Chapter 6

Summer POV

I didn't sleep very much last night, if I even slept at all. I was freaked out about Kylo Ren returning in the middle of the night, hacking me to bits when I let my guard down. What a way to live.

I had no idea to tell what time it was, or even guess the point of day. My cell had no windows, and only one dim light in the ceiling, illuminating the room just enough so I could see.

I jumped to my feet when I heard the door unlock, getting ready to defend my life as necessary. After using the Force yesterday, I see my potential, and Kylo has met his match yet again.

The door suddenly opened and the Dark Knight came inside, carrying a tray of food and water. He pulled back the hood that covered his scarred face, his brown eyes meeting mine. Though not one word was said as he set the tray down onto the "bed".

I could see something was bothering him. Maybe it's because I reversed his Force yesterday, or maybe he's just not feeling well today. Everyone gets sick at some point. No one is able to resist all germs.

Kylo POV

I don't think I can do this. I thought I could, but I feel so weak again.

After I informed Snoke about Summer's reverse of the Force on me, he was outraged and ordered me to kill her before she discovers any more of her power. He didn't want another "Rey" incident to happen to us again. Because of this, he saw her as too big of a risk to be trained and didn't see I had the ability to do it. I agreed, for I couldn't be around the girl without falling head over heels for her.

I looked over at Summer, trying to not stare in awe at her gorgeous features. Her eyes were like a crystal clear lake on Naboo, and her golden hair was the sand along the beautiful beach. Her lips looked as soft as a passing cloud, and I wished I could have kissed her when I had the chance.

Ultimately she just overwhelms my emotions, and I can't help but soften in her presence.

My grandfather is probably so ashamed of me for acting like this.

Summer POV

"There is something I have been told to do," Kylo finally said, breaking the awkward silence that hung in the air since he entered. His voice sounded reluctant and nervous, which worried me. "But it can be avoided if you pledge yourself to the Dark Side and accept my apprenticeship offer. Will you join me?"

"What will you do?" I asked, wanting to know both end results before I reply.

Kylo bit his lip and looked away, not answering. It must be something really terrible if he can't even say.

"Summer...don't deny my request, please." His face showed worry and concern. "I-I can't do this."

I took a step back, fearing that my death may be near. But with what level of feelings I saw he had for me yesterday, could he really take my life? "Kylo...will you actually kill me?"

His eyes were watery as he removed the lightsaber from his belt, holding it off to the side as it extended. "I will carry out my orders unless you join me. Answer quickly or I will decide for you."

He didn't want to do this. I saw it. I felt it. But he's so brainwashed by Snoke, that he will do whatever the guy says if it meant he's one step closer to becoming Darth Vader.

Kylo came towards me and I backed up, matching every step he made until I was cornered. Stupid small cell.

"I know you don't want to do this" I said, realizing I better change his mind fast or I'm a goner. "You have feelings for me; you don't want to hurt me."

"Don't tell me lies," Kylo said, coming too close for comfort. "I know exactly how I feel towards everyone. And I feel nothing towards you."

The Darkness is trying to sway his thoughts but I will not let it.

"Kylo, no matter what you say...you actually love me. Or you would have killed me last night."

He froze, shocked, and I knew I just gained the upper hand. He still tried to deny it though. "Th-That's not true..."

"Kylo-"

"SILENCE! I DO NOT LOVE YOU AND I NEVER WILL!" Now he's just using his frustration as fuel.

He raised his lightsaber and I acted fast, grabbing the hilt to keep it from coming down. He wrestled for it back and tried to shove me off with his free arm (believe me, this guy is strong) but I managed to hold on.

"Let go!"

"Not until you admit to yourself that you do love me!"

"I HATE YOU!"

I winced, and not because of the inhuman ways he's trying to push me away, but because I just saw Anakin Skywalker on Mustafar flash in front of my eyes. So I'm Obi-Wan Kenobi. Great.

These parallels are too much for my fangirl side to handle.

"Search your feelings for the truth! There is love!" I shouted, trying to get through to him.

"LIAR!"

If his eyes were gold and red, he would definitely be Anakin. Lost. Crazed. Not wanting to accept the truth, yet knowing it was there.

Kylo firmly grasped the lightsaber, now with both hands, and forced me back to the wall. Oh this is not going as planned...

I could hold back the weapon when he had one hand, but with both I was literally fighting for my life. He is physically too strong.

