Part Three
For some reason, he'd expected things to feel different. Instead he got more of the same.
There was no immediate change—no moment when he could tell himself yes, this is really happening. Gaia, there wasn't even that heart racing, nervous moment leading up to Zack's knock on his door. Aside from the quick blush that crossed his face when Zack looked him up and down, smirking when he realized Cloud really had changed into his best jeans, he'd managed to stay startlingly calm.
That look always did things to him though, so his reaction barely registered as noteworthy.
"I didn't have time to get flowers," Zack said, giving him a playful nudge as they made their way down the stairs.
"I noticed. I was thinking about demanding we reschedule so you can try again, but I thought that might be over the top for our first date," Cloud teased, nudging him right back.
"Well, I hate to break it to you, but as an AVALANCHE employee, I'm more likely to get you a potted plant," Zack informed him, oh so seriously—aside from the wink he tacked on at the end.
Cloud hummed thoughtfully. "Is that where you work?"
Because hadn't they agreed to this? Going through the motions like they would with anyone else? He'd gone on plenty of first dates in the last year, so he knew a thing or two about what that meant. If anything, he'd be out of his depth on the second date.
"Oh, yeah," Zack said, not missing a beat. "I thought I told you already. I'm kind of a big deal over there."
"I think I've seen some AVALANCHE commercials." He tapped his chin as they moved, pretending to think it over. "Can't say I see what all the fuss is about. The reactors power the whole city, so they can't be that bad."
That got Zack's attention, bringing him to a complete halt as they stepped outside. He stared at Cloud for what felt like the longest minute ever before finally breaking into a big grin. "You're lucky you're so cute," he said, slinging an arm around Cloud's shoulders. "You've got a lot to learn, and I'm just the guy to teach you."
Cloud couldn't even play along, the urge to laugh too strong. "Please tell me you wouldn't say that on a real date."
"Hey! This is a real date, and heck yeah I'd say that! You're a cute dude, Spike."
"So cute that you'll overlook me being oblivious to the things you care about most?"
"Uh, yeah. You're a lot more than just a cute face. You're still smart—still willing to learn. And I've got a feeling that once you do, you'll be on board with me," Zack told him, like he was absolutely sure.
It occurred to Cloud in that moment that Zack was more than just sure—he was speaking from experience. Once upon a time, Cloud hadn't been well informed. He knew better than to support ShinRa, but his knowledge of the intricacies of the issues was minimal. That is, until Zack started bringing him along to those weekend seminars.
There, it was impossible not to start soaking in all the information—to start doing his own research, and to start forming his own opinions. It had been an eye-opening experience, and one that lead him to where he was today. He could report on anything, but he stuck to these issues by choice because they mattered to him now.
"What're you thinking?" Zack asked, interrupting his own reminiscing.
"I'm thinking…" He paused, not quite sure how to put all the flood of gratitude he felt in that moment into words. "I'm thinking you're right. I could definitely get on the right path with someone like you in my life."
"You know what I'm thinking?"
Cloud stared up, brows furrowed as he met Zack's eyes. Usually he had some semblance of an idea, but not this time. The longer he stared, the more at a loss he was until he finally gave in and shook his head.
"I'm thinking you're amazing already—definitely the kinda person I could see myself with," Zack told him, stepping in closer. He brought a hand to Cloud's cheek, covering the flush that seemed to be spreading under its touch. "I'm also thinking you don't seem like the type to kiss on the first date. Do you make exceptions?"
All he could do was nod, almost dumbly as he stared up. Zack had been the exception to so many things since they met—why would this be any different? What he wasn't expecting was for Zack to lean in now, grazing his lips with what could only be described as delicacy. And as quickly as he leaned in, he pulled back, smiling down.
"In case dinner goes bad and you change your mind," Zack whispered conspiratorially.
It was ridiculous enough to get Cloud to roll his eyes, trying to forget the full body shudder he'd just experienced. The this is real moment he'd been searching for just a few minutes ago.
"You're lucky you're so cute," Cloud told him, biting back a grin when Zack snorted. "I'm serious. I've got this friend—he'd be scandalized if he knew you broke first date protocol this badly."
"Sounds like one of my friends. Nosy bastard, isn't he?"
"I'd be lost if he wasn't," Cloud replied fondly.
Zack smiled at that. "Me too," he said, gesturing for Cloud to follow him.
He stuck close to Zack's side, having almost forgotten they hadn't actually gone anywhere yet. Standing on the front steps of their apartment building wasn't much of a date, not that they had a very elaborate plan. Just a late dinner, as far as Cloud knew. Apparently somewhere in walking distance, since they bypassed the parking lot and went right to the sidewalk.
"So, what do you do for a living?" Zack asked, eyes dancing as he glanced down.
"I'm a journalist," he answered, and for the first time in all his dates, he actually appreciated his own answer.
It had become an easy, monotonous thing to say. Something he took for granted. Somehow it meant so much more with Zack—probably because it was such a far cry from the uncertain answer he'd given the first time Zack had asked him a similar question. Back when he had no idea what he was going to do with his life. Sure, Zack had made it relatively painless, making a game out of guessing his major…but he'd still dreaded those questions back then. It was a bit strange to put it in perspective—to realize just how far he'd come since then.
Zack gave him a moment before continuing their current game, knowing as always he was lost in his head. "Let me guess—broadcast journalist?"
Cloud quirked a brow. "Why would that be your guess?"
"You've got a face made for TV," Zack responded easily, smirking when Cloud scoffed.
"You're not the first to say so," he admitted, hand on the back of his neck. That was the thing about these types of conversations—they could only go so many ways. Some of his more flirty dates had tried all the same, cheesy lines. It was much more flattering coming from Zack. "But, no. I do some correspondent work, but mostly print."
"Well, that's a shame. I heard about this cool job opening at News Seven."
"Oh really?" Cloud asked dryly.
"Yep. They're looking for a news anchor. It's not the primetime slot or anything, but it's a foot in the door."
"My boss might've mentioned something about that," he said, remembering the conversation all too well. It was the network he did most his correspondent work through, so word got around quick. "He also mentioned giving me a raise to keep me around."
"Then I bet he'd still let you write a weekly column to keep your foot in the door at the paper too."
Cloud chuckled softly. "Yeah, I dunno. I've already made enough life changing career moves in the last couple years."
"Where do you wanna be in the next few years though? Fancy editor at a big time paper, or prime time news anchor for the most watched news show in the city?"
"They both sound like solid jobs."
"Yeah, they do. But which reaches the most people?" Zack asked, sounding genuinely curious.
"I don't really know. A lot of people get their news online now—sometimes through the paper's website, sometimes through the network's websites, and sometimes just browsing."
"Mmm, yeah, we put a lot of gil into online advertising over at AVALANCHE."
"I think people still tune in to watch the big name news shows. The ratings are high, at least."
"I think people would tune in to watch you. And not just 'cause you're ridiculously good looking."
Cloud narrowed his eyes. This get-to-know-you game had been a lot more fun when they were just goofing around. "Zack—"
"I'm serious, Spike. You've got this thing about you. People wanna hear what you have to say."
"I'll think about it. It's not that I'm not interested, but it feels like I only just got settled at the Post," Cloud explained slowly. So many other things were changing already—all good things, but still. He could only deal with so much at a time.
"Okay. I was just throwin' it out there," Zack reassured him, swaying in until their shoulders brushed. "Y'know, we're not even there yet, and we're almost outta small talk. I'm gonna hafta start asking you about your favorite color and favorite foods."
"Uh, we haven't even talked about where we're from, where we went to school, what our hobbies are," Cloud said, raising a finger as he listed each. He peered up at Zack with a straight face. "Are you new to this first date thing?"
"I've only been on one other first date in the last eight years, so…" Zack shrugged. "Yeah, I guess I am."
Oh, right. Cloud blinked, letting that really sink in. Sure, Zack had years and years of relationship experience, but this casual place they were trying to start in? Not so much. "I'm kind of a pro," Cloud told him, feeling oddly confident now. "I don't know shit about second dates, but I can get us through this one for sure."
Zack snorted. "I'm a fast learner. Between the two of us, I think we'll manage."
"Right. Where're we going anyway?" he asked, looking around curiously.
"Where do you think?"
"Uh. Train station?" Cloud guessed, because there really weren't any other options left at this point. They'd been walking and walking, passing countless places to eat.
