Universe: FFVII
Timeline: Post-Dissidia
Status: Established Relationship
Another perfect cookie, Tidus thought, dotting the shortbread treat with a swirl of green icing. He smiled to himself, but he could feel Cloud's serious gaze on him as they worked. He was wearing that nervous look that meant they needed to talk, and that Tidus probably wouldn't like whatever it was he had to say.
"So, I was wondering, why don't we invite your father to spend Christmas with us?" Cloud inquired, words coming out quickly, before he could change his mind about asking.
The icing on Tidus' next cookie rushed out in a giant, sickeningly sweet blob, one that even Tidus' sweet-tooth probably couldn't handle. He made an irritated noise, and tried to scrape some of the excess off with the end of his frosting nozzle. He failed miserably, leaving an uneven mess in its wake. Defeated, he turned to Cloud with a visible sigh, his shoulders sagging as he released his breath.
"You want to invite my old man?" Tidus blinked, and Cloud nodded, innocently. "You do... remember Jecht, don't you?" the younger man asked, his incredulous expression mixing with anxiety. Cloud set his icing bowl and spoon down on the counter, and turned to take Tidus' hands in his own.
"Yeah, I remember. I was just thinking, he's probably going to be all alone in Spira, and it might be nice to extend the offer. Look, I know he hasn't always been kind to you—"
"No, he hasn't. And during the holidays, he's worse than ever! The more alcohol he has in his system, the more insults he'll throw my way."
"Tidus..." Cloud uttered, voice soft and apologetic. His eyes wandered timidly downward in regret, but he quickly reminded himself of why he'd wanted to invite Jecht in the first place.
"Things might be different now. You're not a kid anymore, and I honestly think he would want to see the life you've made for yourself here," Cloud pushed himself to say. Tidus bit his lip uncertainly, at least considering Cloud's point. He felt Cloud's fingers dancing across his palms, caressing tenderly; truth be told, it made him a little more willing to listen.
"When we were in Cosmos' world together, I didn't get the impression that he was all bad. He cares about you, even if he's not the best at showing it."
"You give that guy way too much credit," Tidus said, solemnly, his own gaze travelling towards the floor.
"I know that forgiveness is hard, and I know from experience how hard it is to earn forgiveness... from others, and from yourself," Cloud said, slowly, and Tidus looked up at him with a newfound understanding of the situation, just as Cloud had hoped he would.
"Cloud..." he murmured, knowing full well how hard Cloud had struggled in the past with those very things. "I know where you're going with this, but he's not like you. You wanted to be forgiven. I don't even know if he does!"
"He does. Trust me. When you know you've done something to hurt the ones you love, there will always come a time when you'll want to be forgiven," Cloud assured him, and Tidus' brows twisted up into some sort of sad and pensive look.
"I'm not trying to guilt you into this. Really," Cloud promised. "I just thought it might be nice."
Tidus' silence earned him a gentle kiss on the forehead before Cloud went back to stirring his own batch of icing. Tidus continued to ponder while watching Cloud swirl green food dye into the frosting. It was mesmerizing, and it cleared his head enough to weigh out the situation.
Inviting Jecht would make him the bigger man. And he had always dreamed of making amends with his father, even though he'd believed it would never happen. This would at least be a start, as long as he didn't ruin Christmas dinner with his rudeness and condescension.
"It's embarrassing to have to worry about your own father making a scene," Tidus eventually spoke up, and Cloud gave him a sideways glance, blue eyes gentle and sympathetic. "In a way, it scares me for you, and Tifa, and the kids to see where I came from."
"Hey," Cloud murmured, clutching his spoon a little tighter, and turning to face Tidus. "All of us know you, Tidus. Well enough to know that you aren't anything like Jecht, and you never will be. You are as kind as you are despite the hand you were dealt as a child," Cloud explained, then gave a little smile. "And of all the people in the world, you never have to fear what I think of you."
"Thanks," Tidus mumbled, before ducking his head to hide a smirk. Cloud caught it far too easily, and lowered his own head in question. "Sorry. You're just starting to sound like a sappy holiday card. Have you been reading too many of those lately?" Tidus chuckled, and Cloud feigned an insulted appearance, eyes widening and a hand flying to his chest.
"No, but maybe you have, if you know what they sound like," Cloud retorted, but a soft smile quickly replaced the sour look on his face. "Seriously, you don't have to do this, okay? It was just a suggestion," he went on.
"No, you're probably right. It would be a nice gesture to invite him, and the holidays are the time for this sort of thing, right? Making amends and all that?" Tidus asked, honestly wanting Cloud to confirm.
"Yeah, it is," Cloud nodded, abandoning his icing and moving in to hold Tidus' waist, and leaning their foreheads together. "But if he's being rude, we ask him to leave. Simple as that. At least we will have made the effort to make him feel welcome," he said, lips swiftly finding Tidus', which were so warm and familiar. Tidus smiled at the gesture, eyes drifting open as Cloud slowly pulled away.
"You're awfully good at this," Tidus softly beamed.
"Yeah? Then meet me under the mistletoe later," Cloud said, giving him a smirk and a flirty wink that almost made Tidus burst out in laughter. He loved how spontaneous Cloud had become over the past few years, how he could still surprise him with playful actions like that. He was so open, and so genuinely happy.
