Disclaimer: I do not own Final Fantasy VII, characters, places, etc. All rights belong to Square and their respected owners.
The Flame of You…
Chapter 10
It was the sheer thought of denial that discerned him. Throughout the storm-filled night, his opulent gaze was cast to the closed door, with the mere thought of what lay beyond it. Oh, the fleeting beat of his beastly heart made him quiver with a thousand thrilling-chilling emotions he had yet to comprehend. A simple touch had deconstructed his entire lifestyle.
From the dark and morose man he was, Vincent had changed within this scant of days. Was it even possible to change? The very thought of a metamorphosis between soulless monster and compassionate man had altered his perspective upon the life he had obtained. Jesú, he never believed it possible. And now, here he was, pining for a woman simply twenty feet away. Oh God, the very image of her amidst tangled white sheets... Wait. Better yet, the thought of her sweaty in unraveled black satin sheets seemed to appease his hungering mind. He wanted her.
The complete lust of having her all to himself, and no one, dare taking her from him, entranced him. His aching heart yearning for such release, his body desiring closure. What a contradiction his entity made. Hath he not sworn off to such sinful pleasantries? The moral thought of living like a priest now seemed ludicrous. God, there was so much in the world to enjoy. Did he not deserve a little peace?
His sins. Of course, he could never forget them. They had tainted his black soul for years. In utter torment within that box, his alleged final resting place. The sound of Hojo driving nails within the black coffin echoed throughout the hollows of his mind. He could imagine still feeling the liquid the crazed scientist had injected within him, thus giving his state of sleep.
Those years. So many. Wasted. And what was it for, a woman that merely used him? How cruel and ironic Fate could be. It was by the hand of the Dire Sisters, that he suffered with these monstrous abominations. The demons never seemed to quail his unending nightmares. He had been lost for so many years without the slightest trace of hope; he had lost that long ago.
Vincent turned his burning gaze to his hands, or rather, hand. A slight tremor ran down his spine as he worked the brass-claw. The sharp digits synchronized with perfection as to that of a normal hand. Placing it to his face, he felt the cold exterior chill his pallid cheek, as he felt nothing within the claw. How he longed to obtain feeling once again in the useless appendage.
Shoving the hopeless thought aside, a faint smile outlined his dry lips. Yuffie never shirked from its ghastly appearance. Actually, she welcomed its cool touch. Could she handle the trace of it upon her skin permanently? Would she accept its harsh exterior if they made love? Could she willingly bind her soul to his, if knowing he would be the sole lover in her life? She could never leave him; he would never allow it.
No, if she made the decision of staying with him, he could never find it in himself to let her go. Too many rejections had not settled well with him. Without her, he would certainly revert to insanity; that was inevitable. He admitted he was jealous, even to point of harming another; he could never give her up. Not when she had opened a window within the darkened depths of his damned soul. Yuffie was his light.
Another pain struck his pounding heart. Soon. Yes, soon, he would have her. She would see what her relentless search had done to him. He had never expected to find something on this journey. It was only out of obligation that he had begun this quest. That was not entirely true. Somehow, within the depths of his morose mind, he had wanted her from the beginning. It was as if he had somehow waited for her to fall upon his lap in an unexpected visit, thus changing his doomed fate of being alone.
Yes, he had cared for her in the days of Avalanche. Even when, the others ridiculed her, he felt a slight feeling of pity for the girl. He admitted he was upset when she had stolen his Materia. Actually, it was more disappointment than anger. She had lied and betrayed him. Oh yes, he wasn't pleased with her immature actions, especially when he seen her hanging helplessly from the Da Chao Statue…
And then it hit him. Vincent acknowledged his feelings when seeing her being touched by the scandalous pervert Corneo. Thank God, the bastard fell to his eternal end. Vincent prayed the ingrate roasted in hell with Hojo. The very thought of Yuffie being raped by him, made Vincent burn with anger. It was that reason he was so cold to her. How could he show concern when he could barely control the demons raging inside of him? Even then, he cared for her. Oh God, he was probably a coldhearted beast to her, when she needed comfort. Damn him for being so insolent.
But now, he could make it up to her, and he would. He would be the one to draw her close, wipe her unnecessary tears away, marry her…make love to her. Yes, he could be the perfect lover for her. Did she desire children? Oh, he had wanted them for so long. Even he wished for humanistic things. And now, he could possibly have them. If only she accepted his offer.
It was simple enough, if she could discard Reno and endure a cozy lifestyle, possible children, and mainly himself, he could make her happy. Of all things within this mortal realm, Vincent only wanted her. He needed her. She was what he had searched for and yet, never found. Until now, that is. Yes, she was his life, his very essence of existence. And she would be his.
Standing up, Vincent inaudibly buttoned a black shirt over his bare chest and rolled its long sleeves to three-quarter length. Raking the claw though his hair, Vincent gazed at the reflecting image. The bloody-eyes seemed to glare with pure need. Not now. No, he must compose himself until that time. It was the unfortunate knowledge of waiting that vexed him. God! Could he just not open her door and bring her to his bed? The imprudent drive of having her made his mind ache.
Stifling a sigh, he pulled his ebon locks away from his face and quietly made his way to the bar. He had made sure to lock the door before leaving. Vincent could not have her knowing what lay behind the simple frame of wood.
Cloud had completely remodeled the entire bar, since his last visit. It seemed, the ex-Soldier wished to make up for past regrets with his wife. In doing so, he constructed this bar. Yes, the silly things men do for the women they adore. A smile traced his lips when he thought of what he could offer Yuffie. She did not realize that he had already purchased two things in her favour. There was so much he could give her, if only she accepted it.
Sitting at a stool, Vincent inattentively drew invisible designs upon the bar's dark marble surface. His hand traced heart-shaped sketches as a blank glare reached his face. Yuffie would start her search again. No, he could not allow her pursuit to prolong. But, how could he divert her for such a time? Very soon he would have to tell her. Christ, where could he begin? The very concept of confessing seemed to cause a headache. What if she ran from him? His heart would shatter.
