A/N: Aye! I'm back! First of all, a big thanks to ATK1734 and Lumina! I'm eternally grateful for your unwavering support! Thank you sooo much!

Second, I'm truly sorry that it took SO long to get this chapter out. It's almost the length of four chapters! I know this is a lot of reading, so I sincerely hope that it's enjoyable, at least. ^^" This is the most challenging chapter I had to write, and not even because of the length. There are eight short stories in this chapter, a re-telling of the same day from multiple characters as they experienced it - and they all overlap. T^T So I had to make a timeline of events and triple check for inconsistencies. If I still missed anything, or overlooked some typos, I'm sorry! Some interesting developments to follow in the next update, but for today, please enjoy this super romantic, sweet and fluffy chapter!


SPECIAL CHAPTER

Camping


"Friends with Benefits"

Her: Tifa

What a spectacular morning!

Vanille had picked out possibly the best day for camping. A beautiful, blue horizon. Clear skies with actual warm sunlight. The wind was still treacherously cold, but it seemed like it was going to be an absolute joy to be outdoors today.

I slipped into blue denim jeans for once - it was too cold to wear a skirt. I paired it with a white crop top, and an oversized denim jacket. Tying my hair up in a high ponytail, I worked slowly on my makeup, nervously watching Lightning take out a vintage t-shirt from our wardrobe.

"You're wearing that?" I asked cautiously. Lightning hadn't had her morning coffee, and we knew not to engage her without it.

She just nodded, trying to decide on jeans next. She settled for black ripped jeans. I evened out my lipgloss, watching her trying to comb through her bed hair. It was such a futile attempt. She wasn't even really trying!

"Just give it to me…" I demanded, holding out my hand. Lightning mumbled, sinking onto the seat in front of the mirror. I combed her pink locks, entranced as always by their unusual color. So pastel pink, like cotton candy. I was smiling, and my roommate raised an eyebrow at me.

"Oh it's nothing." I smiled wider, ironing out the spikes in her hair, ignoring her silent squirms of protests. She was being awfully obedient and it took a while to notice how conflicted her eyes were. Like something was really bothering her. "What's wrong, Light?"

"Nothing… I'm chickening out." She tapped her foot nervously on the floor.

"Chickening out?" I asked, unsure. The pink haired girl shook her head and jumped out of the seat when I put the hair straightener away.

"Never mind…" She grabbed her phone from her desk, reaching for her bag.

"Let me get that later. You should really get your morning coffee." Please, for everyone's sake…

"Right, thanks." She yawned, rubbing her eyes sleepily as she climbed into her boots. Thick, heavy boots. Like, really thick boots. I'm sure you could take someone down with this. Bet they'd hurt like hell... Should I give up on my dream of seeing her in heels some day?

With Lightning gone, I was left to my thoughts and the room felt silent again. Not that it was loud when she was around - she was quieter than Cloud sometimes. I realized that my side of the room was impeccably clean, likely my mood roommate's handiwork from last night.

There was a knock on the door, and I opened it to find Cloud standing outside. I hated that I still… felt this way about him. My mind was like a broken record, always repeating the same god damn thing. You love him. He was wearing black jeans and a vintage t-shirt similar to the one Lightning owned. We greeted each other with a wave, and his eyes scanned our room for her.

"Oh, Light just went out to get coffee." I told him.

"Got it. I'll wait for you guys in the parking lot. We're meeting at the security office." There was something different about Cloud these days. He was so… soft. He was speaking to all of us a lot more lately.

"Yeah, Rude texted me. Thanks." I smiled, and his eyes examined me quietly.

"You look good, Tifa."

My cheeks heated up, and I nodded nervously. "You too."

"Uh, want me to grab your bags?" He cocked his head towards the two bags sitting inside the room, fully packed.

"Good morning handsome~" Aerith's voice distracted us both as she skipped over.

"I thought you and Zack were meeting us at the parking lot." I asked, watching Serah and Vanille also trailing sheepishly behind her. The girls were carrying a lot of shopping bags.

"Nope! I need to do something here first. Off you go Cloud. We'll bring the bags." Aerith chirped.

"Right… See ya," he nodded in our general direction, slinging his bag over his shoulder. When Cloud was gone, Aerith and the girls quickly came in, closing the door behind them with an urgency.

"What are you all red for?" Vanille's curiosity just put me on the spot more.

"Oh… nothing." I lied, but thankfully didn't have to elaborate.

"Okay, which one's Light's?" Serah asked, hovering over the two bags.

"Um, the black duffel bag. What's going on?" I watched in complete horror as Aerith emptied the entire contents of Lightning's bag on the floor. "Aerith, what the-"

"Sssh, I'm helping her." Aerith held up Lightning's hoodie. "Yep, nope." She tossed it in a corner, holding up her pajamas. "Oh my god, these look like Zack's pajamas. Hell no!" Lightning's clothes were piling up, and I started picking them up. Vanille helped me fold them.

"Okay Serah, mission 'let's get Lightning laid' commences, now." Aerith tried to put on an air of seriousness, but it was really just cute.

"How's this one?" Serah pulled out a piece of nightwear that was so bold even I would shudder to wear it.

"Only if you want to end your friendship with Light…" Vanille gulped as Aerith considered it.

"Okay yeah… maybe not. Serah, hurry, another one!"

The younger pinkette looked through the bags, pulling out a pair of short shorts and a camisole. "How's this? It's black, no ruffles and no glitter!"

"Let's put this one in. Tops next, give me something, girl." Aerith glanced at the time on her phone as Serah rummaged through the bags once again.

"I got one?" She pulled out a super cleavage-baring top, and I shook my head.

"She'll definitely kill us." I reminded them.

"What about this?" She showed us a backless top.

"No strings… they're tacky!" Vanille chimed in.

"This?" Serah asked with uncertainty, holding up an off shoulder small top. It was cropped enough to show off her abs, but not too revealing. And it was Light's favorite color - black.

"That's what I'm talking about!" Aerith approved it, and Serah squealed excitedly as she threw it in Lightning's bag.

"I almost forgot about the most important thing." Serah gasped, searching through a small bag. I recognized that lingerie brand.

"I don't think we should mess with her underwear…" No one was listening!

Meanwhile, Vanille (who was helping me fold Lightning's actual clothes) gasped loudly. "These are all sports bras…" Vanille's eyes widened as she held one up straight to her face. "Does she like flattening out her chest? I mean… she has amazing ti-"

Serah's death glare made her shut up. After swapping out Lightning's underwear, she beamed at our mischievous friend Aerith, who praised her for her efforts with a hearty petting.

"Alright, last but not the least." Aerith pulled out a familiar looking box from her bag.

"Aerith, don't! She'll freak out!" I almost shouted in panic.

"I'd rather she hates us than have unprotected-" Serah began, but I interrupted her.

"I mean! Cloud's a guy! He's supposed to bring those!" I was blushing, but Aerith seemed unfazed.

"Okay, that's an archaic concept. Also, when's the last time Cloud actually carried these? He didn't have them when we did it, and you told me yourself that you had them in your drawer."

I hated that she was right. "Okay… fine…" I gave in, grabbing my bag in a rush. "Please let's hurry before Lightning starts wondering why we're late and decides to come back!"

When we got to the parking lot, I was surprised to find our friends in front of a white and blue RV. This two storied vehicle was a mammoth! "W-what?" I heard myself exclaim out loud, covering my mouth with both hands as it hung open.

"Rented it from the company," Rude told me as he passed me a latte. "Your favorite."

God, Rude was the kindest person ever. "Thanks, Rude. I can't believe you guys went all out like this." I smiled up at him.

"Wait till you see the inside." He smiled back, taking a sip of his own coffee. I craned my neck to look for Reno, frowning when I saw no sign of him.

"Reno's locking up the office." Rude answered as he read my mind.

I blushed, tucking my hair behind my ear. "I w-wasn't looking for him."

"Sure you weren't." He waved at Elena, who dragged herself over to us.

"Why do I have to come along…" She mumbled, and Rude patted her shoulder comfortingly.

"We're getting paid for it." He said. I blinked, taking another look in his direction.

"Who's paying-" I didn't need to finish it. My eyes trailed towards Cloud, who was throwing the last of the bags inside the RV's locker compartment.

"Anyway, chin up, blondie." Rude bumped her shoulder lightly with his fist. Elena nodded in response, dragging her own small carrier bag with her. I followed the Turks to the RV, greeting the others in our gang. When everyone's luggage was secured, the Turks let us all enter and take our seats.

The interior was modern and classy, with several two and three seater sofas, a carpet, a TV and a small kitchen with a mini-bar. It looked so cozy I didn't even want to camp out anymore.

Lightning was the first to enter, and she admired the chic interior for a few seconds, before settling on a two seater couch. I knew a fight would immediately follow, so I crossed my arms and asserted my dominance first. "I'm her roommate!"

"I'm her boyfriend." Cloud's bold declaration shocked the others too much to speak for a few seconds, and Serah decided to jump in before the others could recover from it.

"I'm her sister." Check mate. Cloud and I both frowned silently, but Serah's smirk disappeared as she saw Zack (cluelessly) take the seat next to Lightning while we were all fighting among ourselves.

"I brought my PlayStation. Shall we?" He was smiling softly.

"Good job, Zack. Long time no play." Lightning replied.

I guess we all compromised because the pink haired girl looked so damn happy. We started dispersing and took the available seats. Zack set up the PlayStation, and everyone else was occupying themselves with something else.

When Reno finally climbed into the vehicle, I was taken aback by the bandages visible through his button down shirt. I wanted to say something, but he didn't even glance my way. I sat there silently as he took the driver's seat and Rude got in the front next to him. Elena plopped down next to me, pulling out her Kindle.

"Hello passengers, this is your captain Reno-" I heard his usual playful voice over the speaker.

"Is this necessary?" Rude interrupted him, and Elena chuckled loudly next to me.

"Welcome to our bulletproof RV. I am joined by co-pilot Rude as we transport you to the Healen grounds. To make sure you're in one piece till we get there, keep your seatbelts fastened at all times. I drive like an asshole, so expect a bumpy ride."

Cloud just growled, but even Lightning found this announcement amusing. She snorted, focusing on her game with Zack. I just relaxed in my seat, reclining it back. I knew the drive was a few hours so I took out my laptop and plugged in my earphones. I was halfway through the movie when Reno braked so hard that my laptop flew out of my lap, colliding against the back of Vanille's head. The girl groaned in pain, and I apologized as I caught it before it hit the ground.

"Damn it, Reno!" Lightning yelled as both her and Zack were thrown off the couch.

"Sorry folks, we're almost there." Reno's voice echoed in the RV, and Elena silently went to the front to check if everything was okay.

"All good?" I asked, just to be sure.

"Yeah. I told them to let me drive. Humph." She told me as she returned, slumping back into her seat.

Elena was a nice girl. I smiled at her. "I'm sure you're a better driver than Reno."

"Duh," she replied, setting her Kindle aside. "Hey, can I ask you something?" She asked while looking out the window.

"Sure…" I replied, a little curious.

"Are you and Reno… sort of… you know?"

"Oh…" I hesitated. "Well, yeah."

"I just didn't expect you to be one of his conquests. You're totally out of his league." I felt like Elena and I could definitely become friends.

"Well, geez. I hope I'm not just that to him." I folded my laptop and put it away.

"He hasn't been seeing anyone else, so I wonder if he's serious about you."

This piece of information was really nice to know. "Oh?"

"Yeah. He used to have so many sexcapades, it was annoying. Getting into fights all the time. Always caused problems for us. But he's been… pretty tame lately. I guess I have to thank you for that."

I blushed, shaking my head furiously. "I don't think it's because of me. But thanks…"

Another harsh brake, and I was glad I had packed my laptop away. The game controllers flew out of Light and Zack's hands, with a sleeping Snow thrown off his seat as he face-planted on the carpet, groaning loudly. The RV came to a sudden stop, before reversing into a parking spot.

"Well, this was one long fucking drive. Thanks for flying with us." Reno's voice rang through the vehicle. Everything quietened down as he pulled the keys out. My head was spinning a little from the rough drive, but I pulled myself to my feet anyway. The Turks locked up the RV, and Cloud started taking our bags out. I grabbed mine, and waited for the others to do the same.

Throwing our bags in the middle of the space we had rented, we sat down on the lush green grass. I was glad I was wearing a jacket. Reno tiredly slung his bag over his shoulder. No eye contact, yet. I was following him with my eyes when Lightning called for me.

"Tifa, can you guys decide where you want the tents?"

"I want mine right here!" Aerith waved, hopping adorably on a spot like she was marking it.

"I'll set it up, it's cool." Zack took the equipment from Light, walking towards his wife.

"Hope?" The pink haired girl asked next, but Hope just blushed - and hard. He seemed really embarrassed.

"Anywhere's fine… but I've never pitched a tent before…" He admitted in a small voice.

"Don't worry, I'll do it for you." Lightning showed him a thumbs up, walking towards us with a heavy tent.

"Cloud, I can help." I offered, getting up and moving near the blonde. He just shook his head.

"I got it." Self-sufficient as always. I nodded, hanging out by his side as Lightning and Zack began setting up. "Where should I…?" His voice trailed off.

I studied the site. "I don't have a clue, so anywhere."

Even though the redhead hadn't spoken to me - or even looked at me for that matter - he was next to me right now. His hand was held out, and there were sparks between both boys.

"I'll do hers. You worry about your own girlfriend."

"Was planning to." Cloud answered coldly, shoving the bundle in Reno's hand. He picked up another bundle, passing it to Snow, before taking the last one for himself.

Reno had already started walking and I tried to match his pace. He started unpacking the tent, locking a bunch of poles together.

"Um… hi." I tried to initiate conversation, but the redhead completely ignored me. "Reno?" I tried again.

"Just go sit somewhere and look pretty. I'll take care of this."

I sighed, grabbing a hammer from Zack who had just finished, and worked on securing the tent Reno had built to the ground. I don't know why he assumed I couldn't help, but now that he had managed to get on my nerves I didn't want to hear anything else from him.

Typical… stupid… men. Always underestimating me. The whole lot of them!