"Yeah, I thought dinner on the train would be pretty romantic," Zack deadpanned, earning an amused glare from his date. "We're taking the train to the edge of the city."
"Oh?"
"Yep. The rest is a surprise! Let's just say I had to call in a favor or two to get things set up for us."
Normally the thought of a surprise would've made Cloud feel incredibly awkward, but this was Zack. This whole thing felt so easy—a mix of normal conversation and fun 'first date talk' that he could absolutely handle.
So he didn't question it further, instead continuing with their game by asking Zack about his hometown. The 'shock' on Zack's face when he revealed he'd actually been to Gongaga was adorable, and definitely worth the absurdity of the entire conversation. And then they moved on, sitting side by side on the train as they got into their hobbies—linking fingers as they 'discovered' just how much they had in common.
By the time they were at their stop, they really had almost run out of traditional first date talk, but it didn't even matter. The date was already going better than any he could recall being on, and they hadn't even done anything yet. They walked the short distance from the train station to the chocobo stables, apparently getting ready to leave the city entirely.
"You can ride a bird, right?" Zack asked, winking at the look Cloud shot him.
"No," he lied—surely bad etiquette, but he wanted to see what Zack would do. "I can't actually."
"Hmm. Guess we'll hafta share."
Before Cloud could react, Zack was already off talking to the stable keeper, renting out one of the rare breed birds—the massive kind that could hold two people without being hurt. He felt a twinge of guilt, sure that cost a lot more than renting out two regular chocobos, but Zack was practically beaming when he hopped on and offered Cloud a hand.
How could he feel bad about that?
So he accepted Zack's hand with a smile, settling comfortably onto the saddle. It was a bit weird, actually. He knew more than a little about riding chocobos, but he'd never been on a bird quite like this—he'd never not held onto the reigns himself. Gaia, he couldn't even compare it to his motorcycle. He was always the one steering that, too.
"Better hold on, Spike," Zack warned, leaving Cloud very glad that Zack was facing forward and unable to see the panicked look on his face. "Don't worry, we're not going far."
That was the last thing he was worried about, his mind more wary about falling off right now. It wasn't until he all but clung to Zack that he really relaxed—that he took a deep breath and let go of his worries. Zack wouldn't let him fall. He put all his reservations aside as the bird sped up, Zack keeping it effortlessly under control.
And then they stopped.
Cloud looked around, stunned by what was in front of him. They'd barely left the city, just going far enough to see the stars clearly. There was a dim lantern lit, hanging from a tree. Below it was either the cheesiest or most romantic thing he'd ever seen—a red checkered picnic blanket with a basket sitting on top.
"I know I'm new to this whole first date thing, but I wanted it to be memorable," Zack explained, offering a hand to help Cloud get off the massive bird.
He accepted with a shaky hand, his heart pounding in his chest. "Yeah, I…I don't think I'll be forgetting this anytime soon."
xxxxx
There wasn't much that could top a picnic under the stars, but both Zack and Cloud certainly seemed willing to try. An arcade outing in the slums, a private showing at the theatre (hey, it was nice to be able to laugh freely and react loudly without disturbing anyone), a cooking class turned food fight because they were secretly children…
They did a lot of random things, some more successful than others. Even when the date itself was a bit of a dud, they managed to have a good time together without fail.
Unfortunately, there were only so many new and exciting things to do in Midgar. They were still busy, and still battling opposite work schedules, so it only made sense for them to weave in some standard dates when there just wasn't time to plan. Dinners, movies, and a few nights in. Somehow those dates were just as special, even as they moved past the 'get-to-know-you' nonsense and into their more typical banter. Maybe it was because things were different now, even while so much felt the same.
That this is real moment Cloud felt during their first date? He'd come to realize it was a fleeting thought, recurring multiple times during each date. So much really hadn't changed between them—it was just the subtle differences that caught his full attention, lighting up Zack's eyes and setting off the flutter in Cloud's stomach over and over again.
The light hand that would linger on his thigh, the soft glances that neither looked away from, the quick pecks stolen mid-laugh—things that blended so seamlessly into their original dynamic. He'd come to look forward to those moments, longing to hold onto them for as long as he could.
"So, I was thinking," Zack began, almost looking nervous. "We've been dating a while now, yeah?"
"Over a month," Cloud confirmed with a nod.
Not that he was keeping track, but…okay, maybe he was keeping track. Six weeks, with dates scattered throughout. Usually two or three nights a week since they'd agreed not to dive right back into spending every single day together.
His stomach twisted anxiously when Zack still hadn't responded, not enjoying the drawn out silence at all. "Why? Is something wrong?"
"What? No! Nothing's wrong," Zack reassured him quickly. "Things are going great…Right?"
"Right," he agreed, raising a brow. "What's up then?"
"I was just thinking, this is normally the time we'd maybe consider making things official, yeah?" Zack ventured, glancing at him tentatively. "I know we kinda have this unspoken agreement that this is it—that it's just you and me, but we never really said it."
"I'm not seeing anyone else," Cloud responded slowly. Hadn't that been more than implied when they spilled their guts to each other? "It's only you."
"It's only you," Zack repeated back to him, smiling as he took Cloud's hand and laced their fingers together. "I guess what I'm trying to say is, I wanna be boyfriends—I just haven't asked anyone to be mine in a long time, so I dunno how to say it without sounding like a teenager. Normally people ask me."
Cloud side-eyed him for a moment before laughing almost uncontrollably. "You…You're kind of an asshole," he declared, still chuckling. "I thought you were gonna tell me you realized you were wrong about all this."
"C'mon, Spike," he grumbled, looking a bit too hurt for Cloud to keep laughing. "I didn't go into this on a whim. I told you I was sure, and I meant it."
"…Okay."
"You said you believed me."
"I do," Cloud insisted.
"Then why would you think I'd change my mind now? Especially when things are going so good."
"I don't! It didn't even cross my mind until you got all quiet," he tried to explain, helpless to find the right words. "Then, I dunno. I guess this is all too good to be true sometimes. I'm sorry."
"You don't hafta apologize, I just wanna understand what you're thinking," Zack told him, his smile returning in a hurry. "I get what you mean. It's that way for me too."
"It is?"
"Yeah. I've never felt like this, you know? It's different than it was with Adam, or even with Lux. I don't wanna compare us or anything, but I can't help noticing sometimes. It's just you and me. I'm not trying to impress you, or trying to do things a certain way." He paused there, looking a bit puzzled. "Well, I guess I am, but it's still not the same."
It was a little vague, but Cloud nodded anyway, sure he understood. "We're best friends."
"Yeah. It's just easier, and not in a bad way—not in a way where I'll be bored in another month. It's all good," Zack said with so much certainty that it rubbed right off on Cloud. "So, whaddya say? Be my boyfriend?"
He rolled his eyes fondly. "I guess so."
"You guess so?"
"Yeah, I guess so," Cloud responded, grinning at the indignant look on Zack's face. "Were you expecting a different answer?"
"I was looking for more of a yes, Zack! That's the best idea ever!"
And, yeah. Way too much enthusiasm there, even for Zack. He shot his boyfriend an unimpressed look despite being inwardly amused. "I don't talk like that."
"Maybe you should start," Zack said, a hint of warning in his voice. Cloud's eyes went wide with realization, but by then it was too late—he was being pinned to the couch, helpless under Zack's weight as his boyfriend's fingers trailed his sides with obvious intent. "Say it."
"You can't just tickle me every time—"
Apparently Cloud was very wrong about that, squirming and flailing as best he could as Zack got to work. That man was pure evil, grazing and poking Cloud's every weak spot like the overgrown child he was. It only took fifteen seconds before the laughter escaped Cloud's stubborn lips, no amount of willpower able to keep it at bay.
"Okay, okay!" he gasped out somewhere in the midst of his fit of laughter. Zack stilled above him, eyes gleaming with amusement as he stared down into Cloud's. He took his time, catching his breath before even attempting to say the words Zack was expecting. "Yes, Zack. That's the best idea ever."
Zack curled his fingers into Cloud's sides threateningly. "Say it like you mean it!"
"Yes, Zack!" Cloud exclaimed, barely recognizing his own voice. He would be getting revenge for this, that was for sure. "That's the best idea ever!"
"What is?" Zack persisted, showing no signs of budging.