I stared horrified at the lightsaber, inching closer to my neck. I could feel the heat radiating off the beam of light, anxious to scar me.

"Kylo...realize what you're doing!" I begged, pleading for mercy. "This isn't what you want! You don't want to hurt me!"

Way past the sinister glare he always had, way, way past it, I saw the small gleam of Light that showed the true man imprisoned beneath the monster that consumed him, constantly fighting to break free once again and regain control. Though Kylo kept him hidden, and would go to the ends of the galaxy to get rid of him for good.

I could see Kylo wanted to say something different than what he did. "I don't have a choice..."

"You do have a choice," I encouragingly said. "You have always had a choice. Now...do what's right."

He almost curved for me then hardened back to his Dark self. "No...no...you're trying to manipulate me again! I won't let you!"

I was so close to getting through to him too...

But there is one last possible way I could survive this. Kylo was standing directly against me, his face quite close to mine. The lightsaber was also very close, which reminded me that every second counts.

I had to remove one hand from the hilt, but if I acted quick enough, I shouldn't be decapitated. Hopefully.

With my free hand I grabbed the collar of his hood and yanked him forward, crashing our lips together. If this doesn't work, I'm all out of options.

I kissed him hard yet passionately, almost getting carried away myself. His lips are so tender and locked with mine so well...

I was snapped out of La-La-Land as the lightsaber was lightly pushed against my lower neck, burning the top layer off. I was screaming, but kept kissing him, hoping he would come to his senses before my head was rolling on the floor.

Slowly but surely, Kylo started kissing me back. He suddenly jerked back on the lightsaber, yanking it from my grip, and tossed it off to the side.

His free hands now gently cupped my face, not wanting our lips to part. He used just the right amount of force, and I couldn't help but melt into the kiss. It was just so mesmerizing...

I wrapped my arms around his neck, and dared myself to run my fingers through his silky hair. He surprisingly let me, and trust me, it's as soft as it looks.

His hands moved down the side of my body, feeling my curves, then rested on my hips.

I lightly moaned as he tugged at my lips, wanting access. I made him work a bit, knowing he would, before granting it.

He was gentle but a bit forceful, though it made me only crave him more. I like a guy that has a bit of a bad boy side to him. It's sexy.

But never would I have dreamed that kissing Kylo Ren would be this heavenly.

Time passed. I don't know how much because my brain was definitely not there. But for our first kiss, we have gone way beyond the time limit I'm sure. This was more like a passionate make-out session. Not that I minded...

I finally broke the kiss, but Kylo kept his forehead to mine, wanting more of me. Maybe he has never kissed a girl before, for he went from being a Padawan (where love is forbidden) to a Dark Knight (where it is now forbidden). I found it kind of cute.

"Don't make me stop..." His voice sounded entranced, and his eyes were watery.

"I know," I softly said, understanding his emotions.

I lightly caressed his tender face and he leaned against my hand, loving the contact. I wiped his tear with my thumb. "Calm down Kylo. It's alright."

"No, it's not alright. We shouldn't have even done that because..." He paused, looking deeply into my eyes. "I'm banned from being in a relationship."

"Well, maybe we still can." I smirked. "Snoke doesn't have to know."

"Don't you see? He wants you dead! I was supposed to kill you!"

"Yes, I know..." I was trying to forget about that. Not to mention the burn aching on my neck.

He seemed to read my mind, his eyes falling onto my singed skin. "I can probably fix that, though I've never healed a burn before."

"A bandage is fine," I insisted, not wanting to be an experiment with his Force.

Kylo nodded and he backed off me, giving me some personal space. "So...I guess-well, no- perhaps we-" He groaned, rubbing his forehead. "I don't know what to do."

I walked over to him and hesitated, wanting to comfort him but not knowing how. Will he let me touch him? He's weird that way. Should I just let him have his space? He seems so distraught though. I'll try to help.

I lightly rested my hand on his shoulder and he jumped, probably not expecting me to do that. Kylo glanced over at my hand then looked at me, not seeming to mind the contact and actually appearing to like the sympathy. He's probably never gotten it before.

"Didn't Snoke originally want me as your apprentice?" I inquired, trying to get the facts straight before I try to aid him.

He sighed and nodded.

"What changed his mind?"

Kylo almost replied then shook his head. "I can't say."

I gently rubbed his shoulder, hoping to work an answer out of him. He seemed to like it, not tensing up like he originally did. "Kylo...you can tell me anything. You know that right?"

