Ack. That's all I have to say. I seriously intended for this story to be something else, but it's veered off into a completely different direction. It started out being a general humor thing with the yaoi factor, but now? Now it's a freakin' romance! Gah! I need to actually change the category after this. I didn't want to do a romance, but it just ended up going that way and dammit...it fits. I mean, these two are seriously asking for a love story and I think I'm giving them one. Oh well. But a minor warning, there's an overheard lemon scene in the beginning...somewhere. Haha, you get to find it. Really really short, but hell. there is a reason for it.Yay for fights. Haha. Sooo...chapter six shall we? Should have a warning for sever fluffiness too. And lots and lots of OOCnesson both parts. But I guess they have their reasons.
Chapter Six--Late Night Confessions
Cherry blossoms. That was what Cid woke to and he grumbled as he brushed the petals off of his face. Rolling over, he sighed. Another day. He reached over and shut off his alarm, forcing his eyes open. No warmth greeted his side and he sighed again. So he hadn't rolled into Vincent's vicinity last night.
He glanced over at the still-sleeping boy. He could barely see the tip of his pale nose sticking above the blankets, the ebony silk of his hair flowing behind his head. The bundle of blankets moved momentarily and he froze, afraid of waking him. But when Vincent didn't stir again, he stood silently and made his way to the bathroom.
He gasped as the cold water splashed his face, waking him completely. It was almost becoming a ritual when Vincent was around him. Looking up, he took a deep breath as he analyzed his reflection. His blonde hair was rumpled and the normal bright blue eyes were dull, proof that he hadn't slept much if any. Thoughts of the early morning had kept him awake.
Reaching inside of the shower, he switched it on and stepped under the freezing downpour. He didn't care that his clothes were getting soaked. He just wanted to rid himself of everything that he could. But the feelings still clung to him as the cold water ran down his skin in rivers. Nothing could make them go away. He leaned his forehead against the wall, feeling the water beating down on his back. Nothing helped.
Shivering, he stepped out of the shower and stood staring in the mirror again. Water dripped from his blonde hair, the golden strands plastered against his face. Slowly he stripped off his clothes and surrounded himself with a dry towel.
He was still shivering as he closed his door and headed quietly for his closet. After searching around he managed to pull out something to wear, dragging the lot back into the bathroom where he quickly dressed. When he finished his reflection loomed at him again and he stopped to stare at his tired face again.
Here he was, Cid Highwind, age nineteen and in a foreign country where he understood hardly anything. And here he was, in love with another man. Shaking his head, he went against the thought. How could it be love? He had never really loved anyone. Maybe this was just another stupid crush that he would get over. He sighed. I hope so. I don't know if I can keep seeing him when I feel like this. It just hurts. Pressing the damp towel to his face, he breathed out.
Taking a deep breath, he stepped back into the hallway, coming face-to-face with Vincent. He stumbled backward a little, running a hand through his still-dripping hair. "Uh, morning," he said softly, passing by the black-haired boy.
Quietly, he walked into the living room and flopped down on the couch. He felt as though he hadn't slept any through the night. His mind was bordering on exhaustion and his eyes had just started to slip shut when Vincent whispered something in his ear. His eyes flew open and he stared at the black-haired boy standing before him. "W—what?" He hadn't understood the words, only the fact that he had felt the warm breath against his face.
"I said that I think something is wrong with Cloud." He crossed his arms and tried not to stare at the flush racing across the blonde's face. The flush that he had caused. So it was real. Guess things can't be easy. He brushed his hair back with his right hand. "Did you hear me that time?"
Cid flinched at the strange tone in Vincent's voice. "Yeah, I heard you. But what do you mean something's wrong with Cloud?" Confusion filled his mind, shoving his mental battle back for the moment.
The crimson-eyed boy nodded toward the hallway. "Come hear for yourself." He led the way back to the door and Cid pressed his ear against the wood, listening carefully. Nothing. Then he heard it, almost a low groan. "Maybe he's sick," he whispered. "He could have caught it from Zack. He had a little bit of a cold the other day." He opened his mouth to add in another comment when he heard the groan louder. Frowning, he continued listening as Vincent knelt beside him and added his own ear to the door.
