Disclaimer: I do not own Final Fantasy Seven, characters, places, etc. All rights belong to Square and their respected owners.
The Flame of You…
Chapter 13
The light caress of her skin touching him made what was left of his torn mind wonder within the depths of true ecstasy. With every stroke and movement, a new sense of pleasure entered his eternal memory. Angelic breaths whispered light connotations of love and intimacy, God, just the scent of her enthralled him.
His human guise ached with the everlasting thought of love, the swelling passion within him yearning for more. With a light touch, he brought a lusty smile to her bruised lips, a little wound from kissing. Her sweaty arms encircled his slender waist with a lover's sense of fulfillment. Yes, the very pleasure of doing an act as old as time made both revel in content.
With a pleasing sigh, his crimson-eyes burned into her, his need becoming more intent. Pulling her closer, the former Turk buried his clammy face within her damp hair, enlacing his mind with her feminine scent. Never in his tormented life, had he the sheer pleasure of obtaining a moment of true happiness. Gods, Yuffie was too good to be true. Like an angel too far out of his demonic grasp, Yuffie had madly dashed into his plaguing embrace.
The very notion of her innocent touch made his heart shudder with impending thoughts of euphoric frenzy. The rapture of his soul became obsolete when her light caress infused something within his tainted being, something he had never hoped to have, love. The small trickle of delight filled him, teased him, with a myriad of desires, his mind returning from the bleak abyss of insanity.
Yuffie was truly his fire, his passion, and his savior. Without her, how could he truly exist? The cold purgatory he had created seemed less dismal with her by his hideous side. Her subtle acceptance of who and what he was made his beastly heart pound against his cold chest. The thought of her leaving him seemed like an irreproachable nightmare that he dared not ponder upon, his fragile mind abstained the very consideration.
"Vincent!"
"What?" He asked, startled out of his sensual trance.
Yuffie shifted from the bike's leather seat. Eyeing him with a curved brow, she commented, "You have been drooling for the past the five minutes! My shirt is flooded with it! What in the world can be so interesting?"
His crimson-eyes revealed a confused glare as he dumbly noticed the saliva streaming from his pale lips. He had indeed been drooling. The embarrassment he felt inside did not compare to the gawking look his love gave. Good God, he prayed she did not catch on to what he was truly thinking of. The embarrassment alone was bad enough. He did not need her running away from him if she found out. Wait. How long had it been since he was humiliated?
The impending mortification rose within the bowels of his stomach. Finding his last fleck of courage, he muttered. "I'm sorry I drooled on you. If it is such a crime against you, I will make certain that I am punished."
Yuffie's unwavering glare revealed nothing, blinking at his inept stance. Her stoic face melted to one of laughter as she snorted at his apology, the light laughter seemed make the scene even more awkward. With a hearty chuckle, she murmured, "Vincent, that was classic! You said drool! I had no idea Vincent Valentine had that one in his ever so wide range of perfect vocabulary!"
Vincent stiffened. "Ah!" he grunted under his breath. "I am not some perfect little schoolboy running around! I say offhand things and words that are not found in books. Like…" he hesitated, albeit briefly. "Like dude!"
"That's a word!" Yuffie corrected under her laughter.
"Damn. Well, what about grossness?"
"Hey! That's my word!"
A light smirk came to his ashen-lips, his claret-eyes burning. "They're mine now." He murmured seductively. 'As are you, my love, as are you…'
The tiny Shinobi mock-grumbled at his comment, her pleasing grin showing. Leaning closer, she encircled her lean arms around his slender waist, praying this night would never be over. Ah yes, the true joy of Vincent driving across the landscape was her escape from the grim reality she subsided in. The sense of elation that resided within her frail form made her nuzzle his back. She gently chuckled as she felt him tense, then unwinding from her light touch. It was as if he enjoyed her flirtatious attempt and acknowledged it with acceptance. How strange.
The entire day was certainly one she would never forget. All day, Vincent fretted over her well-being and tried to prevent her from getting sick. His benevolent actions brought a small smile of gratitude to her ashen face. It was as if she actually felt needed, wanted. No one had ever extracted such sentiment to her, not even her father. Vincent, even though, she expected he would be the last to show her compassion, held a special place within her heart. Actually, he was her heart. The cliché feeling did not disturb her when she thought of her beloved guardian.
And that was what he was, her protector. Would he leave her after their journey came to an end? She prayed not. How could she move on if she did not see his perfectly sculpted smile or the simple fact of just having him near? The abrupt thought of a world without him seemed almost impossible. If only he felt the same for her…
As if reading her somber mind, Vincent gently tightened her grip around his waist and stopped in a nearby clearing. Shutting the engine off, he turned to her and with a smile and spoke, "Would you like to rest for a few minutes? We still have a ways to go before we reach Rocket Town."
Yuffie glanced off to the distant Nibel Mountains and quietly nodded. He carefully carried her within his strong embrace and placed her upon his lap. The wet field was certainly no place for a lady to sit down; Vincent understood it would more 'gentlemanly' if he endured the uncomfortable dampness. Besides, it gave him the excuse of holding her.
He subtly breathed in the floral scent of her hair, savouring in its herbal delights. Christ, her very movement of breathing made him lust for more. Most would find his innate conduct of longing simple beastly instinct. To him, it was true appreciation of another being at ease with his dark presence. He knew Yuffie was far different from his cold, pitiless demeanor; even her smile seemed different from his. Not that it mattered. Actually, he was grateful she wasn't like him, dead inside.
She was something he could never hope to be again, human. The monstrous appearance he had been dealt was his punishment for eternity. Even after his death, Vincent would always be cursed to exist within this horrible guise. Not even spirits of the Lifestream would dare go near him. No, not even other realms would welcome his plaguing continuation.
And yet, this young innocent was laying her angelic face against him. Her lean arms were lightly wrapped around his waist, her tender voice humming a nameless tune, most likely Wutainese. Her dulcet voice echoed throughout the depths of his morose mind, enveloping him in a true sense of contentment. The hauntingly familiar tune recoiled within his memory, stirring up past encounters with this melody. Of course, why had he not noticed it before? It was…shit.