He looked longingly at me, as if that was something he was been waiting for someone to say to him for years. And, maybe it was.

"If I tell you..." He shook his head again, choosing not to speak. "No, I just can't say."

Kylo POV

She's powerful. That's the real answer. She could become more of a threat than an ally, for if she discovers her potential, what will make her stay with the First Order? Her kind nature will certainly make her flee to the Resistance. And if she turns on us, we have no chance. Plus I'm also too weak to train her, in Snoke's eyes.

But since I've failed to kill her, I'm almost frightened to see what his reaction will be. The repercussions from him are brutal...

"Kylo?"

I came back to reality. "Yes?"

"You're still not going to kill me, right? Even though Snoke demands it?"

I saw the fear and concern in her eyes. I have never disobeyed an order from him, and I feel like a disappointment. "I...I don't know."

Summer POV

I stepped back, fearing for my life again. My only advantage is the lightsaber was still across the room. "Kylo..."

He didn't seem to have an answer. "Summer...it's really complicated from my end. I can't just hide you from Snoke, or lie to him that I did kill you when I didn't. He knows everything. And I have to answer to him for anything I do."

I took another step back, feeling hurt and betrayed. "So I don't mean anything to you then?"

After that kiss, I thought we really connected. There was a spark of emotion I felt emerge between us. He liked me previously, but the feelings grew in the kiss. That I knew for a fact. And I for one never looked at him the same way I was now. I took note of his features, and saw there was a gentle person beneath the exterior, if I could just show him what love is.

"Don't say that!" Kylo snapped, frightening me from the sudden outburst of anger. He immediately backed down after, seeing that wasn't appropriate.

He came up to me, taking my hands into his and lightly kissing them as an apology. I could hear deep sincerity in his now calm voice. "I'm not going to hurt you, alright? I'll just figure something out."

If only he said those words to his father...

I started to relax, believing him. "What are you going to do then?"

He shrugged. "I don't know. I really have no idea."

"What will happen when you tell him?"

I saw uneasiness in his face, showing he was afraid of the answer. "I guess I'll find out."

* * * * * *

Kylo stayed with me while I ate breakfast, giving me some company. I was flattered he offered to remain with me until I was done, which showed he truly did care after all.

"I have quite a bit of work ahead of me, so I do need to leave," Kylo said, standing from the the "bed", which also function as a "table", once I was finished.

"Are you...still mad at me?" I hesitantly asked.

He raised an eyebrow. "At what?"

"About trying to escape yesterday..."

"Oh. That. Well, you still shouldn't have done it."

"So I have to stay in here?" I want to get out of this cell so badly; you have no idea.

He glanced at the exit door than back at me, already knowing my intention. "You want to be free again."

I nodded, trying to look as sweet and innocent as I could, hoping he would fall for it.

I could see him debating on what to do. "Can I trust you?"

I stood from the steel ledge, anxious to leave. "I...I promise I won't try to break out again. I'll stay here with you, just like you want."

Kylo POV

What I want? All I want is to have complete control of the galaxy, with her by my side. That's what I truly desire.

But I suppose I could let her out. Though if she breaks her promise, then she is stuck in the detention cell for good. "Alright. But you're restricted to my room until you can fully gain my trust back."

She got excited then hugged me, tightly clinging to my body. She was repeatedly thanking me, but all I cared about was getting myself free again.

"Um, okay, I feel your excitement." I lightly squirmed, hoping she would get the message. I didn't like people touching me to begin with, but this is really making me feel uncomfortable. I don't like being restrained.

Finally, Summer realized what she was doing and released me, apologizing. I wasn't necessarily angry, but I just don't like my personal space invaded. At least warn me first.

* * * * * *

The door automatically opened to my room and we entered, Summer especially seeming relieved to be back. She sat on the edge of my bed, loving the cushiony feeling. I don't blame her. A cold, steel ledge is certainly nothing like a bed.

"Now, the Supreme Leader awaits my presence," I told her. "Stay in here, and I shall return when I'm done. You will stay, right?" I'm a bit leery. Can't help it.

She nodded. "I promise."

I studied her, checking for a lie. "Those are very strong words to use."

She nodded again. "I know."

I guess I have to just trust her. I don't know. I've never been in a situation like this before. All the traitors get killed here.

I put my helmet on but left the hood down. "I'll be back soon."