They heard a few strained words that neither could make out and Cid turned away for a moment. "Cloud does sleeptalk. That could be it. I've heard a few strange episodes he's had lately. Some of the weirdest shit about dogs and pizzas and—"
"Hush!" Vincent clapped his hand over Cid's mouth, the feel of the soft skin making his heart jump. All right, just calm down Cid. You're here to find out what's wrong with Cloud, remember? Shaking the hand away, he leaned back to the door. "I think he stopped. Maybe it really was sleep—"
"Mmm…oh god." The forced whisper floated through the door and the two boys stared at each other. Cid suddenly got the impression that they shouldn't be listening. "Oh god…Zack. Zack…nhh…"
"We should not be here," Cid whispered forcefully, but before they could move away another broken whisper reached them.
"Ah, Zack…harder. Please…harder…"
"I—I'm trying…Cloud…"
Cid's eyes grew wide as he heard Zack's voice join in. In an instant he was up and moving toward the living room and out of the door. When he reached the steps he sat down, running his hands over his face. "Okay. I did not just hear that. I mean I knew they were…together, but not that together," he mumbled to himself.
The door opened and Vincent sat down beside him, a blank look on his face. After breathing deeply for a few seconds he turned toward the blonde. "That was them—"
"Uh-huh."
"And they were—"
"Uh-huh."
"And we just—"
"Uh-huh."
"Oh god." Vincent wiped his hand across his face, rumpling his bangs. "Did they ever tell you? About any of that?"
"Nope." Cid was sitting still, his elbows resting on his knees. He was trying not to think of it, but nothing got the mental image out of his head.
Vincent shook his head. "They practically set it up for you to find out. Not telling you and then just…well, that." He couldn't bring himself to say the words, preferring to not say it out loud.
"Just about. I could tell that they were together and all. I mean, I saw them kissing one night. If that wasn't a sign then I don't know what is." He lowered his head and covered his face with his hands. Wait. What if Vincent gets the idea that I've been getting ideas from them? What if he starts thinking that I'll want to do the same to him? He panicked, stuffing his hands between his knees and staring at the sidewalk.
Out of the corner of his eye he saw the ebony head shaking. "How…how it is even possible?" Cid couldn't believe that he was asking such a question.
"You're kidding, right?" He aimed blue eyes at the other boy. "It's extremely possible. Think about it." Shaking his own head, he turned his gaze back to the sidewalk. You have to be a complete idiot not to know that one, he thought. But he wasn't about to say that out loud.
Vincent aimed crimson eyes at him. "Well don't you sound the expert."
"What's that supposed to mean!" Cid stood up suddenly, glaring down at the raven-haired youth. "I'll have you know that I haven't done anything like that!" He hated the piercing tone of his own voice, but it got the point through.
"Yeah and that's why you kissed me?" The crimson eyes had turned dark as he stood also, standing above the blonde. Black eyebrows knit together as he narrowed his eyes at Cid. "Well? Or was that just some 'why the hell not' deal?"
"I'm telling you, I'm not gay!" Cid flung out his arms, almost screaming the words. He felt his breath passing out shakily as he reached out to the railing for support. "I'm not gay and I never have been! So if you want to think otherwise, just say it Goddammit! Stop fuckin' pussyfootin' around it all!"
"All right, you expect me to believe that you're not when you plainly kissed me last night and asked for something more that a friendship? I'm sorry, but things don't work that way over here! They might in your stupid Tampa, but over here? No, they don't!" he whirled around, his obsidian hair flying behind him. "I don't even know why I'm here!" he shouted as he stormed away from the house.
Cid felt his anger draining out of him. "Because you don't have anywhere else to go," he said softly. "You said it yourself."
Vincent froze, his shoulders slumping slightly. He was right. He didn't have anywhere else to go except back to his step-father. He had come here for a safe refuge, not to have a screaming match with his friend. Letting out his held breath, he hung his head.
He didn't feel the sun beating down on his skin. He didn't feel the wind caressing his face. He didn't feel the tears forming behind his eyes. The only thing he felt was the soft embrace he was pulled into, the blonde hugging him from behind. ""I—I'm sorry. I didn't mean to yell like that. I just…I never had to defend myself like that before." Cid sighed and leaned his forehead against Vincent's back. "I just…I don't know."
Vincent stiffened slightly. "Cid, can you let go? I feel a little uncomfortable." His voice was gentle, but still had a sharp edge to it. The grip around his waist loosened and he stepped away, looking at the blonde. "I know how you feel and all, but I'm just not like that. I didn't mean to imply that you were gay or anything. I just want to clarify that I have no interest in you that way, all right?" His crimson gaze settled on Cid, his emotions unreadable.