His somber deliberation softly melted when he noticed the clanking of boots from behind. Turning, he noticed the former Soldier rub an eye and yawn. His messy blonde spikes were even more wayward. Vincent did not wish to wonder why.
The drowsy husband walked behind the bar and began to pour a drink. Facing Vincent, he asked him, "Would you care for a drink?"
Vincent quietly shook his head. "No, Cloud, that will not be necessary." He hesitated before continuing. "Rough night?"
Cloud immediately spat out his newly poured beer. Wiping the spittle from his lip, he blinked. "Pardon? Did…did you just insinuate? Oh my God! What has she done to you?" He chuckled softly. "It seems our lovely Miss Kisaragi has made quite an impact upon you! Tell me, has she also taught you to say dirty comments?"
"And what if she has? What's it to you, Cloud?" He answered stoically.
The blonde took another sip of the cold beer. "Oh, nothing. I was merely wondering that's all. Besides, I take it you two will be leaving soon?"
"Not if I can help it." Vincent muttered under his breath.
A golden brow rose. His bleak friend did not realize that he too, had sensitive hearing, a Jenova trait. Smirking, he countered. "I heard that, procrastinator! So, you do plan to keep her away from him? Why the sudden change of mind?"
The gunman glanced at him with a faceless expression. Murmuring, he retorted, "That base-born ingrate does not deserve her. If he dare hurt her again, Cloud, so help me God, he will not draw another breath."
Cloud realized the hidden threat within his dark words. Vincent was serious. Even to the point of murdering, Vincent would not allow harm to befall his companion. Christ, he certainly cared for her, to the point of adding another sin. She did not realize the bond the ex-Turk had with her. It would be rather impossible to break him away from Yuffie. And God, help whoever tried doing so.
"I take it you do not approve of their relationship either? I thought you didn't care what happened to her?"
Vincent blinked. "It's not the matter of caring, Cloud. It's simply the principle of keeping her away from him. I will not allow him to take her away…"
Shit. Vincent truly cared for her. He may have been a little slow, but Cloud knew the understatement Vincent made. He was infatuated with her, possibly to the point of loving her. Saints in the heavens, Yuffie had certainly made an impression upon him; it was almost too hard to swallow. Did Vincent realize what kind of complications such a relationship would cause? Christ, many would cast disdain upon them. But, in some morbid sense, they complemented each other quite well.
Wait. What was he thinking? Vincent and Yuffie? No, it was theoretically impossible such a relationship would materialize. And yet, he noticed the look in her eyes when he had threatened Vincent last night. She had obviously cared for him in that form. Perhaps, she too, even loved the former Turk, but would never consider it. It was almost paradoxical that two complete opposites found love within one another. It was indeed something to take into account.
A wry grin formed upon his crooked lips, his scar creasing. "I may have a solution to at least stall her for a day." He watched the gunman look at him with an avid expression. "Suggest she go shopping with Tifa today? I mean girls enjoy looking for new things, believe me, it's a woman thing! Besides, it could get her mind off that idiot, while you formulate what to do next, right?"
Vincent considered his words thoughtfully and quietly nodded. "Yes, that would give me adequate time to figure out where to go. I wish to keep her from the obvious places that vagrant would be in." Clenching his claw, he muttered, "I know we will meet up with him sometime, but hopefully she will be out of his lying trance and realize…" he stopped himself. "And realize that she is better off without him."
"Yeah, I understand you point. Yuffie needs to be with someone that will love and protect her, Vincent." He eyed him seriously. "I really do not wish to see her harmed by him. Besides, she deserves to find happiness. I understand she's only seventeen, but still. She cannot be alone the rest of her life."
"I don't intend her to." He mentally slapped himself for blurting that out. Now, Cloud realized his intention. How much more obtuse could he be? Eyeing his friend's glowing glare, he waited for the harsh sermon he would give.
"Oh?" A trace of humour rang in his voice. "Aha! I knew it! I knew it! Oh, if I were on a game show, I'd clean 'em! What? Did you honestly think I'm that stupid? Christ, Vincent, I realized it last night. If I wanted to lecture you, I would have already done it already."
"You knew? How?" He tried to mask his shock.
"Oh, I don't know, by your action's? By the protective glare you give over her? It is obvious, you know?"
"Shit." Vincent muttered under his breath.
"I heard that! My, my, Vincent using profanity! What is the world coming to?" He gently tapped his chin. "Well, I deduce you will tell her? I mean you cannot let her not know! I mean it's sorta noticeable that you do, and like, well, she's bound to find out soon enough, right?"
"Cloud, you're blowing this out of proportion. I did not say anything of the sort!" His lie was clearly apparent.
The ex-mercenary read through his friend's smokescreen. God, Vincent certainly did try to hide his true emotions. Especially, when it concerned Yuffie. "Am I?" He said mockingly. "I don't think so, Vincent. I will tell you this," he cleared his throat. "If you do win her, I better not catch you breaking her heart. Or, this time I will not hesitate beating you down with the Ultima."
Vincent read his friend's threatening remark. It was true that Cloud did consider Yuffie a surrogate sister. Nevertheless, he would not disappoint the former Soldier; nothing could make him hurt her. "You have my word, Cloud." He whispered. "I would die before doing so."
Cloud glared at the gunman's slumped form. He really did care for her. It somewhat surprised him that Vincent would just drop Lucrecia for another. For thirty-years, he ached for this woman he held so highly. And now, someone that was considered insignificant raptures his dark heart? Shiva, it was somewhat strange to think.
A light smile crossed his jagged lips as he took a seat beside of him. "I never expected you would return here, and with Yuffie no less. But, I will not hold it against you for caring for her. Just, consider what she wants." He spoke with sincerity. "I don't want her heartbroken over a man that wishes to leave her, she has had so much of it. Try to make her understand there is another for her. Vincent, I know you will take care of her."
He was giving him his consent for Yuffie? The very thought made Vincent grateful. Even Cloud, could understand his humane feelings for her. It was as if all was forgiven and now, he could finally have her. At least, he did not have to worry over a big brother beating him. He inwardly smiled at the thought of people accepting his desire. If Cloud, could condone it, others could.
