A/N: This chapter was fun to write. There's only one lemon in it (remember to go to AO3 and search for me if you'd like to read it) but there was a lot of fun scenes between the five guys that I enjoyed writing. Hope you guys like it!
Chapter Two
The next day, Sephiroth knocked on the door to Zack's apartment before letting himself in. Really, he only knocked as a formality. He paid for the apartment and even if he didn't, his lovers belonged to him and it was his right to walk in whenever he felt like it.
Cloud was halfway to the door when he saw Sephiroth entered and stopped in surprise. The silver haired man looked the boy up and down, taking in his small frame –even smaller than Zack's— and bright blue eyes. Now that the boy was healthy again, he was physically attractive. His eyes were large and his lips a beautiful cheery red. He was about half a head shorter than the Sephiroth and Sephiroth found he liked that. He preferred his lover to be smaller than him. If this boy was to be considered to join their group, at least he was physically desirable.
"Oh, hi," Cloud greeted. "I wasn't expecting anyone today."
"Zack still wants us to check on you," Sephiroth lied easily. The silver haired man was here on his own to scope this boy out for his lovers.
Cloud rolled his eyes. "I thought after we talked last night he'd stop that. Thank you for coming down here but I'm doing fine."
"I can see," Sephiroth said and turned to lock the door behind him. "You are much healthier than when you first arrived."
The two sat in the living room and Sephiroth barely managed to restrain from smirking as Cloud sat in the same spot they had just had sex the night before.
"Yeah, thank you for helping me. Zack said you work in the medical field. Are you a doctor?"
"I was going to be, but decided halfway through my schooling to become a lawyer instead. Now I specialize in suing doctors."
"Oh, I hadn't realized. Is that what the others do too?"
"We are all lawyers but we have different specialties." Sephiroth gracefully rose from his chair and sat himself next to Cloud, amused when Cloud blushed and looked uncomfortable. "Genesis informed me last night that he... mentioned our relationship to you."
"Oh... yeah, Zack explained that," Cloud mumbled.
Well that was interesting. Sephiroth had been referring to Genesis saying only he and the redhead were together, he didn't know Zack had already spilled the beans on the whole affair. Sephiroth felt a bit disappointed in that; he had wanted to see the blonde squirm at the announcement.
"Well now that the proverbial cat is out of the bag, may I be so bold as to ask what you think?"
Cloud shrugged, still not looking at the man. "It's not my place to judge. So long as Zack and all of you are happy, then it's not my business."
"You care deeply for Zachary."
Cloud laughed and finally looked at him, his blue eyes shining. "He let's you call him that? When we were kids he would beat up anyone who dared to call him by his full name. He even yelled at his mom for doing it."
"I do not use it very often but it is always amusing when I do." Sephiroth reached out and touched Cloud's cheek gently, which made the blonde jerk away in surprise. "You are very beautiful, Cloud."
"Uh..."
"Tell me, what are your thoughts on our relationship? We tell so very few people I'm always interested in hearing them."
"Well I guess..."
"Does it... interest you?"
Cloud leaned away as Sephiroth leaned forward. "What do you mean?"
"Surely," Sephiroth purred, resting his hand on Cloud's. "You have thought about it. What it would be like to have so many lovers?"
Cloud tried to pull his hand away, his cheeks turning red. "Well yeah, I wondered how it worked of course. Zack explained it a little."
"And you have no questions?" Sephiroth asked, rubbing his thumb on the back of Cloud's hand. "You can ask, if you'd like. I won't be offended."
Cloud was very uncomfortable now. Sephiroth could see how tense his body was. But the blonde didn't run, whether because he was curious or didn't want to be rude, Sephiroth was unsure. Either way he was pleased. He was still worn out from last night and didn't feel like chasing the blonde around.
"I guess my only question is... how did... I mean... how do you pick someone to join?"
Sephiroth raised an eyebrow. "Oh? Do you wish to apply, Cloud?"
The blonde turned a pretty red and stuttered over his words. "No, it's not that! I-I was just curious!"
Sephiroth scooted closer, his side now pressed against Cloud, who was squished into the arm rest.
"It is different for all of us," Sephiroth linked their fingers as he spoke. "For Genesis, you must prove you are strong and willingly to defend himself and those he loves. Angeal looks at your soul. He wants someone who is a good, caring person. Zack wants a friend, someone he can smile and be happy with."
