In the Church

It was a rainy Saturday morning, when Cloud looked out of the window and opened the curtains.

"Don't worry, Cloud. The rain will end before ten o'clock. At least that's what the forecast told", said Aerith, straightening her bodice.

"Yes. I mean, no. Ah, it's not the rain I'm worried about, Aerith..." Cloud said, turning to his friend. He was already wearing his shirt and trousers. Aerith was preparing his white jacket.

"I know, Cloud. But you do love him, don't you?"

"Of course I do!"

"Then there's nothing to worry about. They think whatever they want anyway. You know I do."

"I know you hate him."

"You can say that again!" Aerith said firmly, "But I only wish that you're happy."

"Well, in my part, I am."

"Good. Now, let's get you ready."

In the church Cloud was pacing back and forth in the small chamber, nervous as what. Aerith slipped through the door.

"Okay, Cloud he's here. He went straight to the altar, I don't think anyone paid him much attention... yet", she added ominously.

Cloud nodded. "Where's Tifa and Marlene?"

"They're coming, don't worry."

"How many times have you told me not to worry today?" Cloud smiled.

"I don't know, I lost count at forty", laughed Aerith.

Both of them burst out laughing and at that moment Tifa burst in the room, fuming. At her wake came Marlene, all exited and already carrying her flower basket.

"What-is-that-man-doing-here?" Tifa shouted, completely outraged.

Cloud swallowed and turned to look at her. "Tifa. Don't shout. I'm nervous enough as it is."

"Yes, sorry, Cloud, but- but..."

"Did you happen to notice where he's standing?" Aerith cut in.

Tifa shook her head: "Somewhere near the altar. I don't know -"

"Is he your boyfriend, Cloud?" Marlene asked brightly.

Cloud kneeled in front of the girl. "Yes. And soon he's going to be my husband."

Tifa stopped short and looked incredulously at her friend. "Cloud? What?"

"My reaction exactly", said Aerith, "I couldn't believe my ears, when he first told me that Sephiroth had proposed."

"You knew?"

"Yes, but Cloud didn't dare to tell anyone else."

There came a polite knock at the door and the church usher peeked in: "I'm sorry to interrupt, but it's time to start."

"...If anyone has something to prevent these two to be tied in holy matrimony, let them speak now or forever hold their peace."

Cloud held his breath and glanced over his shoulder. Cid looked like jumping up in any moment, but Yuffie did a good job holding him down, as Aerith had promised. Vincent was a wild card, so Cloud tried to catch his eye. The man was just staring blankly ahead, as though the information about Cloud marrying their worst enemy hadn't sunken in quite yet.

After what felt like hours, the priest continued the sermon. Cloud turned back and sighed.

"Something wrong?" Sephiroth whispered.

Cloud shook his head.

"No second thoughts?"

"I tell you later."

"I declare you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

Sephiroth smiled: "Well, finally!" Gently tipped Cloud's head and very thoroughly kissed his new wife.

Cloud could see his friends shake their heads in disbelief, but right now it really didn't matter. He closed his eyes and enjoyed the moment.