"I—I understand." Cid hung his head slightly, sitting back on the front steps. He shoved his fingers through his hair and gripped the golden strands as he leaned his elbows on his knees. Vincent stepped forward when the door opened behind the blonde, Zack looking down at them startled.
"Oh, hey. There you are. I was wondering." He caught sight of Vincent and raised a hand. "Hey Vincent, didn't know you were here." He stood above the blonde, glancing down. "So, you want some breakfast or something before school?"
Cid tried to ignore the happy tilt to Zack's head. "Uh, I think I'll pass," he grumbled. He stood quickly and brushed past the black-haired man who followed him.
"Hey, something wrong? You seem kinda upset over something. Vincent dump you?" He grinned, laughing.
Cid whirled around, his face reddening. "How can he dump me when we aren't fucking doing anything?" he hissed. "But anyway, maybe you should try to keep your own damn boyfriend quieter." He shoved the refrigerator door open and pulled out a bottle of soda. "You two fucking woke me up," he growled.
"Hmm? Oh! Heh, sorry about that. But you know how it goes, just can't wait until the next—"
"Shut up! I don't want to hear your details, are you crazy? Shit!" He pushed the door closed, downing half of the bottle. "You could have at least warned me."
"I didn't?" Zack tilted his head, thinking. "I swore I did. Hmm, maybe not. Oh well, all out in the open now, right?" He grinned as he let the blonde pass by where he flopped onto the couch. "Hey, what're you doing? Don't you have classes today?"
Cid closed his eyes and sighed. "I'm taking care of Vincent today, so there." He cracked his eyes at the hearty laugh that filled the room. "What?"
"Taking care of him? What, he a little dog now or something? Come on, I know you like him and all, but he's a big boy. He can take care of himself quite well." Zack joined him on the couch. "And you don't have to get all defensive over liking him. It's written all over your face." He smiled before grabbing the bottle out of Cid's hands. "Besides," he mumbled as he took a drink, "doesn't he work today?"
Cid snatched the bottle back and wiped off the rim. "No, he doesn't. He got injured a few days ago and needs help, okay? And his worthless step-father won't do a damn thing to help him. So if I don't then no one will, all right?" He slid further down on the couch, leaning his head back into the cushioning. "And no shit about my liking him. It's purely a friendship thing."
"Sure. Whatever." Zack smiled knowingly and stood. "So are you just going to leave your friend outside or should I let him in?" Shrugging, he didn't give the blonde a chance to answer and walked to the door anyway. "Vincent, you're welcome to stay however long you want. Maybe you can even get Cid to give up some of his lesser qualities while you're at it." He grinned, patting the black-haired boy on his shoulder making him wince slightly.
Cid raised a blonde eyebrow. "Lesser qualities? And what would those be?"
"Oh, maybe smoking for one." He waved Vincent over to the couch where he sat down beside the blonde, his eyes averted.
"Smoking? What the hell makes you think I do that?" Cid closed his eyes while he folded his arms across his chest. Zack had the tendency to find out things like that. He was just playing around to see if he meant it or not.
Zack laughed as he pulled a chair from the kitchen table. "Oh, maybe the fact that there are always a few cigs missing from my pack tipped me off." He smiled and sat straddling the chair, resting his arms on top of the backrest.
The blonde raised his hands, defeated. "You got me. So you want them back?" He leaned over toward Vincent. "Maybe I should start asking you to get them for me," he whispered. The crimson eyes laughed as he smirked at Zack. "What? Can't make comments anymore?"
"Oh no, go right ahead." A hand waved as he pushed away from the chair and started toward the hallway. "Just remember to send me an invite to your coming-out party!" He laughed as a badly-aimed shoe hit the wall. Then he disappeared into the hall, the laughter still ringing through the blonde's ears.
"Stupid baka," Cid grumbled as he sank even lower into the couch.
"I don't see why you let that get to you. I would just let it go as the joke it is." Vincent glanced over Cid who was almost glaring at him.
Sighing, he released Vincent from his gaze. "It's because it's not true and that's why it bothers me. But then it might be true. Shit, I don't know! You tell me what's going on if it makes so much sense to you." A wave of exhaustion rolled over him and he felt his eyes growing blurry and closing ever so slowly.