"You and me being boyfriends, you ridiculous oaf!" he grumbled, already closing his eyes and bracing himself for the inevitable retaliation.
It never came.
His eyes fluttered open in confusion, but the what's wrong never made it past the tip of his tongue. The moment their eyes locked, Zack leaned in, his warm breath grazing Cloud's face and startling him into silence. He stayed perfectly still, heart racing as he watched Zack study his face with a strange intensity.
"I'm going to kiss you," Zack whispered, pausing for just another moment as if he were waiting for any kind of objection.
There weren't any. In fact, Cloud was nearly ready to tell him to hurry and do it, but Zack closed the gap between them before that could happen. It only took a split second to register why Zack had vocalized his intentions instead of just going for it the way he had since asking on their first date.
Their kisses, though frequent, could almost be mistaken as platonic to this point if not for the fact that they'd put their feelings out there and discussed exactly what was happening between them.
This was different. It was no quick peck. It wasn't soft, or sweet, or anything that could be considered delicate. Zack's lips were moving against his with purpose, tongue easing its way into Cloud's mouth like this was a regular thing for them. There was no sense of exploration, no getting a feel for one another—it was just natural, the way that everything else was between them.
It wasn't so surprising. Neither was their growing enthusiasm as they both got into it—they never did anything in halves, really. Cloud's hands found their way into Zack's hair, moving to the back of his head so he couldn't pull back even if he wanted to. Which, he clearly didn't—not if the way his grip tightened just slightly was any indication.
"I friggin' love you," Zack murmured, not pulling away to say so.
"Mm, you too."
A bit more incoherent, but he felt like he got the message across when his boyfriend practically smiled into his mouth.
xxxxx
He should've known. In fact, he would've know, except he'd gotten so caught up in his own little Zack and Cloud world to notice much else—not even with the glaringly obvious hint that had been dropped.
An invitation from Genesis was almost always suspicious unless the plans were to go to the theatre, or to his home. If it had come from either of his boyfriends, not so much. That was a fact he'd discovered so long ago, it was almost crazy to think he hadn't even batted an eye when he got such an invitation that afternoon.
Sure, he'd agreed without question—a night out at Seventh Heaven sounded great. When Genesis had suggested bringing Zack along? Even better. They'd planned to try find some time to hang out anyway, and a quick drink with their friends definitely fit into both their schedules.
Yeah, a quick drink. Those plans changed drastically as they walked through the doors, hand in hand as an entire roomful of people yelled out, "Happy Anniversary!"
"I'm gonna kill him," Cloud mumbled, too quietly for anyone in the loud room to hear. Well, aside from Zack. He just squeezed Cloud's hand, looking as good natured as always about the whole thing. "You didn't know about this, did you?"
"Nah, but he kinda swung by my office today to see if you'd texted me about it yet," Zack revealed, smiling apologetically. "I shoulda known something was up."
"Don't think I don't know what you two are talking about," Genesis called out from across the room, sipping at his drink with a smug smile. "You're already here, so you may as well enjoy yourselves."
"It's not even our anniversary," Cloud shot back, not really minding that everyone in the room could hear him. He'd already given the place a once over, and it looked like a solid mix of both he and Zack's co-workers.
"Uh, actually," Zack said, raising a finger in the air, "It kinda is."
"Yeah, but we're not that couple," Cloud replied, shaking his head. Technically they'd made things official a month ago, but really? "We're the kind of couple who celebrates our annual anniversary at most."
"Oh, we are?" Zack raised both brows, clearly amused. "Glad you decided that for the both of us."
"Do you…disagree?" Cloud asked slowly, almost dreading the answer.
"Nah, we're definitely not the monthly anniversary kinda couple. I think we should let Gen have this one though, I mean, he did kinda make this happen."
Cloud took in a deep breath, trying to ignore the silly celebratory banners Genesis had somehow convinced Tifa to allow. If he could just block those out, and forget the large cake sitting on the bar, then yeah. He could let Genesis have this one because Zack was right—they owed him a lot.
They owed a lot to several people in this room. Genesis, Sephiroth, Angeal, Tifa, Jess…Biggs was there too of course, and he even thought he saw Adam. No matter how he felt about celebrations, he couldn't deny the impact so many of these people had on him. On making his relationship happen.
"Yeah," Cloud muttered, realizing Zack was still awaiting some kind of response.
He grinned in return. "Awesome. Let's get a drink, then we can make the rounds."
The best he could do was nod in response, glad that Zack would be by his side for at least a little while. No doubt he'd split off to go chat with some of his co-workers at some point, but not before Cloud was done brooding.
"How much did he have to pay you to let him do this to your bar?" Cloud asked, accepting the beer Tifa handed him.
She was willing to book out the place for private get togethers, but she had a pretty strict policy about not allowing decorations. Drunk people tended to make a mess of such things, especially during 'celebrations'—not that this particular group would ever mess with her bar, but still. It was a general rule.
"He just took care of the food and drinks. I put the banners up myself," she revealed, getting Zack a drink as well. Then she laughed at Cloud's dumbfounded expression. "Come on! You know I'm happy for you. Both of you. It's about time you worked all this out."
"It wasn't anything we needed to work out, it was just—"
"Thanks, Tifa," Zack interjected, happily raising his bottle.
Cloud frowned a little, but couldn't help feeling a bit relieved. Maybe he didn't have to explain himself to anyone. The fact was, their relationship was between them. Their friends could be happy for them without all the details—without understanding that it was probably a good thing they hadn't jumped into this a year ago. Now the timing was so right, and that was all that mattered to either of them.
So he raised his bottle as well. "Yeah, thanks."
"Enjoy your night, guys. I'll be here when you're ready for another," she told them with a wink.
Zack's free hand was on the small of his back a moment later, guiding him away from the bar and toward one of the booths—mostly everyone had split off into small groups, which was to be expected given the mixed crowd.
"Did I tell you how good you look tonight?" Zack whispered, leaning down to say the words right into his ear.
"Um." Cloud glanced up, face red. "You might've mentioned it once or twice."
"Good," he replied, giving the blond another quick once over before nodding again. "I'll prob'ly tell you again before we leave."
"You know, we're already together. You don't have to tell me half as often as you do."
"It's our anniversary! What kinda boyfriend would I be if I didn't compliment you today of all days?"
"In that case, you're lookin' pretty good yourself."
Zack smirked, clinking their bottles together before taking a sip. "Thanks, babe."
How was that fair? The way Zack took compliments was so effortless—like he was already well aware he looked good, so the words didn't affect him at all. It wasn't until he realized Zack was still smiling that he wondered if maybe his words had some kind of impact after all.
They began saying hi to everyone table by table, and Cloud was quickly pleased to learn mostly everyone was there for the free food and drinks. Yeah, they were happy about Zack and Cloud getting together, but they mostly agreed a one month anniversary celebration was over the top. That meant their relationship was barely a topic of discussion, not even being mentioned by some of their co-workers.
"Hey, I'm gonna go say hi to Adam. Do you wanna come?" Zack asked quietly once they'd refilled their drinks twice and gone up to mostly everyone present. All that was left were their closest friends, and he had no doubt they'd spend the duration of the evening hanging out with them.
"Doesn't matter to me," he decided, following his boyfriend's gaze.
Adam had broken off from his group and made his way to the bar. He was waving at them with a pleasant smile, and Cloud quickly found himself waving back without hesitation. It wasn't like he knew Adam well enough to need to go up and say hi, but they were acquaintances.
"Think I'll go alone then," Zack said, leaning down to pecking him square on the mouth.
"Okay. I'm gonna go see Jess," Cloud replied, tugging Zack back in for another. "Meet you over by Gen and the others?"
"Yeah. I'll bring you a new drink?"
"Sounds good," he agreed, smiling when Zack's lips were on his again. Then his boyfriend winked and walked off, leaving Cloud a little dazed as he watched his every step.
"You both look like lovesick puppies," a familiar voice chirped, snapping him out of it. He smiled as Jess slung an arm around him, guiding him over to the table she was sharing with Biggs and a few friends. "I thought you were gonna keep staring and I'd miss my turn."
"He's nice to look at," Cloud responded, holding off his laughter as her jaw dropped.
"I guess you've earned your right to stare at this point. I'm so glad things worked out," she told him, kind as always.
Biggs raised his glass. "I think we all are."
"I'll drink to that," Cloud said, raising his own glass.