Cloud was staring at him with wide eyes and Sephiroth smirked. He stopped talking, amused with how the boy seemed to be in awe of him.
"And—and you?" Cloud finally asked.
Sephiroth smirked. "Obedience."
Cloud gulped. "What?"
"My lovers should be beautiful and obey me. But that's not to say I want some mindless doll. They still need to be their own person."
"That doesn't make sense," Cloud whispered. "You want them to be contradicting things."
"I'm a contradicting man."
"You sound kinda shallow to me."
Sephiroth nearly smiled at the words. Zack had said the same thing to him once, long ago when they first asked him to join the relationship. He took it back a few months later, after he'd gotten to know Sephiroth on a deeper level. It amused the man that this blonde talked back. That was what he was looking for. Cloud fit the criteria for himself and his lovers' and now there was just one last thing Sephiroth needed to know before giving his blessing to proceed.
"An interesting observation," Sephiroth chuckled. "You will have to tell me later if you still believe it's true."
Without warning, Sephiroth leaned forward and pinned the blonde under him. Cloud made a noise that sounded suspiciously like a squeak and squirmed for a moment. Sephiroth grasped his chin and titled his face upwards.
"Are you going to let me kiss you? Or will you fight back... Cloud?"
"You—you can't kiss someone with—without asking!"
Sephiroth smiled like a Cheshire-cat. "Only the first time, of course. May I?"
Sephiroth placed his lips so close to Cloud's their breath was hot on each other's faces. Cloud slowly nodded and Sephiroth immediately captured his lips in an intense kiss. He could feel Cloud tense underneath him and pressed his body against the blonde's. Slowly, Cloud relaxed and, hesitatingly, kissed back. As soon as he did, Sephiroth broke the kiss and stood in one fluid movement.
"That is all I needed. I shall see you later tonight, Cloud."
And with that, Sephiroth left the apartment, silently laughing to himself at Cloud's shocked face. Yes, the blonde would be a good match for their group. He was beautiful and kind, he had a strong, stubborn streak, and he laughed freely, just like Zack. And, most importantly, there was chemistry when they kissed. If his lovers wanted to bring the blonde into the group, Sephiroth would support the decision.
The next day was Angeal's day off. Cloud was starting to get antsy, being cooped up inside all day, everyday. He was used to living out in the country and being outside all the time. It was also strange not having chores. When his mother was alive, Cloud was constantly cleaning or cooking or caring for the few chickens they raised. Here, Angeal did all the housework and would not hear a word about Cloud helping out.
So that was why Cloud was currently sitting on the dryer while Angeal loaded clothes into the washer. There was more laundry than usual, as Cloud had been wearing Zack's clothes since arriving. He was currently sitting shirtless (they were out of clean shirts) in a pair of sweatpants that were long enough to cover his feet.
Angeal glanced at Cloud who was tapping his heals on the dryer to a tune in his head. "I was thinking we could send for some of your belongings, so you did not have to wear Zack's clothes all the time. They don't fit well."
Angeal had been noticing how cute Cloud was in the oversized clothes but also realized it was probably very annoying for the blonde.
Cloud shrugged. "I don't have anything," he admitted. "The bank took my mom's house when she died to cover the medical bills."
"Surely you were allowed to take something."
"I lost everything on the trip here," Cloud admitted, his feet stilling and looking down sadly. "I've been thinking, now that I'm healed, that I should start looking for work. I was a delivery worker in Nibelheim so maybe I can do that here. This city is big, right?"
"Midgar is the largest city on the continent. Finding a job sounds like a good idea. What about schooling?"
"What about it?"
Angeal shut the washer. "Do you plan on going to college? You're twenty-one, right?"
"Twenty, actually," Cloud answered. "I'm a year younger than Zack. And I'd have to finish high school before thinking about college." He jumped down from the dryer and looked up, confused at Angeal's shocked face.
"You didn't finish high school?"
"Very few people in Nibelheim do. My mom got sick when I was fifteen and I dropped out a little while after that to get a job and help her. Is school important in the city? It wasn't really that popular in the mountains."
"Being educated is important because knowledge helps society as a whole to move forward. The greatest assist a person can have is their mind."
Cloud laughed. "Really? I would have thought it was a sword."
The two walked into the dining room and Cloud grabbed some clothes and helped to fold them. He found a shirt of Zack's and slipped it on, snuggling it for a moment to soak up the warmth from the dryer.
