A/N: Okay, Chapter 2! Because I was already well into this chapter when I uploaded the first, this update has been quick and only one review has been made. However, I thank that person and I have taken into account their suggestion. Don't worry; Genesis was never going to be totally straight ;)

Anyway, I hope you all enjoy this chapter.

Please review and enjoy!

Oh, and in case you're interested, when writing scenes including Genesis- I often listen to the song 'Invincible' by Skillet. I don't know why, it just reminds me of him (not as much as other songs but it also kinda suits the high school scene).

Also, one of you brought to my attention that you always saw Denzel as younger than Cloud and more innocent and that the whole dating thing didn't help. Don't worry; I have something coming up which will smash your current view of Denzel. It was always my intention to make the kid sweet and innocent- you'll see!

Chapter 2:

LOVELESS

Sitting next to Genesis Rhapsodos had changed Cloud's life. He didn't have a crush on the brunette or anything, but how many average kids could say they'd actually had a conversation with him?

Two things (or people) had been swimming around in the blond's head since returning home the day before: Genesis and Zack. There was something about Zack, something special. Cloud just wanted to be close to him and receive some more of that affection.

Cloud just couldn't deny it any longer.

He had known for the past year that he wasn't into girls. They didn't interest him, at all. Guys were definitely Cloud's thing, not that he'd actually told anyone. He was pretty sure his brother was homophobic, judging from the comments and insults he had made regarding gays and he didn't know any of his friends who were…that way. He was just way too shy to come out.

But, as much as he wanted to deny it, he feared he was quickly developing a crush on the new Zack Fair. The way his hair framed his face, the way it shot backwards in an array of spikes; the way his skin tanned skin glistened in the light; the way his eyes sparkled with wonder and joy…was there anyone so perfect? Cloud didn't think so.

Sure, Genesis was good-looking...but Zack was different…special….

However, upon learning that Zack was now friends with Angeal, Sephiroth and Genesis, Cloud knew he would be seeing the 'godly-three' here and there and that he'd have to make a good impression, or at least resist embarrassing himself in front of Zack.

He knew nothing important about Angeal or Sephiroth and had no idea how he'd impress them. But, Genesis was a bit easier. Everyone knew of the brunette's love for the epic poem, the beautiful play- LOVELESS. The boy's ambition was to share the words with the world, and he was halfway there. Everyone in school knew of the play, some researching it in hopes that they would be accepted by the brunette. There were even rumours that Genesis interrupted his English lessons, pushing the teacher aside so he could recite the play for the whole class.

So, just like all the other Genesis fangirls, Cloud had gone ahead and learnt the poem off by heart. He felt a little silly, sitting in front of the computer for hours on end- even looking up different interpretations- but he had a feeling it would be worth it.

All he needed was a little confidence.

Confidence!

Was he insane!

How was he supposed to do this?

The blond swallowed, trying to rid himself of all the fear as he made his way down the bus. Aerith was already on the back, in the middle. Zack was beside her- in the same seat as before. They seemed quite cheery, both smiling and laughing as a sea of 'whoops' and wolf-whistles sounded out.

Cloud shook his head, going to join them immediately, plopping down next to Aerith again.

"Morning, Cloud." She sang, flashing him a bright smile.

"Yo, Spikey. How are you?" That voice…so…sexy.

"I'm good." Cloud replied, forcing a smile. Confidence, Cloud, Confidence.

And so they talked about practically anything.

Throughout the journey, Cloud's eyes kept darting down the bus- checking how close they were to Genesis' stop.

And, sure enough, soon they had arrived. The poor blond could feel his lungs pause in their contracting, waiting nervously as the doors slid open.

Genesis strolled onto the bus, auburn hair glistening in the morning sun as he glided past the driver- not even showing his pass.

Cloud fell silent as he watched the poet approach- which was soon noticed by Zack and Aerith, who had looked up to see why the blond had stopped talking.

"Hey, Genny!" Zack called, waving at the boy with a huge grin. "Your jacket's torn!"

"Nice try, Puppy." Genesis murmured, not even checking to make sure. How could he be like that? So confident and sure of himself?

"M-morning, Genesis." Aerith whispered, the nerves obvious in her tone. It was rather comforting that Cloud wasn't the only one who still revered the older teen.

"Good morning." He answered, sliding past her to reach his own seat. "Morning." He added, casting a gentle nod in Cloud's direction, acknowledging his existence.

"How are you?" Cloud said, making sure his voice was nice and steady.

"Very well, and yourself?"

