gave her no time to find her balance, shoving her forward until her palms scraped the cold, veined stone. She pressed her forehead to the floor, shaking, cold sweat beading in the curls plastered to her cheeks. Above her, the Duke’s gait rang out in clipped, murderous staccato, echoing in the vast and empty chamber. Only the Queen sat at the end of the hall, as always, a pale will-o-the-wisp in a chair that seemed far too large for her slight frame.

Queen Leia watched the proceedings with an eerie calm, her hands laced together at her lap, the faintest tremor in her left thumb the only sign that she was alive at all. Rey risked a glance upward her eyes searched the Queen’s face, but Leia’s expression was as inscrutable as the moon.

"Your Majesty, I have caught Reyna in most unfortunate circumstances."

Leia did not so much as blink. “Please, do not begin with invective. What is the meaning of this summons?”

The Duke made a deep, theatrical bow. “Your Majesty,” he said, voice honeyed with false humility, “may I present to you my granddaughter, the traitor, the liar, the harlot of Naboo.”

Leia looked at them with confusion. "What is going on?" She looked at Rey with concern. "Dear child, why are you crying?"

Rey looked up, wiping her tear-stained face. "M-my Queen, I di-didn't, I didn't—"

"SHUT YOUR MOUTH!" the Duke yelled pointed a finger at Rey. “I caught her cavorting in the eastern gallery with a servant boy. A rat, a gutter-bred nobody. She was in flagrante, Your Majesty. I saw her with my own eyes—kissing him, tempting him, undoing generations of honor with a single filthy gesture.”

Leia's eyes flashed with anger at his outburst, but she maintained composure. "Everyone leave us. This is a private matter."

The servants and guards quickly filed out, closing the doors behind them. Only the three of them remained in the throne room.

The Duke wasted no time launching into his accusations. "Your Majesty, I must report Rey's indecency and how she has betrayed the crown."

Leia's expression hardened. "What absurd accusations are these?" She turned to Rey. "Please stand up, dear, and explain yourself."

Rey stood unsteadily, hiccupping through her sobs. "I-I was, I-I just wanted—"

"SHE IS A WHORE!" the Duke bellowed, cutting her off. "Spreading her legs to filth like she is! I caught her red-handed lusting after the rat boy. I went to search for her and found them together, alone, lip-locked in passion and sinful lust! Who knows how far it would have gone had I not stopped them!"

Leia’s eyes flickered to Rey. “Let Reyna speak for herself. She is not a child anymore.”

“Fine! Let her try to wriggle out of this one herself.” The Duke turned on Rey viciously. "TELL HER! Admit your betrayal!"

Rey remained on all fours, pressing her forehead so hard to the floor she thought her skull would split. She sucked a breath through her teeth, and the coppery taste of blood filled her mouth where the Duke had struck her. “Your Majesty,” she whispered, “I did not—”

The Duke cut her off. “She lies. She’s been a liar since the day she was weaned. She cannot help herself. Her father was much the same, may the worms have mercy on his soul.”

Rey’s knuckles whitened, and she bit the inside of her cheek to keep from screaming.

Leia’s lips thinned. “Speak, Reyna. Tell me the truth.”

The Duke puffed with fury, but Leia held up a single hand, silencing him as if by sorcery.

Rey lifted her head, blinking tears from her eyes. She tried to ignore the pain blooming in her jaw. “Finn is my friend, Your Majesty. I swear it on my life, and on yours. I was not…I never intended to shame my house. We only talked. He is kind. That is all.”

The Duke snorted. “A likely story. Next you’ll say you were rehearsing a play, or practicing your elocution!”

Rey’s voice was barely a breath. “I only wanted to know what it was like. To be kissed. Is that so grave a crime, Your Majesty?”

Leia stared at Rey for a long moment. She wasn’t sure what how to proceed with this information, her head hurts with all the other looming threats of the palace and now this? She sighed and rubbed her temple.

Rey stayed silent, wiping away what remained of her tears. Finally, she said quietly but firmly, "I want to speak to Ben myself."

The Duke advanced on Rey, looming over her like an executioner. “You are a disgrace,” he whispered, loud enough for the Queen to hear. “If it were up to me, I would have you whipped in the courtyard and be done with it.”

Leia’s voice was cold as ice. “It is not up to you. Stand aside.”

The Duke rounded on her. “You would shield her from consequence? You, of all people?”

Leia’s eyes narrowed. The tension between them was taut as a wire. Rey could feel it, vibrating in the air, ready to snap.

“I said, stand aside,” Leia repeated.

The Duke spat on the floor at Rey’s feet. “She is your problem now, Majesty.” He retreated to the far end of the hall, crossing his arms and glowering.

Leia waited until he had gone, then let out a long, slow breath. She rose from her throne and walked down the steps to where Rey still knelt. She knelt beside her, gently lifting Rey’s chin until their eyes met.

“Tell me the truth, child,” Leia said softly. “Not for him. For me... For Bennet”

Rey swallowed. “I was lonely,” she admitted. “Finn is the only person who does not treat me like a prize to be won or a problem to be solved. I thought…” She hesitated, then pressed on. “I thought if I could experience it—kissing, I mean—that maybe I— knew how to— maybe Ben would then want to… be intimate with me. But I did not intend to betray anyone, least of all Ben.”

Leia nodded, as if this confirmed something she already suspected. She stood, offering Rey a hand. Rey took it, unsure if she deserved the comfort.

“You are not the first to make such a mistake,” Leia said. “And you will not be the last.”

The Duke, impatient, stomped his cane against the floor. “What, now, Majesty? Will you let her off with a warning? What of the servant boy? Shall we let him continue seducing the royal family?”

Leia turned back to the Duke with a look so withering it could have scorched earth. “You forget yourself, Duke. If I were in the business of executing everyone who broke a rule of court, there would be no one left in this palace. Not even you.”

He opened his mouth, but thought better of it.

Leia returned her gaze to Rey. “You will apologize to the Prince, when he returns. And you will promise me—to my face—that you will not seek out Finn again, unless it is for matters of state. Do you understand?”

Rey nodded, a lump in her throat. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

“Good. Now go to your chambers. Clean yourself up. You look a fright.”

The Duke scoffed. He turned to the Queen. "Please allow me to discipline her. She clearly forgets her place."

Leia scowled at him, her voice dropping to a dangerous hiss. "Not in my castle, you will not. We shall await Ben's arrival and let Rey have the opportunity to speak to him plainly and clearly."

"I have the rat boy caged in a cell, awaiting his punishment," the Duke announced smugly.

Rey bowed. "I beg you, please do not punish my friend. He had no fault in this."

Leia's eyes narrowed. "I will deal with him later. Let him be for now. Now leave"

Rey turned, but the Duke caught her by the arm, squeezing hard enough to bruise. “You may have dodged the Queen’s wrath,” he hissed, “but know this: the Prince will not be so forgiving. He will demand answers. And when he does, you had better be prepared to pay in full for what you’ve done.”

Leia’s voice cracked through the room. “Release her.”

He let go, shoving Rey away with such force she nearly fell again.

“Go,” Leia said, more gently. Rey stumbled to her feet, her legs trembling, and shuffled toward the door.

But as she reached the threshold, a commotion erupted in the hallway beyond. Shouts, the pound of boots, the sound of metal striking stone. For a moment, Rey froze, heart hammering, sure that the Duke had sent the guards to drag her to the dungeons after all.

A loud commotion erupted outside the window. All three turned their heads toward the sound.

Then she heard Mitaka’s voice, high and terrified: “Fetch the healer! Fetch the Queen! The Prince—he’s injured—”

Leia’s head snapped up. Rey spun around, clutching the doorway for support.

Leia frowned. "What is this ruckus?"

She walked to the window and looked down at the courtyard below. Several servants were hauling a man out of a carriage. Mitaka was frantically alerting everyone to fetch the healer and inform the Queen immediately.

Leia squinted to get a better look from her high vantage point. Her breath caught when she recognized the bloodied figure in commoner's clothes being carried inside the palace.

The Duke’s face twisted in confusion. “What now?”

Leia pressed past him, her composure shattered. She broke into a run, lifting her skirts with one fist as she sprinted toward the entrance hall, Rey and the Duke trailing behind.

The main doors crashed open. Through the gusts, a tangle of bodies surged into the palace: guards, Mitaka, the palace surgeon—and in their midst, Ben, slumped between four footmen, blood running in slick, arterial rivers dripping down the floor.

Leia screamed. “Bennet!”

He looked up, dazed and feverish, his face the color of ashes. “Mother,” he whispered before shutting his eyes.