Cloud's eyes were on me, and the sullen expression on his face indicated that he was considering coming over. Reno was… in a mood of sorts, so I didn't want them to start a brawl. Luckily Snow almost hammered his hand, and Lightning was currently hurling curses at him. Cloud went over to pacify her instead. I watched his retreating figure.

Yes… that's right. This is better, anyway.

When I turned back to the last stake on the ground, Reno's eyes were - or had been - keenly observing me. It seemed to put him in a worse mood, and he hurried inside the tent to check it once. When he came out again, he left me there without a word. Rude interrupted Reno's lanky strides, and Elena jogged over to me.

"Sorry. He's being a dick today, isn't he?" She passed me a chilled energy drink can.

I took it gratefully. "Did something happen?"

"Um… well I'm not authorized to tell you. But yeah… we had a mission last night, and to say everything went south would be the understatement of the year. Reno's taking it really hard. That's all I can say."

"Thanks for telling me, Elena." I tried to smile a little. At least her explanation gave me something to work with.

"Hey, you alright?" That deep, feminine voice only belonged to one pink haired girl. I tried to force another smile to reassure her.

"Yep, everything's great! Are you guys done already?"

Lightning nodded. "Idiot Snow almost broke his fingers. But everything's all set. Now we just need to decide what to do for the rest of the morning."

"I'll join you." I said as Lightning extended her hand and I took it until I was on my feet. We both walked over to the group. Everyone was huddled together. I kept trying to check on Reno, but Rude and Reno had trekked some distance away.

"Alright guys! So here are all the things near this camping site!" Vanille excitedly distributed some touristy pamphlets to us, and we flipped through them quickly. "I say we start with the alpaca farm!"

Lightning's eyes were shining like two pale aqua stars. Wow, I didn't realize she liked alpacas that much. "T-there's!" She pointed to something else on the map.

"We should go." Cloud agreed, and I desperately tried to find what they could possibly be talking about when… Ah, there was a Tai Chi temple in the mountains...

"Guys, ALPACAS!" Vanille was pouting, and Serah at least decided to tag along with her.

"I'll go with you! I love furry creatures."

"Sorry, I just want to have a picnic in the woods. I mean, it's a beautiful day, and I don't care about alpacas that much." Aerith was holding Zack's hand, flinging it back and forth lightly. She already told us girls that she was planning to bone Zack in every corner of this place, so we weren't gonna get in her way.

"Um…" I waited around as Vanille broke into a fight with Lightning over the temple.

"Just watch Karate Kid or something, Light!"

"It's not a karate temple."

"Who cares?! Please. Alpacas are so much cuter!"

"Not interested."

"Hey, hold up!" I clapped my hands together loudly so I had everyone's attention. "Why don't we just separate? We can all do the things we want that way. There's tons to explore around here. And we can meet in the evening, share stories over the bonfire. How does that sound?"

Everyone seemed to agree with me. Cloud glanced at me, but Lightning beat him to eat. "You like martial arts, Tifa. Want to come with?" These guys were too considerate for their own good.

"Yes, but it is a beautiful day. So I'm going to…" I scanned the pamphlet. Aha! "I'll go check out these waterfalls. And hiking is good exercise, too."

"I'll go with yo-" Hope tried to offer, but Serah grabbed onto his arm, pleadingly looking up at him.

"Come on Hope, please come with us!" His sigh of resignation was proof that he had lost to the cuteness of Serah Farron.

"I'll go with you." Rude offered as the two Turks joined our group, but Lightning declined with a shake of her head.

"Can you take the kids? I'll be fine." She insisted, standing tall and proud as always.

Rude passed her a gun in front of us. I think Hope had never even seen a gun before, considering how ready his eyes were to pop out. "Got your license?" He confirmed.

"Yep." Lightning hooked the pistol to her belt. "Take care of my sister."

"Leave the kids to me." He reassured her coolly.

"Can you stop calling us kids please?" Hope complained in a small voice. I don't know whether Vanille was more annoyed, or Snow - who happened to be older than Lightning.

"I'm going with you two." Elena decided. Zack and Aerith didn't seem to mind. I wish she had come with me, but I had seen Zack's… switch. If Reno crossed the line, Zack could potentially put the redhead in the hospital.

"Sorry Reno, you're stuck with me." I tried to cheer him up with a joke, but he growled in response.

"What a pain."

"Hey, watch it." Lightning had taken two steps forward, and Cloud was right behind her. What a frightening duo...

"It's fine. I think he's just cranky today. Kinda like you when you haven't had your coffee." I lied, trying to calm them both down.

"I don't give a fuck about your mood." Zack's extreme change in demeanor frightened the 'kids'. "Just do your fucking job."

Even Lightning was clearly taken aback.

"Come on, Zack~" Aerith's arms went around one of his and he seemed to snap out of it. "Tifa, call us if something happens. I'll send Zack over to you in a jiffy." She was smiling, but a shudder ran down my spine. Her threat was packaged so neatly with innocence.

When we split up, I saw everyone off before talking to Reno. "Hey. I'm just going to grab some stuff and then we can get going."

He didn't respond, so I just entered my tent. It felt weird to be camping out alone tonight, but I guess we'll all be drunk by night and it won't be as scary as I was imagining it to be. We stopped at the store run by the campsite. I bought a few bottles of water and a small towel. My eyes were glued to the map as I tried to navigate to the start of the hiking trail. I don't know why Reno hadn't changed out of his suit. Was he planning on hiking dressed this way? But he at least followed me quietly as I tried to find my way across the vast campgrounds.

Finally spotting a small sign, I turned around to check. He was still there. Our eyes met, but I didn't say anything. There was no point. If he wasn't going to open up to me, I wasn't going to keep chasing him until he did. Been there, done that. With Cloud Strife.

The woods were very different from the flat campgrounds, with a hundred shades of green, orange and gold. Sunlight filtered through the varied, colorful trees, and the terrain was rough but the earthy smell was taking over my senses - and in the best way possible. It was such a relief to be alone, to be in a space where I only had to take care of myself. Birds sang their songs with profound confidence, and I enjoyed the different sounds of nature teasing my ears. Ah… this was so utterly refreshing. Why had I never done this before?

My phone buzzed, and I checked the group chat for the photo Vanille had sent. It was a selfie of her and Hope, with an alpaca sticking its head between them. I smiled so wide, it felt like my cheeks would fall off.

Tixfa: Super cute! Send more pictures, guys!

A few seconds later, Aerith sent a selfie of her and Zack, sprawled on a picnic blanket. Zack was holding up the phone with a grin, and Aerith was pecking his cheek.

Aerith: Weather's too perfect for a picnic!

Lightning Farron: Did you get to the waterfall safely?

Leave it to Lightning to worry about others. Though it felt a little hypocritical of me to think that.

Tixfa: Almost there! Show us what you're doing, Light!

I pocketed my phone when there was no reply for a few minutes. Continuing the hike, I followed the trail even as the steps disappeared, and only rocky roads remained. I was getting breathless, but I could hear the waterfall before I could see it. I paused for a short water break, taking out one bottle and passing it to Reno. He at least took it, even though he wasn't looking at me. I faced straight ahead, glad that he was still with me.

When I reached the summit, there it was - standing amidst the growth of the trees. It didn't seem like a lot of people made it up here, considering how freely the vegetation flourished - like it was untouched by man.

"Reno… I'm sorry. Can you take a photo for me?"

The redhead didn't protest, and I set my bag down, holding up two peace signs in front of the waterfall. I heard a snap, and he handed my phone back to me without a word.

"Thanks!" I smiled at him, quickly opening up the chat and sending my photo.

Vanilleway: SO ADORABLE! Also that looks heavenly!

Serahlife: Take more phoootooooos!

Hope-less: Looks great, Tifa!

TheZack: Who's that standing behind you, though?

My phone almost slipped from my grip as I turned around frantically, only to find nothing but the beautiful waterfall in the background.

TheZack: KIDDING!

Ugh! I was going to kill this little prankster!

I sat down on the grass, folding my jeans up to my knees and dipping my legs in the small river running between the land, directly under the waterfall. "Want to sit?" I offered against my better judgment, but Reno surprised me by taking a seat next to me. He folded his legs, wrapping his arms around his knees.

It was kinda awkward, but I didn't want to let this awkwardness ruin the moment. I worked hard to see this. And nothing was going to take this away from me. My phone vibrated, and I almost lost it. Thank god it didn't fall in the water.

Fenrir sent a photo.

I clicked it open curiously. It was a photo of Lightning, throwing a kick in the air with a group of weirdly dressed people, who I figured were probably practitioners of the art.

Fenrir: Farron's kickin' it.

That horrible pun made me laugh out loud. Reno's eyes peered over my hands, but I didn't mind sharing it with him.

Aerith: Take one together, you dork!

A few minutes later, another photo popped up. This time Cloud was holding up the phone, one arm draped around Lightning's waist. She was leaning into his chest, and they were both…

Smiling…

Tixfa: Cutest couple ever!

"Why do you do that?" Reno's tone had softened but his turquoise eyes were narrowed angrily at me.

"Do what?" I blinked.

"Support them?"

Wasn't the reason obvious? "Well, they're my friends."

"But you love him." He sounded a bit… bitter? Or was I imagining it?

"Yes." I replied, confused where this conversation was heading. "I mean, you like Lightning too. Didn't you say that?"

"I did. A long time ago. Feelings change." My cheeks started heating up. What was he implying? "Never mind. I guess it doesn't apply to you. You'll love blondie forever."

"W-well, we're childhood friends, it's different-"

"Yeah yeah. I've heard it all before." I was annoyed, but I decided to let it go. There was no point ruining a lovely outdoor experience by arguing. "We're 'friends with benefits'. Right?" Reno surprised me by suddenly asking.

I wanted to be really honest, and tell him that I might want a little more. Not might. I actually have been wanting more for a while. But his eyes were so cold and unfriendly. He had a lot on his mind, and we even got off to a bad start this morning. Maybe he would relax after a few drinks, and I could have a proper talk with him then.

"Yes." I answered. My eyes shied away from his, and he didn't pursue it any further. "'Friends with benefits...'"


"Enemies"

Him: Hope

What a pain…

Serah and Snow had ditched us as soon as we got to the stupid Alpaca farm, and I was left with Vanille's nonstop chattering. Damn, this girl didn't even need much input from others. She was fairly capable of entertaining herself.

Alpacas… stupid looking animals. Cats were one of the few animals I could tolerate, but these guys… they looked so utterly dumb. They had these smiley faces, and big dough, vacant eyes. Vanille was losing her shit, ready to jump over the fence to pet one. I grabbed her wrist and pulled her back, apologizing to the farm owner.

"Get your shit together. I don't want to babysit you." I growled at her.

She pouted. "But they're SO CUTE."

"I get it, but don't go crazy." Actually, I don't get it. I sighed, scanning the huge farm for signs of Serah and Snow, but they were completely out of sight.

"Let's feed them!" Vanille clapped her hands excitedly, glancing up at me with an expression of such pure, unadulterated joy, that I couldn't even diss her.

"Not interested." I copied Lightning and Cloud, but surprisingly Vanille didn't fight me at all.

"Okay! Then stay here, grumpy. I'll go buy some treats~" The redhead was literally skipping on her way to the booth selling alpaca treats. I smiled in spite of myself, shaking my head. She must really love these weird creatures.

A small group of guys were leaning against the fence near me, chatting about something insignificant. I was trying not to listen, but their conversation became so obnoxiously loud it left me with no choice.

"Hey, check out that hottie by the booth." One of the guys said.

Suddenly, I was paying attention.

"Damn, she's mighty fine." A short one in the middle spoke, who seemed to be their leader.

Were they blind?! What the fuck was attractive about… My eyes had trailed off towards the redhead. She was wearing high waisted, short denim shorts, a tiny yellow tube top, paired with a loose, fluffy, white cardigan which was so baggy that it hung off her shoulders.

Alright… so she was showing off a lot of skin. But… It was the first time I noticed that she had actual curves. In all the right places. And an itty bitty waist to top it off.

Why the fuck was I checking out Vanille?!

"She looks like she's alone. You should talk to her." Another guy suggested.

"Yeah, she looks like she'll follow anyone." The tallest guy in the group laughed.

Way to go, Vanille… Even complete strangers know you're an airhead.

Vanille just finished buying the treats, and turned around. Alright… good. She's coming back. The short guy from the group slipped past me without a sound, and suddenly he was blocking her. He was saying something to her and the idiot was smiling as she talked to him. How can one girl be this dense…

I strode over to them, throwing my arm around a surprised Vanille and addressing her. "Are you gonna make me wait all day?"

"Umm!" Vanille said before pursing her lips. My eyes fell on her face, and she had turned completely red. Don't be embarrassed, you idiot! This is more embarrassing for me!

"S-s-s-s-s-s-orry!" She almost shrieked, and my fingers came into contact with her bare skin, trying to hold her down from fidgeting around.

I cleared my throat. "Do you know this guy?" I just imitated Lightning's pre-coffee face - that I had seen so many times - as best as I could. The guy gulped as he stepped back.

"Sorry dude, didn't know she had a boyfriend."

"Oh, he's not my-" Vanille started, but I grabbed her face, turning it towards me as fast as I could manage.

"Sssh. I don't like it when you talk to guys that are not me." Good job, Hope. What a stupid fucking line. My lips hovered threateningly close to hers, and we were so attuned to each other that we were now having a completely silent conversation - just through our eyes.

"Don't you dare kiss me, you monkey dissecting idiot!"

"Never in a million years, you stupid banana! It's an act. Are you that stupid?!"

Vanille's blush calmed down, and she nodded, wrapping both arms around one of mine.

"Sorry darling~" The high pitch gave away that she was forcing herself, but luckily the guy in front of us was as dumb as her.

"Sorry to bother your date, dude." He nodded at me, scurrying back to his friends at full speed.

I wanted to give Vanille a serious piece of my mind, but when our eyes met, her face flushed again and she looked away awkwardly. Great… Now I was feeling awkward as hell too.

"Ready to feed them?" I asked with an exasperated sigh, hoping we could peace out from this place as soon as she was done.