Summer POV

I properly laid down on his bed once he left, so happy to be on something comfortable again. From there I stared out the open windows, watching the Finalizer drift by the stars. Just can't get sick of that view.

It wasn't even ten minutes when Kylo returned. I sat forward on my elbow as he walked in. "You talked with Snoke already?"

"We are having some communication issues," he replied, taking his helmet off and whipping his hair to make it even more perfect. "Our holographic servers are temporarily down. I will have to try again later."

He slammed the helmet down on the pedestal of ashes and sat down next to me. "I think this is the first time ever that I have no work to be done. And I'm certainly not contacting Hux for more." He looked back at me. "So what do you humans on Earth do in a situation like this?"

"Are you bored?" I almost laughed.

"Because I'm a Dark Knight I can't get bored?" He wasn't say this in a mean way, I could tell by his voice.

"I don't know enough about Dark Knights to answer that question."

"Well, you seem to know enough about me." Now he's just flirting.

"I do know quite a bit about you," I said with a smirk.

"From your...premonitions and foresights?"

In other words: movies and novels. "Yes, those."

Kylo reclined on the bed, his legs hanging off the edge. His head was right beside me, so I was hovering over him. He combined his hands on his chest and gazed up at me. "You're even more beautiful from this angle."

I instantly felt my face heat up. I was too speechless to reply.

He was also at loss of words. The shock on his face was indescribable. "I can't believe I just said that."

I smiled, brushing the loose, long locks from his face. No matter what his hair still looked perfect. "Well, I thought it was sweet." I paused before continuing. "I do like kind boys with a bit of bad in them."

"I know. I still remember all of your weaknesses..." His dark eyes showed a spark of lust as he reflected on my personal thoughts. "Though there is no kindess here. I am all bad."

"I see some good in you. Even though you won't admit it and just say I'm wrong-"

"You're wrong," he interrupted with a smirk.

I giggled and sighed a dreamy sigh. "How do you manage to drive me crazy?"

Kylo leaned forward, and I first thought it was for a kiss, but he instead whipped his hair. Then he laid back down, running his hand through his locks while looking as sexy as possible, which wasn't hard. His voice was even more attractive than usual. "Because I'm perfect and you just can't resist me."

Vain, but still hot. Clearly the Solo in him. "I don't know. I'm tougher than you think. You would be working for hours if you wanted to break me."

By the look on his face, which was upside-down from where I was lying, those were exactly the words he's been wanting to hear. "Challenge accepted."

"Now wait a minute," I said before he moved. "You said back in the cell we can't be together because Snoke banned you from a relationship. We can't even sneak around him because 'he knows all'. So why go any further if we're just going to be ripped away from each other?"

I could see his mind was hard at work, figuring out the problem or at least an excuse to give me. He sighed, giving up. "Why do you have to be right..."

"If you could figure out a way to make Snoke agree to our relationship, then everything would be alright."

"Easier said than done."

His datapad started vibrating on the nightstand and Kylo raised his hand, the device flying into it. He swiped the screen and read the message he received, but I could tell he didn't like it.

"Everything okay?" I inquired.

Using his Force he put the datapad back on the nightstand, groaning after. "Our technicians have fixed the communicative issue we had and now Snoke awaits me in the hologram chamber."

"Maybe I should come," I suggested. "If I talk to Snoke, he might reconsider us."

"It's not just us, you're not even supposed to still be here! I'm never going to hear the end of it from him."

I lightly rubbed his shoulders, even though he was lying down. "Kylo, look at me."

His brown eyes slowly met with mine.

"Let me come."

I saw hesitation and I added, "What's the worst thing that could happen?"

He winced. "I have an active imagination."

"I'm serious."

"This room is highly restricted to General Hux and I. No other officer is allowed to enter, and an outsider certainly isn't." He didn't mean that in a harsh way.

"Maybe if Snoke meets me and sees how I am, he will warm up to me. Maybe he would even grow a fondness towards me."

Kylo just blinked in dismay. "Are you sure you're talking about my Supreme Leader because...he doesn't like anyone. I don't even think he likes me."

"Just let me come," I insisted.

He shook his head. "You're prohibited from the room. I'm breaking enough rules as it is-"

I kissed him, cutting him off. It was an upside-down kiss, but still just as amazing as the first.

I slowly parted, tugging on his lips as a tease. "Are you sure you don't want this?"