The surgeon dropped to his knees, barking orders. “Lay him flat—no, not like that—apply pressure—where is the tourniquet?” The guards obeyed in chaos, jostling Ben’s unconscious body as the blood soaked through his clothes.

Rey watched, paralyzed, as the Queen knelt and cradled Ben’s head in her lap.

Panic swept the palace like a wildfire, growing and mutating as it ran through every corridor and crevice. The scream of the Queen was an electric jolt; it set the entire retinue in motion, all ancient routines of decorum dissolved in the face of violence and death. Servants darted from their stations, tripping over hems and each other in their rush to obey. The line of footmen carrying Ben never broke stride, though their knees buckled beneath his weight. In the chaos, they nearly dropped him twice; the second time, Ben’s arm dangled grotesquely, his wrist trailing blood across the marble. The palace surgeon—Kalonia, a woman with a voice like steel—was already shouting orders, from the instant he crossed the threshold:

“Clear the room! Fetch boiled water! You, with the bandages—run them over a flame before you bring them to me! We’ll need fresh linens, and a lamp—no, two! And someone bring my kit, if you want the Prince to survive the hour!”

She was at Ben’s side before he was laid atop the bed. She cut through his ruined shirt with a small, brutal knife and peeled off the fabric, layer by sticky layer, revealing the horror that lay beneath. The wound in his side was an ugly gash, badly torn, already ringed in a halo of black and purple. Mitaka’s efforts to bandage it had failed; the paste of honey and herbs had mixed with the blood and formed a crust that only shone the more horribly in the lamplight.

Leia hovered in the doorway, hands shaking. Her composure had shattered the instant Ben’s eyes rolled back in his head. Now she hung at the edge of the room, torn between the need to comfort her son and the belief that she dared not interfere. It was Rey who found the courage to approach the bed, though every step felt like she was crossing a minefield. Ben’s face was terrifyingly pale. He was already burning with fever: sweat poured from his scalp and dripped, shockingly cold, onto the sheets.

Kalonia probed the wound with her fingers, utterly without hesitation. “He’s losing too much blood,” she said, mostly to herself. “And there’s something else. The flesh is discolored.” She glanced up at Leia. “Who did this? Was the blade clean?”

Leia’s voice came out in a rasp. “A rebel. Or an assassin. I don’t know.”

“What is this?” Kalonia muttered, but then she caught a whiff of the wound and recoiled. “Listen to me,” she said sharply, turning to the servants. “Bring me the blue jar from the bottom shelf, and the small glass of spirits. This is a poison, and not a gentle one. We’ll have to draw it out before we stitch him.”

She dismissed everyone else from the room except her assistants. “Out. Now. If you’re not trained, you’ll only get in the way.” Her tone brooked no argument, and even Leia found herself backed against the wall, unable to move closer.

In the hallway outside, the rest of the palace was a frenzy of motion. Bells rang to bring the night guard to arms; the kitchens sent up kettles of water, sloshed across floors and burning hands in the panic; cleaning women ripped sheets from every bed within three floors, filling the air with a fine mist of soap and dust as they ran.

Rey stumbled back through the throng, barely able to process the scene. She heard the Duke’s voice before she saw him—intoning her name with a predatory softness that made her skin crawl. He was waiting at the foot of the grand stairwell, eyes bloodshot and wild, his hands clenching the knob of his cane so hard the veins stood out beneath his skin.

He did not address her directly, but Rey felt his gaze the way a hare senses the hawk above. When the Queen’s back was turned, the Duke snatched her by the wrist and hauled her up the stairs, moving with astonishing speed for a man of his age. No one saw them, all servants and guards distracted in the Prince’s well being.

His rooms were at the far end of the guest wing—a suite of chambers nobody ever visited unless forced by duty or fear. He flung her inside and locked the door behind them.

It all happened in horrible, rehearsed silence. The Duke drew his belt from his waist, looped it around his fist, and ordered Rey to kneel. “This is for your own good,” he said, as if reading from scripture. “If you will not learn humility at court, you will learn it here.”

He struck her once, a stripe of fire across her back. “For your lies.” Again: “For your shame.” Again: “For your ingratitude.”

Rey screamed only once, then bit it back, her voice turning to a guttural whimper. Each blow was methodical, punctuated by his breathing and the slap of leather on skin. When he finished, he tossed the belt at her feet and folded his hands, as if his soul were unburdened by the violence.

“If you’re lucky, the Prince will die tonight, and you’ll be rid of him,” he said with a dark relish. “and you won't have to fear his wrath when he learns of your adultery. I’ll take you back where you belong”

He unlocked the door and shoved her into the hall, not caring that her knees collapsed beneath her. She crawled the first several feet, leaving a trail of tears on the floorboards, and only managed to stand when she came to a window and steadied herself on the sill.

Down below, she could see the Queen’s retinue clustered near Ben’s room. No one noticed her presence; she was another shade, moving unnoticed among the living.

She tried to compose herself, but the pain was so sharp and new that it threatened to swallow her whole. Worse than the ache in her back was the agony in her chest: the memory of Ben’s body, limp and bloodied, replayed with every blink. She pressed her forehead to the cool glass and sobbed, each shuddering breath stoking her fear that he would not live to see the morning.

She forced herself from the window and navigated the labyrinth of corridors back toward the royal wing. She moved slowly, hunched and awkward, as if her body had reverted to the awkwardness of childhood. Servants passed her, some gaping in horror, most averting their eyes. Bloodied rags and soiled linens littered the floor outside Ben’s door, where the Queen still waited, hands clasped and knuckles white, lips moving in silent prayer.

Rey could not go inside. She did not trust her legs to hold her in the Queen’s presence, and could not bear to see Ben in that state again. So she lingered in the shadows outside his door, clutching her arms around her ribs, letting the pain anchor her to the moment.

Then she continued to the chambers they had shared just a few nights ago. Now it felt empty and terribly alone.

Chapter Text

For hours, the palace spun in a maelstrom of rumor. Was the Prince alive or dead? Was the wound fatal, the poison slow-acting? Who would take power if he perished? Some whispered that there would be no more heir after the Queen and the bloodline will end; others, that the Duke was already plotting to install his own bloodline on the throne. The guards doubled their posts, suspecting that the assassin might roam within the castle walls to finish the job.

Near midnight, an apprentice hurried from Ben’s room, his hands trembling with the urgency of the message. “He’s alive,” the boy whispered to anyone who would listen. “Healer Kalonia says he’ll live through the night, if the poison is siphoned.”

The news rippled like a blessing through the upper halls, but it did little to ease Rey’s torment. She slid down the wall and sat on the cold stone, head between her knees, trying not to remember the sensation of the Duke’s belt or the sound of Ben’s voice when he called for his mother.

She slept for a few hours—fitful, dreamless, more a collapse than true rest. When she woke, it was to the sight of a silent corridor, the torches guttering low, the palace hushed with exhaustion. Ben’s door was still shut, but the pile of bloodied linens had grown, and the air was thick with the metallic tang of blood and the sharp, medicinal scent of herbs.

She wanted to see him. She needed to see him. But something inside her recoiled at the thought—her own shame, or fear, or the memory of the Duke’s parting words, she could not say. She wandered the halls for a time, slipping through the servants’ passageways and hidden stairs, trying to feel invisible.

But there was no refuge in the palace. Every sight, every sound, brought her back to the knowledge that she had failed Ben—that her childish indiscretion, however innocent, had become a weapon for the Duke and his ilk. She was not the girl she had been the week before. She was something else now: an object of pity, a pawn, perhaps even a liability.

When dawn finally crept over the city, coloring the towers with pale gold, Rey stood outside Ben’s room for a long time, listening to the murmurs inside. She heard Leia’s voice, low and soothing.

The Queen emerged from the bedchamber, her face as ravaged by grief as Rey's own. Their eyes met—both red-rimmed, both haunted.

"Come, dear," Leia whispered. "Would you like to see him?"

Rey could only nod, her throat working against the sob threatening to escape.

"I must rest now," Leia said, touching Rey's arm. "I trust you to watch over him. Please send word if there's any change."

Rey nodded again and approached the doorway with hesitant steps. Inside, a servant dabbed Ben's forehead with a damp cloth. Rey settled into the chair beside his bed, and with a respectful bow, the servant withdrew, closing the door softly behind her.

Ben lay before her, his skin flushed and fevered. Each labored breath seemed to cost him dearly, his bandaged chest rising and falling in an uneven rhythm beneath the wrappings that concealed his wound.

"Ben," she whispered, her fingers finding his arm. "I'm here now."

A low moan escaped him. His eyelids fluttered open, revealing unfocused eyes that searched blindly before closing again.