Vincent's crimson orbs widened, the song making him long for her more. Did she not realize that melody was only used between lovers? It was not something to play around with. Good God, was she actually serious about this, his heart burned at the thought of it.
With an inward smile, he pulled her closer. The silent whispers within his heart murmured promises of such a bind. The intertwined knots that trussed their souls together would forever go unbroken. Right now, he could feel every breath, every pulse her tiny form consumed. The beast within him longed for her just as much as he. It was somewhat frightening his demons desired her as well. They could never have her. No, Yuffie was his to enjoy. No one would ever have the pleasure of obtaining her; he would be the only man in her life now.
With that thought in mind, the former Turk interlocked his hand with one of hers; the small smile upon her face reflecting his. When was the last time he had truly smiled? Before Yuffie, his visage never held the simple expression. But now, his lips could not seem to rest from them. His love had inextricably infiltrated his icy fortress and warmed his dead heart. How could he ever possibly thank her enough?
Of course, after next week, she would have no worries; he would be with her for the rest of their lives, even in the Lifestream. His soul could never unbind itself from hers. The silver threads that connected them were not easily broken; actually, it couldn't be done.
His concentration focused upon the landscape. The verdant aura of the vast landscape of Rocket Town gave a sense of inspiration to its visitors. Rolling fields rocked against the breezy gusts of wind, seeming to breathe life into the emerald landscape. Ah yes, the gentle, yet somber fields held a sense of tranquility to those who actually noticed its whispering chatter.
Closing her cobalt-eyes, Yuffie inhaled the fragrant surroundings. Her gentle laugh of apparent happiness echoed throughout the vast valley as her guardian cast a thoughtful gaze. It was quite odd to see someone appreciating the simplistic environs and smiling about it. Although, he had expected a reaction from her, quietly basking in his own personal paradise. The peaceful thought in knowing his beloved enjoyed the serene sights of the valley made his soul ache.
Locking a hand in hers, he gently caressed the intertwined fingers with the claw. Her small smile of wonderment made him further his ministrations to the point of massaging the hand. The cold metal worked the visible veins back to their hidden alignment. His light touch of the sharp metal digits made her skin chill with a thousand burning sensations leaving her to desire more. The astute reactions of his caresses made her soul burn.
As if realizing her innate longing, he wordlessly moved his hand to her tense shoulder. "You're tense," he murmured under his breath.
Yuffie edged closer as she felt him take her shoulders with both hand and claw. A slight groan of satisfaction escaped her throat, feeling the need of him touching her. Without thinking, she quietly placed a hand upon his shoulder and mimicked his pleasing comfort. "Vincent," she uttered under her breath.
God. That one mentioning of his name made him almost lose all control he still possessed. The demons inside of him raged against his conscience, tempting him to take her on the like ground like an impatient teenager. He fought back the enticing urge to follow his instincts and reveal to her the secrets he had planned for later. How could he deny the concept of her breathing against his sweaty form in sheer ecstasy? The mere thought seemed to be sacrilegious.
His bloody gaze held hers with liquid fire, the passion of acquiring her singeing his loins. He held back the inclination of his innate dreams, and murmured, "Yuffie-angel, I think our appreciating of nature will have to be put on hold, we need to make it to Rocket Town before sundown…"
"I know, I'm sorry for stalling and admiring the landscape, but I just remembered something…"
Vincent placed her hands into his and glanced at her with concern. "What does this remind you of, dearest?"
A small smile protruded from her rosy-lips. "Before I met you on this journey, I stopped here to look at the scenery. I did not imagine returning so soon. I had wanted to visit Cid, but the sole desire of finishing this journey seemed a little more important. I did not realize I would find…you so soon, Vincent. It was like I was driven to make it through the pass that night, you know?" she shook her dark mop in apparent confusion. "I don't know what I'm talking about! I'm crazy! You'll have to look over me!"
"Yuffie," he murmured, pulling her to meet his gaze. "Had you not went through that night, I would probably be dead or on the verge of it. I thank you for rushing, even though, it may have seemed silly at the time…"
"I'm glad too, Vincent. Seeing you again has made me feel grateful that I did hurry."
His marvelous scarlet-eyes gleamed with an appeased expression when he cradled her against him. His firm embrace held her, refusing her to ride behind him this time. He needed to see her when approaching another alleged friend. Cloud and Tifa were very lenient as to not mention anything in front of Yuffie. Cid on the other hand, would certainly not keep his damned mouth shut. Oh well, he could always deny it or threaten the profane pilot with insidious glances. It was somewhat fun to intimidate one's acquaintances with looks alone.
He felt her shift under his hold, noticing the lights in the distant town. Her light chuckle of impatience made his chest heave with slight tremours of dread. God, what if Cid said a little too much? He knew the blonde would try to wriggle Yuffie from his grasp the moment he laid eyes on them. What sane man wouldn't try to protect his surrogate niece from a hideous monster?
Ah yes, Cid subtly deemed himself her proxy uncle, since she had no other relation of that sort. His profound habits of cursing taught her to speak them with eloquence and sheer sarcasm. Vincent would have to speak to Cid about his use of language in front of her; he did not wish his love to exemplify such profanity. A lady of her status should be held higher than a dirty-mouthed teenager. Of course, it was rather funny when she cursed at people who deserved it. Maybe he would not talk to Cid after all.
Before he could come to a complete stop, Yuffie jumped from his lap and waited for him on the sidewalk. Mentally cursing himself for not restraining her careless action, Vincent parked the bike and pulled her close to him. His languid glare silently lectured her not to do that again. However, the frown melted when she began to nuzzle his chest. The light contact made him forget his worry and set him in a state appeasement.
His arms encircled her and massaged the small of her back in subtle comfort. The claw's metal digits began to rake through her short mop of hair, somewhat offering an aid to her disheveled locks. Yuffie teased a strand of ebon when a pair of men-no teenaged boys watched them with disgust.
