Chapter 4

Summer POV

As soon as I opened my eyes the following morning, Kylo was urging me to get up. Well, that's not me. Just because he was up at the crack of dawn doesn't mean I need to be.

"Your new clothes arrived earlier and I want you to try them on before I have the droids make more for you," Kylo explained as he buckled his belt and slipped his gloves on.

He was just finishing getting dressed himself, like I was so far behind him. He wasn't even wearing his helmet yet.

"Why does it have to be right now..." I whined, giving my back to him. "I have all day to play dress up."

I was suddenly shoved off the bed onto the floor by a "gust of wind". Was this really necessary?

"Can you please stop Force-Pushing me?" I scolded as I stood back up.

"When you learn to be up at the correct time," Kylo fired back at me. "Now meet me in the bathroom. Your clothes are in there."

Why would he leave my new clothes in a room full of rubble?

I deeply sighed, annoyed, and reluctantly made my way into the bathroom. Kylo was holding up a dark garment bag when I walked in.

But what drew my attention was how everything was back to normal. The vanity was replaced as well as the medicine cabinet, and a new, larger mirror was also hanging on the freshly repainted walls.

I can't believe they managed to remodel this entire room in less than a day. Though with Kylo Ren, the construction crew were probably trained to work efficiently on such a short notice...

"Now the outfit may seem a bit complex but it's actually quite simple to figure out," Kylo said, unzipping the garment bag.

My eyes widened as I stared at the costume. It was black and had long sleeves with pants, as well as armor accessories. Leather gloves, high-rising boots, a belt with pouches for storage, and even undergarments were also included. Kylo wasn't kidding when he wanted the droids to use his suit as a base design.

I looked up at him, hoping this was a joke. "Is this what I really have to wear?"

His eyes narrowed. "What's wrong with it?"

"Nothing," I lied, not wanting to deal with his temper first thing in the morning. "It just looks so similar to your outfit-"

"So?"

"Which is not a bad thing," I said, trying to cover my mistake. "I just thought it would be a bit different, because then only you have that distinctive design."

Kylo hung the costume on the towel rack. "It's not identical. Your outfit will not have the flowing sashes like mine, or a hood, and it's layered differently."

But going from a t-shirt and shorts to this is not what I had in mind.

"This is all I have to offer, so I suggest you take it. You must comply with our dress code," he said, as if I needed to hear him repeat that again.

Kylo scooted past me and paused outside the door. "And if you need help getting it on, just holler."

I shot him a look. "Don't even go there. I know how to dress myself."

He shrugged, though a smirk was tugging at his lips. "Very well. But you can also call if you desire me for any other reasons..."

The bathroom door shut itself before I could go back at him. What a jerk.

I took off my old clothes and folded them nicely on the counter. I may have a whole new wardrobe coming my way, but I'm still not letting these go.

I noticed two toothbrushes were lying on the counter today. Both were black, but one had a white "S" striped on the handle. I guess this one is mine.

I also saw there were two towel racks. Again, both towels were black, but the one farther (of course) from the shower had white stitching bordering it. Since it matched the toothbrush, this must be mine as well.

As I hopped in the shower, something else I noticed was another shelf was added in the corner below the first, holding a second bar of soap. The only way I could tell them apart (since both were practically identical) was one bar had been used previously, looking a bit thinner and had dried bubbles on it. As if that reason wasn't enough, I'm using the new one whether it's meant to be mine or not...

There was still only one set of shampoo and conditioner, so I guess Kylo is sharing his. Hopefully. I don't see an alternative so this will have to work.

Once I finished and dried off with my towel, as well as quickly fixed my hair, I tried on the undergarments that came with the costume. Much to my surprise, though in a way not because of how many different measurements the droid took, both the bra and panties fit perfectly.

I then stood in front of my costume, wondering how the heck I'm going to put this complicated thing on. I am not asking Kylo, so hopefully I can figure this out on my own.

I studied it for a few minutes, deciding if the top or bottom goes on first. Recalling how people dress up here, the top is almost always tucked in. Shirt it is.

As I worked it off the hanger, I noticed the top came in three pieces.

The base was a sleeveless shirt with a collar that would zip up and hug your neck like a jacket.

The second layer had long sleeves and looked like a basic, slimming winter shirt.