Rey brushed away a tear with the back of her hand and gently cradled his cheek. "Please live."

A gentle touch on Rey's shoulder startled her awake. She blinked, disoriented, her neck stiff from sleeping hunched in the chair beside Ben's bed.

"Princess," Healer Kalonia whispered, "I must change his bandages now."

Rey nodded, her gaze lingering on Ben's ashen face. His fever hadn't broken. The wound still seeped black. She stumbled from the room, her legs numb from sitting so long.

The corridor stretched before her, endless and cold. She wandered without purpose, tears streaming silently down her cheeks, her fingertips trailing along the stone walls for balance. Her feet carried her down, down, down through the palace until she found herself before the heavy iron door of the dungeons.

"I wish to enter alone," she told the guards, her voice surprisingly steady.

They hesitated only briefly before stepping aside with respectful nods.

Torchlight cast long shadows as she descended the narrow staircase. The smell of damp stone and unwashed bodies assaulted her senses. She stopped before the third cell.

Finn sat cross-legged on the floor, spooning thin gruel from a wooden bowl. When he looked up and saw her, he scrambled to his feet, nearly spilling his meager meal.

"Your Highness," he gasped, "you shouldn't be here."

Rey's composure crumbled. She gripped the iron bars until her knuckles whitened, a sob tearing from her throat. "Ben is dying, Finn. Dying, and I can do nothing."

Finn approached cautiously, his hands reaching through the bars to cover hers. "I heard. I'm so sorry."

"If he doesn't survive—" Her voice broke.

"We mustn't think the worst," Finn murmured.

"If Ben dies, you remain imprisoned, and I'll have no one." Fresh tears spilled down her face. "The Duke will claim me again."

"The Queen would never allow it."

Rey shook her head, her forehead pressed against the cold bars. "What Queen would protect a traitor to her crown?"

Finn said nothing more, only held her hands through the bars as she wept.

Three days later, Healer Kalonia delivered the news they had been waiting for: the poison had been fully purged from Ben's body. Though fever still gripped him, and he would need constant care—fresh bandages daily and as much liquid as they could coax down his throat—his life was no longer in danger.

A collective sigh of relief swept through the room. Queen Leia clasped Kalonia's hands, praising her healing skills with tears in her eyes. She turned to thank Mitaka as well for his swift action in saving the prince. Rey felt her own chest lighten, a smile threatening to break across her face—until she caught the Duke's cold glare from across the room. Her expression immediately sobered.

Later, Rey slipped into Ben's chamber, dismissing the attending servant with a quiet request to tend to him herself. Alone with him at last, she settled beside his bed and pressed her palm to his forehead. Still warm, but less so than before.

She dipped a cloth into the water basin, wrung it out, and laid it gently across his brow. A soft sigh escaped his lips as his eyelids fluttered open, revealing unfocused eyes that searched the room.

"Where am I?" he croaked, his voice rough from disuse.

"Shh," Rey whispered, her fingers brushing his cheek. "You're safe. Everything's all right."

His gaze wandered, struggling to fix on her face. "Who are you?"

Rey smiled faintly, her heart aching at his confusion. "I'm here to take care of you. You're still not quite yourself, are you?" she teased gently.

Ben blinked slowly, his eyes briefly clearing as they found hers. "You... are... beautiful," he sighed before his lids fell closed once more.

Rey's hand stilled against his skin as warmth flooded her cheeks. As his breathing deepened into sleep, she told herself it was only the fever talking, yet the words lingered in her mind long after she had left his side.

That night, Rey ate her supper alone in her chamber when there came a soft knock at the door.



“Who is it?” she called.



“It is I, Princess,” came the reply—Maz, her handmaiden.

“Enter,” Rey said. Maz swept inside, bowed low, and announced, “Dear Princess, the Prince has asked for you.”

Setting her plate aside, Rey asked, “He has?”

Maz smiled faintly. “He specifically requests the beautiful girl with brown hair.”

Rey’s cheeks flushed. “Oh… well, there should be many who fit that description…”

Maz tilted her head. “The other servants keep their hair covered, as I do.”

Still pink-faced, Rey rose and smoothed her gown. “I’ll be there.”

In Prince Ben’s bedchamber, a servant bowed and slipped away. Rey approached the bed where Ben lay propped on pillows, feverish but alert. She pressed a cool cloth to his forehead.

“Still warm,” she observed. “Causing trouble for the other servants now, my prince?”

He blinked slowly and managed a soft smile. “They’re not you, my lady.”

Rey arched an eyebrow. “Mind you, I’m a married woman.”

His smile faded; he closed his eyes. “Of course you are. A lucky man indeed.”

Rey fought a snort. “Do you often flirt with other women?”

He chuckled, eyes still shut. “Only the most beautiful ones.”

Her blush deepened. “Your wife must be delighted.”

He opened his eyes, confusion in his gaze. “I have a wife?”

Rey nodded. “Yes, Your Highness. I’m sure she misses you dearly.”

Ben closed his eyes again. “I pity the person who married me.”

A smile tugged at Rey’s lips as she adjusted the damp rag on his brow. “Don’t be unkind to your wife.”

He drew a quiet breath. “What is your husband like? Do you love him?”

Rey’s grin was gentle. “He’s… wonderful, and yes, I... I love him very much.”

Ben drifted back to sleep, his fever easing. Rey sat beside him until exhaustion claimed her too, her head resting on his arm.

At dawn, Rey woke first. She sent for water, and when Ben stirred, she helped him sip gently. He looked at her, curiosity in his eyes.

“What is your name, my lady?” he asked.

Rey smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Remember, I told you I am taken.”

Ben pouted, closing his eyes. “Then what is my wife like? Why isn’t she here?”

Rey’s smile faltered. “She cares for you, trust me.”

He waited, then asked softly, “Do I love her?”

Rey hesitated. “I—your marriage was arranged.”

He sighed. “She must not like me very much, then…”

Rey reached out, stroking his cheek. He opened his eyes to meet hers. “She adores you, my prince,” she whispered.

He returned her smile. “Thank you. Your husband is fortunate to wake to your wonderful face every morning.”

Rey laughed softly. “I’ll be sure to let him know.”

She had the servants bring their lunches to the chamber, and Rey tried to feed Ben spoonfuls of chicken broth. Blowing on the spoon, she carefully guided it to his mouth; he opened his lips and swallowed with effort.

“Does it hurt?” she asked.

“Only if I move too much,” he replied.

Rey continued feeding him until Healer Kalonia entered. “I’m here to re-dress his wound with fresh herbs,” Kalonia announced.

Rey rose to leave, but Ben gently tugged at her sleeve. “Don’t go,” he whispered.

Rey nodded and stayed. Together they watched Kalonia unwrap his bandages, revealing the stitched wound. The healer applied a cooling paste, rebandaged him, and Ben winced faintly.

“You’re recovering well,” Kalonia said. “I expect the fever will break soon.” Turning to Rey, she asked, “How is he otherwise?”

Rey leaned close and whispered, “He doesn’t seem to remember he’s married—he’s flirting with me.”

Kalonia gave a small smile. “Once the fever’s gone, his mind should clear. I’ll report to the queen now.”

Rey settled back beside Ben and urged him to drink some water, which he did obediently. They sat in quiet as he drifted in and out of sleep every twenty minutes. When he woke again and saw her worried face, he asked softly, “Why do you look so sad?” Startled, Rey realized he was awake.

She sighed. “I feel like I’ve made mistakes.”

“Is there anything I can do to help, my lady?” he offered.

Rey shook her head. “No… I’m just hoping my husband won’t be too angry with me.”

“Why would he be angry with you?” Ben asked.

Biting her lip, Rey murmured, “I’m afraid he’ll think I betrayed him.”

“You did not,” Ben said at once.

Rey blinked. “You don’t even know that.”

He reached for her hand. “I don’t have to. You’re here by my side, caring for me so gently and purely. I can feel it: you’re no traitor. Your husband will believe you.”

Tears sprang to her eyes and she sniffled. “Thank you, my prince.” Ben nodded and closed his eyes dozing off again.

A gentle knock sounded, and Leia entered. Rey stood and bowed. Leia waved her off. “Go rest in your own bed. I’ll sit with him—the chair must be uncomfortable.”

Rey smiled faintly. “I don’t mind.” Leia returned her smile, and Rey bowed again before slipping from the chamber.

Chapter Text

On the morning of the fifth day, Ben's fever broke at last. Rey returned to Ben's chamber, carrying a tray with fresh water and herbs Kalonia had prepared. She found him resting against his pillows, and when he opened his eyes they clearer than they had been in days.