"Thank-you, Cloud." He faintly murmured. "I appreciate your blessing. If she realizes it, I promise, I will not let her regret her decision."
Cloud quietly nodded. "I know, you won't. Anyway, I best prepare myself for taking care of Imara, while the girls are out. You best be convincing her to go, while I tell Tifa."
"I shall." He answered, getting up from the wooden barstool. "Yuffie would enjoy a day without me looming over her, for once. Perhaps, this day may change her mind."
"Indeed." The ex-Soldier smiled and returned to his bedroom. Hopefully, his wife would understand the circumstances between Vincent and Yuffie. It was apparent that she too, realized something going on between the couple. At least, she would be agreeable of keeping her young friend's mind off of Reno.
****
It was quite a delectable embarrassment that Vincent had to see her in the guise of a gorgon. The sheer insanity of desiring to see her before five in the morning did represent itself as odd. Odin, couldn't he have at least waited until a decent hour for suggesting an offhand thing like shopping? What was getting into the man? Did he honestly wish to be rid of her for a few hours? The very thought pained her heart.
She hesitantly wrenched herself out of the ruffled white sheets and made her way to the bathroom, not even bothering to conceal her nearly nude form. Stumbling to the vanity, she noticed the dark ringlets under her blurry-eyes and harshly wiped them with a hand. Her milk-toned skin had imprints of where she laid in the wrinkled sheets. Sighing, she stripped her skimpy top and pants and staggered to the shower. At least, she could guarantee a warm welcoming of water.
What even made him to suggest she enjoy herself, she wondered? Did he honestly wish her to take a day off from this journey, or was it something else? Vincent sounded sincere when he made the suggestion from the door. But, what in God's name made him think of it in the first place? She knew he was going to stay out of this little escapade, while she and Tifa bought out the entire town. He had even offered her Gil to shop with.
Yuffie frowned at the thought of him being so charitable. God, did he believe that was all that mattered? No, she would prove to him that there was more to her than desiring material things. Yes, if she could show her grateful appreciation with something. A smile crossed her face from the idea. She could finally pay him back for his kindness on this journey.
Her troubles seemed to melt away with the steamy water dripping from her body. A pure sense of euphoria hit her as she breathed in the botanical soap. Yes, she would enjoy herself today. Without thinking about the quest and with another objective in mind.
****
The young Shinobi slightly smiled at Tifa cradling the young child in her arms. It was a little surprising to hear the couple actually had a child. Yuffie would have never guessed them to have one so soon. However, seeing Tifa coo at the child's sleeping form almost made her wish to have a few of her own. Wait. What was thinking? Children now? Good God, she was barely an adult herself.
Tifa noticed her standing by the curved stairwell and gently placed the child into her husband's strong arms. The blonde smiled at his darling daughter and whispered into a tiny ear. Obviously, Cloud was as crazy over his daughter as was his wife. And wouldn't they be? Having a child take after both parents would certainly raise their ego.
Imara Strife had hair of the darkest night and eyes the colour of shimmering sapphires. Her tiny dimples gave off a Shirley Temple affect and her impish smile made all those who laid eyes on her awe with intrigue. Indeed, both mother and father were proud of their little girl. Certainly, this child would be taught the ways of physical combat from both, and have that fiery spark her parents obtained.
Tifa kissed her sleeping daughter a final time before speaking, "I have three bottles ready for her if she wakes up. You know what to do right?" She asked hesitantly.
Cloud snorted. "It's not often that I get to play 'daddy', honey. Now, get out that door, before I have to shove you out!" He teased. "And it would also be good if you exercised your leg. The doctor said to as much as possible."
"I know. I will enjoy myself today don't worry. Yuff and I have plans!"
"Don't buy out Kalm, like last time, dear! I still have not finished paying off those credit card bills!"
"Hey! I did not spend that much! You love to exaggerate!" She huffed with mock-anger. "But, now that I think of it, I may just purchase that new bedroom suite! I have had my eye on it for the past seven months!"
A look of dread crossed his face. "I knew I shouldn't have teased with you! You can be so literal!"
Tifa gave him a light peck on the lips and nuzzled his scarred cheek. "I was only joking, dear! But, I do want it before I die. We should return later this evening. You boys watch Imara and try not to get into too much trouble, all right?"
"What trouble?" Cloud teased as he watched her and Yuffie depart. Turning, he eyed his dark friend and smiled. "I do believe that both of them with not come back empty-handed. I just dread to see the bill next month!"
Vincent raised a dark eyebrow in question. "But, that's what you love about her, isn't it?"
"Oh, yes. I wouldn't trade anything for Tifa." He exhaled with a lover's sigh. "I don't mind wasting money, as long as it makes her happy. I don't mind at all…"
****
"And I also love that end-table over there." Tifa pointed to a tiny half-table. "Cloud's not much of a decourator. It's a shame, really. I honestly thought he had that touch of organization!" She chuckled softly. "Apparently, he just enjoys whatever I choose for our house. For a while, he wouldn't even go out… But that's all right; I prefer the dashing blonde soldier type that sweeps a lady off of her feet! How bout you?"
Yuffie simply nodded. It was not her place to ask about Cloud's discomfort around people. They had revered him as a hero, but now, they stared at him because of the mark he bore. God, people were so judgmental, just like her Vincent, they always seemed to attract attention. Wait. Her Vincent? A small blush appeared upon her pallid cheeks. Quickly adding, she murmured, "I beg to differ, Tifa. I favour the tall, dark, and handsome, category." Her flush deepened.
Tifa noticed her blush and smiled. Caught. It was apparent her young friend was not speaking of her Reno, but more of someone else… "Thinking about something, or should I say, someone, Yuffie?"
"What? Oh, no, I just remembered something funny. So, what do you plan on buying today? Surely, you are getting something?" She quickly changed subjects.
The young mother noted her friend's disclosure on the matter. Apparently, it was a little too personal. Whatever it was. "I planned on buying Cloud a new pair of sunglasses, since his are falling to pieces and a new outfit for Imara."