"Yasss!" Vanille almost jumped and my hand released her shoulder. I followed her to the fence again, keeping a distance from the group of guys still goofing around nearby. Those monsters probably smelled the treats, because a bunch of them came charging at us. I stepped back in fear, but Vanille just emptied some of the berries and mixed treats onto one of her palms.

She held it out gently, petting them one by one. "Plenty to go around, cuties! Don't push~" Her motherly tone was probably lost on the dumb animals, but it was… kind of endearing. "Hope! Take a picture for me! My phone's in my back pocket."

Back.. pocket? OF THOSE SHORTS?

My brain was screaming. I slipped my hand inside her pocket, removing the phone as respectably as possible. But it wasn't, in fact, possible. I had unconsciously felt the entire curve of her butt, and what a glorious curve it was. Thankfully she was too distracted by the furries, and she flashed a bright, warm smile my way as I snapped a few photos for her.

"Let's take one together! I want to send it to everyone!"

Why was I indulging her…

"Alright." I bent down to her height level as she tried to fit me in the frame. While she was adjusting the camera, an alpaca stuck its head out of the fence, and I groaned as it photobombed us. It was still funny, though, so we ended up taking a picture like that.

I checked the group chat and typed a quick reply to Tifa's photo. I would've preferred going to see a waterfall instead of these… balls of floof.

"Are we done?" I asked hopelessly as Vanille went on a petting spree. I thought she'd be fed up by now, but Vanille's love for alpacas knew no bounds - as I was just discovering. The farm owner approached her, and they began talking about alpacas. Surprisingly, Vanille knew a lot about alpacas. The old man was overly touched by the abundance of her knowledge. About alpacas. Completely useless, if you ask me.

"Would you like a free ride? We have some horses in the back." He offered, and Vanille's eyes began shining like Christmas lights.

"H-HORSES?!" She nodded excitedly, but after the incident earlier I didn't want to let her go by herself.

I was hesitating when the kind owner spoke. "Of course, your boyfriend is welcome."

"Oh, he's not my-" she started again, but I cut her off and spoke to the man directly.

"Thank you for your offer. We'd be happy to."

Horses were intelligent. Horses, I could tolerate as well, even somewhat like. Vanille's hand was small in mine, and she didn't protest when I took it without asking. Her eyes were glued to the ground during our walk. When we got to the back of the farm, a sign read that it was off limits for tourists.

"Have you ever done horse-riding?" I asked. Vanille shook her head.

"Nope, but you were in the equestrian club in high school, weren't you? So we'll be fine."

Her words really took me by surprise. "How did you know that?"

Vanille's face flushed again, and she tugged on the hem of her short top nervously. "Um… I j-just know it. SO WHAT?!"

"That's not creepy at all."

"Haven't you heard the saying, 'keep your friends close, but your enemies closer?'" I chuckled at her know-it-all stance, arms crossed proudly across her chest.

"Yep. Enemies. That sounds about right."

"But you're more like… my archenemy."

"Wow, I'm flattered to sit right here, on top of your enemies list." I raised my hand above the shorty's head.

"A formidable foe!" She laughed, elbowing my stomach lightly. "Shall we?"

I nodded as the owner brought out a horse for us. And boy, what a majestic creature it was. Pure white, like snow. The old man told us his name is "Prince" (a fitting name) and secured the saddle in place for us. When the horse was ready, he gestured towards it with his hand. Vanille glanced nervously at me, and I couldn't help blushing as my hands held her small waist. "I'll h-help you up."

"T-thanks." It helped that she was also stuttering. Made me feel a tad bit better about my embarrassment. She mounted the horse in no time. And for a girl who literally ate her feelings, I couldn't believe she was this light when I lifted her up. I climbed the horse behind her, smacking the back of her head with my fist.

"What gives?!" She spat bitterly.

"Keep your back straight!"

"It is straight!"

"You're literally The Hunchback of Notre Dame."

"Shut up and drive!"

"I can't drive a horse!" I shouted, scooting closer to Vanille. I rested my chin on her soft hair. "Ah… feels good."

"Don't use me as a chin rest!" She barked angrily.

"You're so small. It's perfect." I tried to hide my smug grin, not that she could see it from this angle. Gripping the reins lightly, I clicked my tongue gently. The horse started cantering out of the area and into the vast field of grass.

"Wow… he's moving!"

"Yeah. They're pretty smart." I replied, watching Vanille as she petted the horse's mane, smiling brightly.

She was completely awed. "Wow… so soft!" For some reason, this idiot thought it would be a great idea to click her tongue like I did, and the horse immediately picked up speed. It was suddenly galloping, and I tightened my arms around the redhead.

"Eeeeeep! He's running!" She shouted.

"You told him to run!"

"I just- eeeep! Make him stooooooop!"

I loosened the reins and took a deep breath, steering the horse in a soft turn. It naturally slowed down, and Vanille nervously petted its mane again.

"I thought you're supposed to pull the reins. Like, the movies." Vanille said in a low voice.

She was so warm. "Uh, no. That has the opposite effect. And I hate hurting animals." And where do they sell this kind of shampoo? Damn, it smells so good. Strawberries. So sweet…

"H-Hope?!"

I ignored her complaints, inhaling the scent of her hair.

"H-Hope, you're-!"

"Shut up." I pushed one of her pigtails to the side.

"Hey… you're really close!"

Realizing what I was doing, I went completely stiff. I guided the horse to a stop, and Vanille got off sloppily, falling to her knees. Then she started stomping away.

"Oi, wait!" I called out, but to no avail. I dismounted the horse, quickly tying the reins to a fence. I ran after Vanille. I caught up with her in no time, and grabbed her wrist. Forced to face me, she yanked her hand out of my grip angrily. She was flustered, and I knew that I had gone a little too far back there.

"I'm sorry, I just-" I tried, but she wouldn't hear a word of it.

"What was that all about?! I thought you h-hated me!"

Huh? Did I give her that impression? "Why would I hate you?"

"You're… always hanging out with Alyssa."

"What? That and this is different." I had no idea what the connection was.

"It's not! Don't play around with me if you're with her!"

I didn't know what she was talking about, but I wanted to clear the air between us. "First of all, I'm not with Alyssa. Second, I wasn't playing around with you. It was a slip up. I'm sorry-"

"So it was a mistake? You didn't…"

"Didn't what?" I asked when a few minutes of silence had passed between us.

"You didn't like it? I mean…"

Both our cheeks darkened. "Like what?" I asked.

"Don't make me say everything! You're supposed to be smart!"

Why was she shouting?! "You're the one always insisting I'm stupid!" I reminded her.

"Forget it! Just say that you-"

"FINE. I liked it. Fuck my life." I threw my hands down angrily, and Vanille turned her face to the side, pouting.

Silence.

"You did?" Her voice was soft.

"Yeah. Sorry. I'm a guy. It happens sometimes."

"With… any girl?"

"What's up with the annoying questions?" I didn't mean to put her off, but I was starting to lose patience. "If there's something you want to say to me, just say it."

It happened so fast that I didn't even understand what was going on. Vanille's arms went around me, grip tight, as she squeezed me. "Why don't you understand… stupid…. Hope…"

I should have pushed her away, but I couldn't. "Vanille, stupid.. Hey… idiot. What are you doing?" My heartbeat was racing, and she took her god damn sweet time to break the hug. When she finally did, her eyes lowered to the ground.

"It's fine. Let's just go back…"

"Okay…" I said stupidly, unable to respond in the way she was probably expecting. When we got back to the farm, Serah and Snow had been waiting for us.

"Guys! Where were you?" Snow asked, holding a giant stuffed Alpaca toy.

"Where did you get that?" I asked as Vanille took Serah away. Probably girl talk.

"Oh, this? I bought it from the souvenir store. Thought Serah might like it."

"I'll be right back." I told him, marching over to the souvenir store with a purpose. I didn't want things to leave things as they were. I needed to fix it. And an alpaca should do the trick.


"High School Sweethearts"

Her: Aerith

"God Zack… please… no more. This is… five times already…" I was breathless as I lay next to Zack. He was facing me, dark blue eyes so warm and soft like he was looking at his favorite person in the world.

"Hey, you asked for it. A man has to perform. His married life depends on it." Zack was joking as always, carefree. I chuckled, guiding his head towards me. Our lips met again, and before I knew it the kiss was growing hotter and hotter. Zack climbed on top of me, careful not to let his weight crush me. I moaned loudly as his hands attempted to push my blouse over my breasts. My legs were still shaky from our last, intense, love making session.

"Mmm~ Zack. Seriously! I am out of underwear changes. Stop!"

"You can just go commando-"

"NO, thank you!" I broke the kiss and pushed him off of me gently, adjusting my blouse. Zack laughed as he sat up, rubbing the back of his neck.

"I wonder if the kids are okay." He sounded like a worried dad. Can this man be any more perfect?

"They're with Rude, so they should be fine. Tifa's the one with Reno." I pouted, checking my phone again as I pushed myself into a sitting position. No new messages from Tifa. Was this a good sign or a bad one?

"You should've let me have a talk with him." His eyes were serious now.

"Yeah right. You'd break his nose before he could even get a word out." I touched Zack's spiky hair, my fingers digging lightly into it. I caressed his head softly. This always calmed him down.

"Think broody and frowny are making any progress?"

"Oh god. Don't even get me started on Cloud. But I played cupid in secret this morning, so hopefully that will speed - or at least spice - things up."

Zack was grinning. His hand cupped my cheek, and I nuzzled into it happily. "Aerith… Why do I have a feeling you messed up big time?"

"Thanks for the confidence in your adorable wife!" I was pouting, but his lips against mine forced a smile out of me.

"Mmm. My adorable, little wife." He brushed my hair away, leaning close to kiss my neck. A tantalizing, inviting kiss.

"I'm not little. You're just a pole. No human should be this tall." I was trying to distract him, but Zack was working his magic effortlessly.

"You are little." He insisted. Broad arms came around my shoulders, and he pulled me against his chest. "With a heart bigger than anyone else."

I smiled against his chest. "Scoring points?"

"Yep. I'm in top shape. I've spent my whole life preparing for this." He whispered in my ear. I was already melting. My hands moved to cup his cheek, and our eyes met slowly, deliberately.

"Preparing for what?"

"Being your husband." I gasped as he kissed me again, more passionately than the first time. When I broke the kiss, Zack was frowning. "Come on. A line like that, and I still don't get any?"

I rolled my eyes, unable to wipe the widest smile ever from my face. "You got it five times!"

"It's not enough. How about pulling an all-nighter?"

"What a tempting offer. But I must, regrettably, decline." I fanned myself with my hand, and Zack laughed loudly in response.

"Is there anything I can do to make you reconsider?"

"Oh, if only there was such a thing~" Zack kissed my nose, moving up to kiss my forehead. His lips lingered there for a while.

"I think I know what might work. I'll never wear a shirt at home again."

"SOLD!" I shouted, wrapping my arms tightly around his neck. I breathed softly, touching his cheek with one hand. "Zack… I love you."

"I love you more." He replied, lips parting lovingly. "You know… It's nice to be out here like this, after everything that happened."

"Yeah…" I agreed with a nod, still smiling. "Some wedding, huh?"

"Unforgettable. Literally." Zack's arm snaked around my waist, closing the distance between our bodies. "I'm just a little bummed that Light suffered so much for it. After all that effort she put into making our wedding perfect."

"Yeah. I still feel bad about it. I already apologized to Serah so many times, but it doesn't feel right. You scared me when you jumped after her like that… but I know she would've done the same for us. I'm horrible right? I didn't want anything to happen to you at that moment. I couldn't think about anything else…"

Zack's caresses were soft as his hand ran up and down my spine. "Nah, it's not like that. I'm sure that was traumatic for you. So you can't blame yourself. Besides, I apologized to Light too, but she just said-" Zack cleared his throat, narrowing his eyes and tightening his jaw. "'I'll never let anything happen to you, Zack.'"

I laughed, kissing his cheek. "That sounded just like her! Ten points!" Zack nodded, enjoying the positive appraisal. I sighed, burying my nose in the crook of his neck, continuing in a small voice against his skin. "I'm glad you're so loved, Zack. Even if I'm… not here someday. I know you'll always, always be surrounded by people who love you."

Zack's muscles tensed, and he pulled me away so he could look at me. I was nervous, but I met his dark gaze reluctantly. There was an undeniable urgency in the notes. "We've talked about this, Aerith."

"I know… But it doesn't make any sense. My existence. As long as I'm here, knowing the burden I carry… One day I could enable something truly terrifying… something destructive… and disgusting. If I was gone, then surely the world-"

"Would mean nothing." Zack interrupted me gently. "This world would mean nothing to me, if you weren't in it. So please… please… don't say that."

I nodded hurriedly, bothered by his grim expression. I had caused this. "I'm sorry. I just worry about the future. Tseng said he still hasn't found the people behind the attack on us."

"We'll find them. I'll protect you. I didn't want to lose Light, so I acted without thinking, then. I'm sorry I left you all alone."

"I want to say I'll protect you too… but I know I can't. You're married to me now. This will become your life." I stared dejectedly at him, but only found love and patience reflected in the blue of his eyes.

"This has always been my life. You have always been my life, Aerith Fair." The feelings of unease disappeared as our lips met. Every kiss was sweeter than the one before it. "And if you're still uneasy, let's double our efforts to solve this. I'll do anything if it means you don't have to make that kind of face again."

I frowned. "I don't want to put you in danger. Maybe we should just forget about the whole thing."

Zack was strong. So much stronger than any man I knew. "We're not running away. You've already spent your whole life running away from these assholes. One way or the other, we're gonna end this. And I'll make sure there's a safe place for you to stay."

"There is. Now, here." I held onto him tightly, closing my eyes. "Please don't go anywhere, Zack. I can't… I can't do this without you."

"I am not going anywhere. But I might need some form of payment, you know. Let's say… three times… no, six, tonight?"

"I won't be able to walk!" I protested, eyes still closed. I was smiling fully, content against the warmth of this wonderful man. "And I don't even have that many condoms!"

"Well, we don't really need those. We're married, right?" Zack joked, and I playfully punched his chest.

"Zack Fair!" I threatened, and Zack laughed again in his deep voice.