He's lost track of how many times he'd done so now, but he was just as happy to do it again. Especially for Biggs. The poor guy—with Jess as Cloud's go to about so many of his Zack issues, there was no doubt Biggs had heard more than he cared to know about everything that lead up to this relationship.
"So that doesn't bother you?" Jess asked, gesturing toward the bar.
Cloud didn't need to look over to know she meant Zack and Adam. "Nah. Me and Zack are good. I get that they're friends still."
Really, Adam had given Zack a lot of perspective. That and some solid advice that had been a big push for him to deal with his feelings for Cloud. How could he feel anything other than gratitude toward the man who'd done that? There really was no need for jealousy.
"Good. He keeps looking over here."
"Zack?" he asked, glancing over this time. Sure enough, his boyfriend was looking his way, his smile growing as their eyes met across the room. Naturally Cloud smiled right back.
"Lovesick puppies," his friend repeated, laughing along with her boyfriend.
"You're one to talk," Cloud responded, raising both brows challengingly as he turned back to them. "Do I need to remind you how disgusting you two were when you finally got together?"
"Point taken," Jess conceded, nudging him playfully. "You're happy now, right?"
"I was happy before," he answered, very serious. Sure, he had his ups and downs, but didn't everyone? His general happiness had never been dependent on being with Zack. He'd come a long way, and had a lot to show for himself well before he and Zack sorted their shit out. "I'm definitely happier with him, if that's what you mean."
She smiled at that. "It is."
"There's a man watching you," Biggs said, eyes flickering over Cloud's shoulder. "One of Angeal's boyfriends."
Shit. He spun around to double check, and wasn't surprised to see that man was none other than Genesis. "I must be taking too long," he realized, looking to them regretfully. "I better go say hey before he gets upset. He was the one who put all this together."
"You should swing by my place tomorrow. We're having a few people over for a movie marathon," Jess informed him. "Zack can come, obviously."
"Text me the details?"
"Yeah. See you later!"
He returned the sentiment before taking his leave, making his way over to Sephiroth and Genesis without further delay. They each pulled him in for a quick hug before he could sit down, then settled back into their own seats.
"Saving the best for last?" Genesis mused, quirking a brow because there was obviously a right answer to that question.
Cloud played right along since it was true anyway. "Of course. Everyone else only got a quick hello."
"And where's our other guest of honor?"
He nodded toward the bar where Zack and Adam had been joined by a few other co-workers for a drink—Angeal included. "He's not as good at quick hellos."
"Ah, I see. It is undoubtedly one of your many talents."
"Thanks," he muttered, almost a question.
"You're quite welcome."
"Genesis," Sephiroth said, giving the redhead a look.
"What? I meant it as a compliment! I can't even begin to tell you the number of functions I've attended where I wished I could do the same."
"Um, since when is that an issue for you?" Cloud asked, a bit confused. "If you don't wanna talk to someone, you normally just tell them that."
"Exactly! You, my dear, are far more polite. You can get in and out of a conversation without offending anyone," Genesis explained, like this was a perfectly rational thing.
"But…since when do you care about offending anyone?"
"It's not a matter of caring, it's just lost its entertainment value over the years."
"Right," Cloud muttered. And, okay, he didn't really get it, but oh well. "If you really want to master the quick hello, you should try working here for a while. It's pretty easy to get down."
Genesis smiled indulgently. "I'll keep that in mind."
"Thanks for doing this," he ventured, smiling a bit himself. To his own surprise, he found that he meant it. This night really hadn't been so bad after all. "You really didn't have to."
"You should be thanking Sephiroth and Angeal. They're the ones who contacted all the guests," Genesis informed him, which made sense. Angeal knew everyone over at AVALANCHE, and Sephiroth obviously had contacts at the Midgar Post. "All I did was make the appropriate arrangements with Tifa."
"It was also your idea," Sephiroth reminded him.
"And you're the one who got me and Zack here," Cloud added.
"I suppose that's accurate. Are you truly having a nice time?"
Cloud nodded. "Yeah, I am."
"Then you're welcome for this as well."
"You were gonna pin it on Seph and Ang if I was miserable, weren't you?" Cloud realized, snorting when Genesis had no response. Sephiroth had raised a brow, though he didn't look surprised. "I guess I do have a track record at these things, huh?"
It was Genesis' turn to snort. "That's an understatement."
Maybe he'd been known to overreact about these sorts of things, sometimes staying in a sour mood for days, but…"I just don't like being put on the spot. I'm not interested in being the center of attention."
"You and Zack are a good match then," Sephiroth noted rather accurately.
Zack, of course, was still laughing loudly with his friends by the bar. He had them hanging off his every word, not a single pair of eyes not on him. It had kind of been like that all night, Zack taking the lead at every table they approached. Sure, Cloud joined in, but it was really nice to have someone there to keep the pressure off even if he was much better at dealing with people these days.
"Yeah," Cloud murmured, nodding along. "We are. He's…"
"Your gift of the goddess," Genesis finished with a whimsical sigh.
Normally Cloud would roll his eyes at Genesis' incessant need to throw in LOVELESS references, but he found he didn't mind this time. "You know, I know me and Zack have been kind of together for a little while now, and I see you probably as much as I see him—"
A couple nights a week, usually. It had become increasingly difficult not to fall back into his old pattern with Zack where somehow they ended up hanging out almost every day until they consumed all of each other's free time, especially now that Zack's latest work project had wrapped up and he was back on day shift. But they'd really managed. There was something fun about it—about texting and calling instead, knowing they were committed to this and they'd see each other soon enough.
And that left him with plenty of time to see his friends. To work, and have all the things he and Zack had discussed not giving up just to be together constantly. He even had time for himself, which was something he'd always needed—something Zack obviously needed, too. They really were treating it like the start of any other normal, healthy relationship.
No doubt they'd hit a point where their 'casual' relationship became just as serious as it really was, but they'd deal with that when the time came. When they'd proven they could handle it without screwing everything up again.
"We're just happy you're both so happy," Genesis cut in, waving off what would've been yet another thank you. That was the point he was getting to—he saw his friends all the time, but he'd yet to really tell them how much he appreciated their help over the last couple years. "I'd go through it all again if it meant seeing you exactly as you are right now."
"I'll make it up to you someday," Cloud promised, completely serious.
Sephiroth and Genesis exchanged a quick look. "You already have," the silver haired man informed him, causing him to arch a brow. "We would not have Angeal if not for you."
"Um. What?"
"It was infuriating watching you pine after Zack for so long," Genesis chimed in, shaking his head disdainfully. "Even more so when you wouldn't just tell him."
"It wouldn't have made a difference. Not back then."
"Yes, for you. But your experience became something of a learning one for me."
Cloud frowned. He'd heard part of this story, but not all of it—it wasn't like it was his business to pry into the intricacies of their relationship. "So you mean…"
"Angeal and I had a history of never getting the timing right. He was in and out of relationships for years, and by the time he was ready to pursue me, I'd met you," Genesis revealed with a tiny smile. "Then I was busy job hunting, and Sephiroth came along shortly after. There was always something—someone. By the time he got out of his previous relationship, I'd been watching you and Zack dance around each other for months."
"And you?" Cloud asked, chancing a curious look at Sephiroth.
"Genesis and I discussed his feelings for Angeal years ago. At some point, I began to regard him just as fondly," Sephiroth answered, like it was so simple. "He had come to care for me as well, but never considered what we have now."
Genesis nodded along. "We had to ease him into the idea of it to see if it was something he'd be open to."
"So you slept with him."
"A relationship like ours only works if everyone involved is on the same page. Angeal knew our intentions from the start. We just had to give him some time—time to accept his previous relationship had ended, and time to see if this was something he truly wanted with both of us."
"And you think you did all that because me and Zack?" Cloud asked, sincerely doubting it.
"Is it so hard to believe? I told you time and time again to talk to Zack. To tell him how you felt. Yet there I was, ignoring my own feelings."
"You were already in a happy relationship though."
"With a man I knew would be just as happy to have Angeal as well," Genesis countered, looking to Sephiroth with a smile. Sephiroth returned it wordlessly. "So you see, dear, we owe you quite a bit. Your stubborn behavior opened my eyes to my own."
"Oh." Cloud blinked, not sure what to say. "Well…I'm glad my personal drama paid off for everyone."