"She's a sweetie, I love her! Is she a little imp?"
"Oh, she's feisty, but Cloud and I are glad to have her. I never expected being a mother would be so tiring, yet I believe it's worth it! Yuffie, you would make an excellent mother." Tifa said offhandedly.
Yuffie's eyes widened as she gawked at her friend in sudden disbelief. "What? God, Tifa! I'm pushing eighteen, I'm sure popping out kids can wait a few more years. Besides, I don't think-" Yuffie caught herself before uttering something she might regret.
Tifa creased a brow in question. "Don't think what, Yuffie?"
"Nothing! It's nothing. I just don't see me being a mom that's all. I mean kids and me? It's like adding fire to gunpowder. You do not need little Yuffies running around!"
Tifa giggled at her comment. "Oh, come on, Yuffie! I know you would be a great mom, its just finding the perfect father." She stopped at the thought of Yuffie and Reno. No way in hell.
The heiress cast a blank stare to the ground. "I know what you're thinking." She muttered in a mundane tone. "And Reno already stated he never wanted children. He said if I got 'knocked-up', to have an abortion…"
"Oh Yuffie." Tifa's smiled faded as she placed an arm around her slumped shoulder. "Did he and you?"
"No." she murmured, shaking her head, "I told him I didn't want to do that. Not right now, anyway. I don't know, he just got upset and went to a bar that night." She wiped a tear from an eye. "I never felt comfortable when he wanted to have sex. It just didn't…feel right. I don't know what I'm saying!"
"Yuffie, whatever your instinct says, listen to it. It may have kept you from regretting something."
"I don't know, Tifa. This entire crusade of finding him just doesn't seem as glorious as it used to be. I feel so…lost. And yet, I know where I'm going. I'm here, in Kalm, with you, and I have Vincent-I have Vincent with me…"
Caught. It was all too clear. Tifa had noticed the fleeting gaze upon her young friend's gaze when she mentioned the former Turk's name. Even Cloud, had noticed it. She had considered her dark defender with more than admiration; the girl was infatuated. Christ, did she not realize the danger of placing her care in him? She had to comprehend if she caused Vincent to love her, then she could not leave him. Vincent would crumble if she did.
Oh yes, Tifa knew of Vincent's unstable mind. A woman had caused the pain in the first place. And now, that he seemed to have finally let her go, he focused upon Yuffie. Even the blind could tell that the gunman cared for her. No God's wonder, he had shown protection over her, he deemed her, his. Vincent Valentine truly cared for this woman. The question was could she produce the same feelings?
It was apparent Yuffie shown concern for him as a friend, but lover? She needed to find out before something terrible occurred. However, a seed of trust was imbedded within her that Yuffie's feelings were mutual. Call it woman's intuition, but Yuffie undoubtedly held this man within a special place of her heart. Vincent may have the possible chance of actually winning her love, if he only tried.
Tifa inwardly smiled at the thought. However, others would not see eye-to-eye with her modern beliefs. Prudence and old world principle seemed to play base key to the world today. Gone, was the belief love existed and held no form. The sheer ideal of loving someone beyond his or her years was illegal. Well, in their case anyway. She rebuked the blind law for its harsh indifference.
Casting her irritated thoughts aside, Tifa turned to Yuffie. "Is there somewhere in particular you would like to shop?"
"Oh, yes! I would like to see that new boutique across the street. I noticed it when Vincent and I came in last night. That is, if you don't mind?"
"Of course, not! Actually, I wanted to see what was in there myself. They've only been open for a week and from what I hear, the taste in style is quite lavish."
A small grin crossed her rosy lips. "They have dresses, then?"
Tifa gave her an odd look. "Yeah! And other womanly things! Why do you wish to know?"
Yuffie bit the side of her lip as she walked across the busy cobblestone street. "I don't have dress. It's been probably ten-years at least, since I wore one. I never liked dressing up as a child. My mother made me because she believed it to be ladylike."
"And you want to buy one?" she asked, disbelief evident in her voice.
"I just want to see what I look like with one on, you know?" Yuffie muttered and opened the door. "I may look like Jenova, but hell, I just want to see what I would look like."
Inwardly, the older woman was joyous of the thought of Yuffie actually changing her style. Perhaps, if she enjoyed wearing a dress, then she would actually wear one. Her looks should not be wasted under a guise of childhood innocence. No, the young ninja deserved to be what God intended her to be, a true vision of feminine beauty. And Yuffie certainly was beautiful.
Her fickle decisions between dresses reminded Tifa in a younger version. For so long, she too, would change her mind about clothing. Especially, when it meant buying only one. She noticed Yuffie filing through the racks of garments, carelessly making disdainful expressions to each dress she encountered. "Gawd, are dresses always this ugly, Tifa?" She asked in disgust.
"These dresses are in style, Yuff. I have seen many girls your age wear them."
"They're stupid! Look at them!" She held a chartreuse dress in her right hand, its low-cut front hanging loosely from her grip. "This is slutty and unattractive! I want something with more class, more style, more elegance."
"Like this?" The ex-fighter held a white dress in a hand.
Yuffie's clouded-eyes widened slightly as she gingerly took the garment from Tifa's thin hand. Her fingers traced the delicate satin as she played with the intricate beads stitched in various areas. A small grin crossed her lips as she quickly nodded. "I'll be back in a few, Tifa! It appears this dress may be an exception."
The heiress donned the elegant dress in hesitation as she glanced at herself in the mirror. The loose fitting dress lightly clung to her bony hips and whatever cleavage she had. Ranking a hand through her short-cropped hair, Yuffie examined her appearance. The small sense of joy filled her when she noticed she did not look too bad in a dress.
Perhaps, she could wear it for a special occasion. Yes, this dress felt wonderful upon her frail form, like a second-skin. The tiny crystals sewed into its white tresses shimmered in the ceiling lights as she caressed a side of it. The soft sinewy texture felt wonderful against her skin. This dress was indeed one to behold. It was as if the garment was especially made for her.