"I actually meant you're good at calming me down, but the mistletoe thing sounds good, too," Tidus grinned. Cloud smiled at the mere sight of Tidus, now that his grin had returned to his face. Cloud swiped a finger around the edge of his bowl, only to reach over and leave a green blob of icing on the end of Tidus' nose. Tidus stared at it, cross-eyed and disbelieving.
"I'll meet you there," Cloud chuckled.
Tidus wondered how he'd ever let Cloud talk him into this. Now that Jecht was on his way, he could only think about the reasons why this was a terrible idea. He sat at the bar counter, bundled up in Cloud's woollen, burgundy sweater with his chin in his palm, hand covered by an oversized sleeve; Cloud's arms were a couple of inches longer than his own, and Tidus strongly believed that was why Cloud gave the most amazing hugs. Even though Cloud's sweater was no substitute for an actual Cloud-hug, he'd hoped the coziness of the garment would still calm his nerves. So far, he wasn't having much luck.
He couldn't stop thinking about how Jecht would treat Cloud, or their entire relationship for that matter. Jecht had probably only made a good impression in Cosmos' world because he'd spent so much time with Yuna, thinking she was still the one involved with Tidus. Plus, she was Braska's daughter—once a dear friend of Jecht's— so it only made sense that he would be kind and respectful towards her. Tidus wasn't so sure Cloud would see the same side of Jecht at his dinner table.
Tidus wondered what Jecht would have to say about an ex-military man, runaway test subject, and victim of mako-induced amnesia. Maybe he should just introduce Cloud as a delivery man? Or maybe just business owner. That sounded good, but was it fair to Cloud? He wasn't sure. Maybe formal introductions weren't necessary anyway. After all, they had already met, even if had been under entirely different circumstances.
Tidus also wasn't sure what he'd do if his old man drank too much and started running his foul mouth in front of Marlene and Denzel. It wasn't like they weren't used to the same thing when Barret or Cid were around, but this felt different. Tidus felt responsible for Jecht's actions, for bringing this gruff and vulgar lowlife into their home.
And what would Jecht think of their little makeshift family? What would he think of them living with Tifa—Cloud's best friend and two kids who weren't theirs? Thankfully, Cloud appeared at the bottom of the stairs before Tidus' brain could do any more damage. He smiled, hoping he might earn his Cloud-hug now, but a knock at the door interrupted them. Tidus stared at the door with wide, scared eyes, as if Chaos himself might be on the other side.
"That's them," Cloud said. He cast a glance back at the door, then turned back to his fear-stricken partner. "It's going to be fine," he promised, squeezing Tidus' shoulders gently before heading for the door. Tidus followed sluggishly, then veered to the right, and stood on his tip-toes to look out the small window beside the door.
"Hmph. He actually put on a shirt. Really dressing up for the occasion," Tidus said, monotonously. Cloud rolled his eyes, fighting back a chuckle at his companion's behaviour as he pulled the door open.
"Hey," he greeted, giving Jecht and Barret a smile. Just as Tidus had said, Jecht was wearing a black, long-sleeved sweater, which came down into a V, barely hiding the tip of his giant chest tattoo. He still wore his red bandana, its tattered edges falling down alongside his face and mixing in with his black hair.
"Spikey, where's my girl?" Barret grinned, barrelling past Cloud, who had to step aside in surprise to accommodate.
"Daddy!" Marlene shouted, as if on cue, as she ran down the stairs and right into the large man's arms. Barret spun her around and laughed at her squeals of excitement. Cloud shook his head, recovering with an amused smile as he turned back to Jecht.
"I'll just apologize now for your noisy stay here. Come on in, Jecht. Welcome to Seventh Heaven," he said, backing up and holding the door open for him.
They shook hands as Jecht passed the threshold, and he entered as confidently as ever. His eyes travelled from side-to-side, taking in the sight of the bar, as he dragged his brown, boxy suitcase in behind him. Tidus recognized that particular make as remarkably Spiran; Yuna had had one just like it before they had departed from Besaid.
"Nice place you got here," Jecht said, in that gravelly voice of his.
"Of course he likes it. It's a bar," Tidus mumbled under his breath, but not quietly enough. Jecht glanced over to see his son standing beside the window, arms folded. There was a frown stuck between his brows, but even so, Jecht was willing to let Tidus' comment go for now.
Tidus seemed to glower as Jecht walked closer to him, and he almost took a step back, but decided that would have given his old man the upper hand. He couldn't show fear. This was his family, and his home. Jecht was the one who had to earn the right to be here.
"How ya doin'?" Jecht asked, gently, his giant hand falling upon Tidus' shoulder like a weight. The boy felt his knees buckle slightly, but he popped back up in an instant, standing tall.
"Fine. You?" Tidus' tone was far from heartfelt.
"Fine."
Jecht turned back to Cloud, looking almost at a loss. Cloud shrugged apologetically, realizing he had been the most welcoming of anyone so far.
"Here, let me take your luggage for you," Cloud offered, stepping closer to grab the suitcase.
"You sure a beanpole like you can handle it?" Jecht smirked. Cloud hoisted the case up over his back, holding it much like he did the Buster Sword, gripping the handle up near his shoulder and letting the box fall in against his back. He looked back at Jecht with a smirk of his own.
"I've got it." With a lingering smile, he headed for the stairs, climbing them effortlessly. Tifa passed him on the way down, and was followed closely by Denzel.
