Episode VIII Rise of the Dark Jedi

It's Been a Long Time

Finn sat on his lower bunk opposite a green-skinned, amphibious Nautolan. They were engaged in a serious game of Moebius chess, and Finn furrowed his brow deep in thought. It was a common game among the Resistance fighters, as it was easy to pack with the tiny holographic board, unlike the holotable used for the game Dejarik. Although gambling was frowned upon, that did not prevent it from occurring. Even Grand Admiral Ackbar was rumored to gamble at chess from time to time.

The black eyes of the Nautolan studied Finn's move, obviously distressed by his options. He moved a small piece across the board and huffed in disapproval. His transceiver beeped. Balk looked at it and turned it off, not appearing to be anything important.

Finn, confident and celebrating internally, quickly made his move--the last move.

"Well, that's it," the Nautolan resigned. He pulled out a few credits and laid them on the game board.

"You almost had me, Balk," Finn complimented. "Try guarding your commander next time."

"Next time," Balk huffed, "We'll see. I've got to get ready for the briefing. What do you expect it'll be?"

"Same thing as always, Balk: new orders," Finn said. "Beyond that, haven't a clue."

With that, they gave each other a friendly salute, and Balk left. Finn began putting the game away.

"New orders? I've heard about that . . . Captain Finn." A female voice said playfully from outside the sleeping quarters.

He turned and looked up to see Rey in his doorway. His face brightened, and he dropped the game. It fell apart on the floor; the fragmented pieces bouncing and scattering under the bunks did not concern Finn. 

"Rey! What . . . When did you get here?"

He stepped instantly up and hugged her. She closed her eyes as she returned the long hug.

"Just a few hours ago. I heard you were here, so I came first thing to find you."

"Well, come in, come in," Finn clamored to pick up the game and fix the bunks. More pieces ricocheted deep under the bunk as his boot swiped them. "Sorry, it's a mess."

She sat down where Balk had been, and Finn returned to his seat.

"So, a captain, now," Rey commented smiling.

"Yeah, it isn't that special," Finn commented awkwardly looking away from her gaze. "But how about you? Are you a Jedi now?"

"Well, it doesn't quite work that way, I don't think." It was her turn to look down from him.

Catching her discomfort he was sure to say, "Whatever we are now, I'm glad you're here."

The corners of her lips rose in an almost imperceptible smile, and her eyes returned to his.

"I've missed you." He said but stopped, surprised at what he said.

"I know exactly what you mean." Rey returned. "It would have been nice to have you on Ahch-To with me."

"Really?" Finn said.

"Well, Luke isn't exactly great company. He's a hermit after all."

Finn chuckled, "And a former stormtrooper can be such an improvement."

"Actually, yeah," she returned with a laugh of her own. "As I recall, you are a big deal."

Finn looked at her sheepishly and replied, "Yeah well, maybe not as big of a deal as I had thought."