Reply to Sender,

Hey Vincent,

I really don't know what to say. When I received your letter I gotta admit I couldn't fight the swarm of butterflies that attacked my poor tummy. Shame on you for taking so long to finally write me! I expect to hear a lot more from you since I know you're alive and well.

You're right about our lack of communication. We really oughta hang out some time when you're in town. I'm sure Marlene would love it too! Why did you leave anyways? I know you didn't say goodbye to the others either but... I guess you had your reasons, right?

Vincent... I can't tell you enough that your friendship means to me just as much. You certainly know how to make a gal feel needed and special that's for sure. I think I was the one who did most of the talking though because I'm pretty sure you wouldn't want to relive the whole "Life sucks; Why doesn't Cloud like me" ordeal. Still though, your bravery for having to deal with my quiet ranting was appreciated. Thank you!

You listened when nobody else had the time, even when I thought you were tuning me out you somehow made it known that every word didn't escape you. Not only that but when we didn't have anything to say I remember how you'd let me rest my head against your shoulder. I can't apologize enough about the hot cocoa I spilt on your cloak though. Yes I am still apologizing for that! The uh stain did come out right?

Hmm... You think we really didn't know each other? I... thought since we shared so much... How could we not? Are there things maybe you haven't told me? You know I'm always here for you, Vincent. And just so you know I'm never gonna pressure you into telling me something you don't want to. Your past is your past and if that's where you want to leave it, then so be it. Daddy always said it was impolite to pry.

So I'm gonna say that we did know each other, Vincent. Probably a lot more than you realize.

So you're not sure about what would happen if you do something? Vincent. Remember everything that I'd been telling you about Cloud? I'm pretty sure you remember what happened with L... Sometimes you have to throw caution to the wind and just do it. I did and now I know. Cloud doesn't love me and I can move on and grow.

Was I afraid that was a possibility? You betcha.

If I hadn't, I would have been stuck on him. I would be moping about wondering about a thousand and some possibilities and then some. Sometimes you have to take a chance and hope for the best. If it doesn't go the way you want you better hold your head up high and reach for your next goal. You're such a strong man, Vincent. I wish you knew how strong you really are and how... I borrowed that strength to help me finally march up to Cloud and tell him how I felt.

And no your strength didn't fail me.

It saved me.

Oh... Uh wow.

You. You think you love me? I... I don't know what to say. I'm not really sure how I feel about this. I'm really flattered though! To be honest I didn't think you would ever pursue love again, not that I'm saying you're gonna pursue me... or anything but I guess all that stuff in the beginning is pretty much pointless. I guess that's what I get for writing as I read...

I like you a lot. I really do. I'm not exactly sure if it goes beyond a crush however. And yes just so you know I'm blushing terribly having finally admitted that. I have a crush on you. I think you deserve someone who thinks of you more than just a crush though. And I'm sure you could do a lot better too.

If I were to think up a lady who would be right for you... she would be a little shorter than you, perhaps have long blonde hair with ... green eyes? Oh she would be so pretty! She'd probably be some kind of marksman too. How about instead of guns she'd have one of those neat crossbows? And she'd wear leather. Yup... Can't forget about the leather...

I'm starting to feel a little jealous and I just made her up on the spot!

Don't be silly Vincent... I don't think you're a coward at all... and I'll always want your friendship. Never doubt it for a second. I'd love it if you would visit me. Do you think your journey will allow you to do that?

I miss you, too. So very much, Vincent.

Please come by when you have the chance and don't you feel lonely okay? We're always with you some way or another. If not beside you then, as corny as it sounds, inside your heart. You just gotta realize it first.

I hope the best for you too, Vincent. Be safe.

Your friend,

Tifa Lockhart