Disclaimer:  I don't own any of the characters of FF8.  Squaresoft owns them…Blah blah blah…

~*~ Chapter 3 ~*~

~*~ Affection ~*~

            After greeting Xu, for the second time within the hour, Quistis walked into Cid's office.  Seifer was still in the room listening to Cid's droning.  Quistis couldn't help but chuckle at Seifer's obvious boredom.  He was relieved that Quistis had finally arrived.

            "Ah, Quistis my dear, now that your back.  We can start now." Cid continued, "Both of your are two of my best SeeDs, as you both know you are the Elite and highest ranking SeeDs.  But anyway I didn't call you both here to be reminded at how valuable you both are to me."  Quistis started to shift her leg position to stop her right leg from numbing, and Seifer yawn rudely and gave the Headmaster a very uninterested look. 

            Cid noticed the restlessness in his SeeDs and started to get to the point, "I have a mission for the both of you."

            This got Seifer's attention, while Quistis inwardly groaned to herself.

            "I'm sure you both heard of the impending marriage of the Galbaldia President's daughter."  Cid received two blank stares, "Well the marriage would take place in one week from today.  I have received a request from the President to have SeeD provide security for his this wedding.  And I want you two to be in charge of the squad I'm sending out."

            "What?!"  You want us to be guard dogs for a stupid party?" Seifer growled at Cid in disbelief. 

            "Headmaster, why would the president need us?  There has to be something more to it since our services isn't cheap either.  So what's the catch?" Quistis calculated. 

            "Ah! Quistis you were always so smart," Quistis smiled at the praise, "Your right this is more then just security job.  That's where the both of you come in.  I'm sure Galbaldia has many enemies, which places the New President in an awkward position when it comes to old enemies.  Also there have been rumors floating around about some threats of possible sabotage of the wedding and kidnapping of the bride.  Of course this information is classified and no one will know of your presence or the squads.  So all of you will have to pose as guests.  It would be less suspecting if you all were couples."  Cid noticed the disgust in Quistis's face when she heard the comment and glanced at Seifer.  Cid quickly inserted, "just a suggestion of course."

            "Anyway the rest of the squad has headed towards Balamb already to take the train to Deiling, but they'll be waiting at the dock for your orders.  I suggest that each couple travel separately.  Well here are the details of your squad members.  There are ten people total including yourselves in this mission."  He handed Quistis a manila folder.  "Alright the briefing is over, any questions?"

            "Sir, since we are suppose to keep our identities a secret, how are we suppose to approach the President?" Seifer asked sarcastically.

            "When you reach Deling City, someone will meet you at the train station," replied the older man. 

            "Just how are they supposed to recognize us?" Seifer asked doubtfully.

            "Seifer my child, they will recognize you.  Don't worry." A soft voice came from behind, Seifer turned around to see Edea smile warmly at him as she walked in the office.

            "Now if you both don't have anymore questions, you're both dismissed.  I suggest you both leave immediately.  The next train leaving for Deiling is at 12:00 hours," Cid advised. 

            Quistis and Seifer saluted the Headmaster and acknowledged Matron, and walked toward the elevator.

            "Well, well, Instructor, you can finally show your true affections for me in public.  Since we are suppose to be a couple now," he smirked and reached over to put his arm around her shoulder.  The next thing he knew, Quistis had walked out the elevator door and Seifer's right cheek was stinging.

            "Damn you woman! What the Fuck was that for?" His hand still covered his stinging cheek. 

            Quistis ignored him and continued walking toward her dorm, "you better get packing, we have just enough time to pack, drive to Balamb, brief the squad, and catch the next train to Deling city.  Oh and that was the affection you wanted me to show you in public."  She turned around smirked and walked off.  "Oh and I'll meet you at the parking lot in 15 minutes," with that said she turned into the dormitory hall with Seifer walking slowly behind her. 

~~~

            Quistis walked into her dorm for the second time this morning.  Her bed looked so inviting.  She just wanted to crawl back into bed and go to sleep and turn in for the day, but instead she walked over to her closet and pulled out her duffel bag and started packing.  Remembering she needed a formal dress for the wedding, Quistis started digging through her closet and came out unsuccessful.  She guessed she would have to go do some shopping once she reached Deling.  She glance at her clock it was almost time for her to meet Seifer.  She quickly stuff a few more toiletries and things into her bag.  She picked up her favorite book stuffed it into her bag. Took one last look around was partially satisfied.  Still feeling that she forgot something, she walked out to the parking lot anyway.    The day seemed to stretch even longer as the minutes passed, Quistis thought to herself as she walked down the long corridor.

A/N:  Sorry Chapter is so short…Thanks for reading…R&R…thanks again. 

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