"Yes ma'am. Heard you loud and clear. No babies. Just the baby-makin'."

My phone was buzzing, and I checked it quickly. "Zack, look at this!" I held my phone up, and Zack smiled as he peered into the screen. Hope and Vanille looked super cute, and very much like a couple. And that alpaca was so fluffy!

"Tifa's asking for photos. Shall we?" Zack asked, cocking his head. I nodded and he took the phone from me. He held it up, smiling brightly. "You are wearing your bra, right?"

"Of course!" I laughed, my lips against his cheek as the phone clicked a photo of us.

"Is this alright?" He confirmed before sending it in the chat. Light asked Tifa if she got there safely, and a while later a picture popped up on the screen. Zack smirked, pulling out his phone as he typed something.

"You're horrible, Zack." I rolled my eyes. Tifa was probably freaked out right now.

Soon enough, she sent a message, scolding Zack. Well, he deserved worse. But Tifa was Tifa - which meant being kind, even when telling someone off. I asked Light what she's doing, and Cloud the dork sent a photo of her kung-fu-ing in the mountains.

"This… blonde…" Zack roared into laughter at my comment.

"Come on, give the dude props for trying. He is broody after all. I think Light's already worked a lot of magic on him. He was asking me for all sorts of advice the other day."

Wh-what?! Cloud Strife was?! What kind of advice?! "Spill!" I said.

Zack shook his head. "Nope, bro code. Can't. Anyway, just give him a break. I think he's going to… really go out of his comfort zone tonight."

"That's… oh my god, is he going to-"

"Aerith, like I said. Bro code. Anyway, he sent another picture."

My attention snapped back to the phone, and I clicked to enlarge the photo. It was so weird, but heartwarming, to see them both smiling. The tiniest hint of smiles, the slightest curve of the lips.

"See? He's on it." Zack pointed out the fact that Cloud was the one holding up the camera. "Anyway, should we walk around for a while? Lots of time left. And the map said there are several meadows here, with seasonal wildflowers."

"Yes, let's!" I helped him roll up the picnic blanket and pillows, and put our drinks away as well. "I didn't even notice there were all sorts of wildflowers in this area. You're amazing."

Zack chuckled. "We've been together since high school. It's been a while."

I slipped my fingers in between his, squeezing his hand. "And we'll be together till we're super wrinkled and old right?"

"Yep. And bald. We can play unlimited bingo in our last days."

"Love it. Hopefully Cloud will marry Lightning by then." I snorted, and Zack's thunderous laugh echoed in the woods.

"Yeah. Let's hope they choose a wedding date just a tad bit earlier."

"We need to help them." I said decidedly. Zack agreed with a heavy sigh.

"I think we just might have to."


"Lovers"

Her: Lightning

"Great… no bus to the temple for another four hours." I said sarcastically. "We just missed it."

"What do you want to do?" The blonde asked, scanning the completely deserted road. A few minutes passed in silence.

"I have an idea." I stuck my thumb out as I saw headlights approach us.

"We're hitchhiking?" Cloud raised an eyebrow.

"Why not?" I just shrugged as the truck slowed down.

"Hiya folks! Where to?" A friendly looking man who was reminiscent of Cloud's friend, Barret, waved at us.

"Just heading north and up the mountain, sir. Are you going that way?" I asked politely.

"I'm deliverin' some'n to the town at the foot of the mountain. I can take y'all until there. How bout' it?"

"Perfect, that'll be really helpful. Thank you, sir." I replied. Cloud and I hopped onto the open back of the truck, and I was glad I brought my jacket along. It was cold, but the wind felt nice. I propped myself at the edge of the truck, hanging my legs idly over the shallow tailgate. The blonde joined me as the truck began moving, both us holding onto the edge to keep our balance. The drive was at such a leisurely pace, we knew it'd be some time before we got there.

"Well, this isn't bad at all." He remarked.

"This is actually pretty awesome." I replied with a tilt of my head. Our eyes met. That hypnotic blue was dazzling. The soft early morning light illuminated every beautiful detail in those orbs. I knew I was staring, but the blonde didn't seem to mind my intrusion.

"Your eyes are really pretty." I heard him say. I snorted, shaking my head. Look who's talking. "What?" He asked, confused.

"Nothing." I finally managed to look away from him as the scenery rolled by. We were getting further and further away from the camp, and all the crowded, touristy spots.

"What was it like where you grew up?" He asked me out of the blue.

"Warm. The sand is so pearly white. And the sea's a deep blue. I could always hear the waves - waking up, going to bed. Serah and I are both beach babies. We just love the water."

Cloud was listening, and his nod suggested that he wanted me to continue.

"Hmm… What do you want to know?"

"Your parents…" His tone was careful, like he was about to breach a really sensitive topic. But it wasn't like I had closed that part of me off. No one had asked before.

"They were really in love - like those ridiculous couples you see in the movies. And we spent some good times together, as a family. My dad was this awkward dude, super reserved. And my mom… Well, Serah gets her bubbly personality from my mom, so you can imagine what she was like. I mean, before dad passed away, anyway."

"And you?"

"Me? I was…" I had to think hard. It felt like a lifetime ago. "I was really reserved too. I wasn't a loner or anything. Never had problems making friends. But I just wanted to be the best at everything, so I was always focusing on getting the best grades, finishing first in every race. You could say I wasn't really social."

"And now you're social chair." Cloud pointed out.

"Ha. The irony." I clicked my tongue. "So, what's your story?"

"There's not much to tell apart from what you already know. Boarding school was probably the best part of growing up. I don't have any fond memories of the house itself. Or Mother."

"Do they all take after her? Your brothers?" I asked.

"Sephiroth takes after her the most. But the others haven't had much contact with her."

"What do you mean?" Cloud's family was all kinds of complicated, as I was beginning to understand.

"She only ever relays orders over the phone. She was never at home. I don't even think Yazoo will recognize her if he sees her face."

"Wow…" I was speechless.

Cloud continued. "I feel sorry for Kadaj the most. Sephiroth's beyond saving, but I really tried with Kadaj. He's very twisted, and I guess some part of that is my fault. I tried to be a good brother to them - my younger siblings, at least. But then the… mako episode happened, and I was too lost to help anyone else find the way."

"I'm sorry. I don't know why I asked." I felt terrible.

Cloud just shook his head. "No, you should know. I want you to know everything about me."

I nodded, unconsciously inching closer. "Do you think you guys can ever go back to being just brothers? Leave behind the mortal enemies bullshit?"

"I don't think so. Things are fine with Yazoo to some extent. But the other three are a lost cause."

"Even though you think he'll shoot you anytime?" I asked with a tilt of my head.

"Oh yeah, he'll shoot me on orders, alright. But he's the youngest of us, and all of us are really protective of him. When he was young, he always asked me for help with his homework, even though he didn't need it." Cloud added it with a chuckle. His eyes were reminiscing.

"You guys were close at some point, at least?" I chuckled too.

"We were. Not exactly close, but. He was just so little. Now he's taller than me."

"You're pretty tall."

"I'm only slightly taller than you."

"I think you're the perfect height." I defended. Cloud cleared his throat awkwardly, and I blushed, looking away. He spoke after a short silence.

"Well, thanks Farron. Anyway, after the family discovered his talent for shooting at a young age, that was the end of our relationship. If you can call it that. The rest of his life was dedicated to becoming our designated 'shooter'. We drifted apart after that."

"That sucks…"

"I haven't seen him around all that much for years. Recently though, it felt like he was always hanging around."

"Yeah. I wonder if he's doing alright… in rehabilitation." I furrowed my eyebrows, thinking. I wish I at least had a phone number, or an address to write to him.

"You're awfully curious about Yazoo." The blonde's tone was accusing, and I responded with a loud 'humph.'

"I'm not."

"You like him."

"Strife, don't make me hurt you." My silent admiration for his eyes was gone, replaced by anger.

"You can like two people at the same time."

"Thanks a lot." I rolled my eyes. "Are these little tidbits of wisdom free, or do you charge a fee for them?"

"I'm serious. I've been thinking about it for a while." I opened my mouth to protest, but Cloud cut me off. "And I don't blame you. He's very… normal. Even compared to me. But I promised myself I'd never give up on us. So I'm planning to put up one hell of a fight for you."

"There is no fight. Strife… I don't like Yazoo that way." And I love you.

"I wish you were more honest with yourself." His voice sounded so sad that it made me feel even guiltier than I was already feeling.

"I'm with you. I choose you every damn time." Because I love you.

Cloud's insecurity was annoying me, but I knew it was my fault in the first place for never expressing my feelings like I should have.

"And I'm grateful for that." He said softly.

My anger dissipated into the air, and the warm sunlight that bathed us both must have had some sort of magical calming properties. I sighed deeply, eyes fluttering reluctantly over to his. "Listen to me, Strife. Yazoo's really special. I can't explain it, but it's not like how I feel for you. I promise you, you're the only guy I…"

Love.

"The only…"

Person I have ever loved.

"What I'm trying to say is that-"

I love you, god damn it!

"It's fine. I get it." That tone of resignation… If there was one thing I didn't like about Cloud, it was this right here, hands down.

We spent most of the ride not really speaking to each other, except the occasional observation about another car on the road, or the repeated attempts to make small talk about the weather. How many times can two people discuss the weather anyway? I think we just broke all known records.

"I'm sorry." Cloud finally said. He was looking away, and I was doing the same.

"It's fine. I'm sorry you're not convinced that I want to be with you."

"It's not like that." He fought back, one of his hands covering mine over the metal railing. "I don't want you rushing things with me. If you have the slightest doubt about us, it's fine to take your time."

I. Don't. Have. Fucking. Doubts.

"I wasn't like this… when I was with other girls." Was I hearing nostalgia in his voice?

"You're missing it?" I asked, trying to restrain the annoyance in my own.

"No. I don't mean it like that. It's harder with you, but not because of you. It's me. My feelings. I feel a lot more for you than anyone else in my past. So sometimes I lose sight of what's important. But I'm also at my best when I'm with you. I've never felt more myself. I can just be exactly who I am with you." His grip tightened around my fingers. "Farron-"

"Strife, I love you."

A loud honk. The truck came to a sudden stop as a car raced past it on the intersection. The driver rolled down his window, cursing at the retreating vehicle. "Watch where yer goin'!"

"I'm sorry Farron, what was that? Couldn't hear you over the noise." Cloud blinked, and I bit my lower lip.

Of course you didn't hear it when I finally managed to say it!

"N-never mind. Nothing important."

A few minutes after crossing the intersection, we entered a small town. The houses all looked identical - the concrete structures shaped like little yurts, almost. There was smoke rising from the chimneys, and there were few - if any - traces of technology. It almost seemed like the truck had taken us back in time. We both jumped off as the driver parked, popping his head out.

"Well, this is as far as I go!"

"Thank you, sir. We appreciate your help." I stuck out my hand and he responded with a firm shake.

"Anythin' for a sweet couple like yerself."

Cloud also shook the driver's hand silently, and we both started exploring the narrow, serpentine paths running through the town. They were made of pebbles, worn down like everything else - but with a timeless quality. There was a delicious smell coming from somewhere, prompting us to address the hunger we were suddenly made aware of.

"Want to grab a bite?" Cloud asked casually. I only nodded. My eyes fell on a very beautiful little house. The interior was made of brightly colored bricks, with a polished wooden counter. A small wooden sign indicated that it was a small bakery cafe.

"How about that?" I pointed to it.

"I was thinking the same." Cloud replied, taking my hand as I lowered it. "Let's go."

God… I need to tell him. I need to tell him today, no matter what. First failed attempt means nothing. Let's just try again.

We entered the cafe, taking our seats at the counter. An old woman, probably in her mid seventies or early eighties, was taking freshly baked bread out of the oven. She appeared behind the counter, smiling. "Well now, we don't see a sweet lil' thing like you every day. Is that your natural hair color?"

At first, I didn't know she was addressing me. I thought she meant Cloud. I mean, to be fair, he was really good looking. His skin was too smooth for a guy, and his eyes could just root people on the spot. Make them forget what they were doing. And then there was that gravity defying hair. He really stood out, just about anywhere.

"Uh, yeah." I answered, looking at the menu. "I'll have the turkey sandwich."

"I'll get the same. And black coffee." Cloud returned the menu without looking at it.

"Comin' right up!" The old woman beamed at us, before hurrying towards the kitchen in the back. I drummed the counter absentmindedly, taking in the colorful surroundings.

"I didn't know a town like this existed. Kinda excited to see the temple now." I shared.

"What do you know about Tai Chi?"

"Not much. Except that it's sort of a meditative art. I know that it's not traditionally a fighting martial art. But I'm really interested in it. Sometimes when I fight-"

"You become too focused on the opponent's attacks, and lose sight of the fight as a whole." Cloud finished for me.

I blinked in surprise. "Yes… That's the problem. Something like Tai Chi is all about self control and disciplining your mind. I always wanted to learn more about it, but there were only a few books on the subject in my city. And obviously no temple."

"Well, then I'm glad we came."

"You're not going to try it out?" I asked.

"Nope. It took me a long time to develop my fighting style. Any sudden changes I make will affect it overall. So I'll just observe, and if there's something I can take away from observation then I'll add it."

"Oh." I nodded. Cloud tilted his head.

"I can try it out if you want me to."

"No need. But I'll feel bad if you get bored while sitting it out."

"Don't worry. I'll still be observing. I'm sure it'll be fun to watch." He showed me a slight, reassuring smile.

"Alright, then I'll go all out." I promised as our coffee and lunch arrived. When we were done, we followed the only available path leading up to the mountain. The hike was steep so it slowed us down, but it's not like we were in a hurry.

The temple was perched atop one of the flatter areas, somewhere near the peak and overlooking the entire Healen province. It was a single-gabled circular building, with a bright vermillion gate, and a black conical roof. There were wide open grounds in front of it, and a pond where lotuses floated freely, koi fish swimming gracefully in the crystalline water. A brilliant wooden bridge arched over the water, connecting the west of the temple to another smaller, circular hall.

"Wow." Cloud and I said in unison.

"I've never seen one like this." I couldn't help but admire the unique architecture. How did they build this? And how long had it been here, weathering the winds and the wear of time?