"Well for the time being I could buy you some clothes."
Cloud stopped. "No, you've done more than enough for me already! I'll get a job and start earning my keep."
"How are you going to get a job looking like that? Those oversized clothes make you look smaller than you already are."
Cloud pouted, looking down at himself. He had to admit Angeal was right. He looked downright puny in Zack's clothes.
"I will buy you a couple outfits and then you can buy more after you find a job," Angeal decided.
"I'll pay you back," Cloud promised.
"I am a lawyer, Cloud. I am hardly pressed for cash."
Cloud shrugged, embarrassed. He looked determined and promised that as soon as he found a job he would find a way to pay Angeal back. He would find a way to bay all of them back. Even if Genesis was crazy, Zack was overprotective, and Sephiroth just plain terrifying, Cloud would find someway to thank them for taking care of him when he needed it.
Angeal smiled at the blonde's determined face. "You're a good person, Cloud. You have a good, honorable heart."
Cloud suddenly blushed as Sephiroth's words from yesterday echoed in his mind. He had said Angeal wanted someone with a good soul. But that thought was just insane. Sure, Sephiroth and Genesis had kissed him but those two were... well Cloud wasn't sure what they were. Angeal was much more down to Earth than the other two. Cloud felt safe around the other man.
"Okay! Then let's go shopping for clothes!" Cloud made a face at the thought of the unpleasant task but shook it off. It was necessary, after all. "We should also get a map of the city. I'm going to need to know this place pretty good if I want to get a delivery job." Cloud turned a bright smile on Angeal. "I know I probably sound like a broken record, but thank you for everything, Angeal. I mean it. I know I disrupted your life by showing up out of the blue, and you've been so kind to take me in without question. I'm so glad Zack found someone like you."
Angeal was touched by the honest words and felt his heart ache. No wonder Zack was captivated by this boy, even after years of not having contact with him. Cloud was a pure soul with a fierce spirit. A feeling of strong attraction shot through Angeal and the man stepped forward, placing a hand on Cloud's cheek.
"Believe me, Cloud, it has been my pleasure."
He leaned forward and kissed the blonde gently on the lips. Cloud was surprised for a moment but eventually kissed back shyly. He found he was enjoying the surprises kisses he kept getting.
When Angeal pulled away, Cloud smiled. "Okay, you're the third person to do that."
"Third?"
"Genesis and Sephiroth..."
Angeal hmm-ed thoughtfully. "Well, consider each kiss an invitation. You need four to be let in." Angeal chuckled at Cloud's doubtful look. "Talk to Zack. And Cloud, please know, no matter what happens between all of us, you are welcome here for as long as you want."
"Thanks..."
The two went back to folding clothes in silence.
That night, Zack and Cloud were left on their own as Angeal insisted he and the other two give the friends sometime to themselves. The older three men went upstairs, leaving Zack and Cloud on alone for the night. They were both sitting on the floor playing a video game and shoving snacks into their mouth in between levels.
"You know, I really like Angeal," Cloud said eventually, jamming the shoot button.
"Yeah, he's pretty –fuck!— great! Got ya, you alien scum!"
Cloud laughed as Zack yelled at the game. "No, I mean, I like him. I think... I think I have a bit of a crush on your boyfriend."
Zack paused the game and turned to Cloud. "Really?" he asked, sounding amused. He smiled cheekily. "Just that one?"
Cloud shrugged. "I really don't know what to make of the other two."
"I didn't either, at first. Took me a long time to really get to know them. Angeal though... he's just so easy to connect with."
"So are you," Cloud pointed out. "You've always been Mr. Popular since we were kids. People just flock to you." Cloud laughed lightly. "Thinking about it, it's actually not a surprise that you of all people would end up in a relationship like this."
"Whatever, you seem awfully interested in my—"
"I kissed you once when you were sleeping and never told you!"
Zack stopped talking and stared at Cloud in shock as the blonde blurted out one of his most precious secrets. Cloud continued, his cheeks burning red.
"Remember how you spent a week at my place after we found out you were moving to Gongaga? It was the last night and I couldn't sleep. I was just so sad that you were leaving and, I don't know, I just kissed you."
Zack blinked. "Why didn't you tell me?"
"I don't know, we were just kids and I didn't know what it meant. I was just sad."