"I never said it made sense to me, just that it's a joke. But it seems that you…" He looked over at the blonde, cutting his words off at the sight of the closed eyes. "Cid? Are you falling asleep?"
"Mmm…maybe. Why? I'm not allowed?" He opened one cerulean eye, gazing over his folded arms. "You gonna make me stay up and go to school?"
Vincent sighed and shook his raven head. "No, I'm not. That's your own responsibility, not mine. But wouldn't it be better to actually sleep in your bed? I would think it'd be more comfortable."
"Hmm…heh. You know what would be really comfortable?"
Vincent rolled his eyes. The blonde was starting to give him a headache. "What?" He started to get up when a weight fell into his lap, Cid smiling up at him. "What the--you idiot, get up!"
Cid shook his head which was lying in Vincent's lap. "Nope, not gonna. It's too comfortable here, you know." Stretching his arms back, he gripped the couch, effectively trapping the ebony-haired boy. "Ha, now what're you gonna do?"
Okay, just keep calm. He's just messing around after all. No need to get too upset at him for--"Okay! That's it!" He suddenly jumped up, pulling the pair of arms from around his waist. "Just because I cuddle things in my sleep unintentionally doesn't mean that I'll do it when I'm awake." He smacked the back of the blonde head as Cid gazed at him from the couch. "Kono hentai. Go find someone else to hug. Or better yet," he picked up a pillow and shoved it into the other boy's arms "here. This won't push you off."
"Aw, come on Vince. I didn't do anything." An innocent smile lit on the blonde's face and he laughed as he tossed the pillow back to Vincent. "I was just playing around." The crimson eyes watched him as he curled up on the couch. "What? Afraid of me now?"
"No." Just to spite the other, Vincent sat down beside him. "I just don't want you playing around so much that you get the wrong ideas and think I'll let you do other stuff, okay? So it's best not to start. Keep your hands to yourself and we'll be fine." Crossing his arms, he watched the blonde carefully.
Cid sighed. "Okay, okay. I guess I see your point." He shrugged and leaned back against the couch, pulling the pillow away from Vincent. "But, it's not my fault you look like a girl."
Zack frowned from his room as he heard the loud shout. "Whoa, what's the rush?" Vincent stormed past him into Cid's room, the door closing heavily. He peeked into the living room where the blonde was cradling his head. "What'd you do now?"
"I was just kidding! I said he looked like a girl. Damn, guy can't take a joke?" He groaned as he flopped back into the couch once more, Zack sitting beside him.
The man rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Well, you do know that the first rule of getting someone to like you back is to not insult them, right?" He scratched his own head. "Believe me, I found that one out the hard way."
"I don't like him," Cid grumbled through the pillow.
Zack laughed. "Right. And I'm the Prime Minister. Face it Cid, you like him." The front door squeaked and they both looked up to see Cloud entering, a small bag hanging from his hands. "Cloud? Where'd you go? I thought you were in the bathroom or something. Well, whatever. That was a fast trip, wherever it was." Rising, he took hold of the bag and peeked inside. "Sake? Score! Damn, glad you weren't in there," he said, a grin forming on his face as he draped an arm over the older blonde's shoulders.
"I just ran out for a few moments. The store's right down the street after all." You thought I'd forgotten today, didn't you?" He stopped by the kitchen table and laid out three bottles, the clear liquid sloshing inside.
"Hmm, of course not," Zack mumbled as he pulled the blonde into a backwards embrace. Leaning his head ever so slightly, he planted a small kiss on the soft cheek.
"Okay, and this is where I leave!" Cid stood quickly, waving a hand in front of his eyes. "Just be sure to warn me if you do anything on that table. I don't want to eat off of it if you do." He groaned and passed through the hall, slipping into his room.
Vincent glanced up from his spot on the floor. "Okay. So I'm sorry I said you looked like a girl. I was just joking." Cid dropped down onto his futon and stretched out. The soft breeze was still blowing and he closed his eyes as the delicate scent of the sakura tree filled his mind. "But anyway, think I might crash a little." He rolled over, facing Vincent. "That all right with you?"
"Why wouldn't it be?" Crimson eyes peeked over the top of a book he'd picked up. "I'm going to be going soon anyway."
"What? Why?" The blonde shot up, staring at him. "There's not reason—"
"Yes, there is. My step-father will be looking for me."