"Cloud," Sephiroth started, right as Genesis huffed, "That's not what—"
"It worked out for me, too," Cloud reminded them, amused by the way they visibly relaxed. Then he folded his hands together on the table, leaning forward a little. "Just don't try throwing a party every month, otherwise we're gonna have a serious problem."
xxxxx
Somehow he'd made it through an entire day out in the city without noticing, even as an unexpected number of people stopped to look and point at him. It happened from time to time—with the correspondent work he did, he was sometimes recognized. That or from the pictures he sometimes posted on his blog. This went far beyond occasional though, and it was his ex-boyfriend of all people who pointed it out to him.
"It's a nice picture," Carl told him, smiling a bit as he handed Cloud his coffee order.
Yeah, he still went into his favorite coffee shop almost every day. At first he'd avoided the place, feeling far too guilty to face the man he'd accidentally wronged. Zack didn't let him get away with that though, practically pushing him through the door a week later with promises that, "You'll feel better once you've apologized."
Apparently Zack had already gone in to apologize himself by then, so Cloud was helpless to argue. It had been relatively painless, Carl telling him there were no hard feelings—that he was just glad it ended before he got too attached. And then it was almost like it never happened. Cloud was back to stopping by most days, and Carl was back to his pleasant self. They were friendly without being friends, which was probably more than he deserved.
He wasn't sure what to make of Carl's comment today, so he just asked, "What picture?"
"Don't tell me you didn't see it," Carl said, chuckling quietly as Cloud blinked. "The massive billboard outside? I passed two more on my way in to work today."
"What billboard?" Cloud pressed, now baffled and nervous.
"The one with your pretty face all over it. Turn right when you walk out of here, you can't miss it."
"I think I'll drink this here today," he decided, bringing his coffee to his lips. Something told him his mood would be souring the moment he stepped back outside.
Carl's amusement wasn't helping. "Suit yourself. It really is a nice picture though." Then he handed Cloud a muffin, saying something about no charge for the celebrity.
All he could do was snort as he accepted it, thanking Carl before settling down at a small table by the window. He pulled out his phone right away, checking his messages and emails—none of his friends had messaged him about it, and his work email definitely didn't mention anything about any billboards.
So he did the first thing he could think of. He shot Zack a text about his absurd day, and then called Sephiroth.
"One moment," Sephiroth said in lieu of any greeting. He could hear a few other voices in the background, a clear sign that his friend was working—probably in some fancy business meeting. Either the meeting was wrapping up already, or Sephiroth was dismissing them early. "How are you, Cloud?"
"Why is my face all over the city?" Cloud asked instead, peering out the window of the coffee shop. The angle wasn't great, but he could definitely see part of the billboard Carl had mentioned. It wasn't just a bad joke—it was very real.
"Excuse me?"
"There are billboards with my face on them," he explained quickly. "Why? Don't they need my permission to do things like that?"
"What are the billboards advertising?" Sephiroth inquired.
"Let me go check." Cloud collected his things and pushed his way out the door, getting a better look at the billboard in question. It was him alright—holding a microphone and smiling the way he only would when he was on air. "It's News Seven."
"Do you have a contract with them?"
"No! I work for the paper, and my editor—" His mouth snapped shut at that. "He's the one who schedules the correspondent work. Do you think he authorized this?"
"It is a possibility. Have you received any form of unusual compensation lately?"
Cloud frowned as he thought it over. "Just my quarterly bonus. It was a bit more than I was expecting."
"You must have signed an authorization form at some point."
"I sign lots of things," he admitted with a sigh. Nondisclosure agreements, access forms, and more than a few legal forms that he may not have read in their entirety. "Is there a way to get them taken down? You're the boss, right?"
"I am the majority shareholder of the Post," Sephiroth said, which sounded an awful lot like, yes, I own the paper as far as Cloud was concerned. "There is a board and editor-in-chief who oversees the day to day operations."
"But your vote counts more than anyone else's."
"I have no stake at News Seven. If they are the ones you've granted permission to use your likeness to, then there is nothing I can do."
Cloud groaned, slouching against the building. "This is the worst."
"Is it a bad photograph?"
"It's not—that's not the point!" he insisted, turning away as another random passerby pointed at him and whispered to their companion. "How would you feel if everywhere you went, people were pointing at you and talking about you?"
Because of all his friends, Sephiroth would be the one to understand. Genesis would be delighted, Zack amused…Angeal probably wouldn't like it, but it wouldn't be the end of the world to him. Sephiroth though, there was a reason he chose to act as a silent owner to most of the businesses he invested in. He worked behind closed doors, not putting his image out there any more than was necessary.
"I imagine it would be highly uncomfortable," Sephiroth responded simply.
"I knew this TV stuff would come and bite me in the ass."
"You enjoy your work."
Cloud scoffed. "Yeah, when I'm doing a five minute segment that airs in the middle of the day. I get recognized maybe twice a week from that."
"Allow me to make some calls," his friend offered, calm as always. "This may work to your advantage."
"What's that mean?" he wondered, not holding back his skepticism.
"I will call you later."
A moment later he was bidding Cloud farewell, and then hanging up. He stared at his phone, not quite sure if he was worried or reassured. The thing was, he tended to forget exactly who Sephiroth was sometimes. He wasn't Sephiroth Crescent, successful business mogul—he was just Cloud's friend.
It probably was a massive overreaction to call him of all people to help with such a silly problem. No doubt Sephiroth would be able to help him out, but now that the call was over, he felt bad for even asking. Shouldn't he have just called his editor first?
His phone was buzzing as he thought that over, causing him to jump in alarm. No way even Sephiroth had resolved his issue that quickly.
Sure enough, it was just Zack responding to his message from before the call.
I need to see this! Send me pics :)
Cloud smiled at his phone before lifting it up without much thought, zooming in to take a quick picture of the billboard. He sent it to Zack, tacking on a quick note about not wanting to hear what a good picture it was.
But it IS a good picture!
Yeah, Zack was really lucky Cloud was still too stupidly in love to be annoyed. The message filled him with nothing but fondness, and he found himself walking toward AVALANCHE Headquarters instead of his own apartment. It was nearly time for his boyfriend's shift to end, and even though they didn't have plans, he really just wanted to see him now.
What he didn't want was for an entire roomful of Zack's co-workers to cheer and whistle when he walked through the doors right after someone called out that the 'celebrity' had arrived.
"I hate you all," Cloud grumbled, no real heat behind his words. He was in there often enough to know most of the people who worked in Zack's section, and they were definitely just trying to get him going.
"Is that any way to treat your adoring fans, Mr. Strife?"
His eyes snapped to one of the office doors in the back of the room, his boyfriend leaning against its open door frame—arms folded across his chest and looking entirely too innocent.
"You put them up to this," he accused, earning a few laughs from around the room.
Zack raised both hands defensively, but his smirk said enough. "I didn't even know you were coming."
Like he hadn't figured it out—Zack knew him better than anyone.
"Sure you didn't," Cloud said, crossing the room with as much fake irritation as he could muster. It was a lost cause by the time he was being pulled into Zack's office, more cheers and whistles coming from the room behind him. "Have I mentioned how glad I am that you have your own office now?"
"Multiple times," Zack responded, closing the door and pinning Cloud to it with a playful gleam in his eyes. "Have I mentioned how glad I am to have a celebrity for a boyfriend?"
"No, and you won't if you know what's good for you."
Zack snorted inelegantly. "C'mon, Spike! It can't be that bad. I mean, I thought you looked great!"
"It's not the picture, it's everyone in the city pointing and staring all day. I didn't even notice the damn thing until Carl pointed it out to me," he admitted, letting out a long sigh—one that he'd been building up all day, and could only get out now that he was behind a closed door with Zack.
"I can see why that woulda been weird. You didn't know they were doing it?"
"I had no idea. I flipped out and called Seph after I messaged you—I think he's gonna take care of it."
"Take care of it?"
"I don't know, he said something about how it might work to my advantage," Cloud explained, shaking his head.
Zack tilted his head, thinking it over. "Well, Seph knows his stuff. If he said that, he must have something up his sleeve."
"Do you think I'm freaking out over nothing?"
"Uh." He paused, looking nothing but earnest as his eyes locked onto Cloud's. "Yes and no. I think anyone woulda been freaked out by all the attention if they didn't know what was going on. The billboard itself prob'ly isn't such a big deal."