The final layer was armor with a First Order logo in the center. It wasn't metal but plastic like a Stormtrooper. It would fit like a sleeveless crop-top if even, for it would hold me similar to a bra in the front, yet still extend up to my neck. It also remained just as short in the back.

What a stupid design. I'm completely open for attack, though hopefully something like that would never happen. 

I put the top on one layer at a time, having really no problem until the armor. It was a little more complicated, for it was unable to be disassembled and I had to try to force it on like a shirt.

I eventually got it on, and looked at the progress I made in the mirror. Altogether, it was very slimming, hugging my body tightly. The armor was a bit uncomfortable, and I felt restrained in it. I wonder if Kylo would let me wear the costume without the armor. It's not like I'm heading out in a a battlefield anytime soon.

I pulled the pants off the hanger and started working them on, the material similar to leggings but thicker. I could already tell these were going to be even harder to get on than skinny jeans. Thankfully there was no armor.

After a few minutes of struggling, I managed to get one leg through, then began on the other. I hope these droids know what they're doing back there. This seems quite tight already. The top was the same way.

Finally, I got both legs properly through and pulled the pants up to my waistline, making sure my shirt was tucked in. It hugged me tighter than the skinniest jeans I have ever worn, but man did I look good. Black really slimmed me.

Surprisingly, I was still quite mobile in these, able to bend and stretch at my will. It was also lightweight and breathable, despite my original assumption of the thickness. Whatever fabric this is, it would be flying off the shelves on Earth.

I put the boots on next. They had thicker padding on the length, which probably was in replacement of having armor. The boots formed my calves, making me look even better.

I then slipped on the gloves, loving that this was actually simple. Finally.

I finished with the belt, buckling it together but letting it remain loose on my waistline, so it could hang. I liked that style.

I noticed a magnetic clip was on the right side of the belt, my nerd side instantly recognizing it's purpose: to hold a lightsaber. But why would Kylo Ren give my belt this feature?

I shrugged it off, checking myself out in the mirror since I was fully dressed. I looked like the Seventh Sister with how it fit and the design, but other than that I looked flipping hot. Though this was also just ludicrous that I had to wear such an extravagant outfit. I bet Kylo was doing this purposely.

I walked up to the bathroom door to exit and it opened (for once). I crossed the room to where Kylo was standing, as well as staring out one of the windows.

He turned around when I got closer, his eyes instantly widening at sight of me. I swear I heard a small gasp but I could be wrong.

I froze in my tracks, not wanting what happened yesterday to repeat itself.

Kylo POV

She literally took my breath away. It's like I was being constricted and couldn't breathe.

Her curves were so pronounced and it shaped her so well. She was absolutely stunning. Just the way she looked in that outfit made my heart race. I couldn't control the sudden wave of anxiety that consumed me.

What is this power she possesses to make my body react in this way?

"Please stop staring, it's making me feel uncomfortable," Summer said, partially breaking me out of the trance I was in.

I walked up to her and she took a step back. "You look just ravishing..." My eyes scanned her gorgeous physique, lust filling my thoughts.

Summer backed up further. "Control yourself, Kylo."

I matched every step she took until she was cornered. "That is something I have never been able to achieve..."

With little concentration, I held her body against the wall with the Force. I leaned in closer, loving the fruity smell coming off her hair. "I could just devour you..."

"Please just stop," Summer begged, but I knew she was faking it. I saw so clearly the other night what weakens her, and everything she desires-

I heard my holopad vibrate on the nightsand, grabbing my attention. Of all times for it to bother me...

I released Summer and marched across the room, furious with whoever was contacting me. I picked up the holopad and pressed a button, and small projection of General Hux appearing before me. Of course it's him.

"Sir, I request your assistance at the main bridge," Hux said, his image occasionally pixeling.

"What for?"

Hux seemed taken aback by my question. "Does it matter the reason? I wouldn't contact you if I absolutely didn't need you."

That I know already. He would go to the ends of the galaxy before asking for my help.

"Is there a problem?"

"No Sir, I am just far too busy with Snoke's orders to carry out my usual duties as well. I would appreciate if you could assist me with them so I can focus on my main task."

"Why can't you ask someone else?"