Zack shook his head and tossed his controller down. "Damn Cloud, we just missed out on everything!"
"What?"
"Cloud, I was in love with you when we were kids. I mean, we spent everyday together and I thought about you all the time."
"Really?"
"Of course!" Zack laughed. He playfully grabbed Cloud's shirt and pulled him forward. "I have always loved you."
They smiled at each other before pressing their lips together. Cloud wrapped his arms around his friend's shoulders and Zack pulled him closer. He licked his lips and Cloud opened his mouth to allow him access. He wasn't shy like with the other three. This was Zack after all. If Cloud was comfortable kissing anyone at the moment it was definitely him. Their tongues danced together and Zack moved Cloud onto his lap, letting his hands roam under the blonde's shirt. Cloud wrapped his fingers into Zack's hair and massaged his scalp gently.
Zack smiled but pulled away from Cloud regretfully. "I'm sorry," he whispered. "But I do have to ask the others first. The relationship only works if we're honest about this sort of thing."
"Oh, they already took care of that for you."
"What?"
"Angeal said I needed four kisses to get in and you're the fourth."
Zack looked shocked. "Who was the first?"
"Genesis. Then Sephiroth and Angeal."
"Gen? Bastard! Now I'm really pissed at him!"
Cloud smiled. "I'm not. I'm kinda um, glad, he started it."
Zack smiled at the blonde, his best friend since childhood. "Yeah, guess I can't be too angry."
He leaned forward and captured Cloud's lips again, licking them. Cloud chuckled and traveled his hands down Zack's chest, letting them slide under the man's shit. Zack worked out often so his muscles were well defined. Cloud's fingers traced them and Zack made a sound of approval in his throat. Without warning he removed Cloud's shirt with ease and the blonde shivered as the cool air hit him.
Zack attached his lips to Cloud's neck and the blonde let his head hang back, enjoying the sensation. At that moment the front door opened and both boys jumped as Angeal, Genesis, and Sephiroth came in. The three stopped and stared for a moment before Genesis smirked.
"Well now, this is an enticing site, if I do say so myself."
Cloud grabbed his shirt and quickly put it on while getting off Zack. Zack, who wasn't the least bit embarrassed at being caught, pouted at his lovers. "So I hear you all went after my best friend behind my back?"
"Don't act as if you're upset," Genesis dismissed. He kicked the door shut before stalking gracefully over to Cloud, who was bright red and unsure of what to do with himself. "Well little choc—ah, sorry, you don't like that. I'll think of something better later. It seems you got your fourth invitation." He grabbed Cloud's wrist and jerked him forward.
"Um, yeah, I..." Cloud smiled weakly. "Sorry, I'm not sure what to say next."
"That's wonderful because I didn't plan on talking."
Genesis kissed him deeply and Cloud was torn. He wanted to kiss back, he did, but he couldn't ignore the fact that three other men were watching him. Genesis smirked against his lips.
"You'll have to get over that shyness pretty quick," the redhead teased.
"That's easier said than done!"
The others laughed as Cloud blushed brightly.
A month later, Cloud wearily opened the door to his apartment. The wonderful smell of dinner met his nose and the blonde smiled. All his boyfriends had nine to five jobs but as a delivery worker, Cloud's schedule varied. Today he'd gotten off at seven and was grateful that the others had waited to have dinner. He tossed his coat down and pulled off his boots before wandering into the dining room.
"Hey!"
"Hey welcome home!" Zack bounced from his seat to greet Cloud with a loving kiss. "Perfect timing, Angeal just finished lasagna!"
"Sounds great!" Cloud leaned over and kissed Genesis hello before sitting next to Sephiroth and leaning forward for a quick peck as well. Angeal entered the room and carefully set the glass dish full of food on the table. He leaned over and kissed Cloud in greeting.
"How was work?"
"Fun!" Cloud grinned. "We got to go to the slums today. I've never been down there."
Sephiroth frowned in disapproval. "The slums are dangerous."
"That's what all the guys at work were saying. We just went straight to Walmarket and dropped our stuff off then went straight back to the warehouse. Things are pretty terrible down there."
"That's why they're called the slums," Genesis pointed out.
"How was your guys' day?"
At the question, Zack pouted at Sephiroth while Angeal and Genesis smiled lightly.
"Despite Zack's attempts at distraction, I managed to get much work done."
