A/n:
Emi: Hi, everyone. I'm glad you guys like the last chapter! I even liked reading it!
Tifa: You wrote it very well, Emi.
Sephiroth: I must agree with Tifa, milady, you did a great job! Especially with me looking at Tifa's butt! ^_^
Tifa: -_- perv!
Sephiroth: You know you like my stares!
Tifa: **crosses her arms** You wish!
Emi: Anyway! After getting the nice reviews, I began on the next chapter. I want to get more review! ^_^ I love to please the people sometimes!
Sephiroth: Well, now I can't wait to see what happens now? Aeris and Cloud are on the scene.
Tifa: I feel queasy!
Emi: It'll be all right, Tifa. This is when the stuff gets juicy! Now, on with the fic.
Chapter 5
Reunion fiasco
"Surprise! Surprise!" said Cid with a smile.
"Yeah, it's Aeris, and Spiky ass!" replied Barret.
I stood there not moving a muscle. I couldn't believe they were here in front of me. I, especially, couldn't believe that Aeris stood with a wide, bright smile on her face. I looked at both of their faces carefully. Aeris looked as beautiful as she always looked with her bright pink outfit and emerald eyes. Cloud looked as handsome as ever, but something in his eyes made him seem different. He still had those Mako blue eyes that were alluring, but something was unusual about them. It seemed the glare of depression and remorse was no longer in them.
"Tifa, it's been a while," said Cloud in a friendly tone.
"Yes, it has.." I whispered.
My voice was so weak. I didn't know what to say. I didn't want to see them now. It was too soon. Aeris walked up to me and looked me over. She smiled when she looked at my face.
"Tifa, you always amaze me. You look fantastic!" said Aeris.
"Thanks.." I replied crossing my arms.
I kept silent for a reason not to speak about my feelings towards them. Nanaki knew what was going on so he spoke up for me.
"She just arrived. I bet Tifa is very tired," he replied as he swayed his tail back and forth.
Suddenly, a young ninja girl pushed her way to the front and pounced on me. She wrapped her arms around my neck and hugged me as much as she could. This ninja girl was none other than cute little Yuffie.
"TIFA! I missed you so much!" said Yuffie smiling with happiness.
"I missed you, too, Yuffie," I replied trying to break free.
She released her grip and looked at me with happiness. I looked at her from head to toe and she wasn't the same little ninja girl I knew. She wore the same outfit she did three years ago, but she grew into a more...well develop body. Her hair, as well, change as she let it grow to her back. I smiled in approval.
"Yuffie, you have grown into a beautiful young woman," I said with a grin.
"Thank you," she replied with a hint of blush on her face.
I looked around at the group. Cid and Barret, the oldest ones in our group, didn't change at all. It was good to see the two. They were both like my fathers and I deeply cared for them. They gave me nice "Welcome back" looks, which I replied with a smile. As I turned my head again, my gaze stopped unto an amazing sight.
"Vincent.." I whispered.
It wasn't the same Vincent I knew. He wore his old Turks outfit, I presume, and he had his claw off. I walked towards him to take a closer look. His hair was still as long, but his complexion was tanner as his eyes were now an emerald color. He looked so handsome as his gaze fell unto me.
"You look...so handsome," I commented.
"Thank you, Tifa, but I must compliment on how your beauty exceeds every time I see you," said Vincent.
My cheeks began to blush as I looked away in embarrassment. Vincent never said anything like that to me. Actually, no one has said anything like that to me. I looked back up and saw everyone snickering at me.
"It's not nice to laugh at people," I said crossing my arms.
"Don't be so embarrassed, Tifa," said Yuffie with a smile. "This big ol' Goth wanted to see you the most."
"You did, Vince?" I asked in curiosity.
Now it was his turn to feel embarrass. He turned around and didn't say a word as Yuffie's grin started from each side of her face. Suddenly, I heard footsteps behind us. Everyone looked behind Nanaki and me, as his or her eyes grew wide. I began to wonder what it was they were looking at until the light in my head grew very bright. Sephiroth.
"Sorry, I couldn't wait anymore. I was growing impatient," He said as he walked to my side.
I looked at him sheepishly as Barret and Cid threw up their weapons. Their eyes tried to glare a hole into his face as their expression were mean and ruthless. This was going to be hard to persuade them about Sephiroth.
"What the hell are you still doing alive!" yelled Barret angrily.
"Yeah, shouldn't your %&@%#^ ass be in the ground somewhere!" yelled Cid as he took one last puff from his cigarette.
