Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, scenery, or towns; Square Enix does.
16 – Shattering Noise
Cutting it close, Genesis thought as he and Reno strode into the President's waiting room. It was 12:13: two minutes before the scheduled meeting. Genesis pointed to a lone chair in a corner and Reno walked over and took a seat while he checked in with the secretary.
"Good afternoon SOLDIER Sec- Third Class Rhapsodos," the secretary said through a beaming smile.
"Good afternoon," Genesis replied, matching her smile. "The Turk and I have a 12:15 appointment."
"It will be just a moment."
Genesis nodded and turned to join Reno, but the secretary's words stopped him.
"I heard about your demotion. It's so unfair," she whispered.
"Thank you, but as the President would say, I brought it on myself."
"Pfft, he's such a stiff," she replied. "You're still my favorite SOLDIER," she added with a wink.
"And you're my favorite secretary," Genesis said, giving one of his most dazzling smiles.
"Please take a seat," the secretary replied with a blush.
Genesis nodded once again and made his way over to Reno. The Turk scowled at him the entire way and he matched it with a glare. He had a feeling he knew what the problem was, but the two had agreed to talk as little as possible fearing it might draw suspicion. It would have to wait until later.
"STC Rhapsodos?" the secretary called five minutes later. "President Shinra will see you now."
Reno stood and Genesis moved behind him. The position was the best way to look like a guard. It had other advantages as well and he fought not to grin like an idiot as they headed up the stairs to the President's loft. The pants didn't completely hide the movement of the Turk's leg and ass muscles and he enjoyed each and every ripple. Nice.
"If it isn't my favorite Turk and most bellicose SOLDIER," President Shinra called as they cleared the stairs.
"Yo," Reno called, stopping three feet away from the President's desk while Genesis fought not to snort.
"You have something for me?" Shinra asked.
"Damned SOLDIER's got it," Reno replied through a snort, hooking his thumb over his shoulder. Shinra raised an eyebrow and looked at Genesis.
"I thought it might be wise if the Turk didn't get to close to you, Sir," Genesis said, moving to the desk and handing the report over. "At least until you've made your final decision."
"Ah," Shinra replied. "Capable of doing your job after all eh?"
Genesis bit his tongue as he turned to face Reno. While the Turk's face didn't show it, his eyes were pleading with him to keep his mouth shut. He gave a faint smile and started to return to his position without comment but Shinra had other ideas.
"No smart ass comment, SOLDIER Third Rhapsodos?" Shinra snipped.
Genesis saw Reno conspicuously wave his hand in a 'no' gesture. He bit his tongue even harder while his smile widened. In a few heartbeats, he was once again two feet behind Reno with a blank face.
Reno mentally sighed in relief as Genesis came to a stop behind him. It was obvious Shinra was baiting the SOLDIER for his own sadistic enjoyment. He was pissed off, frustrated, felt helpless and there wasn't a damned thing he could do about any of it. That's the helpless part yo.
A tension filled silence settled over the group. The only noise was the rasping sound of paper sliding across paper while President Shinra shuffled through the report. After several minutes Shinra finally spoke. "I don't see your report here SOLIDER," he snapped.
"You ordered the Turks and Rufus to hand deliver reports to you by tomorrow. I'm not a Turk or your son and assumed my report was to be delivered to Director Deusericus, Sir," Genesis crisply replied.
"Is it finished?"
"Yes, Sir. I used the Turk's desk while he slept."
"Then you weren't doing your job," Shinra sneered with a hint of victory.
"Incorrect. The Turk's desk is in his bedroom, Sir."
It was becoming increasingly harder for Reno to keep his blank face on. If he hadn't been trained by the best, he probably would have lost it by now. When Shinra's face fell at Genesis's reply, it became just a little easier to keep his composure. Take that dickhead.
"Have a seat downstairs, both of you," Shinra said, picking up the receiver on his phone.
Reno and Genesis made their way downstairs without a word. The Turk plopped down into one of the chairs while Genesis stood and took up his now familiar position behind him. They remained silent; each locked in their thoughts and for appearances.
Genesis was fuming, albeit quietly. He absolutely hated that vulgar bastard. Besides that, he couldn't figure him out. He'd mouthed off, so what? If he wanted him out of the program he didn't have to incite him. For Ifrit's sake, the annoying fuck could just have him kicked out or worse.
Reno sat in his chair and bounced his foot up and down. Though his irritation had dropped, the tension rolling off Genesis combined with what he had left was making him a very twitchy Turk. He was used to President Shinra being a total donkey-dick, but today he was going above and beyond his usual antics. Maybe he was just having a bad day. Like every day.
20 minutes that felt like an eternity later, the door from the reception area swung open. As soon as Genesis made out STC Sebastian he knew what was going on. The bastard had sent Sebastian to verify the location and position of Reno's desk. His suspicion was verified when he heard, 'I checked the apartment as you requested. The desk's in the bedroom with a clear view of the bed, Sir.' He wasn't pissed anymore; he was amused. In some strange way it pleased him to be the cause of so much fuss.
Less than five minutes later Sebastian was back downstairs and disappeared through the door. Genesis figured Shinra would call them back upstairs, but was surprised when the door again opened. He raised an eyebrow as Tseng walked through, closely followed by Sephiroth. While Sebastian hadn't seen them, both Tseng and Sephiroth did. Tseng showed no reaction but Sephiroth cocked a silver eyebrow before heading up the stairs.