"Jerk," Zack muttered quietly.
"I had three meetings to get to. I did not have time to play."
Zack just continued to pout. Genesis leaned over kissed him, giggling. Cloud watched with a smile on his face. He was still trying to wrap his mind over the fact that he had four boyfriends. Even now, a month later, it was still surreal. But Zack had been right. The relationship worked so long as everyone was honest with each other.
"Speaking of playing with each other," Genesis spoke and Cloud mentally groaned. Genesis, he discovered, was the most perverse of the group. He was constantly making innuendos or just out right saying something filthy. The redhead stared right at Cloud when his spoke, a smirk dancing across his lips. "It's a been a month and none of us have... played with Cloud."
Cloud fought a blush as now everyone was looking at him. Zack was grinning perversely too while Angeal and Sephiroth were more reserved. Cloud was aware that the two oldest men in the group were just as randy as the Zack and Genesis but they had more self control.
Finding his courage, Cloud glanced at Genesis briefly. "I've been thinking about that too," he admitted.
Zack and Genesis practically beamed in triumph. Zack tossed his fork down dramatically. "Well I say we fix that right now! Who's in?"
"Oh most assuredly," Genesis agreed, wiping his mouth on his napkin delicately.
Cloud blushed bright red. He did want to be with his boyfriends, really. After a month of getting to know them and lots of heavy petting, Cloud was getting tired of cold showers and taking care of his problem alone. He felt ready, even if the thought of sex was still embarrassing. He trusted these men to be kind to him.
"Are you sure, Cloud?" Angeal asked, ignoring the twin scowls from Gen and Zack. "We don't want to pressure you."
Cloud nodded and smiled at him. "I'm sure. Although I'm kinda nervous. I never thought my first time would be like this."
Movement at the table stopped and everyone stared at Cloud with their mouths hanging open slightly. Cloud leaned back, not sure why everyone was gawking at him now. He looked at them, confused.
"Wha—What?"
"You're a virgin?" Genesis exclaimed, his voice slightly higher-pitched than normal.
"Uh, yeah... I didn't tell you guys?"
"What about Tifa?" Zack exclaimed.
Cloud shook his head. "We never got past third base."
"Shit Spiky!"
Cloud stared at them all before turning to Sephiroth. The unofficial leader of the group wasn't one to mince words. Cloud's confused face clearly asked him what going on.
"Our group is what one could refer to as an orgy," Sephiroth explained. "It is a very... overwhelming experience at times. Especially when all of us are together, things can get rather intense very quickly. It is not the ideal way for someone to lose their virginity."
Cloud wasn't sure what to say to that. He had privately been searching on-line for tips and instructions on how sex worked between multiple men. He had watched gay porn and, though he knew porn was not like real life, felt he had an idea of what to do.
"I believe it would be best if your first time was one on one," Sephiroth stated. "It should be personal and focus on yourself and discovering what you are comfortable with this early on in your sexual development."
"I volunteer," Genesis called loudly. "I will teach him all that he needs to know on our behalf."
"Like hell!" Zack yelled. "You'll scare him away with damn handcuffs!"
"Handcuffs?" Cloud squeaked, looking over at the two. He didn't know they used toys.
"See?"
"I will also offer myself for consideration," Angeal added. "But in the end it is your choice, Cloud. No matter who you pick, we will accept it and be supportive."
"Cloud," Sephiroth's voice drew Cloud's eyes to him. "At this moment in time, who are you most comfortable with?"
Completely overwhelmed by the conversation, Cloud's eyes slid over to Zack for guidance. Zack had always been the one he went running to when the relationship got too confusing or intense for him. His friend was his rock, his mentor. He would know what to do and not make Cloud feel like a fool for asking.
As soon as Cloud's eyes met Zack's the man slapped the table and laughed. "Yes! Don't worry guys, I'll handle this one."
Genesis openly pouted while Angeal and Sephiroth looked disappointed. As promised, the group didn't complain or argue. They accepted Cloud's choice without question.
"Well then if you'll excuse us, guys, we're going to the bedroom." Zack grabbed Cloud's hand and pulled him from his seat.
"What, right now?" Cloud squeaked.
"Seriously? Do you have any idea how turned on by this I am? Of course right now!"
The two stumbled down the hall and entered Cloud's room, shutting the door behind them. Zack laughed and shoved Cloud on the bed before flopping down next to him.