"Good morning," she said softly, setting the tray on the bedside table. "How are you feeling today?"

Ben studied her face, a flicker of recognition passing across his features. "Little Duchess?"

Her heart leapt. "You remember me?"

"Of course I remember you." He frowned, confusion evident in his eyes. "Why wouldn't I?"

Rey sat beside him on the edge of the bed, relief flooding through her. "You've been feverish for days. The poison... you didn't recognize anyone." She clutched his hand tightly. "I thought I was going to lose you."

Ben's expression darkened. "What happened? How did I get here?" He tried to sit up, wincing at the sharp pain in his side.

"Don't move," Rey urged, gently pressing him back against the pillows. "You were stabbed. Mitaka brought you back barely alive."

Ben's brow furrowed as fragments of memory returned to him. "I was stabbed. Phasma... she betrayed me." His hand moved instinctively to his bandaged side, wincing at the tender flesh beneath.

"Please don't touch it," Rey said, gently moving his hand away. "It's still healing"

Ben nodded, then tilted his head, studying her with curious eyes. "You've been here the whole time?"

"Most of it," Rey admitted. "Your mother has taken turns watching over you as well."

A hint of a smile crossed his lips. "Ah… You called me 'my prince' yesterday. And you said you were married."

Rey blushed deeply. "You were confused. I didn't want to upset you."

"And you said your husband was wonderful," Ben continued, his voice growing stronger. "That you loved him very much."

Rey's fingers twisted nervously in her lap. "I did say that," she whispered.

Ben reached out, his large hand covering hers. "Did you mean it?"

Rey met his gaze, her heart pounding. "Yes."

The silence between them stretched, filled with unspoken words. Finally, Ben squeezed her hand. "I wish I had been a better husband to you."

Rey's throat tightened. "You've been good to me, Ben."

"Not good enough," he said quietly. "I've been distant."

"You've been busy to you duties is all" she corrected. "You are a good prince"

The door swung open and Queen Leia swept in, her face lighting up when she saw her son awake and alert.

"Bennet!" she exclaimed, hurrying to his bedside. "Thank the heavens. You're truly awake!"

Ben nodded. "Mother."

As Leia bent to kiss her son's forehead, Rey quietly withdrew to give them privacy. In the corridor, she leaned against the wall, her legs suddenly weak. He was alive. He remembered her. She allowed herself to breathe finally.

But her relief was short-lived. Around the corner came the Duke, his cold eyes fixing on her with predatory intensity.

"So, the Prince lives," he said, his voice dripping with false concern. 

Rey lifted her chin. "Yes."

"And his memory? Has it returned?"

"It seems to be," Rey answered cautiously.

"I wonder if you've told him about your little indiscretion yet."

Rey straightened,  "I will speak to my husband when he's well enough."

The Duke sneered. "See that you do, or I shall be forced to inform him myself."

Rey's hands clenched at her sides. "I've done nothing to be ashamed of."

"Is that so?" The Duke advanced on her, his voice dangerously soft. "Then why did you not tell him immediately upon his waking? Why the secrecy?"

"Because he's been ill," Rey replied, standing her ground despite her racing heart. "He needs rest, not your poisonous accusations."

The Duke's eyes flashed. "Watch your tongue, girl. Remember who raised you."

"I remember all too well," Rey said, her voice steadier than she felt.

He circled her slowly. "I've been thinking about your future, Reyna. When the Prince casts you aside—and he will, mark my words—you'll need somewhere to go."

"Ben would never—"

"Wouldn't he?" The Duke cut her off. "Men of power don't tolerate betrayal, especially from their wives. But don't worry, I've made arrangements. There's a convent in the mountains that takes in... fallen women. You'll be comfortable there, if not happy."

Rey's blood boiled with anger and fear. "I will not be sent away. This is my home now."

The Duke laughed, a harsh, ugly sound. "This was never your home. You were a pawn, girl. A means to an end."

"What end?" Rey demanded.

The Duke's smile chilled her to the bone. "Power, of course. What else matters in this world?"

For three days, Rey tended to Ben as he regained his strength. Though still weak, his mind was sharp once more, and he grew increasingly restless in his confinement. She helped him take short walks around the chamber, his arm draped heavily across her shoulders, her small frame supporting his weight.

During these quiet moments, she found herself studying his face, noting how his features had grown more solemn since the attack. Whatever had happened to him had left more than just a physical wound.

On the afternoon of the third day, as they sat together by the window watching rain patter against the glass, Ben finally spoke of it.

"I went to gather intelligence about Exegol's next moves," he said quietly. "From someone I once... knew. A woman named Phasma."

Rey's stomach tightened at the confirmation of her fears. "The blonde woman I saw you with before."

Ben glanced at her in surprise, then nodded. "Yes. She traveled to Exegol last year. I thought she might have valuable information."

"And instead she tried to kill you," Rey finished for him.

"She was working for them all along," Ben confirmed, his voice bitter. "I was a fool to trust her."

Rey's brow furrowed, "Did you love her?"

Before he could answer, the door opened and Queen Leia entered, followed by Healer Kalonia. Seeing Ben alert, Leia rushed to his side.

"Ben! You're awake" she exclaimed, "You have been doing so well now!"

As Kalonia examined his wound, Leia turned to Rey. "The Duke wishes to speak with you. He's waiting in the study."

Rey's blood ran cold. She glanced at Ben, who was watching her with concern.

"What does he want?" Ben asked sharply.

Leia sighed. "I believe he wishes to discuss... recent events."

Ben's eyes narrowed. "What events?"

Leia and Rey exchanged a look, and Rey felt her stomach twist with dread. Ben noticed the silent exchange and struggled to sit up straighter.

"What has happened that I don't know about?"

Rey stood quickly. "Nothing important. Rest now, and we'll speak later." She backed toward the door, unable to meet his questioning gaze.

"Rey," Ben called after her, but she was already gone, hurrying down the corridor with her heart in her throat.

The Duke was pacing by the window when Rey entered the study, his face set in grim lines. He turned at the sound of the door closing.

"Have you told him yet?" the Duke asked, his voice low and dangerous.

Rey stood frozen at the threshold, her fingers still on the door handle. She swallowed hard, unable to form a response.

The Duke's face twisted into a cruel smile. "Your silence speaks volumes, granddaughter."

"I will tell him," Rey whispered. "When the time is right."

"Then you give me no choice but to inform him myself of your indiscretion," he said, taking a step toward the door.

Rey's eyes widened in panic. "Don't! Please—I just need more time. He hasn't healed completely yet!"

"I don't care," the Duke replied coldly. "The Prince deserves to know what kind of woman he's married to. Would you have him learn the truth from palace gossip?"

"It wasn't what you think," Rey pleaded. "It was innocent—."

The Duke laughed, a hollow, mirthless sound. "Innocent? You were caught kissing another man! There is nothing innocent about betraying your marriage vows."

Rey's hands trembled as she stepped toward him. "If you truly cared about the Prince, you would wait until he's stronger."

"What I care about is the succession," the Duke hissed. "And if you cannot provide an heir—if your loyalty is so easily compromised—then perhaps other arrangements should be made." The Duke moved to the door. "I shall visit him now. I'm sure he's well enough for this particular conversation."

"Wait!" Rey cried, desperation edging her voice. "Let me be the one to tell him. Please. It's the right thing."

The Duke paused, his hand on the latch. "Very well. You have until sunset. After that, I will speak to him myself. Do not ever say I am not merciful"

With that, he swept from the room, leaving Rey alone with her racing thoughts and the weight of what she must do.

She sank into a chair, her legs suddenly unable to support her. The thought of confessing to Ben filled her with dread. Would he believe her? Would he understand? Or would he look at her with the same disgust her grandfather did?

For a long moment, she sat motionless, paralyzed by fear. Then, drawing a deep breath, she rose and made her way back to Ben's chambers.

Outside his door, she paused. Through the crack, she could hear Leia's voice, low and urgent. Rey couldn't make out the words, but the tone was clear—something serious was being discussed. Hesitantly, she knocked.

The conversation inside ceased immediately. "Enter," Ben called.

Rey pushed the door open to find Ben sitting up in bed, his face grave, Leia standing beside him with a hand on his shoulder. The tension in the room was palpable.

"Rey," Ben said, his voice carefully neutral. "My mother was just telling me about an incident that occurred while I was away."

Rey's heart sank. She looked at Leia, who gave an almost imperceptible nod of encouragement.

"Yes," Rey said, moving closer to the bed. "There is something I need to tell you."

Ben's eyes never left her face. "I'm listening."