Reno sighed and settled in for another long wait. Now he was jumpy and bored, a volatile combination. He'd just found a comfy spot and closed his eyes when he heard Genesis hiss behind him. The redhead twisted in his seat and found the SOLDIER wincing slightly.
Disregarding possible cameras or sound devices, he broke the silence, "What's wrong yo?" Surely Shinra wouldn't hold concern for another human being against him. Heh, yeah right. Genesis didn't reply, causing Reno to scowl. Fucking serious about this no talking shit. He didn't have to play nice, he could say 'shut up Turk' and he'd be fine with that. The redhead was about to say something else when Genesis faltered back a step and closed his eyes. Fuck the cameras, he thought and hurtled the back of the chair.
When he was close enough he gently placed his left hand on the SOLDIER's right upper arm. Genesis jumped and his eyes immediately snapped open. I startled him? He was even more confused when the STC grabbed the front of his shirt and yanked him forward.
"Sit down Turk," Genesis bit. He pulled Reno close and whispered, "Pitch emitter," then shoved him away and pointed at the chair.
Reno raised an eyebrow but sat back down, wondering what the hell a pitch emitter was. He tossed one last look at Genesis before settling back into the chair. The STC seemed to have regained his composure and glared at him. SOLDIERs, he thought, closing his eyes once more.
Genesis, while touched by Reno's concern, was fast reaching his breaking point. The pitch emitter had rendered him deaf and was screwing up his balance. His only experience with an emitter had been in the labs and that had been short, not this constant torture. If the noise continued, he thought his ears might start bleeding. He took a deep breath and set his face to blank, fiercely wishing Shinra would hurry the hell up or release them. Else I might shoot a fireball through the floor and up his ass.
A stress filled 30 minutes later, the sound abruptly stopped. Genesis was stretching his mouth open, trying to get his ears to pop, when Sephiroth glided toward them.
"President Shinra requests your presence upstairs," he said, raising an eyebrow at Genesis.
"Just him yo?" Reno inquired, snapping his eyes open.
"Both of you."
Genesis waited for Reno to get up and stretch before following him up the stairs with Sephiroth at his back. His leg and shoulder muscles ached from tension and anger. Hopefully this damned meeting would be over soon. After clearing the stairs, Reno pulled to a stop next to Tseng while he and Sephiroth hung back a few feet from the Turks.
"I'm surprised to see you upright Rhapsodos," Shinra sneered. He couldn't decide if he was pleased or displeased that the SOLDIER hadn't cracked. Either way he thought he looked too smug and turned a dial clockwise. Immediately the SOLDIER winced, pleasing him, so he cranked the dial farther.
Out of the corner of his eye, Reno saw Tseng tense and yet again wondered what he was missing. He heard a thump behind him and turned his head, finding both SOLDIERs on their knees with their hands tightly pressed to their ears. Out of instinct and concern he started to go to them, but Tseng stopped him with a hand on his arm and a shake of his head. Reno fought an internal battle and finally decided to 'listen' to Tseng. It bothered him, but he didn't want to make anything worse.
"I apologize Sephiroth," Shinra said, turning the dial counterclockwise. "I got carried away. 30 minutes didn't seem to bother STC Rhapsodos so I wondered what would."
Sephiroth nodded and got to his feet. He saw Genesis rise out of the corner of his eye and hoped the STC didn't lose control. If Shinra had done anything like that last night, it was no wonder the auburn had been so frayed when he'd left this office.
"Now then where was I?" Shinra said, drumming his fingers on his desk. "Ah yes. I've read both of your reports, as well as Rufus's. I must say I don't know whether to believe them or not, however they are consistent. I will speak with the board before I make my final decision. That said," he locked eyes with Tseng, "No one questions you are the Active Director correct?"
"Not that I am aware of, Sir," Tseng replied.
"And you," he shifted his gaze to Reno, "Are the Assistant Director or Second In Command correct?"
"Yes, Sir," Reno replied.
The President nodded. "I want you two to solidify the Department's Directives. The Directives should include the purpose and function of the Department of Administrative Research as well as any pertinent regulations, policies, guidelines, or rules. Understood?"
"Yes, Sir," Tseng and Reno replied in unison.
"Good. Since you two need to communicate, you may do so in whatever fashion you see fit," Shinra said. "Including in person. Understand this only goes as far as each other. Either of you are to have contact with anyone else until the final verdict is in, unless of course you clear it with me. Is that understood?"
"Yes, Sir," Tseng and Reno once again replied.
"SOLDIERs?" Shinra called. Sephiroth and Genesis took a step forward. "Both of you understand the new arrangement?" The SOLDIERs nodded and he added, "You are still to keep a close eye on them and report anything suspicious to me. Do not leave them alone either. Understood?" The SOLDIERs nodded again. "Rhapsodos?" The auburn haired man locked eyes with him. "Here is your new assignment, enjoy."
Genesis walked to the desk and took the paper Shinra held out. He read the sheet and feigned surprise. "Instructor, Sir?"
"At the request of Sephiroth you are to instruct the new group of Thirds in weaponry. Is that a problem?"
"No, Sir. Thank you, Sir," Genesis crisply replied, fighting not to choke on every sir. He placed the paper in his pocket before returning to his position beside Sephiroth.
Shinra nodded. "You're all dismissed."
With that the foursome headed down the stairs, through the reception area, and into the elevator. No one spoke on the journey as everyone took in the change. Without a word, they all understood that it was a start but that they would be under the microscope for a while. They were all pretty used to that so it didn't faze them much; it was just another annoyance.