Cid huffed and crossed his arms. "You know what? Fuck him. That right there," he motioned toward Vincent's back, "will take at least a week to fully heal and you have two weeks off. I don't see your house as being the best place to be right now. That jackass is liable to straight out kill you once he starts going completely dry."
Vincent shook his head. "No, he's got his stashes. He wouldn't let himself go dry." He raised the book again, ignoring the steady blue gaze that was beating on him.
"So? That's not my point. Fuck Vince, Zack won't care if you stay the whole week. I sure as hell won't." He laid back down on his futon, rolling onto his back. "So what's so wrong with staying a little longer?"
The ebony-haired boy sighed. Cid made a strong point, but still… "He'll come looking for me. He'll go to the school and find out who you are and come her to get me. I know him."
"Well then," Cid's voice already had a far-away tone to it, "I'll just have to kick his ass, won't I? Can't have him just snatchin' you away." He closed his eyes again as Vincent sighed. Outside on the room he could hear Zack and Cloud talking, the sound of liquid being poured easily heard. This is gonna be a long day, he thought as he drifted off silently.
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"Would you sit still? Damn!" Cid reached out and pushed down on Vincent's bare shoulders. "I can't do anything when you're squirmin' around."
"Yeah, well, it hurts!" Crimson eyes flashed as he complied and raised his arms again. "You do know that I could do this myself?" he asked as the blonde wrapped another layer of bandage around his chest. The material pulled taut and he sucked in a breath of air to compensate. "You're going to end up suffocating me."
Cid reached around the pale body again. "Wimp. This goes a hell of a lot faster if you just let me do it." With a quick flip of his finger he tucked the loose end under, securing his work. He patted the slim shoulder. "There. That wasn't so horrible, was it?"
A button-up shirt quickly covered the bandaging and Vincent turned to him. "No, but I still don't see why you had to wrap it all up. I would have been fine without it." He leaned back against the pillow propped up on the wall. The window was opened completely the warm spring air rustling through his silken hair. A single sakura floated down and tangled in the obsidian threads, the soft petals brushing his cheek.
Fingers brushed against the skin also as Cid reached out and pulled the blossom free. He chuckled lightly. "Vincent, the sakura tree. It fits." He rolled the blossom gently in his palm before setting it on the sill where the wind played with it for a few moments.
When he had woken up only a half-hour earlier, Cid had been almost thrilled to still see Vincent sitting near him, his face still buried behind the book. He had decided to stay after all, at least for a few days. He had explained that he'd thought over Cid's words while he slept and found them to be right. He was liable to get more injured just by staying home.
Zack had welcomed him like he was part of the family, even offering a few pieces of clothing that no longer fit him once he found out Vincent's predicament. As it turned out they were both about the same size with the younger being slightly smaller so everything fit fine. He had been glad to get a shower and some fresh clothes and was now decently satisfied with his decision.
When he had finished messing with his own clothes, Cid stood suddenly. "Well, I'm outta here for a while," he said as he reached for the door.
Vincent eyed him curiously. "Why's that?"
"Ah, Zack and Cloud are havin' some sort of party with themselves. Something like an anniversary. Least that's what Zack said. I don't want to be around here when they get drunk and start droolin' all over each other." He shouldered his pack and turned the handle. He had managed to force the details out of Zack a little earlier when he'd bumped into him in the bathroom. One of the sake bottles was already open and in the black-haired man's hand so he figured the celebrating would start soon.
Vincent shuddered as he recalled the morning's events. "Oh. Guess I'm with you then. I definitely don't want to be here either." The blonde held the door open while he passed out of it, heading for the front door. "So, where are you going exactly?"
"Ah, this place I always go to think or just get away. Over in the park," he muttered as he made sure his keys were in his pocket. Checking the clock, he confirmed the time. Almost seven which meant almost sunset. Perfect. He always liked to catch the sun sinking into the horizon, the sky erupting into flaming clouds. And then stars. He was always amazed that there were so many visible that close to the city.
He did it every chance he had, but tonight something was different. He wasn't sure what to think about Vincent following him there. It was usually a time he just lay there and thought about everything even speaking some of his thought out loud to himself. But to have Vincent there? He shrugged. Oh well. He'll probably like what I brought though.