"Hi, Jecht," Tifa greeted, reaching the bottom step and hurrying into the room. She leaned in, pulling the muscled man in for a quick hug that he didn't at all expect. His eyes were as big and round as peppermint candies. "Glad you could make it."
The woman pulled away with a smile, and Tidus saw his father's eyes wander a good few inches below Tifa's neckline.
"Oho, glad I could be here," Jecht grinned. That was when Tidus lost it.
"Okay, that's it. Dad?" he sang, wedging himself between them and swatting his father back a few steps. "Best behaviour, right?"
"Right," Jecht winked, and Tidus cringed. Why had he thought for a second that his father would take this seriously? He growled under his breath and wandered over to Denzel, who was planted firmly behind Tifa.
"Denzel, this is my old man. Go ahead, say hi," Tidus coaxed, his voice far more soft and friendly with him than it had been with Jecht.
He crouched down at Denzel's side with an arm around his back, and Denzel gazed up at the giant figure before him. The stiffness of Denzel's posture, and the uncertainty in his eyes... It made Tidus realize how he must have looked all those years ago, staring up at his father's shadow.
"Hello, Jecht," Denzel greeted, timidly offering his small hand. Jecht smiled and shook it eagerly.
"Nice to meet you, kid."
"And you met Barret on the drive here, right? That just leaves Marlene. Come here, sweetie," Tifa called, turning her attention to the girl across the room. Barret had set her back down on the ground by now, and she trotted over to Tifa's side.
"Hi, Mr. Jecht," she smiled up at him, with one hand in the air. Jecht gave her a high-five and she beamed.
"Hi, kiddo."
Barret wandered over to join the circle just as Cloud returned from his trip upstairs. They gathered round, making small talk until the timer dinged from the counter across the bar. Cloud hurried over, and Tidus followed, taking any excuse he could to dodge his father's presence for the time being.
"I hope this tastes okay," Cloud said, grabbing his mitts and retrieving his shepherd's pie from the oven. He placed it on the stove-top, feeling content that the pie at least looked okay with its golden brown topping.
"I assure you, your excellent cooking is not going to ruin dinner, Cloud. He might, though," Tidus grumbled, with an irritated nod in his father's direction.
"Give him a chance," Cloud said, with a bittersweet smile, before turning back to the crowd. "Jecht, I'm sorry to rush right into dinner when you just got here, but it's all ready."
"No worries. I'll never complain about being fed," Jecht chuckled, causing the children to laugh as well.
"Me neither," Marlene grinned, jumping up to give Jecht another high-five. He smiled, and gave her head a pat as they all headed for their places.
The bar was fuller than usual, as it was every holiday season. Cloud and Tifa had decided it was best to set up a long dining table in addition to the bar counter, simply so they could accommodate all the company they wanted. With Cid, Yuffie, Nanaki, and Vincent dropping in from time to time, plus whatever other stragglers decided to stop by, it was handy to have the extra space.
Cloud sat on the side nearest the counter, on the very end so he could hop out at any time to replenish drinks and empty plates. Tidus was to his immediate left, followed by Barret, and Jecht sat at the head of the table. Marlene sat across from Barret, right next to Denzel, and Tifa was on the end across from Cloud. Thankfully, Tifa's pre-prepared place cards had made seating easy—and had put an intentional distance between Tidus and his father.
"So, Jecht, how was your voyage here?" Tifa asked, scooping some cranberry sauce onto her plate before passing it along.
"Well, you know, inter-world travel isn't all that comfortable," Jecht shrugged, remembering the twisting and tugging at his spine as he was dragged from Spira, to Cosmos' world, to Gaia. "But that Cosmos can do some pretty amazing things."
"Yeah," Cloud agreed with a smile. He reached for Tidus' hand atop the table, and squeezed it gently. "She really can."
Tidus glanced at him, giving him a grateful look. Neither gesture went unnoticed by Jecht, and he felt comforted by how much Cloud seemed to appreciate the gift that Cosmos had given him: Tidus—whole, real, and a permanent part of this world. Living without fear of Tidus disappearing into the world of dreams was something that Cloud had never and would never take for granted.
"I'm sorry we couldn't pick you up ourselves, but Barret's the only one with a truck, and he was passing by the area anyway," Cloud apologized, knowing full well that Barret would give him an earful later about the most awkward drive ever.
"It's fine. Why was I transported to that garbage dump, though?" Jecht asked, and Tidus patted Cloud's hand to keep him from blowing a gasket. That 'garbage dump' he was referring to was Aerith's church, and no way was anyone going to be anything but respectful towards it on Cloud's watch.
"The planet's magical energy is strong in that area, and Cosmos finds it easier to transport us to magic-heavy places," Tidus explained, actually sounding like a normal human being rather than an anger-driven beast as he addressed his father.
"So, Grampa Jecht, what are we going to do tonight?" Marlene quizzed, looking to the man to her right for an answer. Tifa frowned curiously, catching the surprised looks of Cloud and Tidus before glancing toward Marlene.
"Grampa Jecht?" Tifa repeated, calmly.
"That's right, isn't it? If Tidus is my sort-of dad, wouldn't his dad be my sort-of grandpa?" Marlene asked, tilting her head to the side, and earning a nod of agreement from Denzel.
"Well, only if Barret's okay with it," Cloud said, leaning forward to glance at his friend. Barret's fork came to a standstill in the middle of his plate as he thought. Before long, he gave a shrug.