"Me too." Cloud added in a low voice. It was quiet, and people were sparse. There were some young people in traditional garbs, but no outside visitors except us. An elderly monk walked over to us - but his movements were so gentle that it seemed like he was 'floating'. He bowed and we returned the greeting in kind.

"I'm sorry for the intrusion." I began carefully. "I'm really interested in Tai Chi, so I was hoping I could watch a demonstration. Or talk about it with someone."

The monk smiled at us, nodding slowly. "Of course. Welcome. Please, this way."

Cloud and I followed the monk, over the bridge and towards the smaller building, away from the main temple. Tea was served, and we both sat cross legged across from him. Cloud seemed fairly relaxed, and his posture was incredibly good. I tried my best not to slump next to him, and observed how he lifted the cup to his lips, sipping soundlessly. I was imitating him, and noticed that I was holding the cup the wrong way, so I tucked my thumb in, closer to the rest of my fingers. One more try. I think I got it right.

Shit! All my attention had been on Cloud, so when I finally faced the monk, he was smiling. Like Aerith! Oh god, Aerith had possessed him!

The monk cleared his throat. No. Blushing. I did my damn best to keep a straight face. All my embarrassment faded away during the fascinating, hour-long conversation that took place between us. Cloud stayed silent and I did most of the talking, but he occasionally threw in a comment or question. They asked me if I wanted to join practice, and I was more than happy to.

The blonde took a seat on a makeshift bench made of stone, right by the foot of the bridge. I moved along to the grounds, joining one of the tree, straight lines of students.

The practice itself followed the same pattern that the monk laid out in his short briefing. Meditation through flowing movements. Focusing on internal, core energy while rotating the body in circular movements. And finally, combative Tai Chi by redirecting the other person's force somewhere else. I had never experienced how loose muscles could - or had the potential to be - during a fight!

When the practice ended, I thanked the monk and the student who had sparred with me. They had a few weekend classes, so I got the information just in case. If I could push work to the weekdays, maybe I could come over and take a few classes every now and then. Cloud was patient, but I jogged over to him, eager to end the wait.

"Sorry."

"Not at all. I had fun." He replied, standing up and stretching his arms above him. He took a deep breath. Phone still in hand, he glanced nervously at me.

"Aerith asked for a picture… so…"

"Oh, sure." I moved closer, standing next to him. Our shoulders were touching, but then I felt Cloud's hand on my waist. We could see ourselves on the screen, and we both looked hella awkward. I took a deep breath as well, resting my head against the blonde's chest. He was first to smile, and I just followed suit.

We are a couple, so this much was okay, right?

Cloud snapped the photo and sent it to our group chat. "What do you want to do?" He asked after pocketing his phone.

"Well, the monk said we can explore the temple a little bit, if we like. He recommended a pavilion at the edge of the mountain. Further up. Technically it's on temple grounds, but not really a part of the temple."

"We can check it out." We both smiled a little, saying our thanks and goodbye to the others there. Our hike to the lone pavilion was short, and I was breathless as we stepped inside it. The view beneath us was so magnificent it looked straight out of a fairytale. Like someone had hand drawn every detail with immaculate care. Like love was poured into the whole project.

As I stood there, hands on the wooden railing, I could feel Cloud's arms go around me. Slowly. Like he was testing the waters. I didn't mind, and I showed it by tilting back. He took a step forward until his body fully pressed against my back. "It's nice out here." That sweet, boyish voice already made me shiver in pleasure.

"Y-yeah." I responded. My heart was thumping madly, and I knew this chance was as good as any. "I love this view."

Cloud slowly turned me around, hands on my shoulders. "I like this view." His eyes were on me, soft.

What did he mean by 'this view?' Which view?!

My blush returned with a vengeance, but I pushed past the embarrassment like a hero. No. Today was the day I… just do it, Lightning!

"Strife. I want to say…."

"Hmm?" He was smiling again. Cloud was at ease. A different person than the one I saw on the night Yazoo got injured.

"Strife, I love you."

A loud echo.

Both of us peeked at the temple below, and the monks were currently, slowly, striking the gigantic gong in the center of the temple. One, two, three. The sound resonated all over the mountain. It was peaceful, even though it had been deafening at first. It felt like my ears just adjusted to it.

"Sorry, Farron. What did you say just now?"

HOLD ON A MINUTE!

I groaned loudly. Cloud didn't know why I was upset. But there was no way I could explain it. This was so pathetic it almost felt like a sadist was sitting up there, scripting this shit. I glared angrily above me, slumping tiredly. I resisted the urge to hold a middle finger up to the sky.

"Hey, Farron. Tell me."

"I can't." My cheeks were warm, and I buried my face in his chest to hide them. "Maybe later."

"Alright…" He replied unsuredly.

We stayed there for sometime, long after the gong had fallen silent. A few birds flew over the pavilion, landing all around it. I relaxed. "Hey, Strife. Should we head back?" I spoke against his chest.

"Are you tired?" His arms squeezed me gently.

"No. But we could set up the bonfire if we get back early. Do some reading, chill. What do you think?"

"Yeah, let's do that." He agreed as he ended our long, warm embrace. The way down was much faster, and we got to the bottom without any problems. Thankfully, we made it to the bus in time. It was full of old people - more like senior citizens only. Cloud helped all the elderly people in front of us get into the bus, even though we had been first in line. I smiled as we climbed in after the others.

"What?" He asked.

"Nothing." I replied, standing next to him. The bus started moving, and I planted my feet firmly to the floor. "This route's really crazy compared to the one we came from."

"Hey, hold on." He offered, moving his arm towards me. I shook my head, but as the bus braked at the next stop, I was almost thrown off my feet.

Don't be stubborn, Lightning… "Sorry, just for a bit then." I didn't want to cling to his arm, so I just tightly gripped the sleeve of his jacket.

"That's not going to work. Here." One of his hands guided me to the front of his jacket, away from his sleeve. His other hand went around my waist, resting on my stomach as he gently pulled me against him. Our sides were pressing. God. He was too close! Too close!

Some time passed. Every bump made Cloud's grip on me tighter, and I was hoping this bus ride would last a while.

The lady sitting in the seat in front of us giggled, staring up at us. When we didn't say anything, she started talking to us. "Oh~ My husband used to look just like you when he was young. So handsome… such… broad shoulders."

Yeah, I doubt it… I chuckled but Cloud held back his own out of politeness. It was hilarious! Man, I wish I could film this little exchange.

She took the silence as encouragement to continue. "Those were the good days. We were so in love. Just like you two. But children these days are too bold. Can't even keep your hands off each other on a bus."

Hang on a second, grandma-

Well, she wasn't wrong. The road had been fine for a while, but Cloud was still holding me close. My own hand had moved from his jacket to the front of his shirt - head resting idly against his chest. Feeling conscious, I tried to create some distance but Cloud's iron grip stayed in place. He was staring at the back of the bus, so I also stayed put as well, trying to focus on the front instead. The driver was as old as everyone else, and he was driving without a care in the world. How this bus managed to be on schedule was beyond me, considering his speed.

When we got back to the campsite, Cloud spoke first. "Well, that was some ride."

Yeah. Sorry I was all over you. "Yeah. It was an adventure."

"Did you have fun?" He asked.

"Of course. Thanks for coming along." I hesitated, glancing several times between him and our tent. No one was back yet. Maybe we could… Stop thinking like a pervert! "Should we get the barbecue going?"

"Yeah, we'll need to do a little shopping. Shall we?" Cloud's hands dug into the pockets of his jeans.

"Yeah. Let's." I replied as we started walking towards the only store on the campsite. He was walking slightly ahead of me, and staring at his back, I felt more determined than ever to tell him how I felt.

I just needed one more chance.


"Enemies"

Her: Vanille

Stupid Hope! He's the worst!

"But Vanille… isn't this great? Doesn't this mean that he probably likes you too?" Ah, the absolute angel called Serah Farron. She was doing her best to cheer me up. I loved her for it, but still felt bad for making her feel like she needed to.

"No… he's probably just a big pervert. I'm not talking to him. Ever again. Anyway, thanks for listening to me vent…" I apologized, but Serah's smile was warm as always.

"Not at all! I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful… I promised that I'll help you confess. I mean, you still can… there's a whole evening left."

"I don't know…" I replied, glancing at my feet.

"Hey, cheer up! Tonight's gonna be fun." Serah threw her arm around my shoulders, resting her head against mine. "There's lots to look forward to!"

"You're right! We should make the most of it!" I agreed as we strolled back towards the boys.

"Guys, it's getting late. Should we head back?" Snow suggested.

"Yeah, let's go~" Serah said, staying by my side all the way back to the campsite. She was the perfect friend. Lightning was so lucky to have her as a sister.

When we returned to our tents, a bonfire was already going. Lightning was roasting marshmallows by herself, and Cloud was over at the grill. It was twilight, and everything was calm. Soft (and obscure?) indie music was playing softly in the background. Lightning waved at us. Hope ran over to her, sinking tiredly in the space next to the older pinkette.

"How was it?" She asked, probably just to be polite.

"Sucked. Alpacas are stupid." Hope replied, grabbing a few marshmallows.

"They are not!" Serah defended, sitting on her sister's other side. "They were so cute. The cutest. And they smile all the time."

Lightning's pale aqua eyes softened. "That's good. Sounds like you enjoyed yourself."

"How was the temple?" I asked, sitting down next to Hope.

"Fantastic. I think I'm gonna do it." She replied excitedly. It was rare for Light to show this much excitement.

"Do the temple?" Serah joked.

"Tai Chi." Lightning clarified with a chuckle.

"Oh my god, is it too early to send the 'I know kung fu' memes?" I giggled.

Lightning surprised me with a smirk. "You can make a meme out of me when I become a master."

"That won't be long, knowing you." Hope was smiling. Everytime he looked at Lightning, he was like a different person. But it was stupid to feel bad about it. He had already told me how much he liked her.

"I'll help Cloud." Serah jumped to her feet, walking over to the blonde.

"Where's Rude?" Lightning asked.

"Oh yeah! Where is baldie? Didn't see him all day." I noted.

"I was right behind you the whole time." His voice made me yelp.

Hope shook his head disapprovingly. "Are you blind?"

"You saw him? How?" I blinked, turning my attention to Rude instead. "And you. Were you like, invisible or something?"

"I think you could only see alpacas…" I ignored Hope's snide comment, and Rude just shrugged.

We spotted Aerith and Zack walking towards us from a distance. Both of them looked super disheveled, and it was no secret what they had been doing all day.

"Hi people~" Aerith smoothened out her hair with her hands, plopping down on the grass. Elena sat next to Rude, loosening her tie angrily.

"How was your day?" Oh boy. Rude had dared to ask the blonde.

"These two were at it like rabbits. How do you think my day was?" She rolled her eyes. "I need a fucking drink…"

"I'll get it for you." Zack smiled apologetically as he joined Serah and Cloud. A few minutes later, he brought over an ice box of considerable size. Just how much alcohol was in there?! He passed us each a chilled bottle of beer, yawning as he sat down between Elena and Aerith.

Cloud and Serah were hard at work, still. Tifa and Reno had also returned. They looked just like they had left. No ruffled corners of fabric, every hair on their head perfectly in place. I was hoping they'd show up like Zaerith. I texted Tifa secretly.

Vanilleway: How did it go with Reno?

Tifa checked her phone as she sat next to Lightning. Our eyes met, and she shook her head sadly.

Tixfa: What about you and Hope?

Our eyes met once again, and this time I shook my head, pouting. Lightning was observing our silent exchange, and she smirked before whipping out her phone.

Lightning Farron: What's going on, girls? Spill.

Thank god she used our girls' chat at least!

Aerith: Seems like no one made any progress…

I snapped my head in Aerith's direction, but she just giggled innocently.

Aerith: We should ditch the boys and talk.

Thankfully the only observant guy in our gang was grilling at the moment. Zack was leaning back, elbows on the grass supporting his weight, gazing up at the stars. Reno was on his phone, annoyed. Rude was also on his phone. Maybe they were also texting. And Hope was totally smitten by Lightning as usual. He started a conversation about the temple, and Lightning began sharing her day with him animatedly.

It felt so weird… I wanted to support Hope, but Lightning and Cloud were a thing now. Still, I guess talking to her made him feel much better than… talking to me. So I didn't want to interrupt their conversation, even though I was curious about Lightning's adventure as well.

When the food was ready, Cloud and Serah brought it over to us. Tifa scooted over so Cloud could squeeze in between her and Lightning. Serah sat next to Reno, and Snow settled in on her right. Tifa told us everything about the waterfall, and how pretty it was. Cloud was quiet as usual, so Lightning gave us a very brief (lacking anything juicy) summary of their day. Serah was smiling like it was the happiest day ever. She showed everyone the pictures her and Snow took. Hope talked about horse-riding, and reliving the memory made my cheeks turn red. Aerith noticed obviously, and smiled coyly at me. I knew I'd have to explain everything later to the girls.

The Turks were quiet, and they were all on their phones the whole time. I was curious, so I peeked at Rude's phone as sneakily as I could manage.

You need to forget about it, Reno.

Ha?! Forget about what? Forget about Tifa? But why?!

Serah called my name, and I was forced to turn my attention back to my friends. I was curious, but I also didn't want to be caught sneaking up on Rude. He was a scary dude.

"Let's have a toast!" Aerith picked up her bottle, raising it in the air. "To our cute friend Vanille, who planned everything!"

"Technically Strife-" Lightning started, earning a chuckle from the blonde next to her.

"Ahem! Yes yes, he did the grunt work. But it was Vanille's idea, so!" Aerith insisted, and everyone raised their bottles and glasses for a toast.

"Guys, it's no big deal!" I insisted, but accepted the toast anyway. Everyone was having their own conversations as we went through a few rounds of beer. I was right next to Hope, but he felt so far away.

"What's on your mind, stupid?" His voice caught me off guard, and we both blushed as we faced each other.

"N-nothing." I lied quickly, averting my eyes.

"Yep, not like you can think anyway. This is probably full of straw." He knocked on my head lightly.