"G-good." The brunette's leg brushed against Cloud's knee as he move, diving down into the seat beside the blond. It caused the younger boy to jump, almost afraid of what might happen.

But, nothing did. Genesis merely took his seat, quite content.

"Looking forward to today, Genny?" Zack called.

"Certainly. Though I do wish they would go ahead and dismiss that useless oaf who calls himself a Mathematics teacher."

"Oh, come on! He's not that bad!"

"He thinks Fibonacci is a pizza topping." The brunette countered, folding his arms and crossing his legs.

"Better than listening to some random poem!" Zack said, winking at the boy. No one ever insulted LOVELESS! Not with Genesis around…it was basically a sin!

Bright Azure eyes lingered on the face of the tanned teen, showing little emotion or reaction. However, the faintest smirk slithered onto his handsome features, warning them of terrors yet to be revealed. Even as his lips parted, moving gracefully to form words, the smirk still toyed with them, forever.

"My friend, do you fly away now? To a world that abhors you and I?" The words sent shivers down Cloud's spine, but also sparked something within him. It was now or never!

Confidence, Cloud, confidence!

"All that awaits you is a somber morrow. No matter where the winds may blow."

"Aw, Spikey, not you too!" Zack called. He brought his hand up to his forehead, slapping it playfully as he shook his head in disapproval. Aerith giggled at this reaction, hitting the ravenette rather playfully. Genesis, however, had quite a different reaction.

His head cocked to one side, causing auburn locks to fall off his face with a velvety look about them, as he gazed upon the blond with curiosity and wonder.

"You know it?"

"Of course." Cloud replied, glancing at the boy nervously. To be under such an intense stare was more than troubling, especially considering who's eyes were fixed upon him.

"Well, I do love your poem-y voice." Zack remarked, reaching over to punch Cloud gently in the arm. The contact alone brought a smile to the boy's lips. "Enough to turn any girl on, huh Aerith?"

"The beauty of poetry lies not in its popularity with the women, but its ability to hold a life-changing meaning so loosely and carelessly- opening a world of opportunity for those willing to devote themselves to decipher each word, each letter, each syllable." It made sense, not that anyone would really take the explanation seriously. But, Cloud was inspired. He wished his English teacher was like Genesis, so passionate about words alone. Young minds would benefit greatly from receiving lectures from such a man.

But, Zack merely let out a loud chortle after remaining silent for the brunette's little rant.

"Dude, come on! You cannot tell me that you don't use your poetic-stuff to seduce chicks!"

"How simple-minded of you, Puppy." The teen shook his head as he spoke, closing his azure eyes as he did. It left poor Cloud wondering just what the brunette meant by the comment, not that he was left wondering for very long.

"Whoops! I totally forgot, sorry Gen."

"No matter." The brunette waved a dismissive hand in the ravenette's direction, still maintaining his immense cool.

"What do you mean?" Aerith asked, her focus switching from Zack to Genesis.

"Genny is bi. It's not just girls he likes to seduce!"

"Oh."

Cloud was mortified! Genesis, the most popular kid in school was bi! Why hadn't he already heard about it? Rumours spread like wild-fire, especially ones which concerned the godly-three.

"I never knew." Cloud muttered, his cheeks heating up at the thought.

"It's not common knowledge, not that I feel any shame. I like to keep it quiet for other reasons."

"Yup!" Zack said, grinning. "Genny already has girls fawning over him, the last thing he needs is boys trying to get in his pants as well!"

"So true." Aerith said cheerfully, whipping her hair over her shoulder. "It must get tiresome."

A morbid sigh left the poet's lips as his reply seeped out as a mere whisper.

"Indeed."

For Cloud, school life had changed slightly- not by much mind you but, a few things were different. Now that he had proven himself more sociable than normal on the bus, Weiss and Reno often greeted him around school. Weiss had even taken the time to speak to Cloud during their English and Maths lesson, which seemed to make everyone's jaws drop. Apparently, Weiss was one of the most popular kids in their year- along with Kadaj that is.

These changes led the blond to wonder what Genesis would do if they passed in the corridor, would he also great Cloud? Would he even look at the boy? Thing was, Genesis, Angeal and Sephiroth never spent their lunchtimes in any public areas- they chose to journey up to the top field, which was actually a restricted area outside of P.E lessons. Of course, rumour was that the teachers didn't bother punishing them as it never worked. And there was no chance of seeing the Godly three on the way to lessons, as they were known for turning up five minutes later than everyone else to avoid the crowds.

Boy, it must have been amazing to live their life.