"'S'fine with me. Way I see it, Marlene ain't got any other grandparents, and I don't want her missing out."
Marlene grinned, and gave Jecht a thumbs-up. Jecht smiled at first, but could feel Tidus' glower from further down the table. He dared a glance up to catch his son's irritated—and maybe even injured—expression. Did Tidus think he had planned this? That he had made Marlene say that? He most definitely hadn't. That kid was warming up to him all on her own.
"Tidus?" Cloud asked, softly, catching his eye with a sidelong glance.
"It's fine," Tidus shook his head, digging back into his supper. "Totally fine," he said, but his tone was unconvincing. So, Jecht was going to treat these kids better than his own? Sounded about par for the course for him, Tidus thought.
Tifa gave Jecht a sympathetic look, and Cloud kept a close eye on Tidus. He would make sure he was okay, no matter what happened at dinner.
Tidus made a quick exit once everyone had cleaned their plates. When Barret announced he was taking Marlene out for some ice-cream, Tidus quickly invited himself and Denzel along, leaving Cloud and Tifa to entertain. Of course, it was a little awkward, having Tidus—Jecht's only real relation here—take off. Jecht, however, simply insisted to help with the dinner cleanup, and once that was out of the way, Cloud gave him the grand tour before showing him to his room.
Cloud gave Jecht permission to use the television in the bar whenever he wanted, and to make himself at home, even though at the moment, Jecht couldn't have felt like more of an outsider. Did his son really hate him that much that he couldn't even stand to be under the same roof as him anymore? Jecht decided to give his son the benefit of the doubt for now, and told himself that Tidus was just feeling awkward after not seeing each other in so long. Jecht hoped that presumption would be enough to keep his worries at bay.
An hour or so after Tidus' departure, Jecht found himself seated in the bar, watching some heavy metal concert on the television while sipping a can of beer. Cloud came downstairs, and poured himself a glass of water, ready to make conversation—despite how uncomfortable it might be. Jecht set the discomfort-meter pretty high when he opened his mouth to speak.
"So, how long have you known you like men?"
Cloud made a face of distaste at first as he turned away from the fridge, then it twisted into amusement that he tried hard to hide. Jecht's lack of eloquence really was out of this world.
"Well, I don't really see how it's any of your business, but..." Cloud started.
He took a sip of his water, suddenly wishing he'd chosen something stronger to drink, but making an effort with Jecht was something he needed to do, for Tidus' sake. Besides, unveiling this sort of thing didn't shake him the way it used to. He was proud of who he was, and more than happy with the life he had with Tidus.
"I was sixteen, and I met someone who made me rethink everything I thought I knew about myself." Cloud smiled as he stared into space, memories of Zack slipping into his mind and filling him with a sense of peace.
"Huh," Jecht replied, looking pensive himself. He stared blankly ahead as he thought, and Cloud smiled tenderly, predicting where the man's thoughts were headed.
"I believe, for Tidus, it was much the same," he told him. Jecht finally brought his gaze back to Cloud, finger pointing as he spoke.
"So, he fell for you? In Cosmos' world?"
"Yeah," Cloud confirmed, taking another swig of water while Jecht took another gulp of beer.
Cloud discreetly glanced around the bar, scanning for any other can or bottle that Jecht might have previously emptied. Thankfully, it seemed he hadn't consumed any more than what he had in his hand. That, at least, would let Tidus rest a little easier.
"Glad... Glad he's happy here," Jecht said, his fingers tapping anxiously at the sides of his can. It seemed the comment had been hard for him to get out, but at least he was trying.
"Me, too. He's really made us all feel like a family. The two of us, Tifa, and the kids," Cloud said, leaning back against the kitchen counter and making himself a little more comfortable.
"Yeah, that Marlene is sweet. She sure warms up to people fast," Jecht grinned, and for the first time, Cloud noticed how much older he was looking.
He looked worn under the eyes, his deep scars mixing with the wrinkles on his face, to the point where it was hard to decipher one from the other. Maybe the reason why he hadn't been condescending to these kids wasn't only because they weren't his own, but because he was finally growing up. Maybe he was finally realizing what was really important in life.
"Heh, that's all Tidus' doing," Cloud chuckled, fondly. "She used to be extremely shy."
"Really?"
"Mm-hmm."
"Hmm... Can't wait to fix things with him," Jecht said, and it made Cloud perk up.
His relaxed posture stiffened, and he pushed himself to stand straight again. He didn't want a confrontation, but he didn't want Jecht viewing the situation with rose-tinted glasses, either. If he did, he would only end up infuriating Tidus even more. And Tidus... well, Cloud felt the need to defend him. Always.
"Let's be very clear on something. You can never fix things with Tidus. That damage has already been done," Cloud announced, sternly, and Jecht wished he had a few more doses of alcohol in his system, just so that he might have felt confident under that critical gaze.
"The things you said to him in the past... those will never go away. I'm sorry it has to be this way, but the only thing you can do is make things better from now on. Make memories that he'll look back on, and remember as being good ones. Earn his forgiveness," Cloud went on. Jecht watched him, almost intrigued.
This young man, who was only two years older than Tidus, seemed to be wise far beyond his time. It was then that Jecht remembered what he'd learned of him in Cosmos' world—from Cloud's enemies, of all people.
"You lost people you love," Jecht stated, not needing to confirm.
"Yeah," Cloud nodded, expression softer now. "That's why I know how important it is to spend time with the ones you love, and make sure they know how much you care about them."