By the sly grin on his face, which he attempted to hide but failed, I knew I just won. "You have no idea."

* * * * * *

"I have a bad feeling about this," Kylo said, sounding exactly like his father, only metallic because of the helmet.

We were walking side by side to the hologram room, or chamber, or whatever the heck they call it here. Who cares. Just an extravagant place to make fancy Skype calls.

"Everything will be fine." I buzzed back a reply from my own voice apparatus, trying to sound encouraging. Deep down, I wasn't so sure.

"You don't know him like I do."

"I know plenty. Believe me."

"Not personally."

"Close enough."

He made me pause once we approached grand, steel doors with fancy Aurebesh writing engraved along the edges. Unlike evey other entrance on this ship, these had to be opened manually.

He looked over at me and I could picture concern on his hidden face. "Thinking through this more, I think this may be more deadly than helpful. You should wait outside."

"Kylo, I can handle it," I insisted, though no feeling fully confident myself. "It's our only option."

"Not technically..."

"Kylo."

My tone said enough. He sighed and opened the doors with the Force, letting us both enter before shutting them. I couldn't see the room very well, because of my stupid helmet, but I knew already the ceiling was far from my view.

He led me across a narrow bridge then stopped at the platform, moving aside to make room for me. Ironically, this chamber looked so identical to the one on Starkiller Base in The Force Awakens, that I had to remind myself where I was.

Within seconds of our arrival, a very large (and creepy), faded blue image appeared in front of us. I felt my stomach turn as Snoke came into clear view. So this is the jerk who corrupted Ben Solo...

No, I couldn't think like that. At least not right now. These upcoming moments were crucial to my future survival, so I needed to get along. Or act well enough to fool him.

Kylo knelt down on his right knee and motioned for me to do the same, which I did without hesitating. First impressions are everything.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSQ3BJVMfAI

Snoke was not joyful in any way at my presence. "How dare you bring the girl in here?!" he boomed down at Kylo, who wasn't taking the scolding very well. "Are you becoming ignorant to every rule I have?"

I couldn't take Kylo getting punished so brutally when it was my idea to come down here in the first place. I had to step in.

"It's not his fault! I insisted on seeing you," I interjected, not knowing afterwards if that was a good idea.

It wasn't. The thought of making Snoke bend to my wishes seemed like the impossible. "That does not count for his other misdemeanors!"

I never imagined Snoke as someone to raise his voice unless he was at the point of exploding. So...I guess I brought him to that point. Not to mention how frightening it was to have a conversation with a thirty foot tall freak.

"I also persuaded him not to kill me," I said. "None of this is his fault. I take the blame."

I couldn't see Kylo's face, or just look at him properly without fully turning my head, but he was certainly surprised by my defending of him. This, I already knew, is something he has never experienced before. Ever since he became a Dark Knight, I'm pretty sure he was on his own and had to take full responsibility for everything, whether he did wrong or not.

"He has the ability to say no," Snoke reprimanded, starting to shift his anger towards me. "There is no excuse. It just shows how much work needs to be done..."

Kylo lowered his head, looking ashamed. He doesn't deserve to be degraded like this.

I stood up, not caring about being respectful anymore. Kylo tried to pull me back down but I pushed him off. "Supreme Leader, please pardon Ren for what he's done. It is truly my fault, and I don't feel he should be treated so harshly for not committing a crime. I ask if we can move on, for I have important issues to discuss with you." I tried to talk as eloquent and proper as everyone else did up here, hoping to gain some points.

"First of all, I and only I will decided what level of punishment is right for him," Snoke lectured. "Second...I suppose I could let the subject be put aside for now, but it will be brought up again in the future. Kylo, you are not being relieved of this."

Kylo nodded, but didn't say anything. In other words, I finally have my chance to talk. And my Star Wars fanatic mind, as well as what few thoughts I saw in Kylo's head, were my only weapons. Time to blow Snoke away.

I dove right in. "Supreme Leader, I know that Kylo's order was to kill me, but if I may ask, why do you want me dead?"

If he was surprised, he didn't show it. "That is none of your concern." Well, it's my life so...

"Is it because I'm a threat to the First Order? Is my potential too risky to be trained, or do you not trust me?" Snoke's face wrinkled with shock and confusion. Kylo's head snapped in my direction. Neither expected me to figure out the truth.

"I'm not stupid," I boldy spoke, fear being replaced with courage. "I know exactly what's going on."