Cloud had often daydreamed about being one of them, hoping he'd take their place when they left school.

Weiss and Reno weren't the only ones suddenly speaking to Cloud; their friends had seemed to take a liking to him. Kadaj usually fell into most friendship groups, so they all knew who Cloud was- but they had never actually spoken to him before!

Then there was Zack.

Oh, Gaia was there Zack.

Cloud had never received so many hugs in his life, and especially not in the middle of the corridor where everyone could see it! It wasn't like he didn't enjoy the hugs (he loved them more than anything, so much so that he purposely passed Zack in hope of getting one) but it could get embarrassing when a kid two years older than you came out of nowhere, calling your name for everyone to hear and pulling you into a warm and tight hug before whispering 'I love you's.

Normally, they would be teased for being gay. But, no one seemed to tease Zack- not in an insulting way. Man was the ravenette lucky.

"Hey, Kadaj. Is your friend still breathing? He hasn't said anything or even moved for the last seven minutes."

"Huh?" Cloud looked up, suddenly realizing where he was. Several pairs of eyes were locked on him, all slightly concerned and worried. Oh, boy…he'd zoned out. The one who owned the smooth and calm voice which had snapped him from his thoughts was Yazoo- Kadaj's older brother. It was Cloud's first time hanging around with him, and he wasn't making a good impression.

"You got something on ya mind?" Questioned the rough growl of the eldest of the brothers- Loz.

"He's probably freaking out about Zack!" Kadaj called, smirking as he punched the blond in the arm. "After all that man-on-man contact, he must be worrying about whether any girls will still go for him!"

"What is that guy's problem?" Yazoo said, voice eerily monotone, far too creepy for Cloud's liking. "He strolls in here like he owns the place and starts melting everyone's hearts. Word has it that he's been hanging around with Genesis, Angeal and Sephiroth."

"You're just jealous 'cause our cousin won't let you hang with him!" Kadaj chuckled, wrapping an arm around the blond as he turned from his brother. "I bet Cloud here would be accepted into their group in no time! He's buddy-buddies with Genesis Rhapsodos."

"Oh, please! He speaks to him on the bus." Loz scoffed.

"Sits next to him!" Kadaj retorted, glaring at the others. Cloud knew that he hated being undermined by his older brothers.

"Again, due to Fair's presence." Yazoo added.

"Let's go, Cloud!" Kadaj snapped, leaping to his feet- pulling his friend with him.

"Where?" Loz snapped.

"We're off to the top field." Kadaj sang, winking at the other silver-haired men. "I'll prove it to you, Cloud here is going to spend the rest of lunch with the Godly three."

"Please don't call them that…" Yazoo muttered.

"Wait, what?" Cloud shouted, eyes widening in terror at Kadaj's claim. "Kadaj, you're not serious!"

"Come on, Cloud! Don't make me look bad!" The other boy pleaded. "I'll come up with you, say hello to Sephiroth and take off. If Zack's there, you're in for sure.

"This should be fun." Loz laughed, climbing to his feet. He was soon followed by the last of the three, who seemed to have adopted a cold smirk.

"How about a wager? If you're so confident, that is." Yazoo suggested. "If you win, Loz and I will skip around the school singing 'It's okay if you're gay'."

"What?" Loz cut in, only to be shushed by the longer-haired of the three. Kadaj, however, just laughed wildly. He loved humiliating the other two, so he wasn't about to turn it down.

"If we win, you and Cloud have to carry our books to our lessons, referring to us as 'Master' and following us into class doing so."

"Kadaj, please don't!" The blond squealed, trying to break free from the grasp.

"No sweat, Cloud! We got this!"

"Well then, shall we get going?" Yazoo said, strolling past them with an ominous atmosphere about him. "Come along, Loz."

This was a terrible idea!

But, there was no escaping Kadaj. The silver-haired youth had dragged Cloud to the bank- after getting Denzel to distract the teacher on duty.

"You guys wait on the top while we go on." Kadaj ordered, pulling the reluctant blond up toward the top field.

"Kadaj, please don't!" Cloud begged, trying to pull away so desperately.

"You sound like Elena when Kadaj tries to kiss her." Yazoo mocked, beckoning for Loz to hurry.

"Hey, shut up! I least I'm in a serious relationship!"

"I have my darling brothers, why would I need a partner?"

"Sicko."

There they were.

Cloud kept his eyes ahead as the others argued, being the first to catch sight of four small forms across the upper field.

"Wait here." Kadaj barked, pulling the blond into a run across the field.

