Author's note: I do not own Final Fantasy VIII or its characters. This is AU.
Midnight Ride
Rinoa was torn between excitement and nervousness as Squall saddled Shiva for her. Quistis' mare seemed slightly restless as if she knew what they were about to attempt. Rinoa was excited. It wasn't often that she really got to play an important role in things. Most of the time she was relegated to being either on the sidelines or the damsel in distress. Still, she also knew that this was dangerous. Her father's position and wealth would protect her somewhat, but there was more than a little danger in this endeavor. And if she didn't succeed, the consequences would be hard not only for herself, but also for her friends.
It wasn't like back East here. This was the first place that she had ever really belonged, and the Caledonia Canyon Ranch was at the heart of that. Quistis and her people had made her feel apart of things. They hadn't just dismissed her as a rich girl from back East and had both welcomed her and made her feel at home here. Rinoa didn't want to let them down. And if it weren't for the ranch, she would have never met Squall. Rinoa didn't want a life that didn't include Squall.
She also knew that Squall wasn't very happy about the role she was playing right now. He wanted to keep her safe, and she was about to go riding head long into danger. Still, it was sweet of him. Rinoa smiled at the stoic ranch hand.
"I'll be back with help before you know it."
Squall frowned at her. "Be careful, Rinoa."
It was clear what was on his mind.
"I'll come back to you, Squall. I promise."
He leaned in and kissed her. Rinoa wrapped her arms around his neck and just held onto the moment for as long as she could. When the kiss finally ended, Squall pulled away.
"Are you ready?"
Rinoa nodded.
He lifted her up into the saddle. "You have about an hour until dawn. Zell and Irvine's distraction should start in about ten minutes."
Squall hesitated a moment longer then said, "I love you, Rinoa."
She smiled. "I know. I love you too. I'll be back as soon as possible with help."
Squall led the horse out of the stable. It wasn't long before the noise of explosions and yelling filled the air. Rinoa gave the command, and Shiva sprang into the motion. The two of them sped into the night with Rinoa's mind set on one thing: reaching Esther and bringing back help.