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11. First Kiss
"This was nice." Aerith scrunched up, encircling her knees with her arms. She wobbled precariously. "It was really… nice."
Zack shook his head. "It was a disaster."
"It wasn't!"
"It was," he sighed.
It was supposed to be a romantic evening. He didn't get many nights off these days. The time he could get down to the slums was precious. He liked Aerith. She was sweet, funny, and didn't play games like other women he had dated. What you saw was what you got. That kind of honesty was refreshing.
Except when she lied to be polite. There was only one good restaurant in this sector. Zack had dressed in his best civvies and even brought her a gift before escorting her there. Unfortunately, dinner had turned into a nightmare when she asked about SOLDIER and a nearby couple overheard. Evidently Shinra was as popular down here as a fart in an elevator.
"You have to see these people every day," he said, remembering their rude comments and filthy looks.
"So?"
"So now it's going to be awkward for you. I'll understand if you don't want a third date." Maybe she could still salvage her reputation. Who needed a girlfriend, anyway? He'd be fine as a bachelor. Again.
She stared at him. After their adult dinner, they had taken refuge at the top of the penguin slide in the half-built playground. It wasn't at all romantic and offered little shelter, but at this time of night the place was empty.
"Look, Aerith – mmrf!" Zack's eyes widened as she suddenly grabbed his face with both hands and kissed him. He had to hold her shoulders to stop her falling right off the slide. When they broke apart, it was his turn to stare. "Um. Wow. So… is that a yes to a third date?"
She smiled. "Idiot."