Closest thing to a Smile

We had one more day. Tomorrow, we confronted Sephiroth, and tomorrow, Meteor would fall.

Even if we defeated Sephiroth, Meteor would still reach us. All we could do wasn't good enough. We continued anyways, but with that in mind.

One more day, only a few more hours.

It was already late, and the peaceful sky above Nibelheim confused me. How could it be so perfect when destruction was so close? Just like that night years ago.

And just like that special night, Cloud sat beside me again. I leaned against him, and he leaned back, just slightly. My hand slipped under his, and he allowed me to lace my fingers with his. I even felt his hand tighten, gripping mine.

Was he afraid, I wondered. Is that why he let me so close?

We had talked earlier, but eventually run out of words to say. We reassured each other in silence.

I kept my eyes open, staring sightlessly ahead. All my senses were focused on the man behind me. I felt each time he shifted his weight like a jolt. His hair brushed against the top of my head. His powerful heartbeat against my back. Together, we were warm. Warm and alive.

I wanted to feel this again. I wanted him so badly.

But we were all going to die tomorrow, weren't we?

I was tired, but as soon as I fell asleep, this would be over. I had to stay awake, just a bit longer.

The weight against my back suddenly increased, and the grip in my hand slackened. I turned my head, and saw his profile nodding forward. His harsh features were slack and relaxed, and his mouth was slightly parted.

He was tiered too.

I closed my eyes and smiled, taking his hand in mine again.

I would let him sleep.