Looking at her reflection, she faintly imagined herself standing in a crowded ballroom, dancing, and enjoying the feel of it crashing against her flesh, its cool fabric gently caressing her skin with each step as she whirled in perfect synchronization upon the golden tiles. God, what an imagination she could conjure up! A tiny presence evoked in her mind evoked her out of the daydream. It seemed…so real. In a sense, it was.
Disclosing her musings, she finally opened the door and greeted her friend with the elegant gown. Tifa's ruby-eyes slightly widened to see the vision in front of her. Yuffie was truly the picture of hidden-beauty. From her sage-coloured locks, to the hem of the sallow dress, Yuffie was clearly a goddess of ancient times. No wonder her dark guardian protected her, he knew what kind of woman she truly was. Edwards was a fool to have not seen the sheer beauty Yuffie radiated. He would regret losing her to someone who actually seen beyond the façade she fabricated.
"Yuffie," she gasped with amusement. "You are so beautiful! It's a shame you don't wear dresses like this! Guys would be crawling all over you to have such a beauty within their possession."
Yuffie faintly smiled. "You think so? I thought I looked like Jenova in it!" She said with half-truth. "I actually like the feel of this dress!"
"It suits you, Yuffie. Truly, I think you should buy it."
"I was considering it, but don't tell everyone that I actually bought anything feminine, I would never hear the end of it."
"You know I would never tell a secret! I still haven't mentioned that time you mixed Cid's nose-spray with mouthwash!" Tifa lightly chuckled. "Besides, you could always wear it to some kind of celebration or ball. Now that I'm thinking of it, you have heard of that ball some of high society is throwing, right?"
Yuffie creased her brows. "No, what's it for?"
Tifa snorted with apparent disdain. "Actually, it's a celebration for the ones who saved them from the evils of Jenova and Meteor. Almost everyone was invited, I believe. Cloud and I got an invitation last Thursday, did you get yours yet?"
Yuffie frowned and cast her eyes to the carpeted floor. "No, I never got one. Of course, I've been gone, but I expect I won't since I'm merely the tagalong of the team…"
"Yuffie," Tifa placed a comforting hand upon a slumped shoulder. "You were never a tagalong! Everyone knows you had done just as much as the rest of us. Don't people come up to you and ask for your signature? Cloud and I have already proclaimed no more for this month. Yuff, what's wrong?"
The ninja sighed heavily and glared at the dirty spot upon the grey carpet. "No, Tifa, I don't get the respect the others do. No one even asks if I was part of the team and the ones who know usually say snide remarks. I even have the pleasure of being called my nicknames Cid and Barret kindly gave!" she muttered as she forced her tears back. "You know, I don't think I'll get this dress. I have no need of it."
"Yuffie, listen, just because others say things like that, does not mean, it's true. This ball? It's another pointless way for people to get recognized and find a perfect excuse of wasting money. They were expecting Cloud and I to go, and now for the hell of it, we won't. We have Imara and our lives to concern ourselves with. Society needs to drop the fact that we are gods and move on."
"I suppose so. Look, after I put this back, we can find some other store. I need to get out of here…"
Tifa's warm hand fell from Yuffie's flaccid shoulder. Damn her for even mentioning it! How could she have known that Yuffie would be hurt with such a trivial invitation? The guilt she bore stabbed her heart. Perhaps Vincent… No. She could not suggest the possibility, not even in her mind.
The very consideration of him escorting Yuffie to a gaudy ball did seem strange. And yet, it seemed fitting. A wry smiled cracked her slender lips. Society would have a heart failure if they seen them with each other. Oh, the very image of it seemed beautiful. Perhaps, a little suggesting would point the gunman to asking her. Maybe then…
Yes, Vincent seemed to be the perfect match for the young heiress. His bad-boy exterior, mixing with her skin-deep angelic attitude, did appear to mesh well. The ex-Turk seemed to suite her, well in a morbid sense anyway. Oh yes, she and her husband would have to have a little talk about this idea when she got home. He would love to hear another one of her crazed schemes of playing matchmaker! Her successes of bringing the profane pilot and soft-spoken rocket technician together was a miracle, not as miraculous as pairing her old friend up with the dead Ancient's foster mother. No one called her the love goddess for nothing.
If this pair worked, she could retire with a heavy sum of appreciation from her colleagues. It was a long shot, but Tifa could manage it. Well, at least that was what she believed. Besides, she inwardly assumed that Vincent could treat her best-friend far better than Reno ever could. That was a certainty.
Briefly sighing, she watched Yuffie reluctantly place the dress back on its idle hanger and nodded for her to leave. It was a pity she did not purchase the dress. Truly, it looked quite becoming upon her slender form. A subtle thought of hinting the garment in front of Vincent seemed tempting. She indolently wondered if the former Turk would sneak behind her back and buy it for her anyway. Vincent did not seem like the type to do so. But now, the impossibility seemed quite feasible. It was apparent that Vincent was not the same dreary person he was a year prior. She merely prayed she was correct.
Eyeing Yuffie, she noticed the girl's view was cast to the wet cobblestones, which seemed as if she were in deep contemplation. It was obvious that her morose thoughts lingered upon what they had discussed minutes earlier. "Yuffie," Tifa questioned in a comforting tone. "Listen, all right? I want you to drop this and enjoy the rest of the day with me. If not, I'm going to embarrass you!"
The young legatee's somber faced gazed at her with slight puzzlement. "How so?" she answered weakly.
The new wife placed a finger to her chin as if in deep consideration. "How about screaming you're in love with…Cait Sith?"
The cynical ninja smirked. "Go ahead. People will laugh at you!"
"Okay!" Tifa answered with a mocking tone of sarcasm. "Hmm! All right, I'll shout to the heaven's you're madly in love with…Vincent! I'm sure he'd love to hear that!"
Yuffie paled as Tifa uttered her guardian's name. "No! You wouldn't dare! Anyone, Tifa, but him!"
"And why not, Yuffie? I thought you two were merely friends?" a wry grin traced her ruby lips. "Is there something you would care to explain?"