Snoke leaned back in his chair and put his hands together, finger to finger. "Young lady, your wits are something that cannot be fooled. Value that, for it will be an important asset in your life." He sounded impressed, which was exactly what I was aiming for. I wanted him to look at me as not just some girl, but someone that needed to be feared and respected.

"I want to bargain my life," I said. "Prove that I'm worth keeping around. "

He nodded, seeming interested. "Continue."

"My knowledge goes beyond your wildest dreams. I have seen things that many men only wish could have sight of in their lifetime. It goes from the Old Republic, and ends here with the First Order. And I will tell whatever you desire."

"If you claim to have such wisdom, then tell me something I don't know," Snoke dared. "If you can outwit me, you may live."

I thought hard for a moment, scavenging through the depths of my brain for something he doesn't have knowledge of. He has been around since before the Clones Wars, and has seen pretty much everything. So bringing up anything history-related is automatically counted out.

But an outstanding question that remains among the First Order is something I knew I could answer. Though is it worth revealing such sensitive information? Well, Star Wars VIII has to happen sometime, and maybe this will make the movie a bit more interesting.

"I know where Luke Skywalker is." Just the mentioning of hidden Jedi immediately grabbed Snoke's attention. Kylo was also extremely eager to hear, standing up to his full height despite his master still being there.

Snoke eyed me suspiciously. "Are you sure?"

I nodded. "I have no doubts I'm wrong." That is, if he hasn't moved his location since The Force Awakens. "Luke is hiding on Ahch-To."

"Ahch-To...I never gave the planet any thought. But a fool am I, for that would be a perfect hideout." Snoke waved his arm, as if commending me. "I must say, I am most impressed. But if you turn out to be wrong..." He didn't have to finish. I knew what would happen.

"I have full confidence Luke is there, Supreme Leader." I mean, what else can I say?

Snoke turned to his apprentice. "Kylo Ren. Alert General Hux of the news and decide on a precise time to strike the planet. I don't want Skywalker escaping us again..."

Oh great. I just created a BIG mess and is sending it the Luke Skywalker's way. Perfect.

"I will do it as soon as our conversation is through, Supreme Leader." Kylo seemed relieved that Snoke's mind is now occupied with other thoughts, so his slip-ups were far from view.

"Young lady," Snoke calmly said, looking down at me. "What is your name?"

"Summer," I timidly replied.

"Your knowledge would be a powerful asset to the First Order, as well as your wielding of the Force..." He blinked. And I didn't think anyone could be frightening when blinking, but he can. "Do join us. Kylo Ren can train you to use your power in the greatest ways possible, and you can serve alongside the strongest army in the galaxy."

"Supreme Leader," Kylo interrupted, sounding as if trying to hint something. "With what we have discussed in the past-"

"If we're bringing up past events, then perhaps your punishment should be back into the conversation..."

The Dark Knight instantly retreated. "My apologies for questioning you."

Snoke turned back to me. "Summer, will you join us?"

I knew for a fact the offer wasn't out of thoughtfulness, but as another way to permanently crush the Resistance. Beneath him, I would just be another puppet, like Kylo Ren. I didn't want to use my power for evil. If anything, I would want to be a Gray Jedi so I could choose my own path. But that option doesn't seem available anymore.

"If I don't accept..." I cautiously inquired.

Snoke narrowed his sunken in eyes. "I strongly suggest you do..."

I guess that makes my decision. "And Kylo will train me, right?"

"That is correct."

I looked over at Kylo right as he did, each of us having to imagining the other's expression. I fully turned, kneeling before him as Anakin did to Chancellor Palpatine, a frightening image that I had to shake from my mind. "I pledge myself to your teachings. Please show me the ways of the Dark Side of the Force."

After a quick glance towards Snoke, who gave him an approving stare, Kylo nodded. "Very well. I will take you on as my apprentice, but your true identify must be put behind you."

"Call me what you wish," I said, wondering why I keep digging myself a deeper hole to climb out of.

Kylo thought for a moment for answering. "Henceforth you will be known as Darth Shadow." The name made shivers go down my spine. "Rise."

"Good, good," Snoke sneered as I stood up. "Darth Shadow...welcome to the First Order."

* * * * * *

Kylo was surprisingly silent on the walk back to his room. He didn't even glance in my direction. If he's angry, there is no reason, for now we have an excuse to spend an immense amount of time together. And perhaps a bit of romancing could be involved...