Jecht grew quiet, his eyes wandering back to the television, though his thoughts were nowhere near it. He clinked his fingers against his beer can again, the guilt and pain of so many failed years rushing back to greet him. The things Cloud said, about letting people know how much he cared for them... Jecht wasn't sure he'd ever done those things for his son.
That son had once looked up to him and admired him, until Jecht had grown too cocky for his own good. When Tidus had tried to be like him, Jecht had told him he could never be as good. When Tidus had tried to protect him and his career by telling him to quit drinking, Jecht had pushed back harder than ever with an adamant 'no'.
And as far as telling Tidus how much he cared... The closest he had ever gotten was probably in that sphere he had left him when travelling with Auron and Braska, when he had said he believed in him. There was no question that the love that Tidus had found here in Gaia was drastically different—drastically better—than anything he'd had back home.
"You're right, kid. You seem like you've got it all figured out," Jecht smiled, though there was a hint of sadness in those crooked lips. Cloud smiled back, slightly flustered.
"It took me a long time to get where I am now, believe me. But thanks."
"No problem," Jecht said, raising his glass, and Cloud did the same, before they both took a swig. Cloud wiped his mouth with the back of his sleeve, his hand lingering there as he thought. It didn't take him long to speak again.
"Jecht, believe me when I say I want you to make things better with Tidus. You're just going to have to take it slow with him, until he can trust you. I know trust and forgiveness are hard, and they take time, but... they're worth it," Cloud said, placing his empty glass on the edge of the counter. Any newly dirtied dishes could be done tomorrow.
"Right," Jecht nodded, numbly. Cloud offered him another smile before heading for the stairs. He stopped at the bottom, looking back at the man slumped over the counter.
"Have a good night, Jecht. Let us know if you need anything at all."
"Thanks, kid. And look..." Jecht paused, his cheeks twitching like he wanted to speak, but was once again struggling to find the words. "I appreciate you being so kind to me. I hope... I don't mess things up."
Cloud gave a bittersweet smile, feeling Jecht's pain, but not quite knowing how to respond this time.
"Goodnight, Jecht," he said again, before disappearing up the stairs.
The evening continued to slip by, and Jecht decided he wasn't up to having a conversation with Tidus tonight, especially when the boy seemed to be avoiding him. With a yawn, Jecht headed upstairs to get ready for bed, and slipped into the guest room just in time to hear Tidus and the others arrive home. He listened while they each brushed their teeth and got settled in for the night, but once he heard Tidus and Cloud arguing in the other room, he sneaked downstairs to escape the ruckus. After all, he had probably caused it. As he watched the television screen above the bar counter—volume on mute so it wouldn't wake the kids—his ears focused on the noise from upstairs.
"I can't believe you told him stuff about us! Bad enough that he's here, but for you to go and talk to him behind my back? Telling him how to make things right with me?"
Jecht slouched over the counter again, and pressed his palms over his ears so he would no longer be tempted to listen in. He didn't want to hear anymore anyway. He certainly didn't want to hear any more of what Tidus had to say.
He was startled a moment later when Cloud appeared at the counter across from him. He jumped up, giving him an apologetic look. Cloud shrugged and let out a heavy sigh as he grabbed some medicine from the cabinet above his head.
"Headache," he explained simply, dumping a couple of capsules into his hand and refilling his glass from earlier. He downed the pill and chased it down with water, then turned to Jecht, finding himself in the same position he'd been no more than an hour or two ago. He leaned back against the counter in defeat.
"Looks like we're both in the doghouse tonight," Jecht sympathized.
"Mm-hmm," Cloud mumbled, knots swirling uncomfortably in his stomach.
"Good morning," Cloud greeted, softly, swinging the door open to his and Tidus' room. He'd been already up and showered before Tidus had even woken. Now, Tidus stood in front of his dresser, picking out some clothes for the day and tossing them onto the bed behind him.
Tidus gave him a bit of a hostile look, but Cloud proceeded bravely into the room with warm, outstretched arms that Tidus instinctively gravitated towards. He breathed out, feeling the tension leave him as he was enveloped in Cloud's embrace, and as Cloud's soft lips grazed the side of his face and hair.
"I'm really sorry. I hate it when we fight," Cloud murmured. Tidus' hands wandered up to rest on Cloud's back, pulling him in close.
"I hate it, too."
"And I know, it probably wasn't my place to talk to Jecht. I just—"
"I get why you did it," Tidus nodded against Cloud's neck, his head falling in against him, in sleepy relaxation. "To protect me. And to make me happy. Like you always do."
Cloud smiled, softly, and revelled in the beautiful knowledge that Tidus understood his intentions. He understood that urge inside him that needed to defend him, to keep him safe. Whether it was from physical threats, or from any kind of heartache, Cloud's self-appointed job was to make Tidus' life as perfect as it could be.
"So, Tifa suggested we all go out on the town today. Do some last-minute shopping, maybe see a movie. What do you think? You won't be left alone with Jecht, if you're not ready to talk to him," Cloud said.
"Yeah, actually, that might be good. Assuming he's on his best behaviour, of course," Tidus rolled his eyes.
"Of course," Cloud winked. "Honestly, though, he seemed good last night."
"With you. You're not his son."
"He might not be stuck in the past anymore. You and I both know how much people can change once they let go of the past, right?" Cloud asked, his blue eyes staring into Tidus' coyly. Tidus groaned.