"I—" Rey began, then faltered. How could she explain what had happened without making it sound worse than it was? "There was a misunderstanding."

"A misunderstanding," Ben repeated flatly. "Is that what you call kissing another man?"

The words hung in the air between them, sharp and accusing. Rey flinched as if she'd been struck.

"It wasn't like that," she whispered.

"Then what was it like, Rey?" Ben demanded, his voice rising slightly. "Because from what I've been told, my wife was caught in an intimate moment with a servant while I lay dying."

"That's not true!" Rey cried, tears springing to her eyes. "It was just a kiss—a childish, stupid kiss that meant nothing!"

"Nothing?" Ben echoed.

"Yes, nothing!" Rey took a step closer, desperate for him to understand. "I was confused and lonely and I just wanted—" She broke off, unable to finish.

"Wanted what?" Ben asked, his voice suddenly quiet.

The silence that followed was deafening. Leia looked between them, her face a mask of concern.

"I should leave you two to speak privately," she said softly, moving toward the door.

"No," Ben said, his eyes still fixed on Rey. "Stay, Mother. I want a witness to this conversation."

The coldness in his voice made Rey tremble. This was what she had feared—that he would look at her as if she were a stranger, someone he could no longer trust.

"Ben, please," she whispered. "It was a mistake. A terrible mistake that I regret with all my heart."

"And the servant?" Ben asked. "What is to be done with him?"

"Nothing!" Rey exclaimed. "He did nothing wrong. If anyone is to be punished, it should be me."

"He did nothing wrong?" Ben repeated incredulously. "He kissed the Princess of Alderaan, the future Queen Consort. That is treason, Rey."

"He didn't kiss me—I kissed him," Rey admitted, her cheeks burning with shame. "It was my fault, not his."

Ben's expression darkened further. "You initiated it?"

Rey nodded miserably.

"Why?" The single word was laden with pain and confusion.

"Because I wanted to know what it felt like," Rey whispered, unable to meet his gaze. "To be wanted. To be seen as a woman, not a child."

Ben blinked at her, his expression unreadable. The silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken accusations and regrets.

Leia sighed loudly. "Well, it is out now for you two to handle."

Ben blinked at his mother, surprise evident in his face. "Where are you going?"

Leia walked to the door and paused with her hand on the latch. "This is your marriage, Ben. It's time for you two to talk... like two adults."

The door closed behind her with a soft click, leaving them alone in a silence that seemed to pulse with tension. Rey stood frozen, tears threatening to spill down her cheeks, while Ben stared at her with an intensity that made her want to shrink away.

"So," he said finally, his voice low and carefully controlled. "You wanted to be seen as a woman. Not as a child."

Rey nodded, not trusting herself to speak.

Ben shifted in the bed, wincing slightly as the movement pulled at his wound. "And you didn't think I saw you that way."

"You've never..." Rey began, then faltered. "You still pat my head like I'm a little girl. You've never once kissed me properly. Even when I asked you to."

Ben's expression softened slightly. "You asked me when you were drunk on rum, little wife."

"Stop calling me that!" Rey burst out. "I'm not little anymore! I'm grown! I have breasts! I bleed and can carry children! I've been your wife for three years, and you've never once treated me like one."

"Because you were a child when we married," Ben replied, his voice rising to match hers. "What would you have had me do? Take you to bed at thirteen?"

"No! But you could have..." She trailed off, struggling to articulate what she wanted. "You could have shown me some affection. Something more than a pat on the head."

Ben's jaw tightened. "I thought I was protecting you."

"From what? From feeling wanted? From feeling like your wife instead of your ward?"

A muscle in Ben's cheek twitched. "I didn't want to force you into anything you weren't ready for."

"And how would you know what I was ready for?" Rey demanded. "You never asked. You never even tried."

Ben's eyes flashed with anger. "So you decided to find out with someone else."

Rey felt her face flame with shame.

"It wasn't like that," she said quietly. "I just... I was confused. I wanted to know what it felt like to be kissed, so I'd know what to expect when... if... you ever did."

Ben's expression was unreadable. "And now you know."

Rey nodded miserably. "It wasn't worth it. It was nothing..." She broke off, "I'm sorry, Ben."

Ben was silent for a long moment, studying her face. "This servant boy," he said finally. "What is his name?"

"Finn," Rey replied hesitantly. "He's the rat keeper."

A flicker of recognition crossed Ben's face. "The one who helped you release that rat in the forest?"

Rey nodded, surprised he remembered.

"And you care for him?"

"As a friend," Rey insisted. "He's been kind to me when I was lonely. That's all."

Ben's eyes narrowed slightly. "Are you lonely often, Rey?"

The question caught her off guard. "I... yes," she admitted. "The palace is full of people, but sometimes it feels like no one really sees me."

Ben's expression softened almost imperceptibly. "I see you, Rey."

Something in his voice made her breath catch. "You do?"

"Yes," he said quietly. "Perhaps too clearly for both our sakes."

Rey took a step closer to the bed, hope fluttering in her chest. "What do you mean?"

Ben sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I mean that I've watched you grow from a child into a woman, and it's been... challenging."

"Challenging?"

"To know where the boundaries should be. To know when it was appropriate to see you differently." He looked away, his jaw working. "I didn't want to be the man who took advantage of a young girl."

"I'm not a girl anymore," Rey whispered.

Ben's eyes returned to hers, dark and intense. "No. You're not. You’re a woman now capable of deception aparantly"

The air between them seemed to thicken. Rey took another step forward, until she stood at the edge of the bed.

"I never meant to hurt you, Ben," she said softly. "And I would never betray you. Not truly."

Ben reached out, his hand finding hers. "I know," he said. "But it still hurt to hear it."

Rey intertwined her fingers with his. "I'm sorry."

"As am I," Ben replied.  "Have I truly made you feel unwanted?" Ben asked, his voice cracking slightly.

"I—" Rey began, then stopped. "You've always been kind to me, Ben. Always protected me. But..."

"But I've never treated you as my equal," he finished for her.

Rey's eyes widened slightly. "You were doing what you thought was right."

Ben shifted in the bed, wincing as the movement pulled at his wound. "Come here," he said softly.

Hesitantly, Rey approached the bedside. Ben reached for her hand, and after a moment's hesitation, she placed her trembling fingers in his palm.

"I was dying," Ben said quietly. "When Mitaka brought me back, I was sure I wouldn't live to see morning. And do you know what my only thought was?"

Rey shook her head, unable to speak past the lump in her throat.

"That I let you down," Ben continued. "Let my parents down , my kingdom. That I wouldn’t be able to be there for you anymore."

"Ben—"

"No, let me finish." His grip on her hand tightened. "I was a coward, Rey. I watched you grow from a girl into a woman, and I was afraid of what that meant for us. For me."

Rey sank onto the edge of the bed, her knees suddenly weak. "What are you saying?"

Ben's gaze was steady now, the anger replaced by something deeper, more vulnerable. "I'm saying that I understand why you sought elsewhere what I wasn't giving you. And I'm sorry."

Fresh tears spilled down Rey's cheeks. "I never meant to hurt you. It meant nothing—less than nothing. I was confused and foolish."

"As was I," Ben admitted. "For too long."

He reached up with his free hand to brush away her tears. The gentle touch sent a shiver through her.

Rey's heart lightened at his words. "Does that mean you forgive me?"

Ben's thumb traced circles on the back of her hand. "It means I understand. But Rey..." His voice hardened slightly. "Don't ever do something like that again. I won't be so understanding a second time. People talk in these halls you know."

Rey nodded solemnly. "I won't. I promise."

"Good." Ben tugged gently on her hand, pulling her closer. "Now, about this Rat boy..."

"Please don't punish him," Rey pleaded. "It wasn't his fault."

Ben's expression darkened. "He should have known better than to touch what's mine."

The possessive note in his voice sent a shiver down Rey's spine. "What will you do to him?"

Ben was silent for a moment, considering. "I won't have him executed or flogged," he said finally. "But he can't remain in the palace."

"Where will he go?"

"I'll find him a position elsewhere. Perhaps with the army, where he can make himself useful." Ben's gaze was steady. "It's more mercy than most would show."

Rey nodded, grateful for even this small concession. "Thank you."

"Don't thank me yet," Ben replied. "There's still the matter of your grandfather to deal with."

Rey's stomach twisted at the mention of the Duke. "What about him?"

"My mother says he wants you punished publicly for this," Ben said bluntly. "To make an example of you."

"And what do you want?" Rey asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Ben's eyes softened. "I want peace in my household. I want a wife who is loyal and true. And I want..." He hesitated, then continued more quietly, "I want you to stay with me.”