Kylo removed his helmet and left it on the pedestal filled with dead people's remains. I took off mine as well, but left it on the nightstand like a normal human being would.

He slowly faced me. "You know, you weren't fooling anyone back there. Certainly not me anyway."

I raised an eyebrow, confused and bit offended by his behavior. "Excuse me?"

"You repeatedly denied an apprenticeship when I asked, but when the Supreme Leader does you suddenly submit?" His dark eyes revealed his temper fuse being lit. "I know you better. The only reason you accepted was because your life was on the line. You could care less about working here."

"Look, I just got us a reason to be around each other more often," I fired back defensively. "I was thinking about us."

"Summer, you're expected to rise to power beneath me! How can I do that if you won't take the training seriously?"

"I never said I wouldn't-"

"You accepted the offer because of us." Kylo hissed out the last word. "We can't be in a relationship if we're training. Love will get in the way of the true importance and reason for this. I'm the teacher, and you're the student. That is how it has to be."

"You're being ridiculous," I protested. "We have a chance to be together and you're just going to throw that away?"

"We just have to accept the fact that we can never be a couple!" His eyes were getting watery. He was more frustrated than angry, I sensed it. "It won't work. And it's too risky to let us get in the way."

Can this day get any worse? I walked up to him, holding his hands. "Kylo, listen to yourself. I know deep down you want us to be together. I can feel it. Perhaps that a sign of my Force, but what I said is true. You acknowledge that, don't you?"

His eyes were hinting I was right, his mouth wanted to admit his feelings, but his mind insisted he shouldn't. "Summer..." He slowly pulled his hands away. "It's just better this way."

I nodded, not going to fight any longer. "Fine. If that's what you want...so be it," I barely muttered without crying.

He nodded too, though I saw hesitation and regret. "Yes. It is."

I backed away from him and sat on the farthest window ledge, looking out amongst the stars. Not even the beauty of the galaxy could cheer me up. I felt heartbroken. I got myself into an unfixable mess. And worst of all, Luke Skywalker has a major problem heading his way in the future.

What have I done...

Kylo POV

Maybe I should have seized the moment for Summer and I to be in a relationship. I don't know. If we're going to be working together, we can't be dating. Things would be complicated, and maybe become impossible. I can't afford that happening. I'll just set my feelings aside, and she will have to do the same. Snoke was right: it's the only way.

"Summer, we will start training tomorrow," I called over to her across the room. I didn't feel comfortable approaching her right now. I could sense her pain and decided to leave her alone.

When she didn't answer, I gave up and left the room, knowing she will come around sooner or later. Besides, more important issues need to be handled. Such as informing General Hux about Luke Skywalker's no-longer-secret hideout.

Time to get even.

* * * * * *

"You're just going to believe what the girl told you?!" Hux exclaimed, pressing the button for the elevator. "Do you even hear yourself right now?"

"General, she has the Force. It gives her premonitions and foresights," I tried to explain to him. But describing such a thing to an idiot is like talking to a rock.

"Ren, you know I am always eager to extend the mark of the First Order, but Ahch-To?" He shook his head in disbelief. "It feels like a waste of time and energy that could be spent elsewhere. Such as the construction of our next base, needn't I remind you..."

I rolled my eyes, which thankfully Hux didn't see because I left my helmet back in my room. He tends to get obsessed with things and I never hear the end of it. "General, I understand the importance of the base, but we finally have the location of Skywalker. We should jump on this before he moves again."

"That's exactly my point, how do we know he's even there? We have no proof and is entirely trusting our judgement to some girl-"

"Who is Force-Sensitive-"

"-who could just be saving her own skin," Hux pointed out. "I know Snoke agreed to the mission, but I don't feel it is a good idea whatsoever."

The doors to the elevator open and two officers exited before we stepped inside. Hux pressed the floor number he desired and crossed his hands behind him. Well, I guess where I want to go doesn't matter... I shot him a look as I pressed my floor. The doors shut and the elevator started climbing the chute.

"What if she is right though?" I asked, still pressing the subject. "We could be missing out on the execution of a lifetime."

"Or walking into a trap," Hux indicated. "What if she has ties to the Resistance? What if there is an armada waiting for us there?"

I shot him another look, this time with disgust. "An armada? The Resistance barely have enough ships to have a navy. And they're all just starfighters."

"Ren, I just think you are trusting this girl too easily."