"Because I know you have nothing on your schedule today." He raised his datapad in front of him, swiping the screen a few times. "I am looking at it as we speak. Not one thing. Lucky." He muttered the last part, obviously not wanting me to hear.

"You're such a great general though," I lied, wanting to avoid extra work. "Surely you can handle it."

Hux's eyes narrowed at me. "I know sarcasm when I hear it, and I must say I am not amused."

I groaned. "Fine. I'll be there when I can."

"You better not 'forget' and leave me hanging for hours on end."

"Don't worry, I won't." Again, another lie.

Hux was fuming, seeing right through me. "Ren, I swear-"

I ended the conversation and the hologram instantly vanished before my eyes. I wish I could do that with the real Hux. Life would be so much better for me...

"As you probably overheard, I need to leave momentarily," I said, turning back to Summer. "I'll have an officer bring you some breakfast, since I now have quite a bit of work ahead of me..." Which, unbeknownst to Hux, I will find a way to get out of.

"Before I go, there is one last piece of your outfit missing." I lifted a box by the door off the floor and set it on my bed. I opened it and lifted out a sleek, black helmet.

Summer POV

I seriously have to wear this too?!

"Kylo, I don't know about this," I awkwardly said, not wanting to wear anything more than I already am.

"Here. Try it on," Kylo suggested, completely ignoring me.

I sighed and took the helmet from him. It also was similar to the Seventh Sister's design, coming to a point at the back of the head. A small, reflective First Order logo was above the lens on the forehead.

Kylo pressed the side of the helmet, the lower hinge shifting upwards onto it. "Now put it on," he said.

I slipped the helmet on, automatically hating it. I felt so squished. Plus my viewing was limited. I had no peripheral view; I could only see forward, and not very well. The lens were also tinted, like polarized sunglasses.

Kylo pressed the button on the helmet again, the jaw piece moving back into place. Filtered air instantly filled the helmet, circulating through. This was way too weird.

"How is it?" Kylo asked, looking way too excited about my new look.

"Honestly its-" I cut myself off, shocked by the sound of my voice. It sounded electronic and more sinister, like Kylo's, but a female version.

"What would a Dark Side helmet be without a wicked voice apparatus?" He smirked. "You sound hot."

I rolled my eyes, glad he couldn't see me.

"Well, I need to run before Hux bothers me again," Kylo said, pulling his hood up. "I'll be back soon."

I waited until he exited, then ran my hand along the side of the helmet, looking for the button. I want to get this thing off ASAP.

I finally found it and pressed it, eagerly pulling the helmet off. I sighed relief, glad to have my head free again. I hated it. When I get a chance, I'm talking to Kylo about getting rid of this.

I sat down on the bed and set the helmet down next to me, wondering how my life has come to this. What have I done to make myself deserve this.

All of a sudden, an odd, cool breeze swept through the room, making me shiver. It didn't feel normal, it was like...unnatural.

I froze as I heard a familiar and iconic sound. Breathing. Deep, heavy breathing. It sounded like...but it couldn't possibly be...

Kylo's closet door suddenly opened, and I jumped to my feet, immediately going on the defense. The breathing became louder, sounding as if it was coming out of the closet. What the heck is going on?!

I slowly inched towards the closet, cautiously peaking inside. All I could see were racks of Kylo's suits as well as multiple pairs of boots. Why he has so many of the same thing, I have no idea.

I stepped inside the closet, wondering where the breathing came from. There's just clothes, clothes, and more clothes. Maybe Kylo had some kind of sound replicator, who knows. Nothing surprises me anymore.

I was about to leave when I noticed the back wall of the closet was made of durasteel like the entry door. Could it be...

I lightly touched the "wall" and jumped back as it opened, a cold wind suddenly blowing in my face. The breathing was as loud as it could be, and I was officially as freaked out as I could get.

I reopened my eyes (I'm scared, don't judge me), and saw a long, dark corridor ahead of me with a dim light at the end. Kylo has a secret passageway in his closet. This is totally normal...not.

I felt a pull to enter the corridor, like a magnet to metal. It was like...calling to me.

Gathering my courage, I slowly started down the passageway, regretting every step I took. I have a bad feeling about this...

As I approached the end of the corridor, it became colder, and the breathing was so loud it sounded as if it was in my ear. I almost turned back, but decided to press on anyway.