Rey's heart skipped a beat. "You do?"

Ben nodded, his gaze intense. "If that's what you want as well."

"It is," Rey whispered, her cheeks flushing. "It's all I want, to be with you.”

A hint of a smile touched Ben's lips. "Then perhaps some good may come of this after all."

He reached up, his hand cupping her cheek gently. Rey leaned into his touch, her eyes fluttering closed.

"Rey," he murmured, his voice deeper than before.

She opened her eyes to find him watching her with a look she'd never seen before—something warm and wanting that made her pulse quicken.

"Yes?" she breathed.

"Come here," he said softly, drawing her down until she was seated on the edge of the bed beside him.

His hand slid from her cheek to the nape of her neck, and Rey felt herself leaning forward, drawn by the gravity of his gaze. Their faces were inches apart, his breath warm on her lips.

"Is this what you wanted?" he whispered.

"Yes," she breathed, her heart hammering in her chest.

And then his lips were on hers, gentle but insistent, claiming her in a way that made her previous experience seem like nothing more than a childish game. This was a real kiss—a man's kiss—and Rey felt herself melting into it, her hands coming up to rest against his chest.

When they finally broke apart, Ben rested his forehead against hers.

"Was that worth waiting for, little wife?" he asked, a hint of teasing in his voice.

For once, Rey didn't mind the endearment. She smiled, her eyes still closed. "Yes," she whispered. "Very much so."

Ben's hand stroked her hair, the gesture felt less like a patronizing pat and more like a caress. Ben's lips curved into a gentle smile against her forehead. "We'll speak more when I've recovered my strength. For now, rest with me awhile."

Rey nodded, settling carefully beside him on the bed, mindful of his wound. As she drifted into a peaceful slumber, she felt truly at peace.

The following day, after Ben had taken his medicine and fallen into a deep sleep, Rey made her way to the guest wing of the palace. Her steps were measured, her spine straight despite the trepidation that threatened to overwhelm her. She had one last matter to settle before she could truly move forward.

When she reached the Duke's chambers, she knocked firmly on the door. After a moment, his voice called for her to enter.

The Duke sat by the window, a glass of wine in his hand, his expression darkening when he saw her. "So, the Prince has spared you after all. How... predictable."

Rey closed the door behind her and stood tall, refusing to cower. "I came to inform you that Ben and I have resolved our differences."

The Duke's laugh was sharp and cruel. "This is surely a jest? You truly have the Prince in your fingers, have you not, you whore? Ah, I suppose you are true to your bloodline in the end then—a master manipulator."

Rey scowled at him, her hands balling into fists at her sides. "The Prince has a beautiful heart, unlike you."

"The Prince is weak to allow you to remain, is what it is!" The Duke slammed his glass down, wine sloshing over the rim. "Fine, so be it. I have other matters to attend to." He waved his hand dismissively. "Leave my room and do not speak to me again. I better see that the heir you bring forth not have dark skin, lest you bring shame to the whole kingdom."

Rey's face burned with anger and humiliation, but she refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing her react. Instead, she turned on her heel and walked out, closing the door firmly behind her.

In the corridor, she pressed a hand to her racing heart, taking deep breaths to calm herself. The Duke's words had cut deep, but they no longer held the power to destroy her. She was the Princess of Alderaan now, and soon enough, she would be its Queen.

With renewed determination, she made her way back to Ben's chambers. Her husband was awake when she entered, sitting up against his pillows, color returning to his face. He smiled when he saw her, reaching out his hand.

"There you are," he said warmly. "I missed you."

Rey took his hand and sat beside him on the bed. "I had something to attend to."

Ben's eyes searched her face, noting the tension around her eyes. "What's wrong?"

For a moment, Rey considered keeping the Duke's words to herself, sparing Ben the ugliness of it. But they had promised honesty between them now, and she would not break that promise so soon.

"I spoke with my grandfather," she admitted. "It didn't go well."

Ben's expression hardened. "What did he say to you?"

Rey recounted the conversation, watching as Ben's face darkened with each word. When she finished, his grip on her hand had tightened almost painfully.

"He has no right to speak to you that way," Ben said, his voice low with anger. "No right at all."

"It doesn't matter," Rey said, though the words still stung. "He can't hurt me anymore."

Ben pulled her closer, his arm wrapping around her shoulders. "When I'm fully recovered, we'll see about sending him back to Naboo. Permanently."

Rey leaned into his embrace, drawing strength from his solidity. "I'd like that."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, the afternoon sun streaming through the windows, casting golden patterns across the bed. Finally, Rey spoke again.

"Ben?"

"Hmm?"

"What will happen to Finn?"

Ben sighed. "As I said, he'll be reassigned. Somewhere far from the palace, but not unkindly treated." He looked down at her. "I've decided to send him to the western outpost. He'll serve as an assistant to the quartermaster there."

Relief washed over Rey. The western outpost was known for its fair commanders and comfortable living conditions. "Thank you."

Ben nodded, his expression solemn. "I won't punish him unduly for your mistake. But Rey..." He tilted her chin up to meet his gaze. "I meant what I said. This can't happen again."

"It won't," Rey promised, holding his gaze steadily. "My heart belongs to you now."

A slow smile spread across Ben's face. "Only now?"

Rey blushed. "Well, perhaps for longer than I realized."

Ben leaned down, his lips brushing hers in a soft, questioning kiss. “I am honored little wife”

"Rest now," she whispered, gently pushing him back against the pillows. "You need to heal."

Ben caught her hand, pressing a kiss to her palm. "Come lay with me"

Rey smiled. "of course."

Chapter Text

As the days passed, Ben grew stronger. The palace settled into a cautious routine, the threat of war with Exegol still looming on the horizon, but tempered by the Prince's recovery. The Duke kept his distance, confining himself to his chambers except for formal meals, where he maintained a cold silence toward Rey.

Throughout Ben's recovery, Queen Leia maintained strict control over who could visit the prince's chambers. She limited access to only the most trusted servants, the healer, and Rey herself. When lords and ladies of the court inquired about the prince's absence from public functions, Leia provided vague assurances of his well-being, citing diplomatic affairs that required his attention elsewhere.

"The prince is occupied with matters of state," she would say dismissively. "There are more pressing concerns than his daily schedule."

In private council meetings, she redirected attention whenever Ben's name arose. "We have Exegol forces gathering at our borders," she reminded the lords firmly. "My son's whereabouts are not your concern."

Despite her efforts, whispers spread through the kingdom like wildfire. At first, they were merely speculative—the prince was ill, perhaps, or secretly meeting with allies. But as days stretched into weeks without a public appearance, the rumors darkened. In taverns across the capital, common folk spoke in hushed tones of assassination, of poison, of the prince's body lying cold and unburied while the queen covered up his death to prevent panic.

And then, more insidious gossip began to circulate—tales of the young princess taking advantage of her husband's absence to entertain herself with palace servants. The stories grew more elaborate with each telling, painting Rey as a wanton widow before Ben was even properly mourned.

Leia slammed her fist against the council table when Lord Ackbar delicately broached the subject during a meeting.

"I will not dignify such nonsense with a response," she snapped, her eyes flashing dangerously. "The prince is well, and the princess is devoted to him. Now, unless you have information about Exegol's troop movements, I suggest you hold your tongue."

After the meeting, she remained alone in the council chamber, massaging her temples against the building headache. People and their loose tongues would be the death of her before any enemy's sword.

A knock at the door interrupted her dark thoughts.

"Enter," she called, straightening her posture.

Lord Lando Calrissian swept into the room with his usual flourish, his blue cape billowing behind him.

"Your Majesty," he said with a bow and a smile that had charmed half the kingdom in his youth. "I bring news from the eastern sea."

Leia's expression softened slightly. "Lando. Tell me something good for once."

"As it happens, I can," he replied, taking the seat across from her. "Our ships intercepted an Exegol fleet attempting to cross into Cloudnous waters. We caught them by surprise—they weren't expecting resistance so far from the mainland."

"And?" Leia leaned forward, hope flickering in her eyes.

"We captured three of their warships intact and sank two others. The rest retreated." Pride colored his voice. "Your husband led the charge, naturally. Flew right into their formation with that rickety old vessel of his."

"Han," Leia sighed, equal parts exasperation and fondness. "Is he unharmed?"

Lando chuckled. "That old scoundrel? He's fine. Got a scratch on his cheek that he's already telling everyone was from an Exegol sword he deflected with his bare hands." His expression grew more serious. "He was magnificent, Leia. We couldn't have succeeded without him."

For the first time in weeks, a genuine smile crossed Leia's face. "I'm glad to hear it. We needed some good news."