"Well, I was saved by Jenova's cells that were injected into me," replied Sephiroth looking at them with no fear.
"Oh my goodness!" Yuffie replied with a scared expression.
She then shook her head and took out her weapon. I looked at how even Cloud was ready to take his sword from his back. This was going to be very difficult now. I gave a sigh and was about to say something until someone spoke up.
"It's good to see you're well, Sephiroth," said Aeris.
Everyone looked at her as she walked over to the silver hair man. She looked him over and gave him a wide smile. What was she doing? Was she really happy to see him? I looked at Sephiroth and saw that he was grinning at the Cetra girl. What was going on?
"Aeris, get back! He's dangerous!" said Cloud.
"Oh, Cloud, don't be silly. Sephiroth is back to himself," replied Aeris with a giggle.
"How did you know?" I asked in surprise.
"When he joined me in the Lifestream after Cloud killed him, the spirit in his head vanished and he was himself. He didn't stay long at all because the Jenova cells brought him back to life. Before he left, he apologized about murdering me. He wasn't really the one who killed me. It was Jenova herself," she replied as she kept looking at him.
I sighed in relief as everyone place their weapon down. I smiled as everyone began to understand. It wasn't going to be as hard as I thought it would be.
"So why did you come here?" Asked Cloud with a serious expression.
""Hojo is alive.." Replied Sephiroth with no expression.
"He is!" said Cid. "Dammit, I thought we %&@%#^ killed that guy!" said Cid with a new cigarette.
"I see." said Aeris.
She turned from the group looked as if she was thinking. Everyone looked at her back and waited for the Cetra girl to speak.
"I didn't sense his spirit in the Lifestream and someone else's was missing," said Aeris.
"It's Zack." I said.
"Yes, but why?" Asked the Cetra girl.
"As Hojo's and Jenova's servant... As I was a while ago," said Sephiroth.
He turned away from us making everyone give a confused expression. I decided to try my hand at talking. If I can help them understand that Sephiroth wasn't our enemy, then maybe they could help us.
"I found Sephiroth in the Shinra mansion hurt and alone. He was trying to find a way to stop Hojo and Jenova. I'm going to help him as much as I can," I said with a flick of my hair.
Cloud looked at me and then at Sephiroth. His blue, Mako eyes made me a little curious of what he was thinking. He stepped out of his fighting stance and gave a nod to me.
"I understand now.. But tell me one thing, Tifa," said Cloud.
"Yes, what is it?" I asked curiously.
"I understand your concern, but why are you helping HIM? I mean, I know he had no control over his actions years ago, but can't you still feel anger towards him," said the spiky blonde hero.
I looked around and saw eyes from the group as they wonder the same. I even felt the eyes of the great Sephiroth look down at me. Why did I really want to help him? I began to think of a worthy response. I had a couple of reasons, but they weren't really something I would want to explain in front of Cloud or the others. Quickly, I came up with a rational answer.
"I hold all my anger towards Jenova now. She's the one that controlled him and made him kill the people I cared. He even apologized about my loss when I helped him in recovery. Sephiroth is a human being like us, but I feel sorry for him. I mean, to go around the world with no friends and people to care for him. That's why I came. I want to help him and show him that at least once person in this Holy- forsaken planet welcomes the REAL Sephiroth back," I said with a smile.
All of their eyes stared at me with understanding. I knew I was one of the more forgiving, friendly people in the group, but I knew forgiving Sephiroth was a little hard for me. All these years, I said I hated him and thought he was evil, but now that I know the truth, it's different. It was as if I see him as a new person. I looked up at him as he gave me a small grin. I returned his grin with a bright smile, which everyone saw as well.
"That's it.. I'll help you guys then," said Cloud.
I looked at him with a surprised expression. He was going to help? I looked back at Sephiroth as he even looked over his shoulder toward the Ex- Soldier. He was probably as shocked as I was.
"I believe Tif's words. I know she doesn't act just on her logic, but her heart and faith in people. I'll help as much as I can, Sephiroth," replied Cloud.
"Thanks, Cloud," I said with a bright smile.
"Me, too. I believe in this silver hair dork. I know he wants to make amends for the things he did," said Aeris with a giggle.
"Wow, this is so weird, foo'." Said Barret. "We helpin' our old enemy."
"Yeah. This calls for a smoke," replied Cid as he took out a new cigarette.
"Another adventure? I can't wait to travel once more. I can use my motion sickness pills now," said Yuffie.