"Ow! Stop describing your own brain!" I fought back. I shivered against the cold wind, and Hope slipped out of his jacket. "It's f-fine!" I tried, but his hands went around both of my shoulders as he hung it over me.

"I don't want your cold." His voice was soft, even as he tried to tease me.

"I don't have a cold. And I already have a sweater." I reminded him.

"Yeah, it's pretty useless."

I growled softly. "Just take it back, stupid! I don't want you to get sick!"

"I don't want you to get sick, idiot!" He repeated, holding the jacket in place as I tried to shrug it off my shoulders.

"Okay, let's share then!" Defeated, I inched closer until our sides were glued together. One of Hope's hands went behind me, palm placed flatly on the grass. He propped one of his knees up, arm draped casually over it. One of my hands unconsciously went over the knee of his folded leg. When we both looked up, everyone was smiling. EVERY SINGLE PERSON!

Wow… this is super embarrassing…

"S-should we play a game?!" I suggested, just to wipe the grins off of everyone.

Serah snuggled against Snow as she asked me. "Well, you're the queen of drinking games. What should we play?"

I didn't have time to think about it. I would have just moved away but… I couldn't. I was clinging onto the warmth of Hope's body. So I said the first thing that came to mind. "How about 'Never Have I Ever'?"

"Oooh, that's a good one!" Aerith nodded, staring at Lightning. "Wait, Light, you've never played it right?"

"Nope." Lightning responded casually, sitting in a relaxed pose, legs crossed. "But I know what it is, so we can skip the intro."

"Awesome, let me get shot glasses." Zack had this unbelievably mischievous grin plastered on his face. Oh boy. Zaeith was not a force to be reckoned with… We all waited around for a while, until the tall male brought over shot glasses from the RV. He poured tequila into them, passing us each a filled shot glass.

"Zack… I hate tequila…" Lightning announced, taking a sniff of the liquid and crunching her eyebrows in a pained expression. The discomfort was fun to watch, though.

"It's fine, dude. Not like you'll get drunk anyway, right?"

Wow… that's…

"Of course." Lightning puffed her chest, proud.

She's so effing cute!

"Alright then, I'll start." Zack cleared his throat. "Never have I ever… peed in a pool."

"EW, ZACK!" Aerith punched his shoulder, but he only laughed in response.

"Come on guys, be honest." The blue haired male shot his own glass back. Aerith, Serah, Snow, myself, Hope, and even Rude and Elena did it!

"I'm never going swimming with any of you…" Lightning looked seriously grossed out, but her comment forced a proper laugh out of Cloud. I was too shocked to speak, but the others quickly grinned in their direction. Cloud was also quick to catch on, so his expression transformed to the usual aloofness as soon as he realized the attention they were getting.

"My turn." Snow crossed his arms. "Alright, here goes. Never have I ever… flirted my way in or out of a situation."

Everyone stayed silent for a while. Nobody was drinking, but just then Cloud bumped his shoulder lightly against the captain. "Come on, this one's you."

Tifa blushed, forcing the liquid back. Surprisingly, Elena also joined her.

Okay, we needed to recruit Elena and ask her all about it later!

"I'll go next!" Serah chirped. "Hmm… Never have I ever… made out with a girl!"

"Oh please!" Zack rolled his eyes. All the boys - except Hope?! - took the shot. Even RUDE. Tifa, myself, Aerith and Serah also took the shots, earning incredulous looks from the guys.

"You really are Hopeless…" I just made it worse for a blushing Hope. "Also, stop looking at us with your lecherous eyes, men!"

Zack laughed, teasingly tilting his head towards his wife. "Can I just watch?"

"Ew, no!" Her cheeks reddened as she shook her head. "I was really drunk…"

Reno seriously looked like he was going to kill anyone who talked to him, so Tifa skipped him, clapping her hands together. "I have a good one! Never have I ever… had a crush on my boss!"

"Just do it, Elena." Rude teased, smirking as the short blonde took the shot, cheeks burning red.

Surprisingly, Lightning also shot it back.

Elena panicked, blurting out, "you had a crush on Tseng?!"

"No." Lightning responded calmly, clearing her throat. "I, uh… Brigadier Cid Raines. He was my superior in the army."

"Excuse me?! You had a crush on CID?!" Serah's shout literally made me jump in surprise. "Everyone knew he was totally into you! You guys could have dated!"

"Brigadier Cid." Lightning corrected, narrowing her eyes. "Yeah, so what? It was just a stupid crush. And no, I wouldn't date him under any circumstances. Can we move on already?" Serah could tell Lightning was not in the mood to talk about it any further. Cloud was maintaining his usual expression. No fun. Wish he'd show a bit of jealousy at least.

"Cloud, your turn." Tifa gently nudged the blonde. I think he was a bit shocked by Lightning's confession.

"Never have I ever thought about getting married."

What a curveball!

All the girls except Lightning took the tequila shot, and Cloud seemed like he knew that was going to happen. The pink haired girl awkwardly glanced at him, and he took the shot right in front of her.

Serah and I literally squealed in excitement, causing Lightning to blush fully. Zack emptied his glass as well - but that one was a given.

"Right… m-my turn." Lightning waited until Zack passed around the bottle for refills. "Never have I ever… dated a musician." When she finished, she was the first one to drink.

"You dated a musician?!" The question was out of Serah's mouth as soon as Lighting set her empty shot glass down.

"Strife plays."

When Serah also drank, Lightning raised an eyebrow at her little sister.

"Oh… right. It was before you moved here, sis. I dated Noel."

Lightning blinked, taking in this new piece of information. The rest of us already knew.

"Tseng plays." Rude whispered loud enough for the rest of us to hear.

"W-well, we're not dating yet…" Elena defended adorably.

"Well, since I dated blondie too, imma drink up!" Aerith cocked her head at Tifa. They both nodded and forced the alcohol back, flinching.

"Ready? Alright." Hope was drumming his knee with one hand absentmindedly. "Never have I ever… seen Cloud naked."

"Hey!" I punched his shoulder, but he just laughed.

"What? It's a valid question."

"Okay, this is awkward. Sorry, Light…" Tifa drank the shot, blushing as she passed it to Zack for a refill.

"Sorry Zack… and Light…" Aerith giggled nervously, also following suit.

"Sorry Aerith, Tifa, and my dude." Zack smirked as he gulped back the tequila as well.

"How is it that only your girlfriend hasn't seen you naked…?" I asked, laughing out loud. Cloud was embarrassed as it is, so he just grumbled quietly.

"Okay, I'll make this good~ Never have I ever… had a one night stand." I giggled, observing everyone.

When Aerith drank up, Cloud faked being hurt - placing his hand over his chest. "Ouch."

"Sorry!" She pouted, apologetic.

Tifa and Serah also reluctantly drank. I chuckled, watching Lightning's expression of pure horror. Serah was avoiding her sister's burning gaze.

"Never have I ever slept with a coworker." Rude, you sneaky bastard!

Elena shook her head again, but Reno shot the liquor back casually.

"Never have I ever… walked in on someone having sex." Elena said it with a straight face, but it was so funny for the rest of us. Probably because Zaerith - of all couples! - had walked in on someone. Lightning also drank from her glass.

When I stared at her for an explanation, she just shrugged. "Happens in the military."

All the Turks also emptied their glasses. "Our president. Tons of times. He really needs to lock his office." Elena told us bitterly.

Cloud also tried to drink silently, but none of us missed it. So he begrudgingly told us. "Zack and Aerith. It's been going on since high school."

I drank a little from my glass. "Well, I saw you and Lightning doing it-"

"We weren't having sex!" Lighting's growl made me shudder, and I put the unfinished glass back down.

"Okay, okay~ Geez…." I pouted, passing the bottle back to Hope and Lightning.

"I'll go." Reno offered, even though it wasn't really his turn. Nobody seemed to mind, so we just let him go for it. "Never have I ever stolen someone's boyfriend."

Awkward silence.

"Drink up, Farron." He added, glaring angrily at her.

"Reno, that was really unnecessary." Tifa chastised, and Cloud was ready to kill him for that comment.

"Thanks. I'll drink." Lighting took the shot, rising to her feet swiftly. She grabbed a bottle of whiskey from the ice box, walking away quietly.

Cloud too, was about to stand up when Zack called out to him. "It's okay, I got her." He sighed tiredly, leaving us behind as he followed Lightning into her tent.

"That was really fucking rude." Aerith was also really put off by Reno. And I couldn't blame her. I was feeling the same way.

"Whatever." He got up, pocketing his hands as she strolled over to his own tent.

"I'll give him a piece of my mind." Tifa's hands balled into fists as she stood up. "Sorry for killing the mood, guys…"

"It's fine…" I said softly as Tifa also left us.

"We should, um, clean up and call it a night." Hope suggested, watching Cloud seething.

"Good idea." Aerith nodded, and it took us about thirty minutes or so to get everything cleaned up. We put out the fire, leaving fresh logs there in case anyone wanted to restart it later.

I grabbed a few bottles of beer on my way to our tent. Hope and I both searched for our pajamas and went back to the main building to shower. He was already back when I returned, and I threw my clothes and damp towel in a plastic bag, putting it away. I crouched, using all my strength to shove the mattress away from his.

"What are you doing?" Hope asked with an exasperated sigh.

"I'm just making some space. Last time you said you can't sleep next to an idiot like me." I rolled my eyes, resuming my futile attempts to make the heavy piece of shit move.

"Just l-leave it like that. I don't mind."

"You'll only complain later." I scoffed, trying again, even with little success.

"I said I don't mind." He repeated, much louder than the first time.

Wow… was it hot in here or what? I gulped as Hope stretched on his bed. I didn't want to stare but…

"You're staring." His cheeks were turning red.

"I'm not! You're imagining things." I was fluffing up my pillow when Hope suddenly rolled over on my bed. "And great. Now you're annoying me." I said, puffing my cheeks.

"I'm paying back. For all the times you've annoyed me, you stupid orange."

"Fine! See if I care!" I climbed into the mattress, conscious of his closeness. Still, I sent a text to the girls' chat, asking if Tifa and Light were okay. Hope's hand was over my stomach, and he was leaning towards me. Hovering over me, wet locks still sticking to his forehead. "H-Hope?"

"You're really stupid."

"Well, thanks a lot for telling me!" I said sarcastically, but my hand automatically went over to his arm. My fingers wrapped around it, and I bit down on my lower lip.

"I want to do something with you right now." Hope's breath grazed my lips, and I tugged on his arm to pull him closer.

"Are we gonna bang?" I couldn't help asking.

Hope sighed, moving away and sitting up. He ran a hand frustratedly through his hair. "Who the hell says 'bang' these days? And no. We're not going to 'bang.'"

"Chill out, I'm just checking to be sure!" I also sat up, looking away. Stupid Hope! Why is he making moves on me out of nowhere?! "Anyway… I have something to say. So you better listen."

"Not like I have a choice. Well, what is it?"

"I'm just saying this because… because I promised the girls I'll do this." I clarified. Hope was listening intently. "I like you." It was a lot harder than I had imagined, but once I said it I actually felt awesome! Light as a feather!

"Okay…" He responded, blinking.

"And I know you like Lightning. And you don't think of me that way. I mean, I'm your best enemy so… But I just wanted you to know. Done. Boom. I'm a boss." I finished awkwardly.

"I liked Lightning ages ago. We're good friends now." I didn't want to be hopeful, so I just nodded quietly. He spoke again, this time, softer. "You're not going to ask me how I feel?"

"I d-don't want to know!" I shouted, but Hope didn't go away. I didn't even realize when it happened, but his lips were pressing onto mine, moving softly against them. I closed my eyes, enjoying it as I responded eagerly, even though it was confusing as hell. And it ended way too soon!

When he pulled away, we both opened our eyes. "S-so that means… You like me too?" I asked, trying not to sound too happy about it.

"Shut up, stupid…. Don't say anything anymore." He replied, blushing madly as he pulled me in for another kiss.


"Friends with Benefits"

Him: Reno

"What the hell was that?" I could tell from the tone of her voice that she was furious. Furious beyond anything I had ever experienced before. I threw my suit jacket on the floor, rolling up the sleeves of the shirt up to my elbows.

"Just the truth." I replied. Tifa's grip was like steel. She spun me around, forcing me to face her.

"You don't know a thing about me, if you think that's the truth." This combination of angry and sad made me feel worse for lashing out like I did.

"I don't care." I lied.

"Then you shouldn't have attacked my best friend! What came over you?!" She wouldn't let me look away.

"You're hurting. Because of her. All the time." My thoughts were as fragmented as the words that left my mouth. I tried to regain my composure. "First she was hurting because of you. Now it's the other way around. I'm sick of your little love triangle."

"First of all, there is no triangle. Lightning and Cloud are wonderful together." I was about to protest when she silenced me, holding her hand up in warning. "Please, stop. Lightning even said she wouldn't date Cloud if it would affect our friendship in the future. I'm the one who gave them my blessing. You know that's the kind of person she is. So then, why did you say something so hurtful? Is it because you still have feelings for her?"

This woman was unbelievable… Fuming, I glared at her. "Yeah, because Farron's the one I'm concerned about."

Tifa's eyes were so soft. "But… then why…?"

"You won't get it unless I spell it out for you? Geez…" I took a step back, but the brunette just took a step forward.

"Fine. I give up…" She tore her eyes away from me.

"On what?" Panicked, I asked.

"I thought I wouldn't chase anyone else after Cloud anymore. But it's fine. Even if it ends up exactly like my first relationship… I need to know what happened last night."

"I can't."

"You can." Her hands reached up to cup my cheeks. "Please… just let me in." Tifa's eyes… damn these crimson, big, dough eyes. I was weak to these goddamn rubies.

"You won't understand."

"Then help me." She kissed my cheek softly, her thumb drawing circles on my skin. "Please, Reno. I want to be there for you."

"It's against the rules." I tried anything that would push her away.

"Since when do you care about the rules?" She tilted her head cutely to the side, hands leaving my cheeks to grip the back of my neck. Her lips pressed against mine, pushing past all my defenses.

I returned the kiss, pulling her against me. Damn she was warm. This warmth… I couldn't get enough of it. Before I knew it, I had caved in. When we parted, I hung my head low in shame.