"There's nothing to explain, Tifa. Vincent and I are merely friends! No more, no less! Where do you get these hair-brained ideas that we're more than that?" Her mordant tone faded when she noticed Tifa already knew. Damn. Was it that obvious? Wait. What was obvious? Oh shit.
"Oh, really?" she asked, her tone enamoured with disbelief. "Dare I have the audacity not to believe you? God, Yuffie! You cannot tell me that you're still utterly in love with Reno! You haven't mentioned him but maybe once on this excursion!"
"Tifa, please, let's not get into my relationship with Reno. I just want to enjoy a day where people will not banter me with it. I would like to think of other things than worrying about that lowlife with every minute I breathe." She sighed heavily and continued. "This day, I want to make it a happy one, for once. I mean the past week has been wonderful without the anxieties of my life. I enjoy just watching the sunset. It's been so long that I have taken the time for it."
The ex-bar-hostess silently agreed. It was clear that she would have to go behind her trusting friend's back and make her see what she was evidently in denial of. The question was; how could she? It was not simple as making Cid realize his secret feelings for Shera, or forcing Barret to move on with his life with another. With Vincent and Yuffie, she was in an entirely new arena, with no rules, and no basis to begin. Tifa would be emperor and gladiator within this fight. She could only pray she would win both sides.
Smiling, she concluded. "I quite agree. How about we visit that little shop over there? I've never been to it before. Actually, it's odd that I've never noticed it being there. I really need to get out more."
Yuffie eyed the quaint little edifice in-between the Weapon's and Materia shops. It's timely Victorian-style windows and brick-like structure held a classy chic to it. Most likely, it presented itself to be another formal clothing store with over-expensive items. Yuffie cringed at the thought of another dress. Sighing, she opened the glass door and allowed Tifa to enter first.
Her dull-eyes widened to see she had judged this place unfairly. Good God, this was not at a clothing store at all. The myriad of relics from centuries past proved this place to be more of her taste. Everything seemed to be seated in a fashion as if in a specific order. Tiffany-style lamps were seated upon ancient oak end tables, classical music echoed throughout the room playing somber notes from the Romantic era, and the lavish taste of decouration made this shop more like a carefully adorned mansion. It sort of reminded her of Vincent's reconstruction of the Shin Ra Mansion. A handsome selection of these items would fill in nicely with the bare halls of the manor.
Her gaze turned to a glass case of glittering objects. Like a curious child, she paced over to the tiny showcase and glanced at the tiny jewels shimmering from ceiling lights. The florescent beams made intricate ornaments glow with an ethereal light. The splndour of rubies, diamonds, and sapphires, shimmered with a domestic aura from an elegant style long forgotten.
A verdant flicker caught her lucid-eyes as she focused upon its emerald radiance. No other jewel within the case came close to entrance as this becoming jewel had. From its vibrant limelight gleam, to the detailed silver halo that encased it; this stone amazed Yuffie. The broadband held intricate carved runes on its sides, definitely ancient Wutainese. She could barely translate the engraved symbols from this view. It was apparent this was a man's ring; the structure gave it away.
The facet-cut stone seemed to enthrall her innate attention, as if murmuring promising desires. How anomalous for an inanimate object to speak. Personification of a ring? How absurd! Besides, whom would she possibly purchase it for, certainly, not her father! This band held more prestige and esteem for whomever bore this ring. A male with a sense of class and grace, someone like…Yuffie trailed off to the name. No, Reno had not come to mind; it led to someone else. Someone who; after all of this time, did not slander her for anything. This someone replaced her codes and just sense of reason with the secure fact of knowing that they would take care of her. The very thought brought an un-reproached smile to her sinewy lips.
Yes, this was what she owed him. Her main objective for the day was to purchase something that complemented his kindness, and this ring suited him. Indeed, the tiny band would go well with his dark aura and give a sense of anonymity to complete his shaded radiance. A small smile of satisfaction breached her lips as she searched for a clerk.
"May a help you," a young honey-coloured blonde asked.
Yuffie glanced at the young woman of no more than nineteen and turned her gaze back to the case. "Yes, I would like to see that ring in the far right-hand corner."
Pushing her tiny spectacles forward, the blonde gingerly opened the case and handed the ring to Yuffie. "It is a nice ring for a male." She casually spoke, subtly placing a long golden lock behind an ear. "I believe its Wutainese, if I'm not mistaken."
The heiress quietly agreed as she held the band in-between her fore finger and thumb. Eyeing the woman, she finally offered, "How much for the ring?"
"Hmm, well I would say such a fine piece would bring about two-hundred-thousand easy. But, I can tell you wish to go lower, right?" she stifled a sigh and took the ring into her left-hand. "Hmm, I guess I could let this go for about fifty-thousand, and no less."
A simple nod came from her, "Done! I will pay cash today!"
She glanced at her customer's fleeting expression and smiled. This girl must have been crazy for the 'certain someone' to pay such a price. Whoever it was, was indeed lucky.
"Wonderful! Please, follow me to the front desk and I shall wrap it up for you." The quite storeowner turned and made her way to a dark-wooden desk. Glancing at her, she asked, "Would you like this wrapped?"
"Oh, yes." Yuffie glanced at the ring with avid intrigue. Her cerulean attention carefully watched the blonde place the tiny ring in a black-leather box and wrapped it in burgundy-coloured paper. A dainty golden ribbon was carefully tired with a trimmed bow for a finishing touch. It was indeed a wondrous sight to look at. Hopefully, her guardian would have the same sentiment.
Yuffie quickly handed the woman her fee and pocketed the ring in her purse. A small smile of gratitude crossed her lips as she murmured her appreciation and left to find her friend.
She caught Tifa eyeing an old wicker set of chairs. Rolling her grey-eyes, she should have guessed her older friend would be in the furniture section. It was one of Tifa's flaws. Smiling, she placed a hand upon her calculating shoulder and muttered, "If you want that so badly, buy it! Ogling will not get you anywhere, my friend, trust me."
Ruby-eyes gazed at her with mock-awareness. "I know, but I have other things to fret over than buying a wicker set of chairs. I need to buy Cloud and Imara something first."