I did consider this though I wouldn't ever admit that to him. She did seem to be right with what knowledge she has shared with me before. And I don't want to miss out on such an opportunity. It's worth the risk in my eyes.

Seeing I was losing the argument, I decided to play the only card I had left. "You know, the Supreme Leader ordered me to schedule a time to strike the planet with you. If you want to remain this obdurate, so be it. Handle this situation with him." The doors opened to the floor I desired and I exited, now knowing I won. I left an internally panicking general in the elevator. "Have a good day Hux."

That evening I did receive word from Hux via email that he wants to meet with me in the morning about launching an attack on Ahch-To. Well, look who was right after all...

* * * * * *

Summer POV

I sighed, lying awake in bed. This was going on the second hour. My body demanded sleep but my mind said otherwise... Kylo is supposed to be the one with the bodily conflict, not me.

I rolled over, facing a peacefully sleeping Kylo. Despite there only being a dim light in the corner, I could see him pretty clearly. Somehow this is the creature that the galaxy fears, praying for the day his death will come. To me, right now, he looks absolutely adorable and innocent. But when he wakes up I know it will be a completely different scenario.

I smiled as I pushed a loose curl off his face, staring dreamily at him. The sheet was resting just below his shoulder, reminding me just how muscular he is. So handsome...so perfect...so lost in himself.

I really have never looked at Kylo Ren like this before. He is viewed as evil to so many people, but I can see past that exterior. He is a man who desires to love but prohibits himself from feelings, since he views that as a weakness. What a terrible way to live.

I sat forward in bed and yawned, wondering how I'm going to put my active mind to rest. Training starts tomorrow, whether I want it or not, and I need to get some sleep.

"Summer?"

I jumped out of my skin, grasping my chest to make sure my heart was still beating. "Kylo, you scared me half to death."

His sleepy eyes studied me. "Why are you awake?" Even his groggy voice was hot. Is there anything not perfect about this guy?

"I just...have a lot on my mind," I answered. Really not a lie.

He rolled over and stretched, the sheet slipping down to his stomach. The true definition of sexy was a shirtless Kylo Ren flexing his muscles right in front of you. No lie.

I tried hard not to stare at his gorgeous structure as he spoke. "You shouldn't be up. Tomorrow is an important day and you need to be fully rested for it."

"Well, it's not like I want to be up," I said, sighing and lying back down. "My mind won't let me sleep."

He bit his lip, looking hesitant. "I...I can help with that."

I raised an eyebrow. "How?"

"Just get comfortable and let me handle the rest."

I eyed him, leery. "Not until you say what you're going to do to me."

"Summer, you...just have to trust me. I've done this many times before."

Trust him? Should I? We have come this far, but he is still Kylo Ren. The man who killed his father. The man who murdered his uncle's Padawans. The man who betrayed his closest friends and family and made them his enemy. That's who I worry about. But that's also who I'm in love with somehow...

I snuggled beneath the covers, getting as comfortable as a restless person could be. Kylo moved closer, and I held my breath, not knowing what's coming. He gently laid his hand on my forehead and I suddenly felt a wave of relaxation roll through my body. This was just like the first night I stayed here: he used his Force to put me to sleep. His ability to play with another's mind was both astounding and frightening.

I closed my eyes, letting myself drift off into a deep slumber. But the last thing I saw was something I never thought I would ever see....

A smile. Kylo's grin showed care and compassion, and revealed that Ben Solo is still in there, just waiting to come back out one day.

Well, maybe I'll be the lucky person to do it.

> > > > > > > >

Well, how did everyone enjoy Chapter 6? I know it's not as long as my usual chapters, but between the twists and dramas, I think it's pretty good, no? :)

And I'll start writing on Chapter 7 over the weekend when I get some free time!

If you liked this story, please share it on social media (if you don't mind). I'm trying to get the book out there so everyone has a chance to read it! And of course thank you for the continuous support! I know I probably sound cheesy when I write this, but I feel it must be said :)

Also I love seeing your comments on the chapter! Not just the compliments, but also the comments on certain parts of the book along the way such as what Hunt - Tress likes to do...I love that, please don't stop. ♡

Pics of the chapter: Kylo Ren. I like this art because we always see him raise the lightsaber, but it's pointed down in the picture. Which I don't know about you, makes it really creepy and awesome. Like a "Welcome to the Dark Side" kind of aura.