"I was just messing around to piss Genesis off," Zack said. "If you're not ready right now, we can wait."
"No I am!" Cloud assured. "It's just... aren't they going to hear?"
"Cloud, they're going to stand outside the door and listen." Cloud turned red at the thought and Zack laughed. "Just don't think about it. Unless it turns you on, then think about it all you like."
Cloud groaned and lay back on the bed. "This is turning into an ordeal."
Zack scooted up and kissed Cloud, running his hands through his hair. "Well yeah, loosing your virginity is a big deal. If it really does bother you, I can make them go away."
Cloud thought for a moment before shaking his head. He would have to get used to these men watching and listening to him if he wanted to stay in the relationship. Which he did. Cloud turned over, staring into Zack's blue eyes.
"You've always been there for me," Cloud mused aloud. "I'm so glad we're friends."
Zack smiled, feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. He jerked forward and wrapped his arms around Cloud's smaller frame. "Awe! Cloud, I love you!"
Cloud stopped and pulled away from Zack. "You love me?"
The older man stopped and tilted his head. "Uh... yeah. Duh."
"Don't 'duh' me! You've never said it."
"I thought it was obvious?"
"You still have to say it!"
Zack caught Cloud's hand and kissed his fingers. "Okay, okay. I love you, Cloud."
"Good, because I love you too."
Zack's grin was as wide as his face and he wasted no time pouncing on Cloud. He pressed their lips together, exploring Cloud's mouth with his tongue. He could never get enough of the taste. It was like smooth, melted chocolate. Cloud moaned quietly and Zack smirked. It turned him on, how easily he could make Cloud lose control. Genesis had complained that Cloud was too quiet of a lover when they had made out but Zack knew better. The blonde was just embarrassed with the others and did his best to not make any noise. With Zack, however, he was more open and relaxed.
"Take that, Genesis," Zack snickered to himself.
"What?"
"Nothing love, go to sleep," Zack ordered.
Cloud hummed happily and did just that. Zack smiled and closed his eyes, falling asleep with a wide smile on his face.
The next morning Cloud woke up slightly sore. He started to stretch but stopped when his muscles protested. The blonde lay down and snuggled into Zack's arms, enjoying the warmth. Zack smiled sleepily, his eyes still closed, and pulled his friend closer.
"Morning Spiky," Zack greeted. "Sleep well."
"Uh-huh."
"Have fun last night?"
Cloud grinned and nuzzled his chest. "Yes... um, thank you."
Zack laughed. "No Cloud, thank you. Just be prepared now, Genesis is going to be all over you."
Cloud giggled. "He'll have to wait until after work. Ugh, I can't believe I work until nine tonight!"
"Why so late?"
"We have to go to the Slums again. There's some huge delivery that they need before tomorrow morning."
Zack nodded and flipped them over so he was lying on top of Cloud. He kissed the blonde along the chin before nuzzling his hair. "Well don't wear yourself out, you're in for a loooong night."
Cloud laughed and nodded. He reached up and kissed Zack on the nose before gently shoving him off. "Time to get ready for work. I hope Angeal left us breakfast."
"I'm sure he did."
Neither man could stop smiling as they hurried to shower and eat even though they were both already late.
The day past in a happy blur for Cloud. He worked hard and got along well with coworkers. They were a loud group of large men (and one woman) who were pleasantly surprised at how useful Cloud turned out to be. The blonde may have been on the small side but he could lift and carry the heaviest boxes with the same skill as the others.
As the night wore on the group found themselves outside a small business, unloading their packages. The men kept their heads down and moved quickly and efficiently. Cloud though, couldn't help but look around at the dark shadows and empty alleys.
When Cloud was a child, he was always the most curious boy in the village. He was always exploring the mountains and sticking his nose where it didn't belong. This curiosity was why his mother, and probably Zack, were always so worried and protective of him. There were too many times as a child when his curiosity lead him into dangerous caves or to spy on people that shouldn't be spied on. However no matter how times he got hurt or beaten by villagers, Cloud never learned his lesson. Now that he was an adult, he still hadn't learned it.
Cloud looked up and noticed a person lying in one of the alleys. The man had fallen and the blonde stopped unloading to stare. When the person didn't get up, Cloud jumped from the truck and hurried over. His coworkers didn't notice, as they were focused on their work. Cloud knelt down next to the man; he had dark hair and oversized clothes.