I held my breath as I entered a small, circular room with dim lights along the ceiling. The center of the room had an elevated platform with only a few steps to get to it. A chair was on one side of the platform, and on the opposite was a pedestal with...something on it. I couldn't make out what it was from where I was standing.

This room looks strangely familiar. Where have I seen it before...

I noticed the breathing also stopped once I came in here. But something wasn't right. It was almost as if I felt another presence in the room...though I was alone. Things are really getting way too weird for me.

Though I still felt myself being drawn further into the room. What is causing this?

I reluctantly obeyed the calling, walking up onto the platform. The attraction abruptly left after I ascended the stairs, but something else replaced it as I stared horrified at what was lying on the pedestal...

Kylo POV

I smirked as I walked back to my room, loving how manipulative I am. I just got out of the extra chores and found some suckers to do it for me, with Hux none the wiser. He will never know, and I'll still take credit for everything.

I entered my room and pushed my hood back, raising an eyebrow. Where the heck was Summer?

My Force found her to be in my closet, which doesn't make sense. Why would she be in my there? Unless...

I went over and felt my blood pressure spike as I stared at the open passageway to my private room. How dare she go in there. She is going to pay dearly for intruding...

Summer POV

Darth Vader's helmet. Burnt and melted, but still somehow holding its shape. I covered my mouth so I didn't scream. This piece of metal was actually worn by the Sith Lord himself. I swore, I couldn't help it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7HF4JG1pOg

Now I know why this room was so familiar: this is where Kylo "talks" to Vader's helmet. I swore again, becoming quickly overwhelmed with everything.

Feeling faint, I grabbed onto the chair, not daring to sit in it. There is no discussion in want to have with that helmet.

"I doubt I'm allowed to be in here," I muttered to myself, not wanting to know what Kylo will do if he discovers I've been in this room. I need to leave NOW.

As I descended the steps, the breathing started up again, and I nearly fell off them because of it. I looked back at the creepy helmet, not knowing where else it could be coming from, and the room went silent again.

Well, I know for a fact that helmets aren't supposed to breathe...that thing better not be coming alive on me. I don't know if it's possible, but I don't want to stick around and find out.

I turned away only to hear another breath. When I faced the helmet again, it went silent. What the flipping heck...

I went back up the stairs and stood in front of Vader's helmet, trying to remain calm. This...thing is calling to me for whatever reason. I even admit it sounds crazy, but I can feel it drawing me towards it. But why?

I stared at the helmet, feeling myself getting slightly entranced by it. It pulled me closer, and I couldn't disobey. I just felt like...

I had to touch it.

I hesitantly reached out, and right as my fingers caressed the brim...

My mind started whirling. Hundreds of images flashing constantly before my eyes, showing all of Darth Vader's life, from when Anakin first put on his helmet, to the day he redeemed himself. Then everything suddenly slowed as I watched Luke cremate his father's body, the helmet all that remained. When Kylo discovered the helmet and took it for himself, I was able to break free of whatever just consumed me.

I stumbled back into the chair, terrified but what just happened. Tears stained my cheeks, and I trembled as I comprehended everything. The helmet called to me, it wanted to show me the life of its master...but for what reason? Why did it do this?

"SUMMER!"

I jumped up from the chair, nearly falling over from my shaky legs. Kylo Ren stood by the room's exit, looking madder than an angered bull. Oh great, just what I need on top of everything.

"This room is strictly off limits," he snarled, his voice deeply growling. We're already past the "pre-warning" tone, we're at the "I'm-going-to-kill-you-and-enjoy-every-moment-of-it" tone.

"I didn't even know this was here!" I exclaimed, trying to protect myself but failing miserably.

"And you weren't supposed too!"

"Look, I really am sorry-"

His eyes went darker. "You will be."

Kylo grabbed the lightsaber hilt off his helt, holding it out to the side as it extended. He twirled it a few times, showing skill and no hesitation in what he's about to do.

"Don't do this, please," I begged, backing away as he came towards me.

He suddenly rushed upon me but I managed to dodge the blow, the lightsaber instead slashing the wall.

Knowing that was only luck, I took off as fast as my legs could carry me out of the room. I just kept running, not taking the time to look back. Knowing how swift and agile his Force made him, he was probably right on my heels. I could just feel him.