"Lord God, have you seen something as sick as that in your life, Adrian?" The tallest of the duo muttered under his scornful breath.
His blonde comrade looked up to him with baby-blue-eyes and nodded in agreement. To him, the couple across the street was certainly one of the most arcane sights he had imagined. "Indeed, dear brother," he nose snarled in disdain. "Look at that thing cling to her! It's almost revolting!"
"How old do you think she is? That girl can't be any older than seventeen and thing is certainly older than that!" Shoving his russet bangs from his dirty-azure-eyes, he called, "Hey girl, you! Over here, what about you drop that vampire and come with us?"
"What are you doing, Andrew?" The younger screeched under his breath.
"Making trouble, little brother. Watch and learn!" he whispered and continued. "Come on, sexy! I'm sure your father, err, whoever he is, won't mind!"
She smiled with a mocking-sweet expression. "Boys, please find someone else to bother."
Adrian noticed the warning from the dark man across the street. Taking his brother's arm, he quietly pleaded him to follow. Andrew pulled away from Adrian and added, "Well, you see, little brother, how sluts can to turn out in such a young age? They prefer hideous things like that to treat them horribly instead of normal men like us."
Yuffie stared at them dumbfounded. Her happy mood quickly changed when she felt Vincent's light breathing fall short to a low growl, the gentle grip turning to a deep clinch. His bloodstained-eyes gleamed with pure malice at the two individuals across the dirt-paved street. His human hand left her side and found its way to the Quicksilver by his hip.
Un-holstering it, he quietly pulled the safety off, ready for a chance to use it. Yuffie stared into his malicious-eyes and noticed a threatening warning within the bloody depths. Good God, Vincent would kill them. She quickly summoned her courage and violently shook her head. "Vincent," she warned under her breath. "Don't do this! Those boys are stupid and don't know any better! I'm fine, all right? Please, let's not cause trouble."
With emotionless-eyes, he quietly nodded and placed the silver gun in the holster. "All right," he angelically murmured, "I won't harm them." 'Not yet, anyway…'
She breathed a sigh of relief and noticed the brothers had vanished from sight, most likely, because of Vincent's quiet threat. Christ, he was ready to murder them! And over the concept of them calling her a whore. He was about to do the same in Kalm. Gods, her dark guardian must have at least cared for her a little. Especially, to the point of someone hurting her pride. The subtle thought of him protecting her in all forms made little butterflies churn in her stomach.
The light touch of his human hand made her escape; the iridescent trance. Gazing into his bloody-eyes, she noticed the malice replaced with his usual kind visage. The ruby orbs shimmered in the moonlight, as if beckoning her to commit a secret sin with him. Light seduction traced his indolent expression, his arms embracing her once more. "Yuffie," he softly murmured. "I'm sorry for scaring you. I understand my abrupt actions are certainly uncalled for. Especially when, threatening someone over petty matters." He cast his face aside in shame.
Yuffie placed a hand to his slanted cheek and turned his face to look at her. The fleeting gaze reflecting from her icy-eyes chilled his soul when she softly caressed the pallid cheek. Smiling, she whispered, "I understand you were trying to defend my honour. I do not see why people can be so cruel, even when they do not know who we are, Vincent. Don't feel guilty over anything; I'm not."
"You can bear my monstrous outbursts, darling?" his Mako-eyes gleamed with despair.
"You're not a monster, Vincent." She stated matter-of-factly. "I wouldn't trouble myself if you were an evil creature that prized itself in inflicting pain upon others. You're far from what you deem yourself to be."
His heart burst with shredded hope. Choosing his words carefully, he countered, "You are the only one who has considered me not to be inhuman, I thank you, my dear. However, don't believe I will turn mushy and not protect you."
She smirked from his subtle command. Well, well, well, Vincent placing authority over her life, how romantic! No one had ever concerned them selves enough to take control of her life, she somewhat liked the idea of being protected constantly. Isis, by a very handsome guardian at that!
She did not realize her guardian still fumed with inward malice. Those boys would not go unpunished; he would see to it they realized proper etiquette and good morals. The cruel remarks they made on his monstrous form did not affect him until they slandered his love. At that moment, both were dead in his eyes. No one would live to see another day and not regret it if they did anything to her, he would not allow it.
The dormant demons raged against his angered form, the aspiration of being free seemed appealing to his innate selves. Truthfully, he would not mind one of them taking over and teaching those ingrates a lesson, actually, he would quite enjoy it. He cast his dark musings aside when he felt Yuffie caress a gaunt cheek. With a smile, he hefted her into his arms and spun her around in the middle of the sidewalk.
Her giggles and swinging arms made him spin faster until he began to feel dizzy, a trait he had not felt in ages. His staggering attempt of setting her on a nearby bench failed, as both fell to the concrete in melodic laughter. Vincent allowed her to fall on top of him when crashing to the hardened pavement below. His firm arms embraced her, and she, tightening the hold.
Yuffie gazed into his wonderful dark-amber-eyes with admiration; Vincent was truly smiling. Her heart crashed against her tiny chest when she felt his hands gently massaging her shoulder blades. A light smile traced her rosy-lips, knowing she was successfully bringing his lively side back; the side she secretly loved. Actually, she loved everything about him even though she would never admit it. Yuffie even liked his other forms. The idea of a girl liking creatures of destruction would certainly brand her a lunatic and even more of a disgrace to her father and town.
Did it truly matter though? When had anyone taken the time to teach her the morality of right and wrong? For a decade, no one had corrected her mistakes, nor took the time to teach her the proper style of being a lady. What did it matter if she loved a man who did not deserve such a harsh punishment? Even if she were the only one, Yuffie could never leave him in the cold; it would be a sin to. Vincent could not help who and what he was. To her, he was everything she imagined a man to be.