"We did take losses," Lando admitted soberly. "Two ships sunk, about forty men."

Leia nodded gravely. "We'll honor their sacrifice. Their families will be cared for."

She glanced toward the window, where the Duke of Naboo could be seen crossing the courtyard below, his rigid posture conveying his displeasure even from a distance.

"I notice our kind Duke seems particularly dour these days," Lando observed, following her gaze.

Leia's mouth twisted. "The Duke has many opinions on how we should handle the current situation with Exegol. None of which I've solicited."

"Still, his armies are substantial," Lando pointed out. "Naboo's support is not insignificant."

"I'm well aware," Leia replied dryly. "It's the only reason I tolerate his presence at court." She turned back to Lando. "Now, tell me more about these captured ships. What intelligence have we gathered from the crew?"

As they delved into military strategy, Leia pushed thoughts of the Duke and the circulating rumors from her mind. Let people gossip—she had a kingdom to protect and a son to shield while he recovered. Everything else was just noise.

Later that evening, Rey sat beside Ben's bed, reading to him from a volume of ancient poetry. His strength was returning daily; he could now sit up without assistance and walk short distances around the chamber.

"The healers say you might be able to venture outside soon," Rey told him, marking their place in the book. "Just to the garden, mind you. No further."

Ben reached for her hand, his thumb tracing patterns on her palm. "I've been cooped up too long. I need fresh air."

"And you shall have it," Rey promised. "Though we'll need to be careful. Your mother has been keeping your condition secret from most of the court."

"I know," Ben said, his expression darkening slightly. "Mitaka told me there are rumors of my death circulating in the city."

Rey bit her lip. "There are other rumors as well."

Ben's eyes sharpened. "What kind of rumors?"

"Foolish ones," Rey said quickly. "About me... taking advantage of your absence to... entertain myself with servants."

Ben's grip on her hand tightened. "Who is spreading such lies?"

"It doesn't matter," Rey lowered her gaze.

Ben sighed heavily, his expression softening as he studied her downcast face. "I had a feeling this would happen." He reached out, gently lifting Rey's chin with his fingers until their eyes met. "Do not fret. It shall pass with time. Until then, don't give them more ammunition for their little stories."

Rey nodded solemnly, drawing strength from the quiet confidence in his gaze.

"The court always needs something to gossip about," Ben continued, his voice low and soothing. "Next week it will be a another Lord’s latest conquest. They're like children with a new toy—they'll play with it until something shinier comes along."

"But what if it doesn't pass?" Rey whispered, her fears bubbling to the surface. "What if they always see me as—"

"They'll see you as I see you," Ben interrupted firmly. "As my wife and their future queen. When I'm well enough to appear in public again, we'll face them together."

A knock at the door interrupted them. Queen Leia entered, looking more relaxed than Rey had seen her in days.

"Good news from the eastern front," she announced. "Lord Calrissian's fleet, with your father's assistance, has dealt Exegol a significant blow at sea."

Ben straightened, his eyes lighting with interest. "They engaged the enemy? What happened?"

As Leia recounted the naval victory, Rey watched the color return to Ben's cheeks, his mind clearly racing with strategic possibilities. This was the man she had married—not just her gentle companion, but a prince born to lead, to fight for his kingdom.

"Father is unharmed?" Ben asked.

"According to Lando, he's quite pleased with himself," Leia replied, a hint of warmth in her voice. "Apparently he's been regaling everyone with tales of his heroism."

Ben smiled at that, a genuine smile that reached his eyes. "Sounds like Father."

"Indeed," Leia agreed. She hesitated, then added, "There's something else you should know. The Duke has been... difficult since your injury. He questions my decisions at every turn, undermines my authority with the other lords."

"He oversteps," Ben said darkly.

"Yes, well, I can handle him," Leia assured them. "But be prepared when you make your first public appearance. He'll try to use your recovery to his advantage somehow."

"Let him try," Ben said, his voice hardening. "I've had enough of the Duke's manipulations."

Rey squeezed his hand, silently communicating her support.

Mitaka knocked and entered the strategic chambers. He carried a sealed scroll, which he delivered directly to Leia with a bow.

"For your eyes only, Your Majesty," he said quietly.

Leia broke the seal and unrolled the parchment. As she read, her expression transformed from curiosity to shock, and finally settled into a scowl so fierce that several lords shifted uncomfortably in their seats.

"Everyone is dismissed until further notice," she commanded, her voice like steel.

The council members exchanged puzzled glances but obeyed without question, filing out of the chamber in silence. When the last of them had gone, Leia rose from her seat, the scroll clutched in her white-knuckled grip, and strode from the room with purpose.

Minutes later, she arrived at Ben's chambers and swung the door open with such force that it slammed against the wall. Inside, Ben was sitting propped up against pillows while Rey carefully spooned hot soup into his mouth.

"Bennet Organa," Leia thundered, her voice echoing off the stone walls, "oh do you have some mighty explaining to do!"

Ben nearly choked on his soup, his eyes widening at his mother's unexpected entrance. Rey froze, spoon suspended in midair.

"Mother?" Ben managed, wiping his mouth with a napkin. "What's happened?"

Leia marched forward and thrust the scroll at him.

Ben took the scroll from his mother's hand, unfurling it with careful fingers. His eyes tracked back and forth across the parchment, absorbing each line methodically. Rey watched as his expression shifted from confusion to disbelief and finally settled into something unexpected—amusement. The corner of his mouth twitched upward.

"Really now, Mother? Don't tell me you fell for this?" He handed the scroll back with a smirk.

Leia's face remained thunderous. "Rey, would you kindly step outside while I speak with my son privately?"

Ben rolled his eyes dramatically. "That's hardly necessary—"

"Yes, Your Highness," Rey said quickly, setting down the soup bowl and rising from her seat. She recognized the dangerous edge in the Queen's voice and knew better than to argue.

Rey closed the door behind her, standing uncertainly in the corridor. Her curiosity burned fiercely. What could possibly be in that scroll to provoke such a reaction? She glanced around to ensure she was alone, then pressed her ear against the heavy oak door.

The thick wood muffled their voices, transforming the conversation into a frustrating jumble of sounds. She caught fragments only—"traitor" and "stabbing" drifted through, and then, most alarmingly, the word "child." Rey's heart stuttered in her chest.

A child? Her mind raced with terrible possibilities. Had Ben fathered a child with someone else? Perhaps with that woman—Phasma—who had tried to kill him?

Her stomach dropped sickeningly, a cold sweat breaking across her forehead. The very thought made her feel ill. She stepped back from the door, no longer wanting to hear more.

Inside the chamber, unaware of Rey's distress, Ben was facing his mother's wrath with remarkable calm.

"I don't understand how you could be so gullible," he said, shaking his head. "This is clearly a fabrication."

"I told you, didn't I?" Leia snapped, pacing the floor. "I did not want a bastard grandchild! Do you not know how difficult it is to legitimize them? My father suffered enough as a bastard child—I will not have my grandson endure the same fate!"

Ben groaned and rubbed his temple. "For the love of god, Mother, I told you there is no way that child is mine!"

Leia scoffed loudly. "With how often you've bedded different women, I would believe you have hundreds of them by now."

Ben's jaw tightened, his voice dropping dangerously. "Mother... how old did she claim the child to be?"

"A little over one year," Leia answered, her eyes narrowing.

Ben blinked twice, then replied with exaggerated calm. "Well, that's certainly enough for me to know it isn't mine."

"And how are you so sure?" Leia demanded.

"Because, Mother," Ben rolled his eyes in exasperation, "I haven't bedded any woman for the the last fucking three years, that's how."

Leia scoffed again, but something in her expression wavered.

Ben maintained his scowl, and she returned it with equal intensity. Then slowly, her face softened into consideration. "Are you sure?"

"Oh, I am very sure," Ben grumbled. "I haven't exactly had the fucking time with me dividing my attention between my dear wife’s shenanigans for the past three years wanting to adopt every single animals she sees and Exegol’s aggression along with trying to gather intelligence. Where on earth would I find the time to bed a woman right now?"

Leia's eyes widened slightly. "Three years? so then-"

"Yes, Mother.." Ben's voice softened. "I may have been many things in my youth, but I'm no liar."

Leia sank into the chair Rey had vacated, the scroll dangling forgotten from her fingers. "Then this is definitely a ploy."

"Of course it is," Ben said, his irritation fading. "The timing is too convenient."

"Coming right after your attack..." Leia mused, her political mind engaging.

Ben's expression hardened as he gazed at the scroll in his mother's hands. "If this doesn't get handled now, people will start talking."

