Disclaimer: I do not own any characters, scenery, or towns; Square Enix does.
25 – Morning Commute
Sephiroth's eyes opened to a world of red. Surprised, he blinked and jerked back, almost falling off of the bed. His attention snapped downward as the mattresses shifted. Finally his mind caught up and he chuckled at his slowness. Sometime during the night Reno and Genesis had switched places. He'd woken up wrapped around the Turk from behind, face buried in spiky red hair.
In response to his fast movement and sudden absence, the redhead made a soft noise, lifted his head, and turned to look at him with sleep-clouded eyes. Genesis stirred and blinked up at him, eyes bright in the dark.
"'Srong?" Reno asked groggily.
"I always wake early," Sephiroth quietly replied. "Go back to sleep."
"What time is it?" yawned Genesis.
"05:00 hundred."
The STC made a disgusted sound and rolled over, placing his back to Reno. He wiggled a few times then promptly fell back asleep. The Turk chuckled softly and closed his left arm over the SOLDIER.
"Guess it's too early yo."
"Apparently," smiled the silver. "What time would you like me to wake you?"
"08:00 hundred."
The silver nodded and watched the Turk burrow in against Genesis before slipping off the bed. He silently padded to the door and closed it softly. Heading into the bathroom, he flipped on the light, grabbed a towel, turned the water on, and undressed. He checked the water temperature before stepping in and letting the warm water beat down on him. Contented he began the daunting task of washing his hair. While it was a pain in the ass it was a sign of freedom he refused to let go of.
As a child his hair had been kept to a half inch or less, allowing the attachment of monitoring devices or other scientific implements easier. When he was 10, one of the lab assistants convinced Professor Hojo to let his hair grow out, saying it would look better in public. The scientist had reluctantly agreed and from that point on all Sephiroth would allow was a trim, a mere snipping of split ends. The hair in front had begun to tangle around his arms and wrists during spars and fights so he'd cut it. Now it framed his face and pulled free on its own, if it got caught at all.
Sephiroth squeezed a palm-sized amount of shampoo onto his hand and the complicated scent drifted to his nose, though he mostly smelled oatmeal, green tea, and honey. The gel quickly lathered and when there was more foam than hair he rinsed it out and applied conditioner before grabbing his non-scented body wash, pouring some onto a pouf, and cleaning the rest of his body.
His mind began to drift to the previous nights events. He thought of Genesis, then Reno, remembering the unique flavor of each. The Turk's mouth had tasted like cake and he wondered what the STC's would have tasted like. The auburn smelled spicy so maybe he'd taste spicy. Suddenly he shook his head, disrupting his thoughts with a scowl, but the harder he tried not to think about it, the more he thought about it.
Memories sprang to life in Sephiroth's mind. Genesis's smile. Reno's laugh. The STC's eagerness and enthusiasm. The Turk's laid back attitude. The SOLDIER's lips. The Turk's eyes. Genesis's fire and passion. Reno's determination. The auburn's grace. The redhead's agility.
Somewhere in the midst of the flashbacks Sephiroth's member stirred to life. Without thought, his left hand trailed down to encourage it. By the time he realized what he was doing it was too late. Stopping would only cause lingering mental and physical frustration so he left himself do something he hadn't in years. Painful memories tried to spring up but to his surprise they were chased away. Perhaps the past was finally losing its hold, but now wasn't the time to analyze that bit of wonder and it was pushed to the side for later.
His hand began in a slow, rhythmic fashion. Every few strokes his thumb would rub along the sensitive slit at the tip or his entire hand would encase the head and gently twist before sliding back down to the base. The motions stayed the same but soon the pace increased and a firmer grip was used. Before long he found himself panting and immersed in sensation.
Wanting more support Sephiroth turned and placed his back to the water. His right hand found the wall and he leaned forward slightly. He closed his eyes and the world was reduced to so much noise. His dick was rock hard and dripping, the fluid mixing with soap as lubricant. The long, wet hair on his back slithered as the water beat into it, making him imagine it was hands. In his mind the hands were suddenly connected to Reno and before long his own hand also became the Turk's.