"You never change, Yuffie," replied Nanaki with a chuckle.
"I will also help, Tifa. I'll do anything within my reach to help you and to kill Hojo," said Vincent.
I gave a nod to everyone and smiled. My friends had my back once again and I knew I was a lucky person. I looked up at Sephiroth as he turned his head to me and began to walk off.
"Where you going, Sephiroth?" I asked.
"I'll be in the library.. we need to see about the Gold and Silver materia," said Sephiroth.
He kept walking as I watched his handsome frame move towards the stairs. Suddenly, he stopped and looked back at us once more.
"Thank you for forgiving me..." he said.
With that, he went on his way up the stair back towards Nanaki's home. I smile as I saw my friends gawk at the Sephiroth's thanks. I walked towards them and gave a thankful bow.
"Thank you, you guys. I appreciate the help. It'll make things...easier," I said.
"We're only doin' this for you, girl," said Barret.
"Yeah, I still don't trust that guy. Don't trust people so easily, Tifa," replied Cid with a puff from his cigarette.
"Well, I believe him, so I'm on track with you, Tifa," said Aeris.
"Me, too!" unison Yuffie and Nanaki.
"Thanks. How about you, Vincent, Cloud?" I asked as I looked at both of them.
"I understand him. Jenova was in my body as well, but right now, I can't trust him fully like I trust you." Said Cloud.
"He is of Hojo's blood, so part of me cannot trust him, but the other part of him belongs to Lucrecia and I promised her long ago, I would protect him." Said Vincent.
Everyone was silent as I could feel Vincent trying to fight off the demons inside his mind (More ways than one). He was still hung up with Lucrecia, but I knew he was better. I walked towards him and took a hold of his large, strong hands with my petite hands and smiled at him.
"Don't worry, Vincent, I'm here for you like everyone else is. I'm glad to see you and all of you," I said with another one of one my smiles.
"Good. Let us all get to work. We need to help Sephiroth with the search in the library," said Nanaki.
"Great, this'll be like we're doing %&@%#^ homework for school," said Barret.
"Yeah, I don't read books unless I'm on the can," replied Cid.
"That was nasty, old man," said Yuffie as she kept shaking her head.
" Old man? I ain't no %&@%#^ old man!" said Cid as he began to become grumpy.
"Whatever!"
We began to laugh at the two AVALANCHE member. I felt like the old times as I looked at everyone. I stopped my gaze at Aeris and Cloud. Cloud placing an arm over on Aeris's shoulder. The tension came back as I place my gaze towards the ground.
"Anything wrong?" Asked Vincent as he looked down at me.
"No! Nothing! Nothing at all.." I said with a cheery voice.
I ran toward the steps and turned back to them.
"Come on. We have things to do! Let's get a move on it," I said with a somewhat serious tone in my voice.
I ran up the stairs as I could hear from behind their footsteps following. It was good to see them all, but I felt it was actually too soon. I needed to find closure in the feelings I had for Cloud, but maybe it was better if I could find closure with his help.
As it was getting very late, only Sephiroth, Vincent, Cloud, and I were awake. Aeris and Yuffie took the beds in Nanaki's room while Cid and Barret took the chairs in the library. Nanaki took the rug near a fireplace, as I knew he loved that place to sleep. I was becoming tired myself, but I needed to help. I picked up a small yet thick book. It was covered in dust as I observed the cover. I blew the dust off and was about to read the title until I felt a gentle hand.
"You look tired," said a familiar voice.
It was Cloud as I turned my head to see him. I gave a thank smile, but said, "I'm fine. You don't have to worry."
"You know I always worry about you, Tif," he replied with a grin.
His grin made me frown. I used to love his smiles and grins. He looked so handsome and desirable. Back then, I used to think that his smiles were to say he loved me. I know I was dreaming back then, but that's what I could do. I was too scared to say how I felt, so I thought pretended he was, too. Now, I knew I was a big girl and it was time for me to come clean.
"Cloud, I need to talk to you. May we talk somewhere else?" I asked.
He gave a simple nod as he showed me to the door. I looked to my side and saw Vincent and even Sephiroth's eyes following me out. We walked down to the café as we decided to get some coffee. Cloud took the chair out for me as I sat in it. He even ordered both of us coffee as I smiled. He was such a gentleman. He looked at me with his Mako eyes as my cheeks began to redden. He always made me feel this way when he looked at me.
"So, How have you been?" He asked with interest.
"I've been fine. I moved back to my old house in Nibelheim," I replied.