They changed cars and Reno hit the '50' button. "Directives eh?" he sniggered, turning to face the others.
"We have always had Directives Reno," Tseng said.
"We have?" Reno asked in mock surprise and confusion.
Tseng sighed but made no further comment. Over the past year he'd mostly gotten used to Reno's antics, mostly. There were still times he wanted to strangle the redhead, but those times were increasingly less frequent. Reno was one of the best Turks on active duty and while his work ethic may be… lacking at times, he trusted him at his back and he knew the young Turk would get the job done, regardless of what it was.
The elevator stopped and the group got off and walked down the hall. Reno stopped at his door, used his keycard, punched in the code, and everyone filed into the apartment. Genesis and Sephiroth immediately noticed the open window and drew their swords. Both knew it was most likely Legend, however they weren't taking any chances.
Before they'd moved more than three feet away from Tseng and Reno, Legend appeared at the entrance to the hallway. "It's clear," he said, wiggling a small device in his hand. "Though I would recommend upgrading the security software for the door and changing your passcode," he added, looking at Reno.
"Wouldn't do any good. Master cards would still open the door," the redhead held up a hand to stop Legend from commenting, "Aaannddd, if I made the door inaccessible to master cards it would be draw attention yo," he finished watching Sephiroth and Genesis's put their weapons away.
"Tseng's door will not open if a master card is used," Legend said.
"Yeah, but he was the SIC, now he's the department head, so few would question it," Reno replied.
Legend nodded. "Now you're the SIC. Fix it when things cool down."
"Now that I'll do," Reno said, grinning.
"Good," Legend said, moving to the window. "Now if there's nothing else I'll see you all later." No one said anything and he nodded before disappearing out the open window.
"How in Ifrit's Fire does he know when to sweep the apartment?" Genesis asked.
"He has sources inside the company, including board members, secretaries, and other well informed individuals," Tseng replied.
"Don't they think he's dead?"
"All but those he trusts."
"Hell of a chance he's taking," Genesis said.
"Yes, but that is part of being a Turk," Tseng replied.
Reno walked to the window and closed it before turning to the now silent trio. "Okay so what the hell's an emitter yo?"
"A dog whistle for SOLDIERs," Tseng replied, earning a glare from Genesis.
"We're not dogs," the STC snapped.
"I am aware and I meant no offense. It is an apt description though, is it not?" Tseng questioned.
Genesis sighed. "Yeah."
"Okay what?" Reno asked, confused.
"An emitter sends out a sound in such a high frequency that the only humans that can hear it are SOLDIERs," Sephiroth clarified. "We can use it to locate each other or, as you saw, it can be used to deafen or torture us."
"How exactly does it deafen ya?"
"It's like really loud, annoying white noise. It's so distracting and annoying that it blocks everything but itself out," Genesis replied. "It can even screw up your equilibrium."
"I assume if ya crank up the volume it hurts?" Reno questioned. Sephiroth and Genesis nodded. "Damn I'm glad I'm a Turk," he added, grinning. Genesis snorted, Tseng flashed a brief, faint smile, and Sephiroth did nothing.
"Why didn't I know about this yo?" Reno asked, looking at Tseng.
"Emitters are a relatively new invention. Most are not aware of them, however why you do not know I cannot say." Tseng replied. He turned toward Genesis and said, "I would not recommend letting your guard down STC Rhapsodos. President Shinra seems to have taken a liking to you," Tseng said.
"Liking my ass," Genesis snorted. "And Genesis is fine."
"Actually that's how he acts toward people he likes," Reno said. "If he doesn't like ya, he ignores ya or worse."
"That's fucked up," Genesis replied, shaking his head.
"True, but Reno is correct," Sephiroth stated.
"Ugh," Genesis said, plopping down on the couch. "Shinra likes me. Fucking creepy."
"I'll protect ya," Reno said, wrapping his arms around Genesis's shoulders from behind.
Genesis snorted, "You have some anti-spich spray around here then?"
"Ah, no," Reno chuckled. He gave Genesis a squeeze and let him go before turning and sitting on the back of the couch.
"Spich?" Sephiroth questioned, glancing at Tseng. Tseng shrugged and held his hands up in the universal 'I don't know' gesture so he spun his gaze to Reno.
The Turk opened his mouth but it was Genesis who replied. "'So weird it can't be described.' In this case I meant more like so fucked up it can't be described. In other words, I want a repellant for the dickwad."
"Heh, what he said yo," Reno added with a smirk. Sephiroth nodded and the Turk gestured to the furniture. "Ya two can sit down ya know."
Sephiroth and Tseng both sat. Reno tipped over and landed with his back on the seat, legs draped over the couch back. "We do have a problem," he said, looking at everyone upside-down.
"You mean we have only one?" Genesis sarcastically asked.
"Which problem are you referring to?" Tseng questioned.
"Food yo," Reno said.
"I am not sure I would call that a problem," Tseng said while Genesis sniggered.
"The hell it ain't," Reno replied. "Only thing I got in the fridge is two cans of soda, some leftover breakfast, some bottles of water, and some shit that's so moldy I can't even identify it anymore."
"Gross," Genesis said.
"Heh, that's what I thought."
"I have dry and canned goods in my apartment I can share," Tseng said. "I am sure STC Sebastian will continue to bring us food as well. In addition, President Shinra did not say both SOLDIERs had to watch us at all times."