He had courage, strength, good looks, well to her anyway, and undying loyalty. Vincent would never go back on his word, not even, if it meant forfeiting his life. Not only did his physical aspects intrigue her, but also the true soul he had kept hidden within his dark exterior enthralled her. He would even punish nameless vermin that called her names. No one had ever committed them selves to making her happy as he had. And in that, she knew could not leave him.
She also knew his soul haboured a dark side. Its shadowed half held his demons and the dangerous part of him. Yuffie could not lie to herself; she loved that part just as much as his light nature. How could she only love half of him, when everything about Vincent captivated her? From his murderous-eyes, to his shrouded soles, she adored everything he was and would ever be.
With a sigh, she felt him pull her up and replaced her back into his firm hold. There was no reason now that he had to obligate himself with carrying her; the swollen ankle was almost healed. A small sense of content filled her in knowing that Vincent would carry her anyway. It was rather odd that he did not protest his actions; actually he seemed to rather enjoy holding her close.
A faint sigh escaped her when she felt the deep rhythmic beats of his heart, the small proof he still had one. Yuffie inwardly smiled, the fluttery feeling refusing to subside, and she, wishing it not to. How could she think of a life without him now? Just having near made her feel something she never thought possible, she could finally dream without fear of it being shattered. Her dark knight chased away her nightmares and despair. Even now, he seemed to hold a prestige of unyielding protection.
The young Shinobi gently nuzzled his felt chest, noting his heart beating faster. "Yuffie," he murmured, his startle apparent.
She gazed into his widened-eyes and smiled. "Yes, Vincent?"
God, how could he tell her he was losing control? Just touching her made him fume with thirsting desire. The demons inside pleading him to stop this insane propriety and show her what he had planned. The inner battle between instinct and conscience stressed his tattered mind to the point of a metal collapse. No, he could not. Right now would indeed cause disaster, and he, would lose her.
With a mundane tone he uttered, "Do you believe Cid would appreciate us calling upon him this late?"
"Um, well, I don't know. Shera's sort of in a delicate condition, as you very well know and both might be asleep now." She knitted her dark brows together. "I doubt Cid would turn in this early, it's not his nature to sleep before midnight."
Vincent pulled her closer. "Let's call on him. I would rather piss him off now than in the morning…"
Yuffie's mouth opened, albeit widely, "God, Vincent, you said 'piss'!" she snickered at his light profanity.
He cast an incredulous look at her, the crimson orbs lightly teasing her. "And what may I ask is wrong with me using that term? It appears you say far worse than that, dearest."
"Is that supposed to be sarcastic, Vinnie?" She smirked at the light cringe when she called him by that atrocious nickname.
"You enjoy teasing me with that name, don't you?"
"Actually, I find that name bothersome. I only do it to piss you off!"
"See, you said piss. Now, what can't I?"
A deep chuckle escaped her. "I didn't say you couldn't, darling! I was only surprised you did. I mean I rarely heard you during Meteor and well, I never thought you to use such foul language."
"I never expected you either, angel. I have Cid to thank for indulging you in the fine arts of profanity, don't I?" He opposed with an evil grin.
"Hey, Vincent, I don't like that look you're giving. What are you planning?"
"Nothing, nothing at all, dearest." He murmured into an ear. "I'm not one to sneak around pulling pranks on unsuspecting team members."
She elbowed his chest and snorted. "You're incorrigible, Vincent!"
"But, you still love me, don't you?" He countered with a mock-grin.
"You've got me there, lover!" she grinned at his blank expression. Wonderful. "What? Did you honestly think you could make me squirm with your mundane jests?"
A sable-brow rose in suspicion. "Darling, I've only begun to-"
"-What the holy fuck-"
"Cid!"
Vincent and Yuffie eyed each other in apparent confusion. Stating the obvious, their old friend being lectured by his wife. A small grin traced Vincent's lips as he watched the pregnant technician club her husband over the head with a wrench.
"I told you not to curse like that at people! Jesus, Cid! I'm sorry Cid is using profanity, do come in." The brunette lightly ushered.
The gruff pilot rubbed his aching head, wincing at the light touch. "I'm sorry, baby! It's just I was surprised and I didn't catch myself in time!"
Shera rolled her brown-eyes in disbelief. "I'm going back to work on that car! Please, show them in and get them something to drink."
Cid avidly watched his wife shut the door and turned back to the bemused couple. "You know," he muttered under his breath. "I never expected her to be so grouchy! I thought pregnant women were happy and nicer! Ugh, she yells at me cussing and smoking…"
"It shows what you know!" Yuffie cast a wayward smirk.
"Hey, brat, if you weren't here, I would not have gotten yelled at!"
"Shut-up, Cid!"
Vincent gently placed his hands upon her squared shoulders, silently holding her back. The aging pilot noticed the former Turk's action with visible disdain. His smokey-grey-eyes glared at him with silent malice as he approached them. "Why are you here?" he eyed the gunman with provocation.
"I'm with Yuffie, Cid."
Cid scratched a rough cheek and turned his attention to Yuffie. With an unreadable expression, he asked, "Why is he with you, girl? Why aren't you home with your father? Does he even you're gone, Yuffie?"
Yuffie read the pilot's questioning glare, having an undertone of disappointment. With solemn-eyes, her voice cooled to an audible whisper. "He knows…"
"Then why did he not keep your ass home? God, Yuffie, I thought you would be smarter than to run around with your head chopped off! Didn't your father or whatever he is teach you any morals?" Cid cast his gaze to the dirty sidewalk. "I'm disappointed in you, kid."
A deep shudder coursed throughout her body, the innate sensation of guilt marring her mind of her past rendezvous with Vincent. What was happening? What was so wrong with her actually being happy? Didn't Cid wish to see her happy with something? Why did he detest Vincent so? Were they not on good terms during Meteor? Yuffie grunted at the concept.
Vincent pulled her against him in a comforting embrace. Seeing this, Cid glowered at the gunman. "Don't touch her, you asshole!"