"Yesterday…" A sharp inhale. "We were doing security, just the usual. It was for a VIP client who was closing some sort of business deal. Things got ugly on site, and civilians got involved… I didn't know there would be people there, but it seems like the other party wanted trouble and prepared hostages 'just in case'. I went against orders and fired to protect the hostages."

"But you did the right thing." Tifa was confused.

"No… I didn't. Elena was trying to evacuate them quietly, but I didn't follow through Tseng's orders. A gunfight broke out, and… a kid lost his life, caught in the line of fire. It's because the other party was firing indiscriminately. And I can justify it however much, saying that it wasn't my bullet and all… But it might as well have been. If I had just fucking listened…"

Tifa was silent for a while. Then she spoke, carefully. "Reno… that's horrible. I'm so sorry… I can't imagine how you felt, and how you've been feeling the whole day."

"Don't apologize." I didn't need to say how disgusted I felt with myself. I'm sure she could see it clear as day.

"No… I really am. I can't say I understand… But I'm here, if that makes you feel better in any way at all."

I didn't even need to say the words. I opened my arms and she immediately hugged me, close. Like she was hanging onto me. But I was the one hanging on to her. Tifa's scent hit me in the face, and I inhaled deeply. Just being close to her made me forget. Even if it was for a little while.

"R-Reno?" My hands yanked her jacket off, revealing those lovely collarbones I adored so much. I trailed hot kisses over her soft, porcelain skin. Just when I was about to work on her crop top, her hands gripped mine. This woman could break my hands if she wanted to, so I knew better than to try and overpower her.

"What?" I removed my lips from her skin.

"You need to apologize to Lighting. You guys are friends…"

"I guess we're not after tonight." I tried to mask the disappointment I was feeling.

"Light's not that petty. You should set things straight with her first. I'll wait for you here." She teased my lips with her own, breathing so very close to them. "And then…" Her hands trailed over my shirt, feeling up my chest. She was doing her best to distract me. My throat went dry.

"And then?" And damn, it was working.

"And then I'll do something really nice for you." She bit lightly on my earlobe, making me groan in pleasure. Tifa's arms came around my neck as she pressed against me. This… I was addicted to. This… I couldn't keep away from.

"I'm on it." I joked, trying to smile. Tifa's face was glowing. It was so easy to make her happy. I grabbed my jacket from the floor, slipping back into it. Just when I was at the tent's entrance, Tifa's fingers gripped my sleeve. I turned around, and her other hand yanked my tie down, pulling me towards her lips. She inched away so our lips wouldn't meet. She was really out of character tonight - teasing me like this.

"No dilly-dallying. Don't make me wait too long. I might get started before you…"

Get started? Doing what exactly? I exhaled sharply, nodding obediently. Tifa let go of my tie, doing a cute little wave. "Well then, bye~!" She giggled.

I shook my head, unable to stop myself from smiling as well. Light was sitting by a new fire, and it seemed like she was by herself. I could see silhouettes in the other tents, so I assumed everyone went back. I wondered where blondie was.

"Hey." I approached her slowly.

"Hey." She replied nonchalantly.

"So…" I didn't know what else to say, so I sat some distance away from her, folding my legs.

"Don't bother. I heard what happened from Rude." Her eyes met mine, serious. The fire's reflection was ablaze, dancing in her electric aqua orbs. The color was cool, like ice. Even more so, illuminated by the light between us. The expression in them was soft. "What you said was pretty shitty, but I just want to say - first off - I'm sorry for what happened. That couldn't have been easy."

"Has it ever happened to you?" I was here to apologize, but Lighting had a way of leading people into revealing everything about themselves, willingly.

"In my line of work." She scoffed, but her lips were curled into a frown. "What do you think…?"

I nodded. "So you know how I feel."

"All too well." She took a swig of a half empty whiskey bottle.

I blinked, staring at her incredulously. "You drank all of this, yo?" I didn't know if I should be concerned or impressed.

"Not all, clearly." She shook the bottle lightly, the contents inside swirling. "But I plan to."

"Sorry for being an asshole." The words left my mouth, naturally.

"Don't apologize for who you are." My gaze reluctantly met hers, but the pink haired girl was smirking. I couldn't help smirk back.

"Tifa seduced an apology out of me." I teased.

Lightning took another swig. "She's too good for you."

"Yeah?" I couldn't think of a witty remark. I had to be honest. "You're right. She is."

"How long are you guys going to play your little game? Especially since you both have feelings for each other. You're both more transparent than you think." I was slouching, but Lightning's posture was still perfect. Except for her red cheeks that gave it away a little, nobody could suspect she had that much to drink.

"I don't know. I don't know where it goes from here. I've never been with a girl seriously." I confided in her.

She nodded. "Well, isn't it obvious what you need to do to find out?"

"Well Farron, thanks for the advice." I observed her calm, cool eyes studying me seriously. Then she showed me a rare smile.

"It's pay back."

"For what?" I asked, puzzled.

"When I was having a real rough time, you gave me a place to sleep, listened to me, and even invited me to the hot springs. I never thanked you properly before."

Man… this girl was unbelievable. "Makes me feel worse for what I said, when you charm a person like that." Lightning blinked, cocking her head to the side curiously. "Forget it." I stood up, dusting my hands. "I have to return to a very beautiful woman."

"Tell her mission accomplished, you're forgiven." Lightning was grinning as she drank some more from the almost empty bottle. "And about the other thing… It'll take some time, but you'll forgive yourself. And when you do, it'll help you become better at protecting others. Trust me."

I nodded, smiling like a huge burden was lifted off of my chest. In just one, short conversation. "Good night, Farron."

Lightning just did a wave, staring once more at the flames that were slowly dying. I saw Cloud leave the tent as he began walking towards her. Best that I left them alone. When I returned to Tifa's rent, I found the brunette sprawled on the mattress, laying on her stomach. She was on her phone, but she tossed it aside when I came in. Jumping to her feet, she tackled me in a hug.

"Did you do it?!"

"Yep." My arms squeezed her waist. "Happy?"

"Super happy." She replied, breaking away from the hug to look up at me. She bit down on her lower lip, eyes traveling towards mine and staying there.

"So, what was that really nice thing you were going to do for me, yo?" I loosened my tie, sliding it off. Letting it slip from my hand, I started undoing the buttons of my shirt.

Tifa blushed crimson, avoiding my gaze. "I…I- You know…"

"Don't tell me you were just bluffing." My free hand tilted her chin up, thumb tracing her bottom lip.

"I w-wasn't!"

I chuckled, leaning close to her lips. "Should I do something really nice for you, instead?" I repeated her words, never breaking eye contact. "I know what you like. And where you like it."

Tifa gasped, holding onto my shirt with both hands, preventing me from slipping out of it. "E-everyone will hear."

"More reason to be loud, yo." I joked, but she only blushed further.

"I can't. It's too embarrassing." She insisted, but her body pressed against mine. She buried her face in the crook of my neck.

"Are you sure?" I whispered against her ear. She shivered, nodding quietly. "And you think I'll just listen?"

"Reno!" Tifa almost shouted as I scooped her in my arms, carrying her to the mattress. "Seriously, I'll kill you!"

"Alright, no problem. Just stop me." It was so easy to undress Tifa out of her little clothes. I lowered myself on her, kissing her neck softly. "Well?"

She arched into me, holding onto my shirt for dear life. Silently, she bit down on her lower lip again.

"You're not stopping me. Just say the word." Trailing wet kisses down her neck, all the way to her stomach, my lips explored every inch of her skin. She was already squirming. I could feel her readiness between my fingers. "What's it going to be?"

"P-please." She moaned loudly, slapping her hand over her mouth.

"Please what?" I teased her again. "You're soaking my fingers, you know. Or are they not enough?"

"More…!" She finally begged, gasping as she threw her head back, stifling screams of pleasure as I dived in between her legs. Tifa was riding my face, legs trembling. One of her hands moved down to clutch my hair, fingers burying as deep inside them as my tongue was, inside her. Usually I would have taken my sweet time to taste her, but this time, I wanted to blow her mind away. My hands opened her thighs up some more, pushing in deeper.

I could hear her pleasure through her failed attempts to be quiet. She gasped loudly as she finished, falling limp back on the mattress. She was panting, and I made sure to lick my lips when she was finally looking my way. This only embarrassed her more, and I sighed happily as I lay next to her. Tifa wormed into my arms, nuzzling my chest.

"T-thanks… for that. I want to make you feel good, too…"

"It's fine. There's something else I want you to do for me, instead." We both moved away so we could look at each other.

"Anything…" She replied, blinking slowly.

"I don't want to be 'friends with benefits' anymore. This will be our last night."

Tifa froze, eyes widening in surprise. "N-no… I don't want that."

"Why not?" It was bound to end sooner or later. Plus, like you said, you'll love the blonde for all eternity. This is just a temporary fix. Like a high that wears off when you come down."

Tifa's fingers were warm against my cheeks. "I… I want more. With you." She was struggling, but it was too cute to tell her my true intentions right now.

"More than my tongue, you mean?"

Another bashful sigh. "I didn't mean that, you pervert!"

"As I recall, you were really enjoying this pervert a few minutes ago." This was so fun.

"I meant… maybe we should get a little more… serious." She gulped loudly, biting down on her lower lip nervously again. "I know it's not something you usually do but… Will you-"

I silenced her with my lips. Tifa moaned into my kiss, arms hugging my neck tightly. I pulled away, smirking at her. "You should let the guy ask the question, at least. Will you date me?"

"E-exclusively?!" She jolted in surprise.

"One hundred percent exclusive, yo." I replied, a little surprised to hear a voice this soft coming from me. This one girl had done the impossible. Reached a part of me no one could before.

"Yes!" She replied with a happy nod, sinking further into my embrace. "I like you. So just… give me some time. I promise one day, I'll completely move on from Cloud."

"I'll give you twenty four hours."

"What?!" Her body twitched nervously.

"I'm just kidding. Take your time."

"You're not going to say you like me?" She complained softly against my chest.

"No. I'll show you." I pinned her to the bed, watching the blush return to her cheeks like it never left. "In the only way I know how."

Tifa braced herself for a long night with a deep inhale. I chuckled, before losing myself to my need for her. Tonight, neither of us would sleep - and we both knew that.


"High School Sweethearts"

Him: Zack

"Hey, my dude." I smiled at the pink haired girl. She was sitting on one of the mattresses. The glass bottle's cap had been carelessly tossed into a corner. Lightning was drinking out of it with a vengeance. "You'll get drunk. Slow down."

"I have days when I want to get drunk." She sighed as she finally stopped, screwing the cap back on. "I'm fine, Zack."

"I know you are." My hand extended towards her, and Lightning took it like it was the most natural thing. "But I wanted to be there for you, anyway."

"Thanks… I don't want Strife to see me like this…" She replied, staring at the bottle. Her eyes were really out of it, and she was spacing again.

"I had a feeling."

"You knew?" Her eyes finally met mine.

"How long do you think I've been friends with him? He's the same."

"Right… people always say that." She sounded pretty bummed out.

"What's on your mind?" I probed gently.

"I don't know…" She squeezed my hand unconsciously. "I know we're supposed to be… I don't know, really similar. But it scares me. Sometimes, I can't get through to him at all."

"Funny he said the exact same thing last night at the bar." It worked. Lightning's curiosity plainly stared back at me. "I'm breaking the bro code, but he voiced similar concerns last night."

"Do you think I'm messing up? From the start… Cloud's supposed to be with Tifa." She dejectedly stared down at our joined hands.

"Isn't that up to Cloud, though?" I reminded her as nicely as I could manage.

"I guess you're right…" She finally let go of my hand, sighing exasperatedly.

"Look, Aerith dated Cloud at some point. Serah dated Noel, too. You don't see me or Snow get upset about it, do you?"

"It's different." Lightning insisted.

"It's not. The past is just the past. You're his present. So just allow yourself to be loved. It's fine." I patted her head softly. Lightning nodded. When she looked back at me, I carefully retracted my hand.

"You're really great, Zack. I seriously love you for it."

"Have you told Cloud that too?" I chuckled, watching her frustrated expression.

"I t-tried. Twice. Failed both times…"

"They say the third time's the charm, right? Chin up."

"What am I going to do…" She said to herself.

"Take it easy, for starters. Cloud really wants to be with you, so he'll wait." I told her. "Look, I'm gonna go back now, but you know I'm always a call away, right?"

"Thanks Zack… I feel much better now."

"Happy to help." I said cheerfully, smiling. "Well now that I'm done with you, frowny, I'll go check in on broody. Man, you two keep me busy."

"Sorry for being a pain." Lightning was grinning now.

"That's what blondie says too. Don't go overboard with the drinking, alright?" I made her promise me before leaving the tent. Rude was waiting outside, and he entered the tent as I left.

When I got back, everyone had cleared out. Cloud was sitting alone in the dark. His eyes flew over to mine, and he almost stood up. "How is she?"

"Sit down, will ya?" I stretched my legs over the cool grass, taking a seat next to him. "She's Lightning. In other words, she'll be fine."

"Yeah." He replied, looking somewhere in the distance.

"You should start a new fire if you're planning on sitting here in the cold. Kinda melodramatic if you ask me, brooding away in the dark."

Cloud replied with a chuckle, shaking his head. "I think Farron's been trying to tell me something all day."

I laughed out loud, and my reaction just confused the blonde even more. "Sorry, don't mind me. So you actually have no clue what it is?"

"Er… no idea." He answered causally, and I burst out laughing even louder. "What?" He asked in a low voice, a little irritated.

"You'll find out soon enough. Anyway, just get a fire going if you're waiting. I'm heading back to my wife."

"I know you just love saying that." Cloud teased, but his expression was indifferent as usual.

"My wife?" I beamed at him.

"Yep, that." He sighed as we both threw some fresh logs, encircled by charred stones.

"You're missing out. Marriage is great."

"Is it?" Cloud asked skeptically.

"Duh. But you and Lightning… you guys have a long way to go."

Cloud's cheeks betrayed his thoughts, and it was obvious he was lying. "I wasn't really thinking about Farron or anything."

"Sure you weren't. Anyway, good night." Our fists bumped before I got on my feet.