I darted through his closet and across the room, heading for the door. Just a little bit further...

I was suddenly yanked off my feet, falling to the ground onto my stomach. I was then flipped over and saw Kylo standing back by the closet, one hand forked, using the Force to hold me, the other holding his still-extended lightsaber.

He pulled his hand back and I was dragged across the room, right towards him. Death is literally as close as it could be.

Kylo raised his lightsaber as I approached, and I started thinking fast. It's a do-or-die situation, so risks can be taken without too much worry.

I managed to kick him in his knee once I was close enough, and thankfully before he struck me. He clearly didn't expect that, momentarily losing his balance and releasing me from his Force.

I quickly stood up, jumping back as his lightsaber nearly severed me in half. I am only to be lucky so many times before we make contact.

Kylo twirled his lightsaber again then repeated the same move, clearly wanting to see me in two pieces. I tried to dodge again but I wasn't fast enough...

I collapsed to the ground and lied there in a fetal position, tightly holding my chest. He managed to slice me right below my armor plate yet above my stomach. My body was still in one piece but hopefully the incision wasn't too deep.

Shaking, and of course crying from the pain, I glanced at my hands and saw them covered in blood, even on top of the black, leather gloves.

"Y-You are truly a m-monster..." I choked out, it hurting to merely breathe.

Kylo held his lightsaber above me, not fazed at all by my injury. "You brought this upon yourself."

"Scolding m-me...would h-have been f-fine..."

"We all handle things in our own way."

I tried to move but screamed instead, the pain being too intense. This was it for me. I'm basically just lying here waiting for him to stab me in the back. Literally.

Kylo POV

I could feel her emotions clearly, and I tried to not let it bother me. Pain. Betrayal. Sorrow. Fear. I struggled to shrug it off but they remained clear and distinctive to me.

I have the ability to end Summer at any given moment. I could. I should. But I strangely didn't. I just watched her lie there in pain, wondering why I suddenly felt restrained from going any further. This has never happened before. I have never had any problem killing anyone, including my own father. But now...

Maybe it's because I value her on my team. Once I bring the Force out of her, she will become so powerful beneath me, that even Luke Skywalker would cower in fear. I could always use another ally, and with her potential, we could become an unstoppable team.

With great reluctance, I decided to let her live for now, but I'm still angry that sge sneaked into my private room. I'm not one to get over things easily.

What I had to do next I know is against my training and nature, but I felt as if it must be done. I should take her to the infirmary, but this is too good of an opportunity to show her exactly what power she has within her.

I retracted my lightsaber and attached the hilt to my belt, kneeling down behind her. Summer tried to look back at me, but only screamed out in pain, being unable to move.

I gingerly helped her roll over onto her back, trying to look at the gash in her torso, but she only covered it up. "Just end m-me already...don't t-torture m-me anymore..."

"I'm trying to help you," I insisted. Did those words seriously come out of my mouth?

"You w-were just t-trying...to k-kill me!"

"Well, I can leave you here to bleed out on the floor."

She looked me over. "Why w-would you w-want to h-help me?"

"You're making me strongly reconsider what I'm doing," I warned, every passing second becoming another regret.

Summer finally laid her arms at her side, her body still trembling. "Please...just m-make the p-pain go away. That's all I-I ask."

I pretended I didn't hear her, not wanting to show too much sympathy.

I slowly lifted her shirt up and she surprisingly let me, not even arguing. I rested it on her armor so I could clearly view her wound. It was deep enough for stitches, but won't be fatal. Hopefully.

Summer POV

"H-How bad is it?" A question burning my mind. I couldn't raise my head to see for myself because the pain was too intense.

It was a moment before Kylo answered, which worried me. "Not as bad as it looks." That sounded like a lie.

"It h-hurts s-so much..." Enough to make my voice crack like a broken record player.

"I know," he softly replied. Almost sounding guilty, but I know him better than that.

Kylo's brown eyes met with mine. He looked hesitant and timid, but covered it up well when he spoke. "I know what I must do, but I don't know if I have the strength to do it. Will you help me?"

I nearly fainted, remembering those were the last words he said to Han Solo before he impaled him. If that's a sign my turn is coming next...

I tried to keep my composure. "Um, I s-suppose I c-could."

He studied me before continuing. "I can fix you."

I did not see that coming. "Really?"