Panting, Sephiroth leaned farther forward and the image changed. Genesis was on his knees before him, cock in his mouth while the Turk's hands slid along the STC's body. The scene was so powerful and the feeling so vivid that the silver briefly opened his eyes to make sure he was still alone. Eyes closed once more he straightened and gave himself over to illusion and sensation.
Completely absorbed in fantasy, Sephiroth watched as Genesis swallowed his dick over and over. The Turk's hand found its way to the auburn's member and stroked it lazily. His body was momentarily numb, then heat raced from his cock outward and he had to stifle a gasp. His stomach tightened and the imaginary STC picked up the pace. Within moments he threw his head back and released, seed shooting onto his hand and the shower wall.
For a moment he stood there as his body returned from an orgasmic high. The heat dissipated and he began to breath normally again. When he was sure he could move, he took a few steps back, reached behind, and adjusted the spray of water to clean the wall. Mostly back to reality but with a still racing heart, he slowly soaped himself once more and exited the shower. He dried himself off, slid on yesterday's jeans, making a mental note to change them once everyone was up. The silver wrapped a towel around his hair and left the room, feeling more relaxed than he had in quiet awhile.
Entering the darkened living room his Mako enhanced vision found the clock: 05:43. He smirked at the unusually long duration of his shower and sat on the couch. Finding the television remote he pressed a button and the unit slowly rose from its hiding place in an entertainment cabinet. The set flickered to life quietly and he watched one of the Midgar morning newscasts, though why he bothered was beyond him. It was all the same, only the locations changed and for that matter, sometimes even that stayed the same. Murders, protests, rapes, debates on the use of Mako, monster attacks, village hostilities, and conflicts were mixed in with mindless drabble that made people feel like the world wasn't entirely a waste: cat saves girls life, lost boy found unharmed, local entertainment hotspots, celebrity doings, etcetera, etcetera.
After a half hour of news that wasn't news, Sephiroth flipped off the set and watched it silently sink down into its home. He sat still for a moment then headed into the kitchen. It was too early to start breakfast but he could at least see what he had. He hadn't planned on having company and he might have to purchase supplies or order in to ensure there was enough to go around. Surprisingly Genesis didn't seem to eat much, especially for a SOLIDER, but Reno certainly had a healthy appetite.
The silver poked around in the kitchen and found he had enough to make scrambled eggs, pancakes, and ham. There was also milk, cereal, bagels, bread, oatmeal, and the leftover fruit from the night before.
By the time he'd pulled out cookware and ingredients it was 06:45. It would take a half-hour to an hour to cook everything on the limited dishes he had, but it was still a bit too early to start. He moved into the living room, intending to grab a book on body language to kill some time with, when he heard the bedroom door open and close with a faint click. The tread of the steps as they made their way to the bathroom signified it was Reno. The toilet sounded and a minute later the redhead shuffled into the room.
Sephiroth watched as the Turk yawned like zombie from a B-grade horror movie and stretched. He ran a hand through his hair and half-heartedly smoothed his untucked, partially unbuttoned shirt. The redhead gave up after one attempted and shuffled forward.
"Yo," Reno said through another yawn.
"You may sleep for awhile longer if you wish."
Reno shook his head, pulled out a kitchen chair, and sat. "Jus' not awake yet."
Sephiroth nodded. "Did you sleep well?"
"Surprisingly yeah."
"Why surprising?"
"Haven't been sleepin' well."
There was a lull in the conversation as the Turk rubbed his hands across his face. Sephiroth wondered if SOLDIERs woke up fast or Reno simply woke up slowly. He glided into the kitchen as the redhead laid his head on his left arm on the table. "I was going to start breakfast in a few minutes. I assumed everyone would be hungry."