"Didn't it feel a little weird to be living at that place?" He asked.
"First it did, but I got over it. I adapted my surroundings."
"Yeah.. So, do you have a bar there like you did in Midgar?"
"No, I decided the city was too small to have one. I became a mercenary."
"A mercenary, huh? Copying me, are you?"
"Hey, I'm doing a better job at it than you ever did. I never fight with any of my bosses or flaunt about being a SOLDIER."
We both began to chuckle at how we were acting. It felt so good to see him again. I knew I could never push him out of my mind. He was my childhood friend and.. My first real crush. I began to drift off into my thoughts until he waved his hand in my face.
"Planet to Tifa. Wake up," said Cloud as he sipped his coffee.
"Sorry. I do that from time to time." I said as I picked up my drink.
I sipped my coffee and felt it in my body. The liquid felt so good as it flowed down my throat. I looked at him and smiled. He chuckled again as he placed down his cup.
"So, what was it you wanted to speak with me about?" He asked.
My smile turned into a small frown as I began to think. It was time. I had to tell him everything. It was time to tell him why I began this journey with Sephiroth. It was also the time to tell him he was the reason I didn't speak to anyone in three years and everything I felt towards him since I was sixteen.
" Cloud... you are my friend. We've been through everything together, haven't we?" I said.
"Yes, we have.. and I'm glad, too. You were always the one to make me realize that there were people who counted on them to lead them and also to show that as a team, we could make it." Replied Cloud.
"I stayed by your side through everything. Remember the time you had Mako poisoning and we fell into the Lifestream?"
"Yeah. You stayed by my side the whole time. I was very thankful for that and I'm thankful to have such a caring person like you in my life."
He placed his larger hand on my petite hand and smiled. I felt my heart melt for him. He was so blind. I knew my feelings were very plain to see, but he couldn't see it. Everyone knew how much I loved him, but he couldn't see it himself. It was time for me to tell him.
"Cloud..ever since that time under the well when we were fifteen and sixteen, I began to grow feelings for you.. And when we began that adventure long ago, I knew I truly loved you," I said in one breath.
He looked at me with a surprised expression and didn't say a word. I didn't know what to think. He looked down at his coffee then back at me.
"I knew you would tell me finally..." said Cloud.
"What?" I asked in confusion.
"I knew you did, Tifa. God, I was waiting for you to say it. I loved you back then, but I needed you to say it. After a while, you couldn't say, but Aeris, she told me every thought she had about me all the time. She gave me the affections that I needed. I didn't want to love her, but it happened when she left." He replied.
It was my turn to look at him. He knew all this time? Why couldn't he tell me! I was surprise and upset at the same time. We could have had something, but I was just too shy to show him my feelings and he was too selfish to tell me.
"I'm sorry that I was too shy to tell you my feelings, Cloud, but if you really did love me, you would have waited... like I did for you," I said.
"I'm sorry, Tif, I never meant this.. Aeris and I are in love and I'm sorry you don't support us," he replied with as he looked away.
"I never said I didn't support you two. I do think you will be happy and I hope you two will love each other unconditionally."
"Then why did you call to talk to me?"
"This is closing all my feelings I had for you. I just wanted to tell you how I did love you."
"I see.."
We finished our coffees and walked out the café. As we approached the house, I turned to him. He looked at me and was probably was wondering what I was thinking about.
"Cloud.. I'll always be here for you matter what," I said.
"The same goes for me," he replied with a simple grin.
I nodded at him. I decided I wanted to give him something I've always wanted to give him. I walked closer to him and placed my petite hands on his cheeks. I leaned towards him with my eyes closed and delivered a passionate, gentle kiss. He moved in deeper as I felt his hands placed themselves around my waist. Soon enough, he began to return the kiss with his own amount of passion. The kiss was breathtaking as we departed our lips from each other. We looked at each other with desirable eyes, but I knew I was done.
"Goodnight, Cloud," I whispered.
I walked into the house and knew he was following until I went to the bedroom the girls were in. I changed my clothes and plopped into my bed with a smile. I felt so alive. The kiss I gave him was to truly close my heart to him. I knew my feelings, my passion for him, and my desire was no longer there. I was finally free.
A/n: Did you like it? I like it! I think this is the best chapter, actually. I made closure with Tifa and Cloud. It had to be done to let Vincent and Sephiroth get a chance with her. It's going to get interesting. What happen with that book that Tifa had? I wonder.... Well, I'll try my best to finish the next chapter.
Review!!!!!!