"I see a shopping trip in my future," Genesis said, doing his best fortuneteller impersonation.
"Perhaps," Tseng replied. "I think it best to wait until tomorrow however."
"Fine wit' me yo," Reno said. Sephiroth quickly stood and he jumped. The silver SOLDIER had been so quiet he'd forgotten he was even there. His body shifted as Genesis stood as well and he cocked an eyebrow, "'Sup?"
"Someone's in the hallway," Sephiroth stated.
"Probably STC Sebastian," Genesis replied. "But just in case…" he said, unsheathing his weapon.
Tseng quietly watched as Sephiroth took point and approached the door. Genesis stayed five feet from the closed door; dead center and facing it. Not a word was exchanged and he wondered if the two had worked together before or if it was just SOLDIER training. Whatever the cause, the two worked well together.
"Yes?" Sephiroth called when a knock finally sounded.
"Sephiroth?" came the surprised reply. "It's Angeal."
Sephiroth turned to Genesis who nodded and lowered his sword. He hit the open button and took a few steps away, lowering his own weapon. The door slid open and their eyes fell upon a confused Angeal.
"Eh, hi?" Angeal said, holding his hands up, palms out at the sight of the drawn swords.
"Are you alone?" Sephiroth asked. Angeal nodded and he sheathed his sword.
"Hi 'Geal," Genesis said brightly, sheathing his own sword. "Where's Rude?"
"In his apartment with STC Sebastian," Sephiroth raised an eyebrow and he grinned. "Don't worry, I got permission from President Shinra. I asked to take a shower and get a change of clothes from my apartment. If anyone asks why I'm here, I'll say I lost my keycard and had to get Genesis's." Sephiroth nodded and walked to a window, where he took up a guard stance. For the first time he caught sight of Tseng and someone's legs where their head should be. "The Turks are still under confinement… right?"
"Yeah, but those two have work to do," Genesis replied with a nod. "They get to talk to each other but that's it."
"Oh. This is Reno's apartment right?" Angeal questioned, casting his gaze around.
Genesis nodded and he heard a 'yo' from the couch. He cocked an eyebrow and his auburn friend chuckled, waving a hand toward Tseng and the legs. The inky SSC walked around the couch and glanced down at Reno with a raised eyebrow.
"Have a seat," the redhead said, craning his neck to look at the new arrival.
"I just wanted to talk to Genesis," Angeal replied.
"Ya can do that too."
"Ah, in private if you don't mind."
"You can use the bedroom," Reno said, pointing toward the hallway.
Genesis walked toward the hallway and as expected Angeal followed. When they were both in the bedroom he heard 'Reno sit normally' followed by a grumble as he closed the door. He grinned and turned to face Angeal. "You realize Sephiroth can probably still hear us."
"That's fine. I just wanted to check on you," Angeal replied.
"Check on me?"
"Yeah," Angeal said, bringing his hand to the back of his neck in a nervous gesture. "Just, you know, make sure you're okay."
"Why wouldn't I be?" Genesis snapped.
"Gen," Angeal sighed. "I don't want to fight. I just wanted to make sure you were okay. You've been… erratic lately and I was worried."
"Erratic?" Genesis repeated. Angeal's face shifted from concern to that complex expression parents get when kids argue with them about having done something wrong; part patience, part annoyance, part 'I know what you did and you know what you did', part 'you will not win this battle', and part love. He chuckled and leaned against the door, "Okay, I've been off but I'm handling it."
"Off how and how off?"
Genesis chuckled again. "You do have a way with words 'Geal."
"Gen I'm serious. Frankly you've scared the shit out of me more than once this past week and I don't really know what's going on. We haven't had a chance to talk remember? Hell every time we do have a chance you get… volatile."
Genesis started to get angry but it quickly dissipated. After he'd hooked up with Reno, he hadn't seen Angeal much and when he had, he either bolted or ripped his head off. No wonder he's worried. "I'm sorry Angeal, you're right," he replied and told Angeal about his Mako problem and its side effects. While they'd discussed part of it on the trip that was before his time with Sephiroth and at that time, they hadn't known for sure the issue even was Mako related.
"You can control all of this?" Angeal questioned when he was finished.
"Most of the time," Genesis replied. "I still need some practice."
"You have to tell Professor Hollander."
"No, I don't, and you won't either," Genesis snapped.
"Gen h-"
"Listen to me," Genesis said, cutting Angeal off. "Sephiroth warned me not to and I trust him."
"What did he say?"
"That they might turn me into a test subject or worse."
Angeal visibly paled and started to pace. "But… what about your next treatment? What if things get worse?"
"Honestly I don't know. I haven't had a chance to ask Sephiroth's advice, but since Reno and Tseng are allowed to communicate, I can talk to him without drawing suspicion. Whatever happens, we'll deal with it ok?"
Angeal stopped pacing and looked at his friend. Leave it to Genesis to try and sooth his worries while he quietly came undone. He wasn't surprised; his auburn friend had always been that way. While he admired Genesis for it, he also worried about him more because of it.
When they were little Genesis had been sick quite a bit. Angeal had often gone to visit him and the auburn would tell him he was fine and not to worry. He'd pull himself up in bed and they'd talk and laugh like nothing was wrong. Yet even as a child he'd known Genesis was trying to make him feel better, and it was obvious he was not fine, but he'd gone along with it every time.