"Food?" Reno said, perking up.
"Scrambled eggs, ham, and pancakes."
Reno nodded. "Want some help?" The silver shook his head. "Kind of a control freak aren't ya?"
"Yes, but it's not that," Sephiroth chuckled. "There aren't enough dishes for everything to cook at once. I can start something and while it cooks, prep something else so it's ready to go."
"Ah. I'm surprised you didn't buy dishes."
"I did, however I didn't buy a cookware set."
"Heh, don't let Genesis hear that or he'll drag ya back out." Sephiroth chuckled and the redhead yawned. "Mind if I take a shower yo?"
"I should have offered, I'm sorry. Help yourself."
"Towels?"
"On shelves in the bathroom. Everything else is either in the closet or in the stall. I only have one spare toothbrush, so you and Genesis will have to fight over it or share."
"We can share," Reno replied, standing and heading off.
Sephiroth focused on preparing breakfast. Ten minutes later he heard the water shut off the door opened. He turned to ask the Turk if everything was ok, but quickly altered his words. "Good morning."
"Morning," Genesis replied, leaning against the refrigerator.
"Sleep well?"
"Well enough." The STC turned toward the hallway and the Turk emerging from it. His rumpled white shirt was unbuttoned and flowed with his movements, revealing his chest. "About time," the auburn said, swallowing the growl that wanted out and rooting his legs to the floor. The Turk wasn't trying to be attractive, he just was, which made it worse.
"Morning to you too sunshine," Reno chuckled. The auburn made a 'humpfing' sound before darting into the now vacant bathroom.
"I take it he's not a morning person," said Sephiroth.
"Ya know, I honestly don't know," the Turk laughed. "Mornings never seemed to bother him though."
"They don't," Genesis said, returning. "I had to use the restroom and you were taking forever."
"Could have just come in," replied Reno.
"You were in the shower. It's rude to just barge in and use the toilet."
"Unless ya piss on me or something I don' mind."
"Don't give me reason to mark my territory and we're fine then."
"I'll remember that," Reno chuckled.
"Good," the STC grinned and turned to Sephiroth. "Is there time for me to shower before breakfast?"
"If you can shower in fifteen minutes or less."
"I can."
"I've had your uniform cleaned, however it's the wrong color now."
"Uniform?" Reno asked, giving Genesis a look.
"What uni- oh! From the hut?"
"Yes."
"Hut?" parroted Reno, even more confused.
"Remember when I bolted on you after we joined up with Angeal's party?"
"Yeah."
"I ran off, had a breakdown, and Sephiroth found me. He took me to a hut on the western coast of the continent somewhere. That's where he helped me figure out the imbalance. There was a bath there and he brought me a clean uniform."
"Wondered where ya two holed up yo."
Though the Turk didn't appear upset Genesis slid up behind him and pressed himself against his back. His insides purred at finally being able to get his hands on the redhead's chest. "Don't worry, nothing happened," he said, kissing the Turk's collarbone through his still unbuttoned shirt.
"Heh, didn't figure anything did," Reno replied, tilting his head backward and hugging the STC's arms, which were circled around his waist. He genuinely wished he hadn't taken a shower, but knew it was for the best. Getting freaky in Sephiroth's shower was sort of rude.
Genesis squeezed the Turk closer then peeled away. "You mind keeping the uniform for awhile longer?" The SSC shook his head. "Thanks. I'll be in the shower."
Reno silently watched Genesis disappear into the bathroom, then turned his attention on the SSC. Sephiroth finished the pancakes and poured beaten eggs onto the griddle. He then placed the pancakes into the oven, which was set to keep them warm, and threw a few slices of pre-cut ham into a pan to heat. The silver's movements were precise and efficient with no energy wasted. To some it might appear tense or mechanical, but Reno saw a warrior's grace. The SSC finally turned and raised an eyebrow. "Eh, sorry. Was starin'."
"Habit I'm sure. Though I admit it's not one I'm fond of."