"I don't even work for them officially! Why would they pick me?"
"Are you seriously asking that? 'Cause I'm pretty sure you know what I'm gonna say," Zack said, his voice dropping an octave as he scanned Cloud up and down. His heart rate picked up as it always did, and he became acutely aware of the position he was in—still against the closed door with Zack's arms boxing him in, all traces of playfulness forgotten. "Unless that's it. You just want me to tell you how friggin' amazing you are, and how good you look, and how any news station would be lucky to have you as their face."
"That's not—"
"Shh," he murmured, leaning down and pressing his lips to Cloud's like he wanted to kiss all the stress away.
It was a good plan. Cloud found himself melting into it, his mind filled with nothing but Zack as his boyfriend quite literally took his breath away. He'd be lying if he said this wasn't what he came for—if he hadn't been hoping for a little distraction.
If only it could've lasted longer. Zack pulled back before either got carried away, giving Cloud a few more chaste pecks after he made the weirdest, most disgruntled sound ever. The kind that would've brought a blush to his face if he weren't already flushed and catching his breath.
A few more indulgent pecks later, Zack took a regretful step back. "I've still got some work to finish."
"Please tell me you don't have plans tonight." It was probably the closest to outright pouting that he'd come in a very long time.
"I don't, but you do," Zack reminded him, raising both brows.
Oh, right. He was supposed to grab dinner with Tifa and her girlfriend. Something about how they only ever saw each other at the bar, and it'd be nice to catch up elsewhere. "Maybe you can come?"
"Spike. We talked about this."
"I didn't say I'd cancel, I just…" He inhaled a long breath, already knowing Zack was right. It was a slippery slope. They were still only a few months into all this—they needed to have lives outside of each other if they wanted to stay in this happy place they'd found. "How about after?"
Zack was still frowning. "Aren't you gonna be out late?"
"Not that late. Maybe you can stay over. Or I can stay over at yours?" he offered tentatively.
Something they used to do so often, but hadn't done since they started seeing one another. Not even for harmless cuddling. They really were easing themselves into things, probably taking things slower than most people would be willing to tolerate. Who really cared about how other people paced their relationship though?
What they were doing worked for them, and that was all that mattered. He actually felt closer to Zack than ever despite it all, and he'd happily fight anyone who tried to tell him he should feel otherwise.
"You don't have to say yes," Cloud added when the silence lasted a beat too long. "Or you can just come over for a bit and leave if you want. Today's just sucked, and I—"
"I'll be there," Zack interjected, smiling down softly. "As long as you're sure?"
"Yeah, I am."
"Text me if you change your mind. It's cool if you just wanna crash when you get home."
Cloud nodded his head. "Sure," he agreed, maybe a bit too eagerly.
He already knew that wouldn't be happening.
xxxxx
Most days, Cloud was able to recognize that he'd come a long way. That he was an adult now—a far cry from the overwhelmed teenager he'd been when he first arrived in Midgar. There were moments when it all came back to him though. Topics that made him wonder if anything had really changed at all.
Thankfully he had friends who were still happy to set him straight, even when it became redundant.
"Did it ever occur to you he's simply waiting for you to make the first move?" Genesis asked, hands on his hips.
Cloud frowned. "Um. No, not really."
The thing was, he and Zack had been together for a while now. Somewhere around the six month mark, and things only seemed to be getting better. He couldn't help noticing that nothing had really happened between them though. They went on date after date, spent countless hours together—they'd even made sleepovers a semi-regular thing again.
But physically, they never went beyond kissing. Maybe their hands wandered and grasped, but strictly above the waist no matter how heated it got. If Zack's dark eyes was any indication, his boyfriend definitely wanted more despite being the one to pull back every time.
"This may be my fault," the redhead admitted, but only after an exasperated sigh. "I mentioned your preferences to him, and he may have misunderstood."
"I still can't believe you told him about that."
"I apologized already! What more do you want from me?"
"You're right," Cloud sighed. It wasn't like he could hold a grudge. Sure, Genesis had no business discussing his sexuality with anyone—not even Zack—but the outcome had been worth the embarrassment just this once. "So you think he thinks I'm weird then?"
"I think he's being considerate. Would you prefer he were like me and made a move you weren't ready for a month into your relationship?"
Cloud laughed, no longer feeling awkward about that ordeal. "I guess not."
"Tell me more," Genesis urged, settling down beside him. "Have you been thinking about this a lot?"
"Um. I don't really…" Think about sex the same way most people did. He didn't crave it or dwell on it. Sure, he enjoyed sex quite a bit when he was with someone he felt connected to, but he never felt like he needed it—not even on the days he wished he could just hop into bed with someone to distract himself like anyone else. "I guess it's been on my mind, and I know he's thinking about it. I'd definitely be comfortable with him, I mean…it's Zack."
"So if he made a move, you'd be happy to go along with it?"
"Yeah, definitely. We'd have fun."
"He's not going to do that, dear," Genesis told him, tsking like it was obvious. "You either need to make a move yourself, or discuss this with him so he knows it's okay to do so himself."
"I just wanna have a normal relationship without these stupid issues."
"You do have a normal relationship. And this is hardly a stupid issue! Do you think Sephiroth and I hopped into bed without ever discussing our preferences?"
Cloud quirked a brow. "Um. Didn't you have hate sex in the theatre before you got together?"
"Aside from that one time!" the redhead insisted, a guilty smirk on his face when Cloud laughed. "The point is, we did end up having an extensive talk before it became a regular part of our relationship. How do you think we ended up agreeing on bringing the occasional guest to our bed?"
"What did you think back then?" he wondered, a question that had crossed his mind many times over the year, but he'd been too reluctant to ask. "About me, and all this?"
Genesis considered it for a moment. "Well, I didn't exactly have all the information, did I? I thought you were just a bit of a traditionalist—waiting until we'd been together longer. It was endearing."
"Right, traditionalist," he grumbled, rolling his eyes at the thought. He was the furthest thing from that. As far as he was concerned, people should be able to have as much safe, consensual sex as they wanted—it just so happened that he didn't want as much as everyone else. "But after we'd…I talked to you about it after."
"I would never judge you or think less of you, dear. You should know that."
"I do know that. I'm just asking what you thought at the time."
"I wish you'd told me sooner," Genesis admitted with a shrug. "I would've done exactly what Zack's doing now and waited. Other than that, I didn't think much about it at all. I was still very much in love with you at the time."
He scoffed. Why did Genesis always have to say that? They broke up long before their relationship could get that serious. "You were not."
"Yes, I was, and I would've done anything to help you sort through every confused thought in that precious head of yours. It must've been much more confusing back then."
"It was." And it had been a very long time since he'd had to explain himself to anybody. "I guess it couldn't hurt to talk to him."
"No, it couldn't." Genesis eyes him thoughtfully, a peaceful silence lingering between them. "Did you ever think we'd reach this point after we broke up?"
Both his brows shot up, not expecting that at all. Genesis was fond of nostalgia, but not so much of hypotheticals. "Not really. I thought you'd hate me after all that."
"I wanted to," he admitted, letting out an amused breath. "Things are never quite so simple with you. I have to say, I'm pleased we somehow made it through the years with our friendship intact."
It felt like a lifetime ago…Genesis wanting a more serious relationship, Cloud getting more freaked out by the day. The explosive argument where Genesis called him out for bottling so much up—Cloud suggesting they end it before things got worse. Whenever it came up in conversation, they called it an amicable split, but now that he thought about it…they hadn't talked for a few weeks after that day.
"I'm glad, too," Cloud breathed, so genuinely meaning it. Where would he be without this impossible man? It took some work to repair their friendship, but it was worth every headache. "I'm glad it ended up like this. We're better off this way."
Genesis nodded. "Indeed."
"For what it's worth, I'm sorry I was such a pain in the ass. I know I was frustrating back then."
"Back then? A lot has changed, my dear, but you are still infuriating. What are you even doing here still? I told you to go talk to Zack at least ten minutes ago!" He glared at his friend, but was quickly on his feet when Genesis glared right back. "Let me know how it goes, yes?"
He glanced back over his shoulder on his way to the door. "Uh. Are you asking to hear about it if I get laid?"
"It's only natural you'd want to discuss all the details with a friend, and since your boyfriend happens to be your best friend—"
"You're volunteering?" Cloud snorted. This man…
"I think we can both agree, of all your friends, I have the best perspective on this situation."