When I got back to our tent, Aerith was reading, legs crossed leisurely. She was humming, but she fell silent as I entered. "Welcome back, Zack~!"

There it was… That welcome that I loved so dearly. I wished I could hold onto this forever.

"Zack?" Aerith blinked, furrowing her eyebrows. She could recognize a sad thought from a mile. I had to be especially careful around her.

"Sorry. I'm back." I whispered against her ear as I pulled her into my arms, laying down next to her.

"Is Light okay?" She asked worriedly.

"She will be. Cloud's brooding by the bonfire." I told her. Aerith moved away, only to roll her eyes.

"To think I worked so hard to get them going at it… Stupid Reno ruined the mood."

"'Going at' what?" I asked.

"Oh…" Aerith blushed, clearing her throat loudly. "I might have… slipped condoms into Lightning's bag." I stared at her in disbelief as she continued. "And sexy lingerie…"

"I'll be surprised if you guys are still friends tomorrow morning." I laughed, but Aerith was scowling.

"Don't jinx it!"

"Maybe I'll sneak back into their tent and get the condoms. That solves our little problem."

"Absolutely not!" Aerith pouted. "Even if they don't use those… think of them as a good luck charm."

"Aerith the matchmaker… Who knew?" I joked, stroking her head affectionately. "I'm glad I talked to them both. I'm sorry to make you wait all by yourself again."

"I'm fine. I was going to murder Reno if I stayed out there, so I came back here." She tugged on my shirt absentmindedly.

"You're wearing my clothes." I realized, not that I minded it one bit.

"Y-yeah. I missed you so…" Aerith leaned against my chest. She hesitated, before cuddling with me some more. "Zack… Tseng called." There was an unmistakable uneasiness in her voice.

I could only guess. "Bad news?"

"Sort of… Tseng said that whoever attacked us is really good at staying in the shadows. He has pretty much exhausted every resource, even asked Rufus to help. And still… nothing."

"They'll slip up, eventually. And when they do, we'll corner them. Don't you worry." I tried to comfort her, but Aerith just sighed dejectedly, eyes cast down.

"I don't know when they'll go after us next… I'm scared, Zack."

"Well, we need to sit down and talk about how we're going to do this. Cloud and Light are a part of this too, now. So I want them in on everything."

"I wish they weren't… I mean Cloud already has to deal with his crazy family. And now all of this, too. And Light just got here six months ago. I wish we could somehow keep them out of all this." Aerith complained, looking up at me.

"But we can't." I kissed her nose, letting my lips linger on her forehead for a while. "If anything else, moving on our own is going to endanger them even more. Let's have a talk, the four of us, when we get back. Alright?"

"Okay…" Aerith agreed with a slight nod, yawning as she relaxed in my embrace.

"Should we call it a night?" I tucked her head against my chest, pulling the blanket over us both.

"I thought we were going to do it all night?" She said sleepily, closing her eyes. This was just like Aerith. All her worries disappeared when we were close like this. I was the same. I could only sleep when she was next to me.

"I think I've exhausted you enough for one day." I whispered as I kissed her cheek, letting her slip into a comfortable rest. "Sleep well, my love."


"Lovers"

Him: Cloud

When I got back after a hot shower, Lightning was seated around the bonfire by herself. The music had died down, now that everyone had retreated to their tents for the night. I was about to go over to her when Reno appeared and sat near her. They were talking, but it didn't seem like they were arguing. Their voices were faint, but I could hear them while I waited inside the tent. When all was quiet, I carefully stepped out, hoping not to startle Lightning.

I dropped on the floor next to her, placing my guitar on the grass gently. Lightning was so deep in thought that she didn't even notice me. I added some fresh wood to the fire that was barely burning. The pink haired girl finally looked my way. "Strife. Hey."

"Hey." I replied, leaning forward. "You alright?" I couldn't help but worriedly glance at the empty bottle of whiskey next to her.

She read my mind, as always. "I'm fine." She was swaying lightly with the wind, and clearly didn't look fine.

"Want to head inside?" I asked, reaching for her hand. Our fingers intertwined.

"I want to stay out here for a while." Her voice seemed really tired.

"I'll keep you company." I offered, squeezing her hand.

"Can you play for me?" Her voice was sweeter than usual, and she was more vulnerable than I had ever seen her before. I figured it had to do something with the amount of alcohol she went through, single handedly.

"Sure. What do you want to listen to?"

"Our song." She requested, propping her elbows on her knees, hands cupping her cheeks as she leaned intently towards me.

"Our song it is." I almost smiled. That was close. I checked if the guitar was in tune, strumming very softly so we didn't wake up the others. Lightning was relaxed, slouching even. She closed her eyes, enjoying the soft melody. I only played the first verse, slowing the rhythm to a natural stop. Pale aqua eyes met mine, and Lightning nodded in thanks.

"Want to give it a try?" I asked.

"Can I?" She answered with another question.

"Sure. Here. Hold it from here." I passed the acoustic guitar over to her, taking a seat on her left side. "Just pull this closer, like this. And that goes over your leg. Right. Don't bend your wrist like this, it'll hurt later."

My hand covered hers. Lightning's slim fingers struggled over the strings. "This goes over here, and this one here. That's an A chord. And just strum."

Lightning tried, but some of the strings muted. "I think the guitar's broken." She complained cutely. I didn't think I'd get to see this side of her.

I chuckled, repositioning her fingers. "You need to really press down. Try one more time."

This time she was successful. "Strife, I did it." Our faces were dangerously close, but neither of us moved away.

I tucked a rogue strand behind her ear. "Next one's an E chord. It's really the easiest one."

When I finished speaking, Lightning quickly averted her eyes from me. I helped her position her fingers. Both my arms were around her. My other hand showed her the strumming pattern, and I could tell that she was blushing redder with every chord.

Still, Lightning kept her focus on the task at hand. "How does it sound?" She asked after some time.

"Really good. You learn fast." I praised her. As always, the pink haired girl just shrugged modestly.

"Not really. Thanks for the lesson." Eyes soft, she looked up at me. I was about to taste her lips when a muffled moan distracted us.

"Where did that come from…?" I scanned the tents, but Lightning just shuddered.

"I, uh, would rather not know."

Right… Serah was in one of them, too. "Let's get some rest. It's been a long day."

"You're right." She hesitated. It felt impossible to move away, comfortable as we were, but we both put out the fire and hurried back into the tent before we could hear any more moans.

Lightning yawned, and I could tell she was barely staying awake. "I'll take a shower real quick. Can you grab my pajamas for me?"

I nodded, getting onto my knees and unzipping the bag. The familiar looking box fell straight into my hands, and I was about to return it to her bag when I realized what it was. It suddenly felt really hot, and I tried to calm down instead of blushing stupidly. Tossing it back inside, I went through her clothes. "Are these…?" I held up the outrageously short shorts, and Lightning's eyes widened.

Shocked, she fell onto her knees next to me, throwing her hands desperately in her bag. "What the hell?!" She pulled out a black lace bra, quickly burying it back inside the bag. Her shoulder slumped in defeat. "Damn it, someone went through my bag…"

"That explains the-" I stopped myself mid-sentence.

"The what?" Horrified at my comment, she searched through the bag. She held the little box in her palm, crushing it. "Damn it…!" Her cheeks were beet red. "Strife… this isn't. I swear, I didn't bring these."

I cleared my throat awkwardly. "Of course. Don't worry about it. More importantly, you'll freeze to death if you wear those."

"Do you have something I can wear?" She asked reluctantly.

"Not pajamas, but… I have a hoodie I brought just in case."

"Thank god. I'll take it." I could tell from the desperation in her voice that she really didn't want to go to bed wearing those outrageous pajamas.

"Hang on a sec." I unzipped my own bag and passed the black hoodie to her. "It's a little big but…"

"It's perfect. Thank you, Strife. I'll be back. Don't wait up for me."

"Are you sure? I can walk you there." I watched her anxiously as she wobbled to her feet, clutching her head.

"I'll be fine after a hot shower. Thanks, though." I knew she'd say that. I just nodded, and just like that she was gone. I climbed into the warm mattress, slipping on my reading glasses and opening the book I was enjoying earlier.

Lightning was back much earlier than I expected, but she shook her head when I closed the book shut. "Please, don't stop on my account." Her hands disappeared in the long sleeves of my oversized hoodie, but her long legs were still bare. She tugged the hoodie down nervously, and I promptly retracted my intrusive gaze. "Thanks for the hoodie."

"Don't mention it." I returned to my reading as she climbed into the mattress next to me - more like fell clumsily onto it. "Are you sure you're okay?" I asked again, but to no avail. Her answer remained unchanged.

"Of course." But the usual confidence was gone from her voice. She blinked slowly, watching me intensely. "You're wearing your glasses."

"For reading." I put the book aside, pulling the covers over her. "You're not cold?" I could see her trembling, still.

"A little." She finally admitted.

Some minutes passed in silence, and I took Zack's advice from last night. I opened my arms wide, and Lightning raised an eyebrow curiously at me. My cheeks were heating up, but I wanted to take a step forward. And that meant overcoming my innate awkwardness. "Come here, Farron."

The lovely blush on her cheeks darkened. Lightning abandoned her mattress as she moved over to mine. Her hands gripped my shirt. My arms encircled her, and I pressed against her, trying to warm her up.

Neither of us said a word. I held the tips of her hair between my fingers. "Your hair's still wet."

"I tried." She defended, and I chuckled at the adorable response.

"Don't catch a cold." One of my arms was around her shoulders, but my other hand started wandering up and down her spine. "How's this?"

"Feels good." She answered instantly.

"Your hair's growing long." I observed.

"I was thinking of chopping it off. It's been a while since my last haircut."

"I like it this way. I'd love to see you with really long hair some day."

Lightning's lips curved upwards in a smile. "What else would you like to see, Strife?"

I could have sworn she was flirting, but I knew Lightning and she was probably genuinely asking that. "Except the long hair, you mean? I'd love to see you play the guitar. I think you'll be really good at it if you practiced."

"That's it? No more requests for the future?" Another smile played on her lips, wider than the one before it.

"And… this one's kind of selfish."

"Oh?" She blinked, curious.

"I'd love to see you in a dress. Just once is enough." I admitted.

Lightning snorted. "Good luck with that… There's nothing else?"

"How about learning to ride a bike?"

She thought about it for a while. "Maybe, some day. I've always been more of a car person. Was Fenrir your first bike?"

"No." I pushed some of her pink locks away from her face. "I had a Hardy-Daytona before."

"What happened to it?"

"I sold it to a collector. I didn't want anyone to actually ride it, so. Seemed like the best choice at the time." Lightning laughed, surprising me. "What?" I pressed.

"It's so you. Being possessive over a bike."

I leaned threateningly close to her lips, effectively wiping the smirk off of her face. It was my turn to tease. "I hadn't met you back then."

Lightning fidgeted nervously, trying to appear collected. "There you go again… saying stuff like that."

"It's awkward for me too."

She nodded like she could relate. "I know… But you're amazing." Her eyes wandered away from mine.

"What's wrong?" I tilted her chin up so our eyes could meet once more.

"I'm not… I'm not like you. You're so honest. And I'm just…" She mumbled, finally sighing like she was letting it go.

I knew what was weighing on her mind. "Funny how I always think you're the honest one."

"Are you saying that we're so alike that even our worries are identical?" Lightning was grinning now, and I was glad that her troubled expression from before was long gone.

"Something like that." It was becoming impossible to resist her when she clung onto me like this. "Hey, Farron?"

The pink haired girl barely managed to speak through the raging blush. "Don't ask. Just… do it-"

I couldn't wait for her to finish. It felt like I had already waited a lifetime. My lips sealed hers, and her breathing quickened as we continued, kiss after kiss. Her moans were only spurring me on, and I was holding back using every ounce of self control in my body.

"Not like this." I tried to put my foot down, but her arms came around my neck.

"I want you." That bold declaration through another breathy gasp sent my mind spiraling out of control. My hands yanked up the hood over her hips, and I dived towards her. Our lips clashed passionately, and Lightning gave in without a fight. Her moans were muffled by our kiss and I almost felt tempted to break the kiss so I could hear them.

Finally parting, Lightning tried to sit up so I could undress her, but she fell straight back on the mattress. "Sorry… my head's spinning…"

Deep breath. I exhaled slowly, closing my eyes to block the beautiful girl from my vision for a few seconds. It helped me calm down tremendously. "Sorry for getting carried away. You should get some sleep."

Lightning groaned in protest, but it felt like she was struggling to even move. "I can c-continue."

I pecked her lips softly. "I know, but I want to wait. Is that alright?"

"Of course." She replied. I pulled her against my chest, and I could tell she was ready to doze off. In a matter of minutes, her voice had transformed into a whisper. "Not yet… I didn't get to tell you… yet."

"Tell me what?" I asked, calm. Maybe this is what she was trying to tell me all day. I waited, but she didn't say anything else. I knew from her rhythmic breathing that she had fallen asleep. My fingers ran through her silky hair as I held her tightly against me. At some point I fell asleep as well, but Lightning's voice woke me up.

She was mumbling, eyebrows furrowed together. "Cloud…"

Was it a bad dream? I deliberated, wondering if I should wake her up.

"Cloud…"

I let her continue - selfish as that was. It was nice to hear my name on her lips.

"I love you."

I had heard her loud and clear, even if she was sleep-talking. I didn't know how powerful those three words were, especially when they came from her. They hit me with a magnificent force, and I was made aware of my own, intense feelings. The warmth that spread inside me was all too new.

I pecked her lips - careful not to stir her - as I whispered against them.

"I love you too."


A/N: And it's a wrap! Sorry about the Fifty Shades of Tifa XD It's on the request of my best friend, an absolute ReTi fan. Lightning finally said it... in her sleep. God she's the cutest. XD Also Hope and Vanille finally made some progress. Took them forever!

I have a lot planned for the next chapter, but it will be significantly shorter (the same length as the previous chapters). I'm also on a night schedule now so I'll do my best to balance the updates with night shifts. Please forgive me if there are typos. I'll do my best so that the quality doesn't suffer. T^T

Hoping everyone had a lovely weekend! Hang in there for Monday!

Until the next update.