"Why can you always convince me to do these things? You always make it seem like you two are in the same boat!" he playfully huffed, swinging his arms around as he danced away from Cloud.
"Well, I guess, in a lot of ways, we are," Cloud smirked. "So give him a chance. Like you gave me."
He moved forward to press a kiss to Tidus' cheek, his bargaining chip to get Tidus to at least try and open up. Tidus placed his hand on his cheek joyfully; that chip was definitely going to work this time.
After their outing, Tidus stormed into the house, fuming. He hurried up the stairs before anyone could convince him otherwise. While everyone else took off their snowy hats and jackets, Cloud slipped upstairs and into the bedroom, finding Tidus pacing angrily.
"Should I ask?" Came Cloud's quiet question. Tidus paused in his steps only long enough to glance at him.
"He laughed at those guys holding hands in the mall today. That couple that was just like us!" Tidus shouted, whipping his scarf from around his neck and chucking it across the room.
Cloud slowly glanced from the striped material to his frustrated partner, before calmly picking up the scarf from the floor. He approached Tidus with slow, patient steps, and hung the scarf on the doorknob beside them.
"I think he was only laughing because one of them was wearing one of those holiday moogle hats, which are supposed to be funny," Cloud said, but Tidus just heaved a sigh, and turned away from him. He unbuttoned his coat, and tossed it onto the bed, leaving Cloud to pick it up and hang it in the closet, since it was still damp from the snow.
Tidus stood in front of the mirror now, dusting the snowflakes out of his blond hair, and Cloud came to stand behind him. Arms laced around his middle, and Tidus stared curiously at their reflection, finding it a little hard to stay mad when Cloud was holding him like this. Cloud rested his head on his shoulder, and admired the way they looked together. There was nothing funny about it. They belonged.
"Why would Jecht laugh at this?" Cloud asked, voice serious.
"You know why. Because it's different. Because in his mind, our relationship is unnatural."
"Did you hear him say anything negative about us since he's been here? He's been a little abrupt with his questions sometimes, but I haven't seen him show any signs of disrespect."
Tidus hesitated, wracking his brain to remember a time in the last two days when Jecht had made fun of or belittled them, but he couldn't think of any. He sighed again; he had really wanted to blame him for something.
He didn't want to think that Cloud's conversation with Jecht had changed his views about them, and he wasn't sure it had, but perhaps simply seeing them together like this, in their happy home, had made Jecht see things clearly. Maybe it was seeing how strong a man Cloud was, or seeing that Tidus was an adult now. Maybe it was a lot of things combined, but perhaps Jecht really didn't think little of them. Perhaps he never had.
"No, I haven't either," Tidus finally replied, grudgingly.
"Do you think it's possible that you're so much on your guard, waiting for him to do something wrong, that you're missing the fact that he's not?"
"It's possible," Tidus rolled his eyes, and he saw Cloud smirk in the mirror.
"I saw that, you know?" Cloud teased, leaning in to rub his nose against Tidus' neck, tickling him fiercely. Tidus let out a squeal and crunched his shoulder up against his neck, trying to block Cloud out as they both broke out in laughter. Cloud relented his attack, and they both turned their heads to smile at each other, Tidus leaning sideways in Cloud's arms, almost turned to face him now.
"I know he hurt you in the past, and I know that nothing can ever make you forget that pain, but people can change. They can grow up, and learn to be more accepting. Before I got my memories back, I know I said some things I would regret now," Cloud explained. Tidus stared at him with those soft, curious eyes that let him know he was listening. "I made some mistakes, but you taught me that that doesn't make me a bad person. Teach him the same thing. I think he really does feel out of place here."
"Do you have to be right all the time?" Tidus teased.
"Just most of it," Cloud smirked back, as Tidus reached for the back of his neck. He stroked the soft hair there, and lifted himself up to meet Cloud's lips. The kiss was short, but gentle. Tidus' eyes drifted up to Cloud's again as he leaned back in his arms.
"It's just hard to let go. I don't know how to let my guard down around him," Tidus said, and he knew the reason why. He couldn't trust Jecht not to hurt him in some way.
"Well, maybe it doesn't have to happen right away. Take your time."
"I'll try," Tidus promised, softly.
Trying was easier said than done, as old habits really did die hard. After a late supper that night, Barret and Cloud went upstairs to help the kids get ready for bed, and Tifa ran out to pick up a few things she'd forgotten for the big dinner the next day.
Tidus emerged from the storage room and, to his dismay, found Jecht still in the bar. Of course, it wasn't surprising to see him in a place with alcohol; it was only surprising to see him wandering around looking at the pictures on the wall instead of sitting with a drink in hand. Jecht looked up when he saw his son appear in the doorway. Tidus just stood there dumbfounded, a broom tight within his grasp. It would look ridiculous if he opted not to sweep now; he supposed that would be a pretty clear indication that he was avoiding his father.
Forcing a brief smile, he stepped into the bar and started sweeping up the supper crumbs, still wanting to do his part to help out. Since Tifa had done the dishes, and Cloud had made the meal, the least he could do was tidy. He didn't make eye contact as he worked; he simply kept his eyes on the floor as he gathered the food remains and minimal amount of dirt into a pile.