Whatever was left of her respect for Cid, now faded into the star-filled night. Tremours of hot anger surged through her tiny form, her hands clenching in a threatening grasp. How dare he! The abrupt response of her old friend degrading Vincent suddenly struck a nerve from within.
"I don't give flying fuck what you think, Cid! I'm so sick of you reprimanding me for everything I do!" White fire raged in her tone. "Don't you dare say anything to him! Vincent has been the only kind person to sacrifice his time for me!" she cast her fiery gaze to the street. "You wouldn't understand if I explained to you. All of you are hypocrites! You never once shown a fleck of kindness to me on the Highwind! And now, you're acting like my surrogate uncle? Don't make me laugh!"
"But Yuffie-" Cid interjected, a slight plea echoed in his rough tone.
"No! I will not hear it! Barret and Cloud have given me the same damn speech! I don't care anymore! Now, if you actually wish to see me as much as you let on, you'll receive us as guests. If not, we'll leave."
The soon-to-be father crossed his dirty arms in mock-appeal. The apparent look he displayed showing his disagreement. Much to his bitter judgment, Cid conceded and allowed them in.
His cloudy-eyes watched them with suspicion when the dark Turk took a seat by her. What in the hell compelled Vincent to sacrifice his time for Yuffie? Unless…oh no. It couldn't be. The very idea was upsetting! Vincent would not be illogical as to want…Yuffie. No…fucking…way! And yet, in a sweet morbid sense, it actually looked…right. Cid mentally slapped himself at the thought.
Yuffie couldn't possibly like him touching her. Well, hopefully not in that way. Even now, they acted as if they were two hormonal teenagers newly discovering the wonderful joys of the opposite sex. Cid gagged at the thought. Wasn't Vincent supposed to love that dead scientist anyway? Good God, what in the hell was wrong with him?
Finding his voice, Cid grunted, "Now that you two seem bloody well comfortable, tell me, why are you here?"
"I'm on journey, you dummy! And like, Vincent is here to watch me!" She snickered under breath, her immediate goal of the old pilot cursing taking affect.
"I'd figure you'd do some wild-ass idea. What is this time, Materia? If it is, I don't have any!"
"Actually, I'm not looking for Materia…"
Cid cocked a dirty-golden brow in wonder. "My God in Heaven! You are not crusading for Materia? I think I'll die now, Yuffie has admitted not searching for Materia! Ho! Wait! What are you looking for then?"
Yuffie's smile faded to a blank expression. Noticing her sudden reluctance to speak, Vincent placed a comforting hand in hers, and murmured, "We're searching for Reno, Cid." His disdain for uttering that name was indeed apparent.
"Don't tell me you're looking for that idiot! Yuffie, why are you searching for him?"
"Please, Cid I don't want to talk about it. Can we not just carry on happy conversation?" She pleaded under her breath.
Her somber stare tore at his heart. Christ, Yuffie wasn't even concerned to find him; that was apparent. Good God, he couldn't be right. "Fine, I won't ask." He muttered with indifference. "Whatever you wanna do with your life is up to you. I just cannot see a smart girl like you wasting your time on him, Yuff."
"Thank-you, Cid."
He said nothing as he watched his guests sit before him. Their silent movements and wordless conversation created an undertone only for him to question. It seemed as if they were in love with each other and did not realize it. Christ, it was so obvious he even noticed. He would indeed have a talk with her alleged guardian the moment she was out of the room.
The old pilot inwardly shook his head in disbelief. Right now, Vincent's actions did not reflect as to that a year prior. How could something so vile display sentiments of kindness and concern right now? Did Yuffie even know about it? He understood most of Avalanche gaining a bit of knowledge about the incident. It was such a shame he was proposing to Shera the moment it occurred. Actually, it was the implementation of a member, a member who was not even of their species.
But now, here he was, with Yuffie no less. How funny Fate can be with peoples' mortal lives. He scoffed at the thought. Perhaps, he had changed from what he was last year; the entire matter had been adjourned the moment he left, thus forfeiting his bond with them. Did it matter anyway? What was it to him if the creature across from him took a liking to her? She apparently like him comforting her whenever upset.
It wasn't as if Cid hated him, it was just…hard for him to set aside old wounds. This battle was not even his to fight… Actually, Vincent had never wronged him in any aspect. If only it were so simple as to forget the bloody mess and pick up the pieces, hopefully reconstructing what was once a fellowship between them. Evidently, his old comrade seemed to be moving on, with or without them.
The profound pilot made idle chat until bidding Yuffie to accompany Shera into the baby's new room. His dreaded plans of having a civilized conversation with her so-called guardian could not wait, the suspense was tearing at his coddled mind.
A harsh stillness enveloped the tiny kitchen as the two glanced at each other blankly, neither wishing to start conversation. Cid inwardly rolled his eyes knowing he would have to badger every sinful detail out of his ever so silent guest. It was rather annoying to stare at the man and he, not offering to ease the awkwardness between them. Of course, Vincent was never known to be a conversationalist, until Yuffie came into the picture.
"So," Cid turned his gaze to the unopened pack of cigarettes, the temptation of lighting one eating at his conscience. Turning his attention back to the tacit gunman he continued, "You're helping Yuffie on this quest, huh?"
"Yes." Vincent's demonic gaze burned into his Cid's skin. "Yes, I am 'helping' her as you call it." The silent contempt he held resided within his murderous-eyes. "Get to the point, Cid. I understand this is an interrogation."
"And how would you gather that? I haven't even-"
"I was a Turk once," he muttered in visible disdain, the contempt of his words dripping like languid blood. "Hurry with your lecture."
"Fine, Vincent," Cid rubbed a rough cheek. "I don't see why you're helping her. You were never known to take interest in her before. Why start now?"
His hollow dead eyes seemed to bore into his speaker's soul, as if silently warning him not to continue this fruitless query. With a quiet reply, Vincent murmured, "I was foolish not to notice her before. But now, I have been given this chance to and I will not have it to be taken from me, not even by you Cid." Vincent did not render the malicious threat he uttered. His former friend would be foolish not to understand his grave warning.