He lightly nodded. "With the Force, I can heal you. But I need your help."

Oh thank goodness I'm not going to die after all. Well, at least not yet...

"Wh-What do I do?"

"Take my hand."

Another tear escaped from my eye as I raised my left arm, the pain getting worse since I moved.

Kylo intertwined his right hand with mine, his eyes remaining locked on me. "You have to do what I say. Do you trust me?"

This was not the time to ask me a question like that, especially after what he just did to me.

"Summer, you're only going to get worse the longer you hesitate."

I finally nodded, giving in. "Yes."

Kylo seemed to collect himself before continuing. "Shut your eyes."

"What are y-you going to do to m-me?"

"You said you trusted me."

I sighed, wincing at how much it hurt to do that, but obeyed.

"Push yourself past the pain, and clear your mind. Focus on the power flowing from my hand to yours, and any warmth that you feel within," he instructed.

I raised an eyebrow, my eyes still closed. "What?"

"If you don't do this, I can't help you."

I know what he's doing. "You know I-I don't h-have the Force, r-right?" How many times must I reiterate this to him?

"Summer." The way Kylo said my name showed he was getting annoyed my reluctance. Can he really blame me?

I sighed again, hating myself for causing extra pain, and tried to do what he asked. It's not going to work, but I'll do it anyway.

Kylo POV

I sent some of my power into her, searching for a spark. It was there. I sensed it. "Do you feel this?"

When she didn't reply, I pushed some more in. "Answer me."

After a few moments, she finally said exactly what I wanted to hear.

"Yes."

Summer POV

I was in shock, which was why I didn't respond to Kylo immediately. I could feel his Force traveling from his hand to mine, then further exploring my body. It was like...a warmth or the most comforting feeling imaginable. I have only experienced his power negatively, so this was definitely a surprise.

"Embrace the warmth," Kylo urged, his voice nearly in a whisper, for whatever reason. Probably to keep me calm. "Let it flow within you to your chest."

I didn't resist any power he sent in me, letting his Force work its magic. The pain was slowly leaving and the wound began feeling tighter, as if being miraculously mended together.

After a few minutes passed, his Force gradually left my body, but he still held my hand. I surprisingly didn't mind. "Sit forward."

I opened my eyes and slowly sat upright, not feeling any pain whatsoever. I looked down below my armor and saw the incision had been healed, only a faint scar left behind.

I looked up at him after pulling my shirt back down, grateful tears in my eyes. "Thank you."

Kylo barely nodded, appearing uncomfortable. "Let's just keep this incident between us. I would prefer if this would never be spoken of again."

I studied him for a moment, wondering why his attitude abruptly changed. "Um, no problem, I won't."

His thumb gently rubbed the back of my hand, and even though two pairs of gloves separated our skin from touching, it gave me goosebumps. "Summer, there has been something I've been wanting to tell you since we met."

"Go on," I urged. My heart started beating faster, though I'm not sure for what reason.

"The Force is strong within you," he said, staring deeply into my eyes. "I used my Force to help spark it, and our powers together is what healed you."

My mouth moved but nothing came out, being too shocked by this. He has been pressing this issue a lot on me lately, but I'm slowly starting to believe him.

"I'm not lying."

"I-I know," I softly replied, my voice beginning to crack again from nerves. "But how is this possible? There are no Force Sensitive people in my family."

"Perhaps you are the start of the next generation of them," Kylo suggested, not really having an answer. "I don't know for sure. But what I do know is your power needs to be used, instead of just sitting dormant inside you."

"So that means..."

He paused before continuing. "Let me take you on as my apprentice and train you. I can show you the ways of the Force, and help you wield it in the greatest ways possible. Everyone will fear you, us."

"Whoa, hold up," I said, getting overwhelmed. "You're throwing way too many things at me at once."

"Summer, I am leaving this decision to you. We can be allies or..." Kylo pulled his hand away, looking more serious. "Enemies."

I knew he wasn't kidding either. If I don't join him, he will probably kill me. Literally.

"I'll think about it," I said, hoping that I could have some time to process everything before being forced to make a decision. I just found out I have some mystical power and he's already wanting to recruit me.

"Very well. You have until tomorrow evening." His eyes scanned me over. "And I do suggest you think long and hard about your answer before you present it to me..."