Although he was feeling equally uncomfortable, Jecht wasn't about to avoid conversation. He needed to break the ice somehow. Considering how he had treated Tidus in the past, he didn't deserve to be here, and he knew it. He didn't deserve the kindness of these strangers, nor the warmth of their home, and still, here he was.
"Thanks for inviting me. Means a lot," Jecht said, though he unintentionally downplayed it with a shrug, his defensive body language kicking in. Tidus didn't even glance up to see it.
"Don't thank me. It was Cloud's idea," Tidus replied, simply.
"'Course," Jecht nodded after a moment, a sorrowful frown appearing between his brows. His voice was so low and solemn, but even that wasn't enough to make Tidus look at him.
Jecht cleared his throat and turned back to the pictures on the wall, giving a wintry photo of Tidus and Cloud another long look. Tidus sat grinning at the camera, while Cloud rested behind him with his head on his shoulder, his arms around Tidus' neck in a loose loop, and a soft smile on his face. They were both bundled up in warm-looking scarves and jackets. The snow and toboggan in the background indicated that they had probably been out sledding at the time.
"That's a real nice one," Jecht smiled, pointing up at the picture, which rested in a dark oak frame.
"Yeah, Tifa took that last year," Tidus said, but slowly turned his gaze toward his father, silently wondering if he really did like it. He wondered if he really did approve of his and Cloud's relationship. Jecht continued to stare at the picture with a soft, upward curl to his lips, and Tidus eventually decided that Jecht couldn't have faked that look if he'd wanted to.
"You look happy," came his father's next words, and they surprised Tidus even more than his previous comment.
Jecht's eyes travelled over to the next frame, which displayed a photo of Tifa, Cloud, Tidus, and the two kids in front of a giant snowman. Marlene and Denzel stood on either side of the snowman, arms pointed proudly towards him. Tidus stood in the middle of the two adults, an arm around each of them and pulling them in tightly. Everyone was wearing the most joyous expressions. Jecht couldn't remember ever seeing his son so happy.
"These two," he said, tapping lightly on the glass right over Marlene and Denzel. "They're great kids, aren't they?"
"They're the best," Tidus said, honestly. He paused his work to glance up at the picture, then resumed as Jecht turned around, still trying to avoid eye contact.
"You think you and Cloud will ever have any kids of your own?" The question brought Tidus' head up, only because he needed his father to see the frustration in his eyes.
"Those two are our kids," Tidus corrected him with a frown.
"Oh. Sorry," Jecht fumbled, realizing it might have been a sore spot. Tidus stopped sweeping again, and simply stood there looking dejected as he fiddled with the broom in his hands.
"I mean, they aren't really ours, but... Cloud and I talked about it, and they're all we need," Tidus tried to defend himself. Little did he know, Jecht wasn't trying to belittle him. He had simply been trying to make conversation.
"That's fine, too," Jecht said, voice low. He stared at Tidus who was still standing still, eyes solemn as they focused on the floor.
"Look, kid, I didn't come here to pick on ya," he said, strolling towards his son. He lifted a hand, but hesitated before placing it down on Tidus' shoulder. Tidus was almost glaring at him now, head low and eyes pointed up at him, daring him to do it. Jecht let his hand fall to rest on him.
"I know I failed you, kid. I know I did," Jecht said, his gruff voice containing a gentleness that Tidus had very rarely heard. Tidus looked up a little more, sternly, cautiously.
"I see what you have here, and I think about what I could have had, but that time has passed now. And I'll admit, back when you were young, I didn't care about having a family," Jecht said, and though Tidus had long suspected that was the case, it still hurt to hear those words from his own father's lips. Jecht gave his son's shoulder a gentle squeeze.
"But you're doing great here. And I'm glad you didn't end up like me." He gave a smile, his scarred cheeks twisting upward, before he let go of Tidus and headed for the stairs.
"If you don't want me to stay, I won't," Jecht said, stopping with one foot on the bottom step.
"Dad..." Tidus whispered, unsure of what to say.
"You can lemme know in the mornin'," Jecht grunted, as he trotted up the steps.
Tidus continued to stand there feeling torn, until Cloud came down the stairs a moment later. He frowned when he saw Tidus' lost expression.
"You okay? Did he say something to you?" Cloud asked, each question coming out more desperate as he rushed to hold Tidus shoulders.
"He did, but... He also sorta praised me," Tidus said, numbly, staring off into the distance rather than meeting Cloud's worried eyes.
"So... Are you okay?" Cloud asked again, and Tidus lips curled upward the tiniest bit.
"Y-yeah, I think so. It's just weird, is all," he said, softly, as he was pulled into Cloud's arms. He was held close as they swayed side-to-side in tiny motions. He let out the breath that had felt so tight in his lungs, the breath he'd been holding pretty much since Jecht had left the room. His arms found their way around Cloud's waist, hands resting in the dip of his spine.
"He's probably realizing how lonely he is. He spent his life away from his family, and he spent a lot of years in solitude when he became Sin, and... now he's back in a world that's not his Zanarkand, and you're not there, and his friends are gone..."
"That does sound lonely," Tidus breathed tiredly, into the crook of Cloud's neck.
"And we both know that feeling," Cloud whispered, leaning forward to place a gentle kiss on the back of Tidus' neck, the strands of his wild hair curling in against his nose. Tidus laughed softly as Cloud's breath tickled his skin, and his hands tightened around his back.
"I love you," Tidus hummed. "And I still would even if my old man hated our guts for it."