"It doesn't look right and you know it!"
Vincent shifted within the tanned sofa with ominous infliction. "What is the morality of right and wrong, Cid? Who are you to say what is appropriate or sinful? You could never comprehend the hell I have went through for thirty-years! You could never begin to imagine the pain I've had and the regret I have bore for so long. I understand that my entire being seems sinful and plaguing, but I take one comfort in knowing I am actually needed. Tell me, what I should feel when the only happiness I have ever had is beyond that door?" he turned his view to the wooden door then turned back to his addressor with an emotionless stare.
The rustic husband cast his eyes to the floor in shame. "I did not realize you felt so much pain, Vincent. You never spoke of it much to us, we could have helped you."
"No, I doubt you would have tried to aid a monster, my friend. After last year, I had sworn off all contact from all of you in order to protect everyone. But, she came to me and refused to leave me when I should have died. From that moment, I knew something had changed between us and it has slowly developed into a feeling I cannot describe." Vincent eyed him with true sincerity. "Cid, don't take her away from me, she's the only joy that I have felt within my lonely existence… To be without her, would end my suffering continuation on this earth."
He was dumbfounded. Christ in Heaven, this could not be right. None seemed right. The brooding man across him, having more power than he, was pleading not to take away his only happiness, ironic indeed. A slight pain entered his confused mind with the trepidation of what could happen in such a relationship. He knew Vincent's sanity teetered on the edge and very little would push the gunman to the brink.
It was certain after so long Vincent would finally long for comfort from another. It was a shame it had to be one so young, so innocent. Yuffie did not know what Vincent was truly capable of. How could she, when they had decided it best to hide it from her? The true blame lay upon them, all of them. The careless decision of finding it best not to her resulted in the climatic opposite. How funny Fate worked.
And yet, he noticed the longing expression that traced the bloody orbs. He mentally scorned himself for thinking so ill of Vincent. Actually it was not his fault. The bitter contempt of that night had nothing to do with Vincent, only his erratic transformations. And now, he was pleading, no, begging for him not to enlighten her. How could he when he noticed that enigmatic spark between them? Some higher power was obviously at work here and he'd be damned to interfere.
With a sigh of hesitation, he finally spoke, "You love her, don't you?"
"…Yes. I know it's rather hard to believe but I cannot hide what I feel, Cid."
"You will tell her, right?"
"…Yes, Cid. She will know soon enough."
The old pilot allowed a jagged sigh to escape. Rubbing his bristly face, he muttered. "I'm not telling her, it's not my place to and besides it's in the past, Vincent. I know you will take care of her, I can see it in your eyes. Don't let me catch you breaking her heart though, or you'll regret the day you set your eyes on her."
Vincent read Cid's undertone, it was a warning not a jest. Thank the gods he realized his need for her. All in all, he had feared Cid would pull her away from him and tell her. A slight ray of hope burned within his cold chest, radiating the possibility of her undying love for him. Yes, it would soon be revealed, everything. If she were to ever find out, he would not lie to her. Lies were despicable sins that he did not desire to taint himself with. He knew she cared for him…
With a slight smile, Vincent nodded in gratitude. "Thank-you, Cid, thank-you for understanding this."
Cid lightly chuckled, albeit sarcastically. "Just don't go popping kids out everywhere. I don't know if I can handle a mix of you two around. Gods, what a scary thought!"
"It would be nice to finally have children, I have always wanted them…" He reflected with sincerity. "Maybe, I'll have my wish after so long."
"Yeah, and when you do, you'll wonder why you wanted them in the first place!"
Vincent eyed him incredulously. "You don't want them, Cid?"
"No, it's not that, Vince. It's just, I know Shera's gonna go through hell having it. It's my fault she's knocked-up, but we're glad and yes, I want kids. I want a brat to call my own, teach it to fly, cuss…" Cid gazed into an elated trance. "Yes, my little Highwind…"
The gunman watched his old friend reflect upon their days in Avalanche and caught him up on the past year he had missed. Everything seemed so simple now. Avalanche was still a team, but had parted ways and begun to start their own families, everyone, except he and Yuffie. That of course would soon change, he hoped anyway.
Yes, he could see his love holding his hand and watching their children play in the distant sunset. Ah yes, if only his daydreams would only come to reality. He prayed for such joy in his life. Never had he the pleasure of actually seeing a fairytale ending. However, things had started to change in his life. He now had a purpose, a true devotion and a meaning to carry on. With Yuffie, he could finally see the end of the bright tunnel he had long been damned from. And by the gods he would walk through the end of it with her…
****
"Gawd, Shera, can this room be any more blue?" The young Shinobi snickered.
Shera cast her brown-eyes at the beaming girl. True, she was no model, but in a few years Yuffie would indeed be a sight. No wonder her so-called guardian eyed everyone warily when by chance glancing at her. She had noticed the gunman's affection for the Materia hunter ran more than just friendship or merely protecting her; he seemed to actually be smitten with her.
She smiled at the thought of him settling down with someone. After so much hell he had been through, did he not deserve some comfort in his life? Cid and the others had been harsh in what they believed in doing the right thing, forgetting him. Even after arguing countless times with her husband, Shera had regrettably given upon reconciliation. It just wasn't possible for him, or actually, any of them to bury the hatchet and forgive an insignificant incident that was not even his fault.
Oh well, what could she do? Shera was not there and also, not a part of their little group. The senseless arguing and petty chatter was useless. Besides, tension was not a consideration when in her delicate state. Inwardly, she pitied Yuffie for having to cast the same speech and defy the others' reprimands. From what Cid mentioned, the poor girl did not have much of a father or any family that would offer a comforting shoulder.
Actually, from what she understood, Yuffie depended relatively upon herself and held everything she knew and understood by her standards. The technician silently cursed murrain upon her alleged father. What kind of man could leave his daughter to find useless Summons and Magic Materia? Did he honestly believe that would restore Wutai? Even a rocket scientist knew that to be a fallacy, well, actually she was.