"Riiight. And that's the only reason you want to hear about it."
"I don't appreciate your tone, Cloud."
He smiled indulgently, deciding it'd be best to just let him win this time. It wasn't like Genesis was wrong—there was a good chance he'd want to talk with someone other than Zack when all was said and done.
xxxxx
Talking had never been Cloud's strong suit. Whatever determination he'd had when he left Genesis' that day had fizzled out before he made it home, leading to another week of heated make out sessions that ended in breathless frustration. Sexual frustration on Zack's part—just normal frustration on Cloud's. It took a bit more than a hot kiss to really get him going, though he did quite enjoy the kissing bit.
So, he'd settled on option B. Zack could take a hint, right?
Wrong, as it turned out. Cloud had tried pulling his boyfriend back after he stepped away, he'd guided Zack's hands further down, he'd let his own hands wander under the hem of Zack's shirt—clearly he wasn't thinking big enough. He was just so used to going with the flow. Taking this all day by day and letting Zack steer him in the right direction since he was good at this whole relationship thing.
But Genesis had definitely been right on this one. No matter how much Zack clearly wanted him, nothing was going to happen if he didn't take matters into his own hands. So he did, kind of.
After one too many failed attempts at making his intentions clear, he found himself straddling his boyfriend's lap right in the middle of their movie night. An impulsive decision, but well worth it to hear the surprised gasp that came from his boyfriend just as he brought their lips together.
Zack's reaction was almost instantaneous, hands on Cloud's waist like he wanted to anchor him there. Not that it was necessary—he had no plans on moving any time soon, and he did his best to convey that message as he kissed Zack. By the time they hit the point where Zack would normally take a step back, he nipped at his boyfriend's lower lip before trailing a few kisses down his neck.
"Cloud," Zack tried, breathing uneven as the blond rolled his hips down purposefully.
"Hm?" he acknowledged, fingers working the top button of Zack's shirt.
"Hey," his boyfriend mumbled, reaching out to cup Cloud's cheek just firmly enough to draw his gaze before he could think to look away. "Are you tryin' to seduce me or something?" Stupid, racing heart. All he could manage was half-nod. "Are you…Do you wanna talk about this first?"
"Not really."
"I kinda do, if that's okay."
"And if it's not?"
"We don't have to talk, but we're not doing anything until we do, so it's up to you."
"Okay." Cloud nodded a few times, taking a deep breath. Gaia, he hated these conversations. They could be half naked by now. "I want you."
"I want you, too."
"I'm ready for more. Physically."
"Think it's safe to say we're on the same page with that."
He quirked a brow. "Okay. Good talk."
"Uh, whoa, hold up," Zack said, turning his face instead of allowing Cloud to steal another kiss. A serious expression settled onto has face when Cloud stopped, fingers digging into the blond's hips before he could squirm away from the scrutiny of it. "Hey, don't get me wrong. I really want this. I'm just trying to figure out what changed overnight."
"I've been dropping hints all week!"
"Have you?"
"I didn't say they were good hints," he shrugged.
Zack laughed his favorite laugh, light and airy. "I musta missed them. Sorry."
"Yeah, well. I love you, so I guess I'll let it slide this time."
"Aw, thanks, babe," Zack teased, giving him a sloppy peck on the lips. "I love you too, you know."
"So are you going to let me seduce you now?"
"Uh, I kinda wanna hear more about these hints I missed."
"No way. It's not my problem if you weren't paying attention."
"Then maybe you'll tell me what you're hoping for tonight. Seems like you're in some kinda rush all of a sudden."
"I'm not…That's not what it's like."
"Then what's it like?"
"I've just been ready for a while, and it seemed like maybe you were waiting for me to show you that. I wouldn't be doing this if I wasn't sure," Cloud told him firmly. "I'd be halfway across the room and making excuses to get out of here if I wasn't into this."
"Okay," Zack nodded like he mostly understood—more importantly, like he believed it. "Carry on."
Cloud eyed him for a long minute before laughing right in his face. "Yeah, uh. I think the moment's passed now. Sorry."
He wasn't really sorry. How could he be? Zack didn't look disappointed or upset—he looked happy, like just having that conversation was a big enough step for one night. The sight made Cloud's heart swell in that same weird way it always did around Zack, so damn glad to have such an amazing boyfriend. All traces of concern left his body, realizing with an absolute certainty that they'd handle this the way they handled everything else in their relationship…at their own pace, one baby step at a time.
"So talking doesn't do it for you, huh?"
"Not this kinda talking."
Zack looked very interested. "Yeah? What kinda talking does?"
"I think this conversation's over," Cloud decided, not bothering to hide his grin when he saw Zack's playful pout. He slid off his boyfriend's lap, nuzzling right up into his side instead. By the time Zack's arm was around his shoulder, he only had one complaint. "I have no idea what's going on in the movie now."
"It was kinda lame anyway," Zack responded, pressing a kiss to his temple. "Wanna go for ice cream or something?"
"Yeah, actually. Can we walk? I could use the air."
"Yeah, me too."
He hopped off the couch, offering Cloud a hand that was willingly accepted. And then their fingers were interlocked, a smile on both their faces as they headed out together.
xxxxx
Lifestream.
Months and months of be patient, Cloud, and it will be worth the attention reassurances later, Cloud understood what Sephiroth had been up to when he suggested Cloud let the billboard issue go. He'd taken to wearing a hat or a hood when he was in public, but only for the first week—after that it seemed most people had lost interest.
Yeah, he might've blown it out of proportion after all. But it wasn't like he'd ever been on a billboard before—how could he have known what would happen? How could he have known that having his face plastered across the city would lead him to a closed door meeting at Sephiroth's main office, being recruited for a very interesting opportunity?
"So you broadcast and stream the news?" Cloud concluded, making sure he understood the gist of the elaborate presentation he'd just received.
And not just the news, from what he gathered. It was a new network poised to broadcast a variety of programming, from the specialized news programming to lifestyle shows—also available to stream in and outside of the city, which was probably the key to its success. The internet was on the rise, which was doing a number on the news industry.
There were nods from across the room, the main spokesman chiming in with a clear, "That's correct."
Cloud nodded in understanding. "And you want me…to be the face of this?"
"Ratings went up ten percent after News Seven put your face to their name, with an additional several percent being added every time you were actually on the air," he was informed, which made his eyes go wide. He had no idea. "We'd be lucky to have you."
"There will be a no compete clause in your contract," Sephiroth told him, getting right to the point. "You will no longer be able to represent News Seven or any broadcast network in any manner, whether it be via billboard or correspondent work."
"What about my current obligations? I assume my editor set up some kind of deal with them."
"We will buy out your contract if that is the case."
"Seph, I—" He promptly closed his own mouth when he heard gasps around the room. Right. This was a formal meeting, and Sephiroth was Mr. Crescent to all these people. "I'm not sure I feel right allowing that."
Sephiroth didn't even blink. "We stand to make more with your involvement than we would lose in the payout."
"With my face you mean," he laughed, the whole thing a bit absurd. He was at the point in his life where could acknowledge that he was good looking, sure—he was no model though. "Is that really how you want to bring in viewers?"
"It doesn't matter how we bring them in—our quality content will keep them coming back," the spokesperson explained, a bit too eagerly. "You have a reputation for providing that as well."
"What about my job at the paper?" Cloud pressed, looking only to Sephiroth for his answer.
"If you wish to maintain two jobs, that is your prerogative," his friend responded. "Your obligations with Lifestream will be fulltime."
Huh. So he'd have to quit, or drop down to one or two articles a week, he realized, nodding along. That wouldn't be so bad, and it'd keep his foot in the door. Not that he expected to need it—Sephiroth didn't put his money behind anything he wasn't sure about.
"And the blog?"
"It will be through Lifestream's website," Sephiroth answered smoothly. "You will still dictate its content."
Anyone else and he might've been skeptical, but he didn't doubt a word out of Sephiroth's mouth. There was a lot of paperwork he needed to look through though—an entire stack had been given to him when he walked through the door. From what he would actually be doing on a day to day, to publicity needs, to a pay agreement…It was enough to make his head spin, and he really needed to look over everything this time around.
"When do you need an answer?"
"Within two weeks' time."