"Me, too. It's just a bonus that he doesn't," Cloud smiled, revelling in the sound of Tidus' chuckle as the young man relaxed in his arms.
"G'mornin'," Tidus greeted, with a gentle knock on Jecht's door. Jecht opened up, and was surprised to see his son had come to him all on his own.
"Mornin'," Jecht greeted back, briskly, leaving the door standing open as he went back inside the room. It didn't take long for Tidus to realize he was packing; he pulled his few items from the dresser drawers, and returned to the bed where his suitcase was lying open. Haphazardly, he tossed them in.
"Wait, Dad, you're leaving?" Tidus asked, eyes wide.
"Thought it'd be best," Jecht shrugged, giving Tidus a brief glance as he grabbed his toothbrush and shaving kit from atop the dresser. Tidus hurried into the room, startling Jecht, and earning a curious look from his father.
"I don't want you to go," Tidus said, and Jecht's eyes widened further in shock.
"You don't?"
"No. I want you to stay... and have a nice holiday dinner with us," he said, with a small shrug and a smile.
"Is Cloud making you do this?" Jecht asked, shifting uncomfortably. Tidus wildly shook his head.
"Cloud's not making me do anything. He just... made me see things in a different light, that's all. And the things you said last night, well... they did, too," Tidus admitted. Jecht continued to stand there, looking uncertain.
"I know, it's gonna take time for us to really be okay with each other, but let's start now," Tidus offered, outstretching a hand.
Jecht eyed it, that silent offer of peace; it meant more than he could ever explain. His son was a bigger man than him—smarter, kinder, better—but as a parent, that was the best kind of gift. Jecht felt comfort in knowing that Tidus was a sweet-hearted, all-round good person.
Jecht felt a tearful smile coming on, and he violently blinked the tears away, but allowed the smile to remain. Confidently, he reached a hand out and shook Tidus', his free hand coming to rest on top of their entwined ones.
"That sounds perfect," Jecht grinned.
Dinner was a wonderful success, one filled with stories and laughter, and delicious food that left everyone comfortably stuffed. Afterwards, they sat around telling tales of past adventures, which continued into the evening when Cid and the others arrived for the gift exchange. While everyone was busy watching Marlene and Denzel open their presents, Jecht pulled Tidus and Cloud aside. They strolled over to the bar, and Jecht handed them a big, square present, wrapped in gold paper with a bow on top. Jecht smirked and rubbed the back of his head.
"I'll be honest, Yuna helped me wrap it," he chuckled.
"Heh, that's alright," Tidus grinned, admiring the girl's handiwork, before looking to Cloud.
"You can open it," Cloud suggested, since it was a gift from his father. Tidus nodded, and tore the paper away to find a big, leather album.
"It's lame, I know, but I thought you should have some memories of home. Of Zanarkand," Jecht stated. Tidus opened the book, mouth parting in awe at the old photos stuck neatly into the album, each one tucked into black photo corners.
Cloud took a step forward, leaning in to take a peek himself. He immediately smiled softly at the sight of young Tidus—a sight he'd never even seen before. The small boy stood on a dock surrounded by water, his hands behind his back and a smile on his face. He still looked like the same Tidus—same hair, same smile, only much smaller, his young cheeks round and rosy.
"Jecht, this is incredible. Thank you," Cloud beamed, with a glance up at the older man. Tidus turned to the next page, and laughed as he saw a picture of himself practicing Blitzball, bouncing the ball off his knee. The very next photo was of him landing on his backside.
"Wait, Dad, how did you even get these? Zanarkand... Our Zanarkand is..."
"Long gone, I know. But Yuna was able to communicate with the fayth, and they found these somewhere in that bizarre dreamworld of theirs. Then I asked Cosmos was able to make them into something tangible, which are the pictures you see here," Jecht explained, pointing to the photos.
"I don't even know what to say," Tidus whispered, glancing up at his father. "You really pulled out all the stops to get us these."
"Well, I thought it was important," Jecht said, voice ending on a low note. "You know, for Cloud to know where you came from, and for you to have the memories."
"Dad..." Tidus flipped to the next page, finding a picture of himself with his sixth birthday cake. He sat grinning at the camera, while his parents knelt at either side of his chair, each with a hand on his shoulders. Tidus was overwhelmed by the sight of his young self looking so happy, and he closed the book before he could get weepy.
"Thanks so much, Dad," Tidus said, handing the book to Cloud before moving forward to embrace his father.
Jecht stood stiffly at first, the feeling of his son's arms around his neck so foreign to him now, but he thought back to that little boy on the dock, and felt he owed him this—so much so. Jecht smiled softly, and hugged Tidus back, making him feel oddly safe in those big, muscular arms.
"You're welcome, my boy," he whispered. "And thank you both, for having me here for Christmas."
"Can we expect to see you next year?" Tidus asked, the question striking both Jecht and Cloud with surprise. Once their shock transformed into soft smiles, Jecht gave a gentle chuckle.
"If you can stand me again next year, then yeah," Jecht agreed, gratefully. "Count on it."
A/N: Happy December, readers! It has been a super crazy year for all of us, but I wanted to make sure I had a little something to upload for the holidays (especially since it appears I haven't updated this story since June! Ah, the shame!). No matter what you're celebrating (or not celebrating) this holiday season, I hope you all enjoy this time of year, and have a safe and wonderful New Year! Take care, everyone!