Finding her voice, she finally answered, "Cid believes it to be a boy, I keep telling him it's not. But, will he listen?"
Yuffie chortled at Shera's drawn-out sigh. "He's never been known to reason, Shera. That, I know!"
"You try living with him for fourteen-years and tell me that! For as long I have known the man, he has never taken my advice! The poor baby burned himself a couple of days ago because I said the tea-kettle was hot and he didn't believe me."
"God almighty, the man's crazy!" She giggled with slight amusement, the scene of Cid cursing a thousand profanities was quite imaginable. "Are you coming to the ball next week?"
Shera rubbed her glasses with a white sleeve and eyed Yuffie with a solemn smile. "It's too close to the due date and the doctor has forbidden me extensive travel until the baby's here."
""I bet you're finally happy to have one to call your own? I know Tifa and Cloud are over the moon for theirs." A small smile escaped her lips. "I sometime wonder if I could ever settle down and have a few."
The older woman placed an ivory hand upon her shoulder in comfort. "I know you wish to have one, most girls your age think about settling down, but you know, you first need to find someone that loves you and then the children come next."
"I already have." Yuffie's eyes widened in alarm from the unintentional confession. She abruptly shut her mouth, but alas, it was too late, Shera's comforting gaze turned to a wry glare.
"Oh don't worry," she teased in apparent enjoyment. "I'm not going to tell the world who you like. It's obvious, my dear. But, are you going to tell him you do?"
Yuffie turned her gaze to the floor and sighed. "I want to but I'm…I'm-"
"Afraid? Don't be. I understand I have not gotten to the chance to know him, but you seem to be the only one who actually does. His other friends even my husband, does not seem to understand who he really is. Yuffie, don't turn your back on him." she quietly murmured with true sincerity. "He deserves someone that understands and loves him for him and nothing more."
The young heiress slowly digested the technician's kind words. Only Tifa or Aerith understood, when discussing serious matters. It was a shame she did not get better friends with her. Perhaps, she would be better acquainted with her in the future. Cid certainly had a wonderful woman that loved him. Such a pity, it had taken so long to realize it.
"Thank-you, Shera." She softly whispered. "I'm glad I could speak to you about this. I hate not being able to tell anyone, but I appreciate your kind words and I will eventually tell him…"
"I'm glad of that. I know you would make him happy and finally give him the life he deserves. It's indeed rare to find love, but true love, is the greatest treasure within life and we, and must hold onto it for eternity. Without love, we are nothing but empty beings brought forth into existence."
"Gawd, Shera, you should be a writer or something."
She smiled at Yuffie's earnest comment. No wonder Vincent cherished her; she was truly enchanting. "Come on, I've kept you in here for hours, and I'm certain you to wish to rest."
Yuffie noticed the subtle hint within Shera's subtle words, damn her. However, she could not hide the fleck of satisfaction within her pounding heart. Yes, she would rather enjoy doing as the scientist hinted. Her mind briefly wondered if he would be good in bed. Damn. She did not need to think on that right now! Actually, she shouldn't ever.
"Yes, I suppose I am a little tired…" she quickly covered her excited tone with a faux sigh. "Besides, I know we have intruded upon you and Cid long enough."
"Nonsense, Yuffie, you are always welcome here. But, one thing," receiving Yuffie's attention, she continued, "You must bring that handsome devil back the next time you visit. If I weren't married to Cid…" she lightly chuckled, "But he is yours, lucky girl."
"I hope so," she quietly whispered. "I hope you're right about this, Shear. I don't know what I would do if he refused me…"
"Yuffie, you don't give yourself enough credit, you're amazing. Now, clear that grimace from your face and smile, Vincent will be sad if you don't."
The heiress converted a half-smile to her rosy-lips and entered the kitchen, seeing Cid and Vincent lightly chattering over some trivial concern. Vincent eyed Yuffie; a bright glimmer entranced his ruby-eyes. "Yuffie," he murmured standing up.
Before moving another step, Vincent was by her side with an extended hand. Engrossed, Yuffie stared into his magnificent eyes with sheer admiration. She felt the light touch of his human hand upon her bare shoulder, feeling the light caress he emitted. His lovely smile widened as he noticed her entwine her fingers within the claw. Sighing from his elation, he faintly uttered, "Are you ready, dearest?"
"Yeah, I'm ready to turn in for the night."
"Hey, you can um, well, have the couch if you want." Cid interjected with his offer. Seeing the subtle decline, he slightly nodded in acknowledgement. "I suppose we'll see you again soon, right?"
"Of course, old man! How can I not come and harass you? Gawd, it's too fin to give up!"
He wrinkled his nose to the ninja in a playful manner. "Hopefully, not that soon! Vincent, don't allow into mischief, I dread to know what she does on her spare time!"
Vincent urged his love out of the tiny house before she could utter another remark. He felt her nudge his lean chest with a haughty snort. "You, Mister Valentine, are extremely rude stealing my pleasure!"
"Tell me," he murmured with a hoarse reply, "Tell me, how am I rude?"
The light feel of his chest against her back made an innate tremour pulse through her heart. The fluttery feeling of a thousand butterflies erupting within her stomach tantalized her when hearing his sensual tone. Gods, could he be more tempting. With a chuckle, she muttered, "You enjoy taking my evil intentions away and make me behave. You're such a proper man, Vincent Valentine, I would love to make you as reckless as I."
'You don't realize you already have, my love. Soon you shall see how improper I am, soon angel.' Vincent cast a wry grin as he pulled her against his chest. The light sigh of relief echoed throughout the night when he felt her return the gesture and nuzzle his shoulder. His cold heart pounded heavily from within, feeling her smooth cheek grace the exposed skin. God, this was true tantalizing torture.