I timidly nodded, knowing this is a life or death situation, and my answer will decide how much longer I live.

Neither of us spoke after that, for some reason. We just sat there on the floor, a very awkward silence filling the air between us.

Finally Kylo broke it. "How did you discover that room?"

"You wouldn't believe me if I told you," I honestly replied.

"Try me."

I sighed, knowing he probably won't buy this. "I was sitting on your bed waiting for the officer to bring me breakfast, which he still hasn't yet..." I looked back at the empty nightstands, wishing a tray if food was lying on one of them.

"I'll deal with him later," he said, probably mentally planning some cruel punishment for whoever was supposed to be here. "Continue."

"Anyway, I heard a noise and it drew me to your closet."

He raised an eyebrow. "What noise?"

I paused before I answered, wondering how he will take it. "Breathing."

Kylo suddenly looked very interested and concerned. "What do you mean by 'breathing'?"

"Well, Darth Vader had a life support system because-"

"I know the story," he snapped, rudely interrupting me. "So you're saying you heard Darth Vader breathing again?"

"Not the Darth Vader himself, but, as crazy as it may sound...his helmet seemed to be doing it."

Kylo studied me, his eyes searching me for longed answers about his idol. "You heard the breathing of my grandfather."

I didn't need a reminder that the man in front of me was related to the greatest Sith Lord there ever was. "Yes. And the helmet like...called me to it."

"You were being called to it?!" I never thought he could actually get excited.

"Yeah, I guess," I replied, a little creeped out by his mood change.

"Well, what did it feel like? Did Vader talk to you? Did he tell you about the Dark Side? How did you-"

"Kylo, please," I said, getting overwhelmed by his questions. "Look, I followed the 'calling', if you will, approached the helmet, touched it-"

His eyes instantly flared up again. "You what?!"

How can someone have such dramatic attitude swings so close together?

"Barely touched it," I clarified so I didn't have to deal with another slice in me. "It showed things-"

"The Dark Side?"

"Can you please stop interrupting?" I requested, getting annoyed.

He bit his lip and looked away, probably holding back what he really wanted to say. "Continue."

"It gave me a vision of everything the helmet has seen, from the day Vader first put it on to the day he redeemed himself-"

"Like a fool," Kylo interrupted again, not being able to control himself. "His life was perfect, but he succumbed to the love for his son and let the Empire fall. And I vow to not make that same mistake."

Wow. Just wow. I mean just...WOW.

All I could do was stare at him, dumbfounded that he thinks that is how and why the story actually played out. His mind has been so brainwashed from Snoke he doesn't even know the truth.

I didn't dare correct him, knowing it would just be a pointless, never-ending argument of who's right and wrong.

"Anyway...that's what happened," I said, trying to forget what he just said.

"The helmet calling to you obviously is a sign..." I didn't like the way he let his voice trail off after. It's like he knew more than I did, but wasn't going to tell me a single thing.

Kylo looked away again, now seeming a bit hurt and probably jealous. "He never did that to me, his own grandson. What am I doing wrong?"

I remained quiet, letting him have his moment.

Kylo finally snapped back into reality. "In other words, Vader is trying to reach you, so you need to answer."

"Look, I saw the vision," I said, trying not to panic over the fact that Darth Vader wants me. "Isn't that enough? Can you make him leave me alone?"

"I have no control over him," Kylo said, sounding as if this was just common knowledge. "But I can help you fulfill his plea in other ways."

I waited for him to continue, motioning for him to do so when he didn't.

"Vader obviously wants you on the Dark Side, so he is urging you to join me. I strongly suggest you add that into the equation before making your decision tomorrow."

Or you're just saying he wants me to make me accept your offer. "I'm not anything like Darth Vader."

"You can be when you become my apprentice," Kylo replied, smirking. I don't like his assumption that I will answer "yes", despite that is the only way to survive. "And in time, you will be."

I have a bad feeling about this.

* * * * * * *

I took an easy the rest of the day, my torso still a bit sore if I moved just right. Kylo let me stay in his bed, and brought me food and water whenever I needed it. He was probably doing this to bribe my decision, but little does he know it won't work on me.

The day passed quickly and soon it was night. Kylo and I both fell alseep easily and peacefully, ready for a good night's sleep. Unfortunately in a few hours time, that was about to change for Kylo...