"Are you okay, sir?" Cloud asked. He reached out to shake him and suddenly, without warning, the man jumped up, grabbing Cloud's wrist. Startled, Cloud tried to jerk away but stopped as his eyes landed on the man's face. Dark brown eyes were sunken in and rimmed with dark circles. His jaw was pointed and his chin stuck out slightly. He had brown hair to match his eyes that stuck up in every direction.
A memory flashed behind Cloud's eyes of this exact man smiling at him. He'd lured him away from the crowds of people traveling and Cloud had been curious enough to follow. When they were out of sight of everyone, the man attacked him, kicking him hard in the gut before hitting the blonde over the head. Cloud remembered lying on the ground, hurt and confused, as the caravan drove away with all the other travelers, leaving him behind in the dirt and wilderness.
The man might have recognized Cloud because he paused for a moment when their eyes met but he quickly shook it off. Just as before, he kicked out hard and hit Cloud over the head. The blonde smashed into the ground with a pained grunt, seeing stars. He groaned but couldn't get up as his vision was blurry and his head hurt tremendously. He felt someone dig through his clothes before running off.
Cloud tried to get up again but the world spun violently and he almost threw up. He lay on the ground and closed his eyes. Cloud wasn't sure how long he was on the cement before he finally managed to sit up slowly. He looked around, noticing he was alone. The streets were empty and cold. His coworkers were long gone.
Cloud's head still hurt but he forced himself to stand. He reached up and felt dry blood in his hair. Confused, Cloud stumbled from the dark alleyway. He needed to get somewhere safe. He needed help. He patted down his clothes but his PHS was gone. Starting to panic, Cloud leaned against the wall and closed his eyes. His head hurt so much he felt like he was going to puke.
Zack. He needed to find Zack. His best friend had always been there for him and Cloud needed to find him now. He would help him, like always. And not just Zack but there were others too. Cloud was frightened as he realized he could see their faces but couldn't recall their names. How hard had he been hit?
Cloud slowly began walking, looking down at his feet and flinching when anything bright caught his eye. He remembered staring at an envelope, repeating an address over and over again. That was were Zack was. And the other people. One of them had helped him when he collapsed... red hair, a flair for the dramatic... Genesis! Yeah, that was one of the other people. He was cocky and childish but he loved his boyfriends deeply and would do whatever was necessary to defend them.
Cloud spotted a group of women standing on a corner but ignored them. They weren't who he was looking for. He was trying to find Zack and Genesis. But who else? He was forgetting two more people. A light flashed above him and Cloud flinched, making out the word "truth" written in graffiti on a wall. Truth, honor... Angeal! Angeal was like a stone wall, strong and impenetrable. He was solemn and took his role of caretaker very seriously. But he was also loving. He saved his gentle smiles for his lovers and only them. When they were alone he relaxed, taking joy in their presence as they took joy in his.
Cloud made it to the street. It was almost dawn and streetlights were still lit. The occasional car drove by and the lights were so bright Cloud had to stop and cover his eyes. His head still throbbed painfully but Cloud somehow managed to detach himself from the pain, walking in a trance like state. All he thought about was getting home to Zack and Genesis and Angeal and...
Strong eyes bore into his soul, as if looking through him. The person had an overwhelming presence. He was tall and intimidating. He moved with precision and everything he said was calculated. He was the strongest of the group and they all looked to him as a leader without really noticing it. When they wanted something or were unsure of themselves, it was to him the four went. He was always so sure, so in control, it was reassuring.
Cloud stumbled as a car screeched ahead of him. The blonde kept walking, ignoring it. He blinked as he saw silver hair and bright green eyes. This was the person he was trying to remember. But what was his name?
"Cloud!"
Cloud stopped and shook his head. No, that wasn't the man's name. "Sephiroth," Cloud whispered. Yes, that his was name. There was Zack, his best friend, Genesis, his dramatic companion, Angeal, his rock, and Sephiroth, his leader. They were who he was looking for. They were the men Cloud needed to find to be safe.
"Cloud!"
The blonde looked up as he saw Sephiroth run towards him. He would be safe if he could just reach him...
A/N: Poor Cloud is just getting beat up. I believe the next chapter will be the last. This is just a short story about everyone falling in love so there's not a whole left to do. Thank you to everyone who reviewed! See you next time!