Emi: Hi, everyone. I'm glad you guys like the last chapter! I even liked reading it!
Tifa: You wrote it very well, Emi.
Sephiroth: I must agree with Tifa, milady, you did a great job! Especially with me looking at Tifa's butt! ^_^
Tifa: -_- perv!
Sephiroth: You know you like my stares!
Tifa: **crosses her arms** You wish!
Emi: Anyway! After getting the nice reviews, I began on the next chapter. I want to get more review! ^_^ I love to please the people sometimes!
Sephiroth: Well, now I can't wait to see what happens now? Aeris and Cloud are on the scene.
Tifa: I feel queasy!
Emi: It'll be all right, Tifa. This is when the stuff gets juicy! Now, on with the fic.
Chapter 5
Reunion fiasco
"Surprise! Surprise!" said Cid with a smile.
"Yeah, it's Aeris, and Spiky ass!" replied Barret.
I stood there not moving a muscle. I couldn't believe they were here in front of me. I, especially, couldn't believe that Aeris stood with a wide, bright smile on her face. I looked at both of their faces carefully. Aeris looked as beautiful as she always looked with her bright pink outfit and emerald eyes. Cloud looked as handsome as ever, but something in his eyes made him seem different. He still had those Mako blue eyes that were alluring, but something was unusual about them. It seemed the glare of depression and remorse was no longer in them.
"Tifa, it's been a while," said Cloud in a friendly tone.
"Yes, it has.." I whispered.
My voice was so weak. I didn't know what to say. I didn't want to see them now. It was too soon. Aeris walked up to me and looked me over. She smiled when she looked at my face.
"Tifa, you always amaze me. You look fantastic!" said Aeris.
"Thanks.." I replied crossing my arms.
I kept silent for a reason not to speak about my feelings towards them. Nanaki knew what was going on so he spoke up for me.
"She just arrived. I bet Tifa is very tired," he replied as he swayed his tail back and forth.
Suddenly, a young ninja girl pushed her way to the front and pounced on me. She wrapped her arms around my neck and hugged me as much as she could. This ninja girl was none other than cute little Yuffie.
"TIFA! I missed you so much!" said Yuffie smiling with happiness.
"I missed you, too, Yuffie," I replied trying to break free.
She released her grip and looked at me with happiness. I looked at her from head to toe and she wasn't the same little ninja girl I knew. She wore the same outfit she did three years ago, but she grew into a more...well develop body. Her hair, as well, change as she let it grow to her back. I smiled in approval.
"Yuffie, you have grown into a beautiful young woman," I said with a grin.
"Thank you," she replied with a hint of blush on her face.
I looked around at the group. Cid and Barret, the oldest ones in our group, didn't change at all. It was good to see the two. They were both like my fathers and I deeply cared for them. They gave me nice "Welcome back" looks, which I replied with a smile. As I turned my head again, my gaze stopped unto an amazing sight.
"Vincent.." I whispered.
It wasn't the same Vincent I knew. He wore his old Turks outfit, I presume, and he had his claw off. I walked towards him to take a closer look. His hair was still as long, but his complexion was tanner as his eyes were now an emerald color. He looked so handsome as his gaze fell unto me.
"You look...so handsome," I commented.
"Thank you, Tifa, but I must compliment on how your beauty exceeds every time I see you," said Vincent.
My cheeks began to blush as I looked away in embarrassment. Vincent never said anything like that to me. Actually, no one has said anything like that to me. I looked back up and saw everyone snickering at me.
"It's not nice to laugh at people," I said crossing my arms.
"Don't be so embarrassed, Tifa," said Yuffie with a smile. "This big ol' Goth wanted to see you the most."
"You did, Vince?" I asked in curiosity.
Now it was his turn to feel embarrass. He turned around and didn't say a word as Yuffie's grin started from each side of her face. Suddenly, I heard footsteps behind us. Everyone looked behind Nanaki and me, as his or her eyes grew wide. I began to wonder what it was they were looking at until the light in my head grew very bright. Sephiroth.
"Sorry, I couldn't wait anymore. I was growing impatient," He said as he walked to my side.
I looked at him sheepishly as Barret and Cid threw up their weapons. Their eyes tried to glare a hole into his face as their expression were mean and ruthless. This was going to be hard to persuade them about Sephiroth.
"What the hell are you still doing alive!" yelled Barret angrily.
"Yeah, shouldn't your %&@%#^ ass be in the ground somewhere!" yelled Cid as he took one last puff from his cigarette.