They passed silently through the park, the lighted entrance placing an unearthly glow on the ebony-haired youth's skin. Like he's made of moonlight, Cid mused as he smiled softly. Vincent remained completely quiet, his crimson eyes slowly scanning the park.
"Well, we're here," he stated softly as he pulled a blanket free from his pack. He spread it on the grass, settling down in a smoothly practiced pattern. Vincent's gaze roamed the area again. He could see why the blonde liked the spot. The trees broke here to form a small clearing, the sakura trees surrounding them, the breeze rustling their delicate petals. A tiny stream flowed off to the side somewhere, the soft babbling sound the only evidence it was there. He smiled as he looked up, millions of pinpoint lights shining in the velvet sky.
The grass rustled as he sat down and leaned back. "I understand your liking for this area," he said softly. The gentle breeze whispered through the trees, flowing against his bare skin. He heard a sharp crackling and looked to the side where Cid was pulling a bottle from his pack. "What's that?" he asked even though he really didn't need an answer.
"Sake. They had three bottles. I see it as saving them a little from drinking themselves into a coma." The lid popped as he smiled and twisted it free.
"I didn't know you drank." Vincent raised his ebony brows slightly.
"I don't."
"Then what are you doing?" By the soft light of the moon he saw the blonde raise the bottle to his lips.
"Drinking." He raised the bottle slightly, the moonlight glinting off of the glass. "Hello, my name is Cid and I'm a recovered alcoholic. I have been sober for six weeks now and I just shot it all." He chuckled to himself softly as Vincent pulled the bottle from his hands.
"You're a recovering alcoholic? Than what the hell do you think you're doing?" He set the bottle on the opposite side of himself so Cid couldn't reach it. "You're just going to get addicted again," he warned.
The blonde waved a hand. "No, recovered, not recovering. I went completely dry six weeks ago. Haven't touched a drop of the stuff once and haven't wanted to." He sighed and leaned back. "But for some reason I just don't care tonight. I don't know why, so don't ask me." He looked at Vincent, his blue eyes shining. "And don't think that just because it's over there I won't try to get it. I have nothing against reaching over you if that's what you're going for."
"Still doesn't mean I'm letting you have it." Vincent pushed the bottle a little more away from himself. "You don't need it Cid. Think about it. You've gone this long without any so why start back?"
Cid rubbed his temple. "Because I damn well feel like it! That's why! Any more questions?" The crimson eyes flashed int the moonlight and he felt a chill run down his back. "I'm sorry, I just…Goddammit, I don't know anymore. But you're a fucking hypocrite, you know that?"
"How's that?" Vincent held the bottle up, staring through the clear liquid at the stars.
"Because. Have you ever had any? I mean, seriously, any alcohol of any kind?" Cid reached over and lowered the bottle but didn't try to take it from the other boy. "No lying either."
Vincent took a breath. "No, I haven't. And I don't plan on starting anytime soon. I've seen what it does to people and I won't become one of them." He shook his head, ebony threads brushing his face.
"You mean your step-father." The boy nodded. "Yeah, well, not everyone turns out being a stupid asshole like him when they're drunk. Hell, people used to say that I was the happiest person alive when I drank. I never did any of the stupid shit he does." He sighed, remembering. Those days had probably been his most enjoyable even if they were headed toward his downfall. But he's jumped out of the way of that train when he went dry. And now? So he wanted a drink, so what?
Vincent raised the bottle again. "I still don't see what people get out it," he muttered. "I've only seen unwanted things come out of alco—" He was cut off as Cid reached over, shoving the bottle into his mouth. The cold sake ran into his mouth and he swallowed involuntarily, choking on the fiery liquid. "What the hell was that for?" he yelled as Cid capped the bottle again.
"Just giving you a taste. So?" A single blonde brow rose. "How was it?"
"Nastiest stuff I've ever tasted," Vincent mumbled as he wiped his mouth on his sleeve. "Now I definitely don't see the point. You pour something that tastes horrible down your throat just to feel good? I don't see how that works."
Cid raised the bottle slightly. "Maybe you should try again. It couldn't hurt. Hell, I'm here so I can cover for you if anything goes wrong." He smiled helpfully. But for some reason the smile didn't give Vincent that much relief.
"I don't think so."
"Well, this has been opened now. Someone's gotta drink it." The blonde lifted the bottle to his mouth again, swallowing a mouthful.