As they got older Genesis stopped getting sick as frequently and finally he stopped getting sick altogether. He resumed a quasi-normal life, but the other kids in the village started picking on him. They'd call him 'sicky', 'little rich boy', and worse. Angeal tried to intervene several times but Genesis wouldn't allow it. He'd say everything was fine and go off on his own or simply ignore the taunting. Then things really started to change.
Genesis started to withdraw from everyone, including him. He'd disappear for hours, sometimes days, at a time. Several times someone from Genesis's house would come and ask him where Genesis was. He would tell them he didn't know and normally they would leave, but a few times Genesis's mother or father stormed up to his room and tore it apart thinking he was hiding their son. Angeal and his mother would stand back in shock and amazement, but either did anything to stop them. A maid would come over within a half hour and clean up the mess anyway. Angeal never did figure out where Genesis disappeared too. He'd asked a few times but Genesis would never answer and eventually he gave up.
During this time Genesis's personality underwent a complete change. Someone with a sharp tongue who was quick to anger replaced the mild mannered, happy-go-lucky kid. His quiet and shy nature was displaced by a confidence bordering on arrogance. Genesis no longer had to withdraw, people began to avoid him of their own accord; everyone but him that is.
No matter how hard Genesis tried, Angeal would not be pushed away any longer. In the end, Genesis gave up and the two became inseparable once more. The more time the two spent together, the more Angeal came to realize that Genesis hid behind his anger and confidence. Numerous times he would find Genesis alone somewhere crying or he would break down while they were together for no reason. Of course Angeal tried to get answers, but Genesis wouldn't give them. He'd tell him he was fine or he was being silly and not to worry about it. Ultimately he stopped asking questions and simply offered him a shoulder to cry on. Sometimes Genesis would accept, sometimes he wouldn't.
With that thought he'd come full circle and was back in the present. He couldn't help but wonder if Genesis was falling apart inside and refusing to cry on his shoulder as he had in the past. Or… or maybe he'd found someone else to cry on. "How are things with Reno?" he asked into the silence.
"R-reno?" Genesis said, looking surprised and suddenly nervous. "H- we're fine."
Angeal raised an eyebrow. "Then why are you stuttering?"
"No reason," Genesis replied, looking away.
"Uh huh."
"Look we're fine, better than fine. I'm just… on unfamiliar ground."
"Talking to me is unfamiliar ground?"
"Don't be silly," Genesis snapped. "I meant with Reno."
"Why?"
"I've never had a boyfriend before. You know that," Genesis shrugged.
I do? Angeal thought, but decided not to go there. "Ok… but what's making you uncomfortable about it? It's not that different from having friends Gen." As soon as the words left his mouth he wanted to take them back. He regretted it even more at the look on Genesis's face, a mix of sadness, anger, and pain.
"And I've had an abundance of those right?" the auburn irritably replied.
"You know what I meant."
"Yeah I know," Genesis sighed, calming down. "I'm just not good at talking about myself or… sharing."
"So tell him that."
"I did, sort of. I asked him to give me some time anyway."
There was a pause and Angeal finally prompted, "And?"
"And nothing. He seemed to understand."
"Then what's the problem?"
"I don't know!" Genesis practically yelled. He winced and looked at the closed door before adding, "I just… I feel vulnerable today," quietly.
Angeal went completely still and watched as Genesis pressed his forehead up against the wall. His confident and short-tempered friend's voice had held hopelessness and something more. The auburn sounded petrified, not to mention he'd just admitted he felt vulnerable.
Though Angeal had often suspected Genesis hid his 'weaker' half, it had been so long since he'd actually seen or heard it that he was thrown. He had no idea what to say or do. On top of that he didn't quite understand where Genesis's emotions were coming from. Sure he tended to be closed off, but he didn't really understand why it was such a major problem all of the sudden. He'd open up in time so what was the big rush?
As he tried to work out the source of Genesis's feelings, a thought occurred to him. Surely not, he thought. Though no matter how hard he tried to think of something else, he couldn't. And it would explain a lot. "Gen?" he quietly called.
"Hmm?"
"Did you… sleep with him?" Genesis's shoulders slumped a little and Angeal knew the answer. Oh hell, he thought. Now they were both on unfamiliar ground. At least he knew why the auburn was racked with internal conflict. After a long pause he finally said the only thing he could think of, "Stop over thinking it Gen."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Genesis snapped, turning to face him.
"Stop fretting so much and let things happen as they will."
Genesis snorted. "You make it sound so easy."
"I know, and I know it isn't for you," Angeal sighed. "Look, I doubt you were 'Mister Sunshine' this past week which means the Turk likes you regardless of your attitude. I don't think he's going to run away just because you're a bit moody. At least not if you work on it and work on opening up."
"And if I don't?"
"If you don't work on it?" Genesis nodded so he added, "Any relationship will fall apart if you don't put some effort into it Gen."
"You're right," Genesis sighed. "What… what if it takes me too long to figure things out or open up?"
"I don't think he'll leave if he sees your trying."
Genesis nodded and wrapped his arms around his waist. What Angeal said made sense and he felt a little better, but he was still worried. It wasn't the over thinking things that was the problem, it was the opening up. For years he'd worked on burying things and now he needed to try and do the opposite. Just the thought of it panicked him, but the pull toward Reno was stronger. He knew he could do it; it would just take time.
"You really want my advice?" Angeal asked. Genesis nodded and he said, "Then tell him what you just told me."
"What? No!"