"Well, I was saved by Jenova's cells that were injected into me," replied Sephiroth looking at them with no fear.
"Oh my goodness!" Yuffie replied with a scared expression.
She then shook her head and took out her weapon. I looked at how even Cloud was ready to take his sword from his back. This was going to be very difficult now. I gave a sigh and was about to say something until someone spoke up.
"It's good to see you're well, Sephiroth," said Aeris.
Everyone looked at her as she walked over to the silver hair man. She looked him over and gave him a wide smile. What was she doing? Was she really happy to see him? I looked at Sephiroth and saw that he was grinning at the Cetra girl. What was going on?
"Aeris, get back! He's dangerous!" said Cloud.
"Oh, Cloud, don't be silly. Sephiroth is back to himself," replied Aeris with a giggle.
"How did you know?" I asked in surprise.
"When he joined me in the Lifestream after Cloud killed him, the spirit in his head vanished and he was himself. He didn't stay long at all because the Jenova cells brought him back to life. Before he left, he apologized about murdering me. He wasn't really the one who killed me. It was Jenova herself," she replied as she kept looking at him.
I sighed in relief as everyone place their weapon down. I smiled as everyone began to understand. It wasn't going to be as hard as I thought it would be.
"So why did you come here?" Asked Cloud with a serious expression.
""Hojo is alive.." Replied Sephiroth with no expression.
"He is!" said Cid. "Dammit, I thought we %&@%#^ killed that guy!" said Cid with a new cigarette.
"I see." said Aeris.
She turned from the group looked as if she was thinking. Everyone looked at her back and waited for the Cetra girl to speak.
"I didn't sense his spirit in the Lifestream and someone else's was missing," said Aeris.
"It's Zack." I said.
"Yes, but why?" Asked the Cetra girl.
"As Hojo's and Jenova's servant... As I was a while ago," said Sephiroth.
He turned away from us making everyone give a confused expression. I decided to try my hand at talking. If I can help them understand that Sephiroth wasn't our enemy, then maybe they could help us.
"I found Sephiroth in the Shinra mansion hurt and alone. He was trying to find a way to stop Hojo and Jenova. I'm going to help him as much as I can," I said with a flick of my hair.
Cloud looked at me and then at Sephiroth. His blue, Mako eyes made me a little curious of what he was thinking. He stepped out of his fighting stance and gave a nod to me.
"I understand now.. But tell me one thing, Tifa," said Cloud.
"Yes, what is it?" I asked curiously.
"I understand your concern, but why are you helping HIM? I mean, I know he had no control over his actions years ago, but can't you still feel anger towards him," said the spiky blonde hero.
I looked around and saw eyes from the group as they wonder the same. I even felt the eyes of the great Sephiroth look down at me. Why did I really want to help him? I began to think of a worthy response. I had a couple of reasons, but they weren't really something I would want to explain in front of Cloud or the others. Quickly, I came up with a rational answer.
"I hold all my anger towards Jenova now. She's the one that controlled him and made him kill the people I cared. He even apologized about my loss when I helped him in recovery. Sephiroth is a human being like us, but I feel sorry for him. I mean, to go around the world with no friends and people to care for him. That's why I came. I want to help him and show him that at least once person in this Holy- forsaken planet welcomes the REAL Sephiroth back," I said with a smile.
All of their eyes stared at me with understanding. I knew I was one of the more forgiving, friendly people in the group, but I knew forgiving Sephiroth was a little hard for me. All these years, I said I hated him and thought he was evil, but now that I know the truth, it's different. It was as if I see him as a new person. I looked up at him as he gave me a small grin. I returned his grin with a bright smile, which everyone saw as well.
"That's it.. I'll help you guys then," said Cloud.
I looked at him with a surprised expression. He was going to help? I looked back at Sephiroth as he even looked over his shoulder toward the Ex- Soldier. He was probably as shocked as I was.
"I believe Tif's words. I know she doesn't act just on her logic, but her heart and faith in people. I'll help as much as I can, Sephiroth," replied Cloud.
"Thanks, Cloud," I said with a bright smile.
"Me, too. I believe in this silver hair dork. I know he wants to make amends for the things he did," said Aeris with a giggle.
"Wow, this is so weird, foo'." Said Barret. "We helpin' our old enemy."
"Yeah. This calls for a smoke," replied Cid as he took out a new cigarette.
"Another adventure? I can't wait to travel once more. I can use my motion sickness pills now," said Yuffie.