"Habit?"
"Isn't that what Turks do? Observe?"
The redhead chuckled. "Heh, guess you're right. Wonder how often I do it without noticing."
"Quite a bit I imagine."
Reno nodded. "Where are the dishes yo?"
"In the cabinet by your right shoulder."
"Silverware?"
"Two drawers from the refrigerator," Sephiroth replied, since there were drawers only to one side of it.
Reno went to work setting the table while Sephiroth finished the food. The silver had just finished moving the eggs into a serving bowl when the shower shut off. By the time the STC appeared it was time to eat.
"Smells good," Genesis commented, taking a seat.
"I hope you find it agreeable," said the silver. "If not there are other things."
"This is fine," the STC smiled.
"So hungry I could eat a chocobo yo," Reno stated. "Alive."
"As amusing as that might be, please help yourself to what's on the table. I don't wish to spend all day scrubbing bloodstains and picking up feathers in my apartment."
The Turk chuckled and speared the pancake stack while Genesis scooped eggs onto his plate and Sephiroth poured orange juice into a glass. The silver tilted the carton and looked at the STC with a raised eyebrow. The auburn nodded so he poured a glass for him as well. He didn't ask the Turk, simply poured a glass and sat it in front of him. Reno didn't strike him as the picky type.
"There is syrup in the pancakes, but would anyone like more?" Sephiroth asked.
"Nah," replied Reno, standing. He went into the living room, found his jacket, poked through it and returned with a small bottle, which he opened and sprinkled on his eggs.
Genesis swallowed and raised an eyebrow. "You always carry hot sauce?"
"Yep," Reno replied, taking a bite. He chewed and swallowed before continuing. "I like things spicy." A mischievous grin spread across his face and eyebrows bobbed up and down a few times as the redhead looked at Genesis.
"Either I'm getting better at reading body language, or your flirting is woefully obvious," Sephiroth chuckled.
Genesis faintly blushed despite his best effort not too. "Food," he said, pointing at the Turk's plate with his fork. "Focus."
"Awe, you're no fun," grumbled the Turk, forking some eggs.
The rest of breakfast passed with pleasant chitchat. Though no one had forgotten, nothing was said about the previous night's events. There was no tension or animosity from anyone, only the tentative bonds of friendship.
Once breakfast was complete the trio worked together to clear the table and clean the dishes. The only thing remaining from their feast was a few pancakes, which were wrapped and given to Reno, who'd stated they'd make a good lunch. They'd just finished putting everything away when a faint chiming sounded.
"My PHS," Reno said, glancing at the clock: 08:13.
"Late for work?" Genesis asked.
"No. I don' usually go in until 0900 hundred," Reno called, grabbing his jacket and digging out his PHS. "Reno."
"Did I wake you?"
"No. 'Sup?"
"Rufus would like you to accompany him to Junon."
"To Jun-, oh yeah. Forgot about that. Sure thing. Who's the copilot?"
"I am."
"Eh, wouldn't that make me the copilot?" Reno chuckled.
"Does it matter?"
"No," replied Reno, thinking Tseng really needed to get a sense of humor. "When does he want to go?" he asked, walking to the door in search of his shoes. He remembered they were in the bedroom and turned just as the door slid open. Spinning around in surprise, his eyes locked with Tseng's, then Rufus's as the two exited the VP's apartment. "Yo."
Tseng eyed Reno in utter surprise. The redhead's right arm was in the air, apparently shrugging his jacket on. His PHS was sandwiched between his left ear and shoulder. The left arm was already through the jacket sleeve, right hand holding it in place. The most interesting element, aside from the Turk being in Sephiroth's apartment, was the rumbled, unbuttoned shirt.
Rufus watched the two Turk's in amusement, a devilish smirk tugging his lips. Whether the redhead had spent the night at Sephiroth's or not he wasn't certain, but it was apparent the Turk had made himself comfortable and