"Oh no, no you don't." Vincent snatched the bottle away again. "I'm not letting you get drunk. No way, no how. So just give up that little thought, okay?"
Cid shook his head. "Fuck Vince. Before I quit I could drink a whole bottle of this shit with a few shots and not feel anything. Part of a bottle isn't gonna do anything to me." He crossed his arms and stared at the crimson eyes. "I think I'd know. But," he reached over and uncapped the bottle again, pushing it toward Vincent, "if you're really worried that I'm gonna get drunk, then drink with me. That way I won't be getting the whole bottle and I won't be alone. Sound good?"
"No. But I suppose that if I don't then you'll drink the whole thing whether I try to stop you or not, right?"
"Exactly." Cid took another drink, the burning liquid running down his throat. He smiled at the sensation, one he'd missed for a while. Taking another look at the raven-haired boy, he held out the bottle again. "So?"
Taking a breath, Vincent grabbed the sake, glowering at the blonde. "Fine. Have it your way," he grumbled as he stared at the bottle in his hand. "Well, here goes nothing." He tipped it upwards, grimacing as he swallowed the bitter liquid.
Cid grinned and pulled the bottle away, taking his own drink. "Good man Vince, good man. Glad to see you can actually loosen up a bit." He shoved the bottle back to the other boy, crimson eyes closing for a moment as he downed another mouthful. "Just think of it this way. Ya got a damn expert with you."
"For some reason I find no reassurance in that." Sake sloshed against glass as he threw back another drink. The blonde laughed and leaned back on his elbows, Vincent groaning inwardly. This is going to be a very long night.
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"Damn. Empty already?" Cid lifted the bottle, shaking it over his hand. A few drops landed and he rubbed his fingers together. "Shit. And I hardly even have a buzz. What about you Vince?"
"Hmm?" The boy was laying face-up on the blanket as he pushed his raven hair out of his face. He rolled over onto his side. "Whaddid you say?" Gazing through the silken locks, his eyes were slightly glazed, a blush lying across his cheeks.
Holy shit, why's he had to look so damn good even now? "Vince?" he reached out and brushed his fingers along the edge of the flush. "Are you feelin' okay? You look a little, I don't know…out of it."
"Hmm, little dizzy. Kinda interestin', you know." The crimson eyes closed as he laid his head on his outstretched arm. "Guess this was what you meant, huh?" A tiny smile graced the boy's lips as he laughed, a soft whispering sound.
"Uh, yeah. Listen Vince, maybe we'd better get you back to the house. You're kinda drunk whether you want to believe it or not." He had forgotten that while he had the resistance of a hard-core drinker, Vincent had never had anything alcoholic. Half a bottle had gone straight to his head making him completely drunk. He started to stand when a hand touched his arm. "Vince?"
The ebony head shook as he looked at the blonde unfocused. "No, I don't feel like goin' back yet. Just wanna stay here for a little, 'kay?" He squeezed Cid's arm and he complied, lying back down.
Cid was still wondering about the slim fingers that were still on his arm when a thought occurred to him. "Uh, Vince? Gotta question for you."
"Yeah?" Vincent aimed his gaze upward, taking in the sight of the blurry stars above.
I can't believe I'm about to ask this. "Vince…why don't you like me?" The crimson eyes stared at him and he suddenly thought he'd made a huge mistake. "Uh, I don't mean like friendship, like the other way," he stammered. Raising a hand to his forehead, he closed his blue eyes. Can't believe I just made a complete ass of myself like that. What was I thinking to ask him something like that?
The hand moved on his skin and he gasped as Vincent wrapped his arms around his shoulders. "I never said that. That I don't like you." Cid stiffened a little out of surprise as Vincent rested his head against the curve of his neck. "I just don't wanna go through somethin' like this again."
Again? "Whoa, wait a second Vince. Again? You've done something like this before? As in been with a man before?" He tried to roll over to face the boy but Vincent's hold on his shoulders was too firm. "Wh—what do you mean by that? I thought you were straight and all that."
"Hmm, no." The crimson eyes closed again, obsidian lashed brushing the blonde's neck. He shivered as warm breath caressed his skin, the embrace growing a little stronger. "There was one other time. But that was…couple years ago. Never lasted too long. Guy was an ass. Huge one."