"Why?"
"W-, I-, h-, just no!"
Angeal chuckled before he could stop himself and Genesis's eyes narrowed. "Sorry," he said. "Gen, you were probably as vulnerable as you've ever been when you slept with him. If you were willing to go that far, how is talking a little any worse?"
Genesis opened his mouth, quickly closed it, and finally opened it again. "I didn't have to talk damnit!" he replied, wrapping his arms tighter around himself.
Angeal started to bite back a reply out of frustration but closed his mouth at a knock on the door. He looked at Genesis and realized his friend's eyes were glassy with unshed tears. Damn, he thought, feeling like a jerk. Genesis nodded and moved farther into the room. As he opened the door, he heard a click and realized there must be an attached bathroom.
"Everything ok yo?" Reno asked as the door opened.
"Yeah," Angeal replied.
"Where's Genesis?"
"Bathroom," Angeal replied. He called, "I'll be in the other room Gen," before grabbing the Turk by the jacket with his right hand and closing his left hand over his mouth. He yanked him into the hallway, spotted a closed door, and drug the Turk toward it.
Reno didn't know whether to try to kick the SOLDIER's ass or go with it. He really didn't think Angeal was going to hurt him, but he didn't know him that well either. If worse came to worse he could always yell for Genesis or Sephiroth, which would draw Tseng if he didn't hear him yell. With that, he decided to go with it and stopped squirming. The inky haired SOLDIER pressed him up against the wall next to the door to the spare bedroom with a raised eyebrow. He took that to mean 'don't yell' or 'are you compliant' and nodded his head.
Angeal let go of the Turk's mouth, opened the door, pulled him inside, and closed the door again. "Whisper," he said, finally letting go of the Turk's jacket.
"The hell yo?" Reno snapped as loud as he dared.
"I'm sorry, really. I wanted to talk to you without Genesis knowing about it."
"Even if we whisper he can probably still hear us."
"No," Angeal said, shaking his head. "The water's running."
"Alright fine. Whaddya want?"
Angeal closed his eyes and thought about what he wanted to say and how to word it. Truth was, he was surprised at what he'd just done. He wasn't the impulsive one, Genesis was. "Anything I say stays between us okay?" he whispered, opening his eyes. "If Genesis finds out he'll probably never talk to me again."
"Don't be dramatic."
"It's the truth."
Even though he was whispering and the room was dark, Reno could see and hear Angeal's seriousness. "I won't talk yo."
Angeal nodded. "I know you slept together."
Shit, was Reno's first thought. His second thought was that perhaps Genesis and Angeal had some sort of thing going and he'd unknowingly gotten in the middle of it. Since he didn't think Genesis was the type to screw around on someone, his last thought was that Angeal thought he'd forced himself onto his friend or that he was jealous. "I don't know what yer think-" the inky haired SOLDIER held up a hand so he stopped.
"I don't know what you're thinking, but I'm not angry Reno. I'm concerned."
"Concerned?" Reno parroted, confused.
"Gods I don't even know if I should talk to you about this," Angeal sighed. "Yet I'm going to. I think he thinks that you won't like him once you get to know him, but that if you don't get to know him, you'll leave anyway. Do you understand? He feels like he's screwed either way he goes."
"That's just… confusing!" Reno whispered. "Is he always like this?"
"Ah no, but this is a new situation so even I can't tell you how he'll react or what he'll do," Angeal shrugged.
Reno blinked at him for a few minutes then finally said, "You mean because he's never had a boyfriend before?"
"Yes," Angeal replied. If Reno didn't know he was Genesis's first lover, he wasn't going to tell him. That would defiantly be crossing a line to him. He held up a hand for Reno to stay silent and listened to make sure the water was still running; it was. The SSC was also pretty sure he could hear Genesis quietly crying, but maybe that was his imagination. I hope. Once he was satisfied, he continued.
"I just wanted to tell you not to be pissed if he doesn't open up right away. Hell, I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't try to push you away. Just don't take it personally ok?"
"He told me he needed some time yo. I'll give it to him, but I won't wait forever Angeal." Or will I? Honestly he didn't have a complete answer to that, but he thought he'd take whatever Genesis was willing to give and be happy with it. So maybe I would wait forever.
"I understand. All I can ask is that you have a little patience and understanding. You can always talk to me but honestly, I feel like an ass for talking to you right now. I hate going behind his back and I feel like I'm meddling. Sometimes my need to help and protect overrides common sense."
"I understand yo. If it helps I don't think yer meddling. I don't mind the advice either."
Angeal nodded, feeling somewhat relieved. "Also, I, eh, threatened you before and I wanted to clarify. If things don't work out, they don't work out. I'll only break your legs if you screw around on him or otherwise intentionally hurt him."
"Heh, well thanks for that," Reno replied with a grin. Angeal suddenly grabbed a hold of him and before he knew it, they were in the living room.
"Sorry, he's done," Angeal whispered, letting go of Reno and going to stand behind the couch. Sephiroth and Tseng both raised eyebrows but said nothing.
Genesis padded down the hallway towel drying his hair. After his talk with Angeal had been interrupted, he ended up taking another shower, albeit a quick one. He'd started out at the sink but he'd started crying and a shower would cover it up better. While Reno knew he'd already taken a shower, Tseng, Angeal, and Sephiroth didn't. Sephiroth and Angeal might have heard him crying, but he didn't think either would say anything. He also didn't think Reno would say anything about him taking another shower.