"Yes, they will," Leia agreed, shaking her head. "They will start to believe the child is your heir."

"This needs to stop now, before it spreads," Ben insisted, his voice low but firm. "We can't let rumors gain traction, especially not with Exegol looking for any weakness."

Leia nodded thoughtfully, folding the scroll and setting it aside. "I will allow the woman to come forth and give her audience with everyone present. Let's settle this matter once and for all." She studied her son's face carefully. "They believe you are dead. How are you feeling right now?"

Ben attempted to stretch, wincing slightly at the pull of his healing wound. "I'm alright. Much better than before."

"Good," Leia said with satisfaction. "I think it's almost time for you to make your appearance."

Ben nodded in agreement, but his brow furrowed with concern. "I don't want Rey to think that—"

"Don't worry, Ben," Leia cut him off, a knowing smile spreading across her face. "That girl is completely gone for you, you know?"

Ben stared at his mother, rubbing his lips together nervously before looking down at his lap. "I don't know why," he murmured.

Leia chuckled and patted her son's head affectionately. "You remind me too much of your father—so cocky and smug, but with a heart worth of gold."

A reluctant smile tugged at the corner of Ben's mouth. "I suppose we should tell Rey about this... situation."

"Yes," Leia agreed, rising from her seat. "She should hear it from you. Her husband"

Outside in the corridor, Rey had already retreated to the far end of the hallway, her mind in turmoil. She needed space to think, to breathe, to process the fragments she'd heard. Without conscious decision, her feet carried her to the palace gardens, where the autumn air was crisp and clean.

She found a secluded bench beneath a withering rose arbor and sank down, wrapping her arms around herself. The possibility that Ben might have a child with another woman clawed at her heart. Had their recent closeness been a lie? Had his gentleness, his kisses, been nothing but duty while his heart belonged elsewhere?

"Don't be a fool," she whispered to herself. "You don't even know what was in that scroll."

But the seed of doubt had been planted, and it took root quickly in the fertile soil of her insecurities. She remained in the garden until the sun began to set, the gathering darkness matching her mood.

When she finally returned to their chambers that evening, she found Ben asleep, his face peaceful in repose. She stood watching him for a long moment, searching his features for signs of deception and hating herself for the doubt.

Silently, she prepared for bed, slipping beneath the covers without waking him. She lay on her side, facing away from him, and stared into the darkness.

For the next three days, Ben noticed Rey's absences. Each morning he'd wake to find her side of the bed already empty, the sheets cool to the touch. The palace staff hovered around him constantly, attempting to assist with his recovery exercises.

"Your Highness, please extend your arm further," the healer instructed as she helped stretch his injured side. Ben complied with a grimace, his mind elsewhere.

"Where is the Princess this morning?" he asked, though he already knew the answer would be the same as yesterday.

The young maid adjusting his pillows curtsied. "In the gardens, Your Highness. Or perhaps the stables by now."

Another servant approached with a bowl of steaming porridge. "Allow me to help you eat, my lord."

Ben waved him away irritably. "I can feed myself, thank you." He took the spoon, ignoring the tremor in his hand that betrayed his lingering weakness. "My wife should be the one here," he muttered, "not tending to horses and flowers."

The servants exchanged knowing glances but said nothing.

On the third day Ben had endured enough. When the maid arrived with his breakfast, he was already sitting at the edge of the bed, fully dressed.

"Your Highness! You shouldn't be up without assistance!"

"What I shouldn't be is abandoned by my wife," Ben replied tersely. "Bring me a walking stick."

"But sir, the healer said—"

"A cane," he repeated, his tone brooking no argument. "And then leave me be."

Minutes later, leaning heavily on a polished oak cane, Ben made his slow way through the palace corridors. Servants gasped and offered help, but he waved them all away. His side burned with each step, but determination drove him forward. The autumn air hit his face as he stepped outside, cool and sharp in his lungs.

The stables were a considerable distance from his chambers. By the time he reached them, sweat beaded on his brow despite the chill. He paused at the entrance, catching his breath before pushing the door open.

The familiar scent of hay and horses greeted him. Following the sound of splashing water, he made his way down the row of stalls until he found her.

Rey stood with her back to him, sleeves rolled up past her elbows, vigorously scrubbing Whisperer's chestnut flank. The mare stood patiently, occasionally flicking her tail as water dripped down her legs.

"Giving Whisperer a needed bath, I see," Ben said, his voice echoing in the stable.

Rey spun around, soap and sponge tumbling from her hands. Her eyes widened in shock.

"Ben!" she gasped. "What are you doing out here? It's a long walk from the chambers! Did you not have any help?" She rushed toward him, hands outstretched as if to steady him.

Ben stood his ground, leaning only slightly on the cane. "Worry not, little wife. If anything, it is I who is worried. You've disappeared on me—gone in the morning and not returning until I fall asleep at night. Where have you been this whole time?"

Rey's eyes darted away from his. She turned back toward the horse, retrieving the fallen sponge. "I'm just trying to stay busy. Thought our steeds could use their weekly bath by me instead of the servants."

Ben made a skeptical sound in his throat. "I'll help as well, then."

Rey whirled back to face him. "No! You need to go back to bed and lay down. Your wound hasn't fully closed yet."

Ignoring her protest, Ben moved forward until he stood beside Whisperer. He reached up to stroke the mare's face, his fingers gentle against her velvety nose.

"Long time, my love," he murmured to the horse. "Have you missed me?"

Rey frowned, her lips forming a pout. A flash of something—surely not jealousy over a horse?—crossed her face before she schooled her features.

"You're being reckless," she said, but her voice had softened. "What if your wound reopens?"

Ben continued petting Whisperer, but his eyes were on Rey. "What if my wife continues avoiding me? Which is the greater risk, I wonder?"

Rey busied herself with wringing out the sponge, water dripping between her fingers. "I'm not avoiding you."

"Aren't you?" Ben moved closer, close enough that she could not easily step away. "Ever since that scroll arrived, you've barely spoken two words to me."

Rey stiffened. "I don't know what you mean."

"I think you do." Ben's voice was gentle but insistent. "You heard something, didn't you? Something that troubled you."

She bit her lip, still not meeting his eyes. "It's not my place to question your... past."

Understanding dawned on Ben's face. He sighed deeply. "Rey, look at me."

When she didn't, he reached out and gently turned her chin until their eyes met. "Whatever you think you heard about that scroll—about me—ask me directly. Don't hide in stables and gardens while your mind creates demons."

Rey swallowed hard. "Is it true? Do you have a child with another woman?"

The question was sharp and painful. Ben's expression softened with something like relief—at least now he knew what troubled her.

"No," he said firmly. "I do not have any children. The woman who sent that scroll is lying."

"But your mother was so angry—"

"Because it's a political ploy, nothing more." Ben's hand moved from her chin to cup her cheek. "Someone is trying to create discord, to weaken our position while I recover. The timing is too convenient to be coincidence."

Rey's eyes searched his face, looking for any sign of deception. "You're certain?"

"Completely." His thumb brushed across her cheekbone. "I haven't been with anyone since our marriage, Rey. No one."

Her eyes widened slightly. "But... you were often gone for days. I thought..."

"You thought I was visiting brothels and taverns?" Ben's mouth quirked in a sad smile. "Yes that is true ,I went there for the sake of knowledge. But I was also training with the army, meeting with spies, preparing for war. Not bedding other women."

Rey's cheeks flushed pink with embarrassment. "But I thought... with your reputation..."

"My reputation was well-earned," Ben admitted. "I am not perfect, I try my best to do what’s right. I wont lie to you and say I have not had my share of intimacy with other woman. But believe me when I say, I have not fathered any child nor did I bed a woman in a long while, a few kisses perhaps when I've drunk with the troops at the tavern, I apologize for that I am a scoundrel at times. But I do not blame you for thinking so as I do no favours to my own reputation as well. But I always put my kingdom first. I shouldn't have left you alone so often. I promise you I have no child."

Whisperer nickered softly, nudging Ben's shoulder with her nose. He laughed, wincing slightly as the movement pulled at his wound.

"See? Even Whisperer agrees."

Rey smiled reluctantly. "She's always been partial to you."

"As I am to her," Ben said, stroking the horse's neck. "But not nearly as partial as I am to you, little wife."

The tenderness in his voice made Rey's heart flutter. She stepped closer, her hand coming to rest lightly on his chest, feeling his heartbeat strong beneath her palm.

"I was afraid," she admitted quietly. "That scroll, the rumors... I thought perhaps you regretted marrying me. That you wished for someone else."

Ben's free arm slipped around her waist, drawing her against him. "The only regret I have is that I made you felt unwanted"