"You never change, Yuffie," replied Nanaki with a chuckle.
"I will also help, Tifa. I'll do anything within my reach to help you and to kill Hojo," said Vincent.
I gave a nod to everyone and smiled. My friends had my back once again and I knew I was a lucky person. I looked up at Sephiroth as he turned his head to me and began to walk off.
"Where you going, Sephiroth?" I asked.
"I'll be in the library.. we need to see about the Gold and Silver materia," said Sephiroth.
He kept walking as I watched his handsome frame move towards the stairs. Suddenly, he stopped and looked back at us once more.
"Thank you for forgiving me..." he said.
With that, he went on his way up the stair back towards Nanaki's home. I smile as I saw my friends gawk at the Sephiroth's thanks. I walked towards them and gave a thankful bow.
"Thank you, you guys. I appreciate the help. It'll make things...easier," I said.
"We're only doin' this for you, girl," said Barret.
"Yeah, I still don't trust that guy. Don't trust people so easily, Tifa," replied Cid with a puff from his cigarette.
"Well, I believe him, so I'm on track with you, Tifa," said Aeris.
"Me, too!" unison Yuffie and Nanaki.
"Thanks. How about you, Vincent, Cloud?" I asked as I looked at both of them.
"I understand him. Jenova was in my body as well, but right now, I can't trust him fully like I trust you." Said Cloud.
"He is of Hojo's blood, so part of me cannot trust him, but the other part of him belongs to Lucrecia and I promised her long ago, I would protect him." Said Vincent.
Everyone was silent as I could feel Vincent trying to fight off the demons inside his mind (More ways than one). He was still hung up with Lucrecia, but I knew he was better. I walked towards him and took a hold of his large, strong hands with my petite hands and smiled at him.
"Don't worry, Vincent, I'm here for you like everyone else is. I'm glad to see you and all of you," I said with another one of one my smiles.
"Good. Let us all get to work. We need to help Sephiroth with the search in the library," said Nanaki.
"Great, this'll be like we're doing %&@%#^ homework for school," said Barret.
"Yeah, I don't read books unless I'm on the can," replied Cid.
"That was nasty, old man," said Yuffie as she kept shaking her head.
" Old man? I ain't no %&@%#^ old man!" said Cid as he began to become grumpy.
"Whatever!"
We began to laugh at the two AVALANCHE member. I felt like the old times as I looked at everyone. I stopped my gaze at Aeris and Cloud. Cloud placing an arm over on Aeris's shoulder. The tension came back as I place my gaze towards the ground.
"Anything wrong?" Asked Vincent as he looked down at me.
"No! Nothing! Nothing at all.." I said with a cheery voice.
I ran toward the steps and turned back to them.
"Come on. We have things to do! Let's get a move on it," I said with a somewhat serious tone in my voice.
I ran up the stairs as I could hear from behind their footsteps following. It was good to see them all, but I felt it was actually too soon. I needed to find closure in the feelings I had for Cloud, but maybe it was better if I could find closure with his help.
As it was getting very late, only Sephiroth, Vincent, Cloud, and I were awake. Aeris and Yuffie took the beds in Nanaki's room while Cid and Barret took the chairs in the library. Nanaki took the rug near a fireplace, as I knew he loved that place to sleep. I was becoming tired myself, but I needed to help. I picked up a small yet thick book. It was covered in dust as I observed the cover. I blew the dust off and was about to read the title until I felt a gentle hand.
"You look tired," said a familiar voice.
It was Cloud as I turned my head to see him. I gave a thank smile, but said, "I'm fine. You don't have to worry."
"You know I always worry about you, Tif," he replied with a grin.
His grin made me frown. I used to love his smiles and grins. He looked so handsome and desirable. Back then, I used to think that his smiles were to say he loved me. I know I was dreaming back then, but that's what I could do. I was too scared to say how I felt, so I thought pretended he was, too. Now, I knew I was a big girl and it was time for me to come clean.
"Cloud, I need to talk to you. May we talk somewhere else?" I asked.
He gave a simple nod as he showed me to the door. I looked to my side and saw Vincent and even Sephiroth's eyes following me out. We walked down to the café as we decided to get some coffee. Cloud took the chair out for me as I sat in it. He even ordered both of us coffee as I smiled. He was such a gentleman. He looked at me with his Mako eyes as my cheeks began to redden. He always made me feel this way when he looked at me.
"So, How have you been?" He asked with interest.
"I've been fine. I moved back to my old house in Nibelheim," I replied.