"Get the grime off?" Angeal asked as Genesis cleared the hallway.
"Yep," Genesis brightly replied. "Sorry, I took advantage of you being here."
"No problem," Angeal replied. "I should be heading back now though. Sebastian's probably getting jumpy."
"And I'm gettin' hungry. Ya got our food bitch on guard duty yo."
"That too," Angeal chuckled, moving toward the door.
"I got it," Genesis said, halting Reno as he started to stand. He walked Angeal to the door, hit the open button, and stood in the frame so the door wouldn't close. As Angeal walked past him he whispered, "Thank you. We'll talk more later."
"Okay," Angeal replied with a smile. "Goodbye all," he called before heading down the hallway.
Genesis moved from the door and returned to the others. He tossed a look at Sephiroth and was puzzled by his expression. The silver SOLDIER looked confused and he wondered why. Had they been having an intense discussion in his absence or something? Before he could ask Tseng stood up and looked at Sephiroth.
"We should depart for now. I would like to clean up before dinner," the dark Turk said.
"That's cool yo," Reno said, rising. Genesis followed everyone to the door.
"We will return tomorrow after lunch," Tseng said, crossing the hall with Sephiroth in tow.
"You live across the hall?" Genesis exclaimed.
"Yes," Tseng replied as the door slid open.
"You didn't tell me that," the auburn said to Reno.
"Didn't think about it. Does it matter?"
"Not really," the STC replied. "Who else lives on this floor?"
"Veld lived in the apartment adjacent to mine. Legend lived in the other one. The rest is storage or undeveloped space," Reno replied.
Genesis nodded and turned back to Tseng and Sephiroth, "Until tomorrow." Both nodded and Reno let the door slide closed. As they were walking to the couch, Reno suddenly threw his arms around him and pulled him into a tight hug. While unexpected, he welcomed it and squeezed back.
The two embraced for a few minutes before Reno pulled back and sat down on the couch. He tugged Genesis's hand and the SOLDIER sat down next to him. The auburn flashed him a smile but his expression quickly melted into seriousness. "What's wrong yo?"
"Nothing," Genesis replied. He was thinking about his conversation with Angeal and suddenly made a decision. "Mind if we talk?"
"I'd like that," Reno replied, lips curving up into a grin. "'Sides, ain't got nothing else ta do."
"Pffttt." Genesis smacked Reno lightly on the arm before getting serious again. He opened his mouth a few times but nothing came out. Finally he said, "I've been moody today because I feel… exposed. I didn't tell you earlier because I didn't completely understand it and it would have left me feeling more exposed." He really didn't want to say vulnerable again unless he had too, weird but true.
Reno stayed quiet and Genesis studied his face intently. He couldn't read the Turk's expression and looked away. Maybe he shouldn't have said anything? He jumped as Reno's fingers touched his chin and gently pressed. Knowing it was a hint he let his head be turned.
"I was just listening Gen. Is it because of last night?" Genesis nodded, feeling silly and self-conscience. "Ya know it was amazing right?"
Genesis felt his face heat up and knew he was blushing like an idiot. Oh for Minerva's sake! he thought, frustrated. He couldn't control the blushing but it made him feel like a silly schoolgirl and it irritated him. The auburn scowled and Reno chuckled, so he turned his scowl on him.
"What? Yer cute when you blush."
That made the STC blush harder, so he scowled harder. "You're not helping Reno."
"Okay, okay, sorry. Yer ugly when you blush," Reno said, faking a scowl of his own. "Stop it."
Genesis tried to hold his scowl but a laugh bubbled out of his throat. The two laughed for a minute and relaxed back into the couch. Genesis leaned against Reno with his head in the nook of the Turk's arm and shoulder and sighed contentedly. "Did you mean that?" he whispered.
"What? That yer ugly when you blush?"
Genesis snorted. "I know you were just saying that," he replied, running the fingers of his right hand along the top part of Reno's leg. His left arm was pinned by the hollow of the Turk's back and the back of the couch. "I meant the thing about last night."
"No I wasn't just saying that. Though amazing doesn't really cover it. More like mind blowing, incredible, phenomenal, or something like that yo."
"Now I know you're just saying that. I couldn't have been that good," Genesis said, pulling back and craning his neck so he could see Reno's face. He had no trouble reading it this time. The Turk was dead serious. "You must have had some pretty lousy sex for a virgin to be so high on your list of experiences," he said nervously.
"Not all of my experiences have been shoddy bu-," Reno stopped as his mind fully registered what the auburn had said. His right hand, which had been rubbing up and down the SOLDIER's right arm, stopped as well. "Did you say virgin?"
"Eh… yes?"
"Odin's Sweaty Sack why didn't you say something before?" Reno said, sitting upright and spinning Genesis to face him. "Are you okay? Did I hurt you?"
Before he could stop himself Genesis started laughing. Reno cocked an eyebrow and he laughed harder. "First off," laugh, "I've never heard the phrase 'Odin's Sweaty Sack," laugh. He paused to catch his breath. "Second, I'm fine. Third, no you didn't. Fourth, I can get run through by a fucking sword or shot to hell then get up and shake it off. Your dick, while impressive, is not in that league."
"Oh well thanks for that ego boost," Reno joked. They both chuckled and after a minute he added, "You know, getting hurt during sex isn't always life threatening, but the pain can make you not want to do it again."
"No problems there either," Genesis replied.
"I still wish you would have told me yo."
"Why?"