Yuffie sighed. "Honestly, Tifa! You are always putting people before you. When are you ever going to do something for yourself? God, I know, I'm sounding selfish, but really, you should at least buy something for yourself at least once."
Tifa gently shook her head. "I have been far too selfish in the past, Yuffie. I admit feeling a bit jealous when Aerith would flirt with Cloud, even in the Temple of the Ancients. I was hurt when Cait read their fortunes… But, I never expected I would marry him. Truthfully, I believed that he would choose Aerith for everything she stood for, grace, beauty, and that fiery spirit all of us admired…" A sudden tear escaped her eye. "Be glad you were not there, Yuffie. Seeing her smile fade when Sephiroth delivered the final blow will always send chills down my spine."
"No one actually explained to me how she died. I remember Red mumbling how it happened and I ran off crying to my room. I dared not ask Cloud, since I knew he would go off and you were trying to give him solace, so I didn't ask." Shaking her head, she continued. "Do you believe Sephiroth felt remorse at the end? I mean killing Aerith and hurting the world, do you believe he even felt guilty?"
"I don't know," she said in a somber tone. "It seemed the last moment he drew his final breath, he realized what a mistake he had made. I believe he may have felt guilty, maybe even, regretful."
"Don't tell Cloud this, but I felt sorry for him. Really, he did not deserve the life he held. I know somewhere, deep down, he too, felt terrible. He wasn't born evil; society made him that way. Maybe, in another, time, Aerith could have reached him also, like she did the rest of us."
"I believe she already had, Yuffie. Call me insane, but in the end it seemed strange that both forces interacted in such a way, that I couldn't even begin to describe. Sephiroth still exists within the Lifestream, no matter what impact Cloud dealt upon him; he still resides within its murky green depths. I know this is a far-fetched idea, but I think in some sense she had reached him. Now, that is something you will keep between us. I have Cloud's lecture upon them, and it would be quite if I heard it again!" She lightly chuckled.
"I never thought of it that way. Hmm, maybe I can pester him with the notion! Do you think it would piss him off?"
"Undoubtedly! Call me morbid, but I really think it's cute!"
Yuffie smirked. "I don't know about that! I mean they are dead, but in an alternate universe, I would like to think so as well!"
Both chuckled at their discussion as they made their way out of the strange curio shop and into a vast variety of others.
****
Vincent had held the same position by the window for the past hour and a half. Pinching the bridge of his nose, Cloud gently placed his sleeping daughter in her basinet. "Really, Vince, you should sit down. Standing there will not make her here any faster. Besides, it's a girl thing to stay out all day."
"I don't like her being gone for so long," he muttered under his breath. "I dread her being out of my sight for this extended amount of time…"
Cloud stood next to his towering form. "God! You do have it bad!"
The morose man turned to him with a quirked brow. "Are you patronizing me, Strife?"
Cloud snickered. "Not at all! It's just that you get so uptight with her out of your sight. I wonder what if she were to stay away from you from a week?"
Vincent vacillated. "That will never happen, or if it does, I will gladly follow her."
"My, my, you are the jealous type! And I thought I was bad! Actually, I don't like anyone being near my wife, men mostly. They cannot seem to keep their hands off of her or smack her ass," his cringing with the last comment.
Vincent said nothing as he kept his gaze to the foggy windowpanes. His crimson glare bore into the fragile glass as if trying to penetrate its translucent shield. It unnerved him that Yuffie could be away for so long. What if she re-sprained her ankle? The very thought of her hurt; made him fill with anxiety.
"I don't suppose you would care to give me that drink you offered this morning?" He muttered stoically. "It seems I will be up until they return."
Cloud was about to counter his comment until the sudden tapping at the door broke his sarcastic concentration. "It appears, you will not have to wait that long, my old friend. You lady is apparently home."
Vincent gently strode past Cloud and hastily opened the door. His subtle smile faded as Yuffie turned her attention to the floor and shirked past him. He felt the cold brush of her side as she retreated to her bedroom. His joyous mood had withered away as the last faint trace of her lavender scent faded away. His crimson-orbs gleamed with a fiery hatred toward himself. What had he done to upset her?
Tifa noticed the ex-Turk's apparent anger as she gently murmured, "Vincent, Yuffie has had a hard day. She's tired and I believe she just wanted to rest."
His stoic gaze centered half-heartily upon them as he leant against the wooden stars. Muttering, he eyed them with apparent disgrace, "I will stand here until she comes down."
"It might be a while, Vincent." Tifa whispered hesitantly and quickly turned from his dissecting glare.
"Why is that?" Vincent uttered barely above a whisper. "Did something happen to her?"
Tifa stepped back as she turned her view to the window. "A few boys picked on her on the street." She felt him loom over her with his immense height, his deep breath furrowing the tresses of her chocolate-hair. "And they called her a few names that I do not wish to repeat."
"If you are wise, Tifa, you will tell me," his voice holding a sense ominous intent. It was clear that Vincent was far beyond pissed. He was on the verge of murdering.
Choosing her words carefully, Tifa muttered. "They wanted her to leave me and go with them and you can figure what they planning. She refused, of course, and they called her an unspeakable amount of names…"
"What did they did they call her, Tifa?"
"Slut, classy whore, and others along the lines of it." She reluctantly heard Vincent's light-steady breathing melt to a ragged growl. Those young foolish boys had just signed their death warrant.
Vincent un-holstered the Quicksilver and unlatched the safety. "Where are they?" He asked in a stony voice.
"Vincent, please! This does not need to lead to violence!" she pleaded, eyeing for her husband to say something.
"Tifa's right, Vince. Perverse boys aren't enough to waste your ammunition on. Besides, I doubt the law will take kindly to you curtly defending Yuffie over a public slander. It would be wise if you comforted her instead." Cloud intervened quickly.
The gunman narrowed his bloodstained-eyes and grudgingly holstered his silver gun. Eyeing them, he uttered, "Those infidels best thank whatever god saved them from my anger. The next time, I will not be as lenient." He scowled and marched up the stairs, metal-trimmed boots stomping with each step.