"K-Kadaj!" Cloud called, in a last futile attempt to dissuade the youth. Needless to say, it didn't work.

The blond gulped and trembled as he saw the heads of the four boys turn to face him, all falling silent for a moment as they approached.

It wasn't long before Cloud could make out the features of the Godly three and Zack. The new addition grinned as he saw the blond, waving happily at him. The others seemed rather less pleased.

The one known as Angeal glared at them, a deep frown playing on his features. He folded his arms as he scowled at them, causing Cloud to want to turn and run the other way.

Genesis, however, glanced at his side- whispering something to Sephiroth. Cloud was oddly afraid that it was a rude comment about him, seeing as the brunette chuckle and the other smirked.

Zack was a different story. He ran forward to meet the two, pulling the little blond into another warm and tight hug, swinging him around and carrying him to the other three. Kadaj trotted along beside them, smirking as he watched the two's awkward arrangement.

"Zack," Angeal said, sighing as he did. "Just because we let you hang around with us doesn't mean you can bring others along too."

"Angeal is right." Sephiroth said, in a voice oddly similar to Yazoo's yet different at the same time. "We cannot have a bunch of children clinging to us."

"Hey!" Kadaj yelled, pointing at the elder. "Don't start, Sephiroth! I'm not staying anyway; I'm just here to wipe that blasted smirk off Yazoo's face!"

"Father was right about his brother's side of the family."

"Now, now. Play nice, Sephiroth." Genesis said, looking the two embracing teens up and down. "You must admire their courage."

"C'mon you guys!" Zack called, finally placing the blond on the ground- though still keeping an arm wrapped around him. "I love this little guy!"

"How do you plan on, as you call it, 'wiping the smirk off Yazoo's face'?" Sephiroth said, obviously less than pleased. Something about the man made Cloud shiver. He had a dominating atmosphere about him, always standing with perfect posture and his uniform perfect- except for the top button being undone. He looked most respectable, yet cool as well. His hair was practically legend, a style only he could pull off. And his voice, so perfectly cool and calm and strangely deep for a teenager.

"You let Cloud hang out with you this lunchtime and I win a wager! The price to pay will be utterly humiliating for both him and Loz, you'll love it!" It seemed that something about his cousin's humiliation intrigued Sephiroth, as he nodded, curiosity plaguing his features.

"We let this…boy stay up here for forty minutes. That's all?"

"Yup!" Kadaj said, smirking at his victory.

"My apologies, Angeal, but Yazoo needs to learn a lesson. This boy stays with us."

"Yay!" Zack shouted, hugging the poor blond tightly again.

"Fine by me." Genesis said, chuckling at his black-haired friend's frown. "At least he doesn't complain when I recite LOVELESS." The brunette said, casting a grimace at Angeal- who merely turned away.

"He doesn't have to listen to it every second of every day."

"I'm going to stand over there now." Genesis scoffed, strolling over to join Cloud and Zack, who were still unnervingly close. The poor teen was worried about being so near the ravenette, able to smell his intoxicating cologne, able to feel the warmth of his skin, able to feel his muscles through the shirt…an accidental erection was imminent at this rate.

"See ya!" Kadaj called, rushing off the claim his victory. "Thanks Sephiroth! I'm totally unblocking you on MSN now!"

"Lucky me…."

"Puppy, please resist from rubbing yourself all over this poor child." Genesis said, waving at them dismissively. "Or at least ask him if he's interested first."

"Nah," Zack said. "Cloud's a total womanizer! He'd never go for a stud like me!" Boy, was Zack wrong. "Isn't that right, Cloudy?"

Why?

Why was this new kid being so kind and friendly towards him? They'd only known each other for two days! This wasn't normal behaviour, what was Zack's motive? What did he want? Was this all just a joke? A way of making fun of the blond….

All Cloud did know was that he was starting to…develop a major crush on the older teen.

He loved the ravenette so much that it was worth spending the next forty minutes listening to LOVELESS.

Angeal was right…it did get old….

A/N

: Hope you enjoyed this! I didn't particularly enjoy writing Angeal and Sephiroth as I had no idea how to have them behave. I can't even imagine Sephiroth at school! But, I do LOVE writing Genesis, he's so cool. I hope I'm not focusing on him too much! I'm trying to balance this with my other Clack story- Life After Death, which hasn't been updated for a while. Genesis plays a huge role in that as well- I think I really do focus on him too much! Grrrr!

Anyway, please review and tell me what you think!

Thanks a lot!

Sorry if there are grammar mistakes in this chapter, I didn't have time to reread it!

Forgive me!