"Okay. I need to look everything over, but I'll let you know," Cloud promised, smiling a bit when he saw the slight curve at the corner of Sephiroth's mouth—a smile just for him, that no one else in the room was meant to notice.
He was on his feet a moment later, shaking more hands than he cared to count before being ushered out of the room. They were a suit and tie bunch, very busy apparently. It would've been overwhelming if Sephiroth hadn't been around—his friend just made it amusing with the almost smiles and stolen glances. Soon Cloud was on the elevator, paperwork folded to his chest with one arm while he eyed his phone with his free hand. No surprise, there was already a message from Sephiroth letting him know he'd be free to go over all the paperwork the following evening.
Thanks Mr. C ;)
Yeah, he wasn't sure if it'd make Sephiroth laugh, but he thought his response was pretty funny.
"What're you grinning at?"
His head shot up from his phone, instantly recognizing Zack's voice. "I'm grinning because I'm hilarious," Cloud told him, practically beaming as he stepped off the elevator. He went right in for an awkward, one armed hug—paperwork be damned. "What're you doing here?"
"I got off early, and Seph told me about the big meeting. I thought maybe we could celebrate?"
"Yeah, definitely. There's nothing to really celebrate yet, but we should do something," he agreed eagerly.
"Uh, there's plenty to celebrate," Zack told him, glancing him up and down. "First, you're in a suit."
"Sephiroth's office is a serious place of business."
Zack snorted. "Yeah, I can see that," he said, glancing around the building. It was very nice. "Second, you got a badass new job offer."
"Do you even know what it is?"
"Of course! Seph told me way before he told you," his boyfriend revealed, shrugging unapologetically at the look he received for that. "It was s'posed to be a surprise."
"It's a pretty good offer. I'm just not sure—"
"Ah!" Zack pressed a finger to his lips before he could finish, shaking his head. "You can think about that tomorrow. Tonight's for celebrating, remember? Your cute suit, your job offer, and most importantly…Do you even know what today is?"
"Um. Thursday?" Cloud responded slowly, quirking a brow.
"And?"
He furrowed his brows, at a complete loss. It wasn't a holiday, it wasn't a birthday, and they were still a few months out from their first anniversary. "Is there anything, or are you just stalling for time until you can make something up?"
"Spike! I'm offended you even hafta ask." Zack tsked, holding a hand over his heart like he was wounded—clearly he'd been spending too much time with Genesis. "It's our friendship anniversary!"
"Oh," he murmured, a bit too stunned to say much else. Until it hit him. "Wait a minute, it can't be! We celebrated that—"
"Okay, okay, I was stalling for time! I just wanna wine and dine you. Is that so bad?"
Cloud was hopelessly endeared. "I already said yes."
"What're we waiting for then?" Zack gave him a quick kiss before snatching his free hands, lacing their fingers the way he always did. As usual, it felt just right—like puzzle pieces finally being put into the right spot. "So, what're you feeling like? Fancy restaurant? I can go change."
"Nah. I kinda wanna get out of this actually."
Zack winked. "I'm down for that, too."
He feigned as much indifference as he could, but Zack's smirk said he wasn't doing too well. "Maybe we can just order pizza?"
"I'm offering to take you out wherever you wanna go, and you wanna stay in and get pizza?"
"Um. Yeah."
His boyfriend shook his head, a toothy grin plastered on his face. "Have I told you how much I love you lately?"
"Once or twice."
"Well, I'm saying it again. I love you."
"And my amazing taste in food."
Zack chuckled, but didn't deny it. "How'd you get here anyway? Is your bike parked somewhere?"
"I rode in with Seph. I didn't even know about this meeting until today. Gen booked a fake interview to kidnap me at lunch, then when went to his place to play dress up," he explained, Zack's laughter making it impossible to feel even remotely as annoyed as he had at the time.
It was a little silly since he would've gone to the Lifestream presentation if they'd just told him about it, but whatever. He learned long ago it was better to pick and choose his battles with Genesis, and if that meant letting the man pick out his suit, so be it. He kind of already knew why his friend had resorted to such 'extremes', and it was more than just to surprise him.
Ever since he and Zack had started exploring the physical side of their relationship, they'd slowly taken to spending more and more time together again. It wasn't like they were all over each other constantly, but once the barriers started coming down, it was impossible not to want more. They weren't exactly falling back into their unhealthy, co-dependent patterns, having learned their lesson about that a long time ago, but…
Maybe they'd come up with an excuse to get out of dinner with their friends earlier that week. In all fairness, it was because they'd missed out on their own date night when one of Zack's shifts ran late the day before, but still. He could understand why Genesis or any of his friends might take the cancellation as a sign that he and Zack were getting lost in their own little world again.
"So is your bike at their place?" Zack asked as they got into his car. Cloud just nodded. "Huh. Do you wanna swing by to get it now, or I can bring you tomorrow?"
"I have a feeling they won't let me take it tonight."
Zack chanced a quick glance over as he drove, brows raise. "They're holding it hostage?"
"So that we'll have to go see them this weekend." Or so he assumed. Judging by the guilty expression on Zack's face, he thought it was a reasonable conclusion as well. "It was only one dinner. We've been really good about spending time with all our friends."
"Yeah, but one dinner turns into two really fast, Spike."
"It won't," Cloud insisted, adamant. "I think we really got this right, you know?"
"This?"
"Our relationship. I was in so deep before we even started—this coulda been train wreck. I would've spent every hour of every day with you if you'd let me, but now?"
"It does kinda change your perspective, huh? Makes me appreciate the time we spend together even more. You should hear the shit my team at work gives me every time you so much as text me. Even they can tell how much better my day gets."
"I'm the same way. I don't think it's a big deal anymore, you know? Spending more time together lately. We've been together a while now," he said, unbuttoning his suit jacket. Leave it to Genesis to pick a very snug, uncomfortable suit just because it looked nice. "It's kinda normal, right? To spend more time together after a while?"
He was genuinely asking because while it seemed like a fair assumption, he'd never really reached this point in the relationship game before. They'd naturally transitioned from dating a couple nights a week, to dating and hanging out more than a couple nights a week, to doing the same but with the occasional sleepover, to this wonderful place they were in now—where they still had lives outside of one another, but saw each other pretty much on a daily basis. Where their boundaries and walls had come down, and things only ever seemed to get better.
"Yeah, it is," Zack agreed, glancing over at him again. "Are you stripping in my car?"
Cloud laughed, trying his best to finagle himself out of the suit jacket from behind his seatbelt. "No, just getting this off." And maybe loosening his bowtie and untucking his button up. "It's way too tight."
"Aw. Thought I was in for a show."
"Yeah, I'd rather not crash and die. Maybe next time."
Zack snorted. "I'd rather undress you myself anyway. How hungry are you?"
"Uh. Not very," he shrugged. "Why?"
There was no response for several minutes, Zack apparently very focused on the road. He helped gather up the paperwork in Cloud's lap once they'd finally gotten back to their building, keys in his other hand as he lead them inside without a word. Cloud didn't even bat an eye when Zack went to his door, using the key he'd never returned after moving across the hall.
"Is everything—" he finally began, the silence growing a bit too drawn out.
His words were cut off by a single glance as Zack set his paperwork down on the counter, eyes recognizably tinted. It was a look he'd become intimately familiar with, and one he knew he'd never tire of seeing.
There was something so addictive about the way Zack wanted him. Sure, he enjoyed the release that would inevitably follow, but this was what he'd really come to crave. The way Zack made him feel like he was everything with just that one look. It so painstakingly obvious how Zack felt about him in these moments—there was a depth to it that showed so much more than simple desire.
And fuck, he'd by lying if he said he didn't want to see that same look up close and personal.
He slung his suit jacket over one of the chairs at his kitchen table before fully removing his bowtie, fingers moving right to the buttons of his shirt. Zack was on him before he got a single one undone, his large hands covering both of Cloud's and preventing him from getting a single one undone.
"What're you doing?" he muttered, standing so close Cloud could feel the heat of his breath on his face.
He leaned in closer yet, letting go of Cloud's hands. They fell straight to the blond's sides, heart pounding as Zack waited patiently for an answer.
"Um." Wasn't it obvious? "You know exactly what I was doing."
"I already told you, I'd rather undress you myself."
Oh. All he could do was nod dumbly, a faint blush spreading over his cheeks as Zack's lips grazed his neck.