"Didn't it feel a little weird to be living at that place?" He asked.
"First it did, but I got over it. I adapted my surroundings."
"Yeah.. So, do you have a bar there like you did in Midgar?"
"No, I decided the city was too small to have one. I became a mercenary."
"A mercenary, huh? Copying me, are you?"
"Hey, I'm doing a better job at it than you ever did. I never fight with any of my bosses or flaunt about being a SOLDIER."
We both began to chuckle at how we were acting. It felt so good to see him again. I knew I could never push him out of my mind. He was my childhood friend and.. My first real crush. I began to drift off into my thoughts until he waved his hand in my face.
"Planet to Tifa. Wake up," said Cloud as he sipped his coffee.
"Sorry. I do that from time to time." I said as I picked up my drink.
I sipped my coffee and felt it in my body. The liquid felt so good as it flowed down my throat. I looked at him and smiled. He chuckled again as he placed down his cup.
"So, what was it you wanted to speak with me about?" He asked.
My smile turned into a small frown as I began to think. It was time. I had to tell him everything. It was time to tell him why I began this journey with Sephiroth. It was also the time to tell him he was the reason I didn't speak to anyone in three years and everything I felt towards him since I was sixteen.
" Cloud... you are my friend. We've been through everything together, haven't we?" I said.
"Yes, we have.. and I'm glad, too. You were always the one to make me realize that there were people who counted on them to lead them and also to show that as a team, we could make it." Replied Cloud.
"I stayed by your side through everything. Remember the time you had Mako poisoning and we fell into the Lifestream?"
"Yeah. You stayed by my side the whole time. I was very thankful for that and I'm thankful to have such a caring person like you in my life."
He placed his larger hand on my petite hand and smiled. I felt my heart melt for him. He was so blind. I knew my feelings were very plain to see, but he couldn't see it. Everyone knew how much I loved him, but he couldn't see it himself. It was time for me to tell him.
"Cloud..ever since that time under the well when we were fifteen and sixteen, I began to grow feelings for you.. And when we began that adventure long ago, I knew I truly loved you," I said in one breath.
He looked at me with a surprised expression and didn't say a word. I didn't know what to think. He looked down at his coffee then back at me.
"I knew you would tell me finally..." said Cloud.
"What?" I asked in confusion.
"I knew you did, Tifa. God, I was waiting for you to say it. I loved you back then, but I needed you to say it. After a while, you couldn't say, but Aeris, she told me every thought she had about me all the time. She gave me the affections that I needed. I didn't want to love her, but it happened when she left." He replied.
It was my turn to look at him. He knew all this time? Why couldn't he tell me! I was surprise and upset at the same time. We could have had something, but I was just too shy to show him my feelings and he was too selfish to tell me.
"I'm sorry that I was too shy to tell you my feelings, Cloud, but if you really did love me, you would have waited... like I did for you," I said.
"I'm sorry, Tif, I never meant this.. Aeris and I are in love and I'm sorry you don't support us," he replied with as he looked away.
"I never said I didn't support you two. I do think you will be happy and I hope you two will love each other unconditionally."
"Then why did you call to talk to me?"
"This is closing all my feelings I had for you. I just wanted to tell you how I did love you."
"I see.."
We finished our coffees and walked out the café. As we approached the house, I turned to him. He looked at me and was probably was wondering what I was thinking about.
"Cloud.. I'll always be here for you matter what," I said.
"The same goes for me," he replied with a simple grin.
I nodded at him. I decided I wanted to give him something I've always wanted to give him. I walked closer to him and placed my petite hands on his cheeks. I leaned towards him with my eyes closed and delivered a passionate, gentle kiss. He moved in deeper as I felt his hands placed themselves around my waist. Soon enough, he began to return the kiss with his own amount of passion. The kiss was breathtaking as we departed our lips from each other. We looked at each other with desirable eyes, but I knew I was done.
"Goodnight, Cloud," I whispered.
I walked into the house and knew he was following until I went to the bedroom the girls were in. I changed my clothes and plopped into my bed with a smile. I felt so alive. The kiss I gave him was to truly close my heart to him. I knew my feelings, my passion for him, and my desire was no longer there. I was finally free.
A/n: Did you like it? I like it! I think this is the best chapter, actually. I made closure with Tifa and Cloud. It had to be done to let Vincent and Sephiroth get a chance with her. It's going to get interesting. What happen with that book that Tifa had? I wonder.... Well, I'll try my best to finish the next chapter.
Review!!!!!!