He carefully pulled her into his arms and led her to the nearby inn for the night. A slight pang of exultation entered his heart when feeling her encircle her arms around his neck; this was indeed Heaven to a monster. Ah yes, very soon he would have her, but not tonight. No, after the ball, he would consummate their subtle bond into permanence. Yuffie Kisaragi of the Wutainese throne would rule under a new name, one more suiting and worth merit. Godo would piss himself when he found out whom his darling daughter had married. The wonderful cries of the aging leader rang throughout his morose mind, an inward smile tracing his lips.
"You know, you didn't have threaten that clerk for my sake, Vincent." Yuffie chortled under her breath.
Vincent gingerly placed her suitcase by the queen-size bed, his intent returning with a silent opposition. "I know you wished to rest and it was not polite for him to hold back a vacant from us, my dear. Besides, I believe he has learned his lesson with pleasing the customers." He lightly chuckled at the memory of threatening the snooty clerk. It was such joy scaring the living hell out of the ingrate, especially when he eyed Yuffie with evident lust.
Speaking of scaring, he had a little business to settle. Turning to Yuffie, he noticed her carelessly spread out upon the bead with a light smile upon her face. Oh, merciful Lord in Heaven, could she stop tempting him, he had unfinished affairs to settle. Focus. Yes, focus upon the objective. God, it was difficult to keep on task when the only thing he wished to do was lay with her. Shit, he needed to leave before his emotions got the better of him.
"Yuffie, I have to buy some ammunition for my gun, I'm almost out."
She opened her tired eyes and grinned. "All right, would you like me to go with you?"
"No, I'll be back momentarily." He curtly nodded before opening the door. Gazing at her once more, he asked, "Will you be all right until I return?"
"Vincent, if you don't hurry your ass outta that door, the shop will close and you'll be kicking yourself for asking stupid questions. I'm a big girl, I can tie my own shoes and everything!" she chuckled throwing a pillow at him. "I'll be fine, Vincent."
Hesitantly nodding, he closed the door behind him and stormed out of the inn. His main objective was not too far from him. He had to at least appreciate his mad creator for gifting him with ability of sensing other creatures. The inner joy of hunting those ingrates down made him revel with sheer appeasement. Did they honestly believe he would not make them pay for their unpardonable crime?
It was one thing to rebuke his hideous form, but to insult his love, breached dangerous upon ground. He knew Yuffie would not appreciate him chastising idiotic teenagers. However, she did not understand the inner torment he bore when they affronted her with cruel names. The audacity they held would not go unpunished. No, not even if Hell had frozen over and Hojo happily skated upon the Lake of Fire in a pink tutu, would he allow them to be unscathed. Such insubordination would not go without repentance.
His bloodstained-eyes glared at the young men smoking upon the corner of the street. With silent advance, he furtively glared at the unsuspecting boys. The inner rage of his demons tempted him to pull them within the shadows and end their sorry lives. Of course, conscience reigned over innate desire and thus reverted to simple retaliation.
The demonic claw snaked around the elder and tersely tightened its piercing grip around his neck. Pulling him dangerously close to his him, Vincent uttered, "Don't dare scream, or I will not hesitate to drive my claws through your throat." He felt the boy stiffen and glared at the other for silence. Seeing his obedience, he continued, "I did not appreciate your petty game of calling my love vulgar names. You have no idea what a slut or whore actually is and you would very well abstain your comment about her…" He growled with an ominous tone.
The dark-headed boys shivered within his tight grasp. "I- I'm sorry, sir. It-It will…nev- never happen again, I assure you."
Vincent's frown melted to an insidious grin. "See that it doesn't, young man, you do not want a monster like myself teaching the correct way of treating a lady," he placed the Quicksilver to the boy's pulsing temple. "I would hate to regret something that was preventable. Listen to your brother the next time you have the wild hair to slander someone. The next time, someone may not be as lenient as I."
He wrenched the shivering boy from his brusque grasp and glared at the other. "Make sure your brother learns some manners before teasing people, it rather improper." He murmured with sweetened tones of spite, the devious glare echoing a subtle threat.
The blonde merely nodded as he drug his silent sibling away from him. The former Turk dissipated within the shadows, leaving only his vicious gaze and ominous grin. Ah yes, it was nice to protect her honour, even if she did not realize he done so. God, the very thought of her made him return to the inn without guilt from his recent activities. Shiva, it felt nice to finally put people back in their station.
Vincent smiled softly when seeing her upon the soft bed, her angelic gaze indulging him to come to her side. Without thought, he slipped between the plaid sheets and pulled her against him. Her slight murmur made his heart race when feeling the warmth radiating from her body. He was at peace when noticing her heart beat at the same rhythm as his; they were one. Even if she did not realize it, Yuffie would soon know the intrinsic bond they shared. Gods, it was torturing him with her so close, yet so far from his grasp, he needed to tell her before his elated world fell to ruin. Yes, she would see what he had to offer her, love. The only possession no one could take from him, and he, giving it to her willingly. The very concept made his heart ache.
"Goodnight, Vincent." Yuffie murmured in her sleep.
He gently traced his lips upon her smooth forehead, whispering sweet sentiments of resting peacefully, her soft nuzzle deepened his need for her. 'Yes, my love, have a sweet slumber, I will be here to watch you. I will always be here to protect you from nightmares and all unfathomable evils, this foul demon that holds you now, adores you, love. I could not bear to live without you now, Yuffie. I cannot and I will not… I love you too much to allow you to return to someone who does not appreciate you. If only you would return my love, then we could finally find happiness. And I know, you will meet me half way…'
Vincent gazed at her once more before drifting into a peaceful sleep knowing the one joy within his wretched life was securely within his arms and would never leave him within the darkness as Lucrecia had. He now had his purpose to continue, the redemption he sought was within Yuffie and he would never allow harm befall her, not even if it meant his life…
Author's Note: Terribly sorry this has taken longer than promised, I don't have a lot of time with school butting in the way. Anyhoo, I hope this chapter was not too dull to anyone. I'm shooting for another chapter to be up by next week. (Hopefully.) Well, please let me know what you think. ^_^