Reno shrugged. "I would have made it… special or… meaningful or something," he replied, struggling for words.
"It was special and meaningful." Reno's lips moved and Genesis pressed his right index finger to them to halt the action. "It could have happened in the cave the other day and I wouldn't have cared. Hell, it could have happened just about anywhere and I wouldn't have cared. The only thing I cared about was that it be with you, Reno. You're all I needed and wanted, just you. That was the meaningful and special part, you."
With that he moved his finger and gently pressed his lips to the redheads for a subdued kiss. He pulled back and realized the Turk's eyes were brimming with unshed tears. Smiling gently, he used the pad of his right thumb to wipe Reno's eyes. "I'm the crier in this relationship, remember?" he said playfully.
Reno nodded and fresh tears slid down his face. Genesis promptly wiped them away and he cleared his throat before saying, "Sorry, I forgot yo." He closed his eyes and reined in his emotions. Genesis lightly kissed each eyelid and he smiled, "Keep doing things like that and I'll cry some more," he said, opening his eyes.
"We can't have that now can we?" Genesis teased. Reno smiled and he smiled back. The Turk chuckled and he raised an eyebrow in question.
"I was debatin' on telling you something, but I was wondering how you'd react."
"That made you laugh?"
"Heh, some of the scenario's, yeah."
"Is whatever it is that bad or are you just picking at my… unpredictableness?"
Reno chuckled. "Is unpredictableness even a word?"
Genesis snorted. "It is now."
"Okay, I was questioning your unpredictableness."
Genesis cocked an eyebrow again. "Now you have to tell me."
Reno sighed. "I know," he paused before he continued. "Until I met you, I thought I was straight."
"What?" Genesis said, tone laced with shock, disbelief, and amusement.
"Ya heard me yo."
"I don't know what to say. I- I'm sorry. I just assumed…" he trailed off, floundering for words.
"Nothing to apologize for. I'm positive I had feelings for you before you had feelings for me," Cause you were unconscious, "and I'm pretty sure I hit on you first."
"I… I'm strangely flattered yet somewhat disquieted."
"Why disquieted?"
"In a way you just said I made you gay or something."
Reno chuckled. "You didn't make me gay Gen."
"Now I'm confused. Are you gay or straight?"
"Put it this way, it's you."
"What?" Genesis said, even more confused.
"It's you. I love you so much I don't care if you're a guy or a girl. I'd go after you either way. "
Genesis felt himself blush again but ignored it as his mind processed what Reno had said. Truly he didn't know how to take it but he didn't care. Angeal had told him not to over think things and he was going to start with this. All that mattered to him was that Reno loved him. They could work things out if and when they needed to. Ultimately it was Reno's choice and as long as he didn't feel pressured into something, it was fine with Genesis.
"I do have one question," Genesis said as his mind slowed.
"What's that?"
"Y-, when I to-," Genesis sighed and decided just to spit it out. "Have you slept with a guy before?"
"Yeah," Reno replied, looking away.
"You don't seem happy about it."
"I-," Reno took a deep breath and organized his thoughts before continuing. "I don't wanna go into detail right now but remember what I said earlier about pain making you not want to do it again?" He looked back at Genesis, who nodded and he added, "I had that problem for awhile."
Genesis felt a knot tighten in his stomach. "Were they all that way?" he whispered.
"No, but out of all my experiences with guys, I only ever wanted one to happen," Reno replied, looking away again. "The rest, well, I'll explain some other time though it's probably not as bad as yer thinkin'." He looked back at Genesis and smiled. "Understand that none of that has any relevance to what I feel for you or what I, eh, wanna do with you," he finished with a grin.
"I'm glad," Genesis smiled back. "I want to keep you around for at least a little longer," he teased, trying to lighten the mood.
"Well that's good. If ya tried to leave right now I'd probably just become yer stalker. I need some time to prepare my kit before that happens," Reno playfully replied, thankful for the mood shift.
Genesis leaned forward and once again pressed their lips together. This time he sought entrance and Reno readily complied. Their tongues glided across one another in a sensual dance and soon hands began to do the same on each other's bodies. A knock at the door interrupted the action and made them both groan.
"I'm gonna soundproof that door or something," Reno grumbled.
Genesis laughed and trailed his right hand down the left side of Reno's face. "It's STC Sebastian."
"You ain't opened the door yet."
"True, but I smell food and Sebastian."
"Through the door?"
"Yep." Genesis stood and called out, "Who is it?" At the muffled 'Sebastian' he looked down at Reno with a grin. "Told you."
Reno stuck his tongue out and Genesis started to walk away, but stopped. "Reno?"
"Yo?"
"You can cry whenever you want, for as long as you want," Genesis said, looking down at the Turk. True it was an odd thing to say right that moment, but he wanted to make it clear that he didn't mind. "Somehow I don't think you've let yourself for a long, long time."
Reno sat completely stunned as Genesis answered the door and took the food from Sebastian. His heart was pounding and only partially from the kiss. He watched Genesis retrieve the two remaining cans of soda before returning to the living room and placing everything on the coffee table. "Gen?"
"Hmm?"
"I love you."
"I love you too," Genesis replied, sitting and giving Reno a peck on the lips. "Now let's eat." Reno smiled and together they removed the food from the bags and shared a dinner full of love and laughter, and although the other was unaware, each felt like they'd finally found someone to live for, even die for if necessary. For the first time in a long time both were content and the world didn't seem so bleak.