Cid took a breath then glanced out of the corner of his eye at the milky skin pressed against his own. Goddammit Vince, is this for real or are you just teasing? Because it's fucking killing me. "One other time? Wh—what was he like?" Why do I keep asking these things? This isn't any of my business! Just shut up while you still can Cid!
The raven lashes fluttered and he shivered again. "He was a jerk. Biggest one in the world. Broke my heart, really. I hate him." The boy moved slightly, drawing closer to the blonde. "I dunno why he did it. We were fine and then he just…left me. For that stupid Kisaragi of all people."
Cid would have laughed if he hadn't thought it would hurt Vincent. "Yuffie? That girl who follows you around because she likes you? Doesn't she know?"
"Hn-uh. He lasted a week with her, said she was too annoying." The boy laughed, the warm puffs of air softly landing on Cid's neck. "But he never told her about us. She woulda been too dense to figure it out anyway even if he had told her. But I still remember when he said goodbye." He laughed again, this time a little sadder. "I wanted to cut all of his stupid cherry-red hair off for it. Stupid Reno. Stupid Yuffie. Stupid Vincent. They're all stupid."
Cid closed his eyes for a moment as Vincent sighed against his neck. "So how does that change things?"
"I made myself promise never to fall in love again, that's all." The boy's voice was fading softly, his eyes closing into a gentle sleep. "I just don't wanna get hurt again like that. But I never said I didn't like you," he mumbled into the blonde's shoulder, his lips brushing the soft skin. "Never said that."
Blue eyes turned on the pale face, Vincent's creamy skin almost glowing in the moonlight. "And if I promised never to do that? Never to leave you? Then would you be with me?" he whispered as he reached up and brushed back a few strands of obsidian silk.
Vincent smiled as the fingertips brushed his temple. "Maybe," he sighed. "Depends if you really mean it. Then maybe." He snuggled closer to Cid, enticing him to wrap his arm around the thin body.
Goddammit, why can't I stop? Why can't I just let go? Why do I want to hold him? Why, why, why? I just don't fucking get it! I don't want to feel this! I just want to feel normal! And this is not normal! I've heard of likin' your friend, but that's if it's a girl. But Vince…Vince is a guy. But…"I can't help it," he whispered to himself.
Vincent shifted slightly. "Hmm? You say somethin'?" He was already close to sleep, the alcohol working him deeper into his deliriously drunken stupor.
A hand brushed through blonde hair before draping over the thin body again. Cid turned so he was facing the other boy, the pale forehead right below his chin. Tilting his head the slightest, he gently kissed Vincent's hair, feeling the pale youth smile against his chest. "I won't leave you," he whispered. "I'll never leave you like that."
"That's what he said," Vincent mumbled against the blonde's shirt.
Cid closed his eyes, embracing the ebony-haired boy tighter. You're living in the past Vincent. But I guess that sometimes it's better than the present…
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Soo...fluffiness causes mental problems. Haha. Least it does for me. But maybe that's because all of this is in my head. I don't know. But heh, sorry and Reffie fans. First I shoot down the Yuffintine, now the Reffie. Haha Yuffie doesn't get a pretty boy. They all want each other. lol But I wanted to have someone from the game as Vincent's past boyfriend, so why not Reno? Hell, there are tons of Reno/Vincent (is there a word for them? O.o) and there are tons of Reffies, so it just happened to work. So yeah. Trying to keep Vincent somewhat in character with the whole "I'l never love again because my heart was shattered" thing. But other than that I'm failing horribly with OOCness. Hee hee. I'm sorry, it's just really hard. But I use the drunkeness as Vincent's excuse. Cid? Ehh...I'm not sure. Maybe the fact that he's all "WTF? I like a dude!" is messing with his mind. But yeah. OOCness abounds. Haha
Hmm...is it possible? There's actually stuff here? O.o But it is! Yay for learning. lol Or not, depending on whther you already know it or not.
Baka--I feel like I've said this one already. Maybe not. But anyway, "idiot".
Kono hentai--Heehee, great phrase. "You're a pervert". Hey, it works.
Hanami--Annual activity people do when they just take time to sit under the sakura trees and enjoy the day. Really fun actually.
So, chapter six is fin! lol Yay for other languages. Haha. But this is proof that this story's going right into the romance category and most likely gonna stay. So run while you still can before the fluffiness takes over! Mwhahaha! Ahem. But anyway, please? Well, review that is, not run. Heh heh. Confusion.