Kylo POV

I bolted upright in bed, trying to separate dream from reality. I was panting and sweating, the nightmare, as I should refer to it, taking its toll on me.

It was of my family, long ago when I was a little kid. Good memories, if you want to call them that, when neither was arguing and I was center of attention.

But every time I reminisced on something good, a tragic moment followed. Such as when my father stood before me, begging me to return home with him...and then I just killed him.

I thought it would destroy the Light within me, so I wouldn't be so conflicted. Instead I have been dealing with passing feelings of pain and guilt as well as ongoing nightmares such as the one I just had. Snoke said this would go away soon enough, but they keep coming back...

I just want them to end.

I felt a tear escape my eye, the haunting memory of pushing Han Solo off the bridge flashing before me. I could still feel him caressing my cheek, my face tingling as another tear ran down it.

I shouldn't cry over this. It shouldn't affect me like this. Instead it just showed me how I'm failing as a Dark Knight, and especially failing my grandfather. He is probably so disappointed in me right now.

"Kylo?"

I heard concern in her voice, so I tried to make myself sound as normal as possible. "I just need some time to myself. Go back to sleep."

I got out of bed and slipped a black, silk robe on, keeping my back to Summer. I don't want her to see me crying. I'm embarrassed enough by this. I need professional help, and I know exactly who to go to.

* * * * *

I entered the "hologram room", hoping that Snoke would answer at this time of night. He should know I'm truly desperate for his help if I'm calling at this hour.

"Please appear..." I begged to the open space above me. My eyes were filling up again and I'm going to have another emotional breakdown in a minute.

Finally, and thankfully, the hologram appeared.

"Kylo Ren," Snoke said, seeing the state I'm in. "It is concerning that you have contacted me at such an hour."

"I need your guidance," I pleaded, my voice breaking up because I was on the verge of crying again. "The nightmares of my father are still happening. It's pulling me towards the Light. I am incapable of handling this..."

I collapsed onto my hands and knees, tears pouring out. I just couldn't hold it back any longer. I feel like I'm going to emotionally explode.

"I see the seriousness of your situation," Snoke said, sounding close enough to compassionate. "Pull yourself together, and rise."

I wiped my tears and stood up, feeling ashamed to act like this in front of him.

"Further explain your problem."

"I healed the girl," I admitted, but feeling worse instead of better. "I wounded her for discovering my shrine, and then I healed her."

Telling him about Vader calling to Summer, plus the discovery of her Force, was for another time. I am not mentally able to answer all the questions he will ask me.

Snoke surprisingly didn't scold me, as if he expected me to do such a thing. "You now see yourself weakening, don't you Kylo Ren?"

I nodded shamefully. "The girl is doing this to me." I looked up at him, hoping he could see how desperate I was. "Supreme Leader, please help me. Show me how to handle these moments of temptation towards the Light, and to get rid of the nightmares that haunt me to no end. I need your wisdom and power."

Snoke stared down at me for a few moments before he replied. "Very well. I have some training that will assist you, emotionally and mentally. It will make your hold in the Dark Side stronger, and you will become more resilient towards the Light."

"Please, I'll do anything," I said, not caring how strenuous or difficult the training might be.

If Snoke's scarred and sunken face would have allowed him, he would be smirking right now. "Excellent. I expect your arrival first thing tomorrow morning..."

> > > > > > > >

Hi my awesome readers! Hope you enjoyed Chapter 5, I had a blast writing it :)

What is Summer's strange call to Vader's helmet, and what does this mean for her in the future? Should she join Kylo, or try to escape while he is away with Snoke? Let me know what you think should happen next in comments! :D

BTW the winner to the guessing game is Bonnie_Silver who guessed her answer over DM. (the correct answer was B, Kylo wounds Summer). I'll do another guessing game once I get started on Chapter 6!

Thank you for all the support so far! I'm happy to see you're enjoying the book!

Please share if you liked it (just credit me pls) and comments are always welcome! :)

(Also check out that sick Kylo Ren artwork I found, wicked huh? It's going on my top faves list. I actually did a drawing of him myself and I'm going to post it on Instagram soon. I'll let you know when I do in case you're curious about viewing it; I also plan on doing one of Captain Phasma in the future)