Tifa turned to her husband with widened-eyes. "Do you honestly think it was such a good idea as to get them together, honey?"
Cload countered her stare. "This is your little project, not mine. I remember Barret wanting to bust my ass over your little fiasco between him and Elmyra. I do not need another man ranting at me for your romantic crusades, dear. Besides, I think they can handle it without our help."
"You spoke to him?" she question with disbelief.
"Babe, I too, am a master of conversation. Anyway, I do believe we did not finish our little deal from last night? Shall we put Imara to bed and finish?"
Tifa read Cloud's subtle hint and smiled. "Whatever you say, dear."
****
Vincent did not even have the courtesy to knock as he barged through the wooden door. His burning gaze focused upon the slumped figure upon the bed. Her slender curves trembled as she sobbed into a feathered pillow. She apparently did not realize she was alone as Vincent neared the ruffled bed.
Edging near her, he thoughtlessly placed a silken lock of hair behind an ear and gently caressed her face. Yuffie immediately turned her face to him with tears welling out of her swollen-eyes. "Vincent?" she asked in a somber manner. "Why are you here?"
Not answering her, he lay beside of her and pulled her against his chest. She could felt his heart beat against her as she felt his warm arms encircle her terse body. "You were upset. I came to see you, my dear."
A faint smile fissured her lips. "How kind of you to offer comfort to a child."
"Yuffie, I cannot bear to see you cry. If you want me to do anything, all you need do is ask. I cannot handle the fact to know you're in pain."
"Tifa told you, didn't she? I would figure her to since I knew you would ask. I'm sorry if I gave you the cold-shoulder like that, but I just didn't wish to speak to anyone."
"If you want me to, I'll make them regret ever laying eyes upon you. I can make the process a living hell they will never forget." He answered with a morbid chuckle.
Yuffie nuzzled his firm chest. "And you would beat them because they humiliated me?" A tinge of laughter was traced within her dulcet voice.
"My dear, beating would be the least of their worries. I very much doubt they would enjoy a monster that can do some damage with a gun. Besides, after I'm through, they would be permanently scarred with fear!" He faintly smiled as he felt Yuffie cuddle against him.
"Vincent, you're the best, you know that? I mean you rank higher than Knights of the Round, and that, is a major complement!"
"I'm relieved that I fit within your Materia standards, dearest. Honestly, if you placed me with Sleepel I would not know what to do." He chortled.
"You know, I would have before this trip, since you seemed to be annoyed with me. I remember you pissed about that Materia incident. I'm sorry about doing that, you know? It will never happen again, I assure you."
Vincent cast a mock-glare at her and muttered, "Yeah, and I bet you only done so because you wanted to touch me!" His mouth dropped from the hinted comment. Oh shit. Shit. Shit.
Yuffie whirled her head around, eyes widened with apparent shock. "What?" She shouted in disbelief.
"I…I did not mean it in that way, I assure you. I…I…-"
"Oh my God, you pervert! Oh God! Oh God! Oh God, Vincent finally made a dirty comment! Tell me, is the end coming? Pinch me, Vincent is a pervert!" She began to chant the little phrase as her guardian's cheeks reddened.
"Yuffie…I'm…embarrassed… Oh God, I need go to now…"
"Nonsense! Wait until I tell Cloud and Tifa!"
"No!" Vincent pleaded. "I cannot believe I have gotten into this mess again! Yuffie, please, don't! I'll buy you anything you want!"
Yuffie's smile dropped. "Is that all you think will appease me, material things, Vincent?" She cast her clouded gaze to the white sheets.
"No, I just thought…never mind. It seems I cannot do anything right," he spoke in a somber tone and began to pull away from her. "I will leave you now, since you wish to be alone…"
Her chiding frown melted as she pulled him down. Eyeing him, her eyes pleading for him to stay. It was almost necessary that he not leave her like this, alone. How could he just blame himself over her lewd behavior? Truly, Vincent merely wished to make her happy. It was his honesty and sadness within his tone that made her feel guilty.
"No, I don't want you to go, Vincent. I'm just so upset and tired. I'm sorry if I sounded as if you only wanted me to be happy so I'd shut-up." She loosened her grip as she felt him relax.
His eyes gazed at her with a sense of unsure emotion. "Never be sorry, my dear," he lightly murmured, placing his claw within an ivory hand. "I would say it was my fault, but I know you would hit me so, I shall say this, I would be delighted if you would care to reveal one of your beautiful smiles."
"Everyone says my smile are crooked, almost like a jester's. Why would you like to see one of them?" She eyed him quizzically.
Vincent moved closer as his pallid cheek graced against hers. Whispering into an ear, he rasped,
"Because…you are beautiful… Never hide the fact you are."
A tear fell from her eye from the earnest comment. "Oh, Vincent." Yuffie collapsed on him and tightened her arms around his slender waist. "You mean so much to me…"
He pulled her in a tighter embrace, his cool breath sending chills down her neck. His crimson-eyes filled with an emotion he had kept hidden for long. The very urgency to tell her made his heart burst with excitement. However, he knew this was not the right time to truly express what he had in mind. No, the timing had to be perfect. Conceding, he finally whispered, "The feeling is mutual, my dear. Trust me, when I say this."
Yuffie buried her face in his lap as she felt a serene feeling of tranquility inundate her mind with what her heart had been bantering her psyche with the entire time. She did not want to leave him. No, she finally realized that her feelings for this man were too strong, not even Reno could break the chains she had bound herself to. Her non-existent happiness was now alien. She felt the true meaning of the passion and wished to never let it go. Vincent was her compass, her guide.
The harsh fact of leaving a love she proclaimed herself to, did not seem so cruel. In truth, she felt relieved to finally know what true love actually was, and she, refusing to give it up. She knew he cared for her in some way. However, she did not know how deep his feelings ran. If only, he could see her for more than a mere child. Maybe, for the woman she had grown to be within the past week. And it was all because he helped her realize it.
Author's Note: Hope you enjoyed the chapter! I should hopefully have another posted by the weekend. Thanks again for the reviews! Indeed, they truly are motivating! Please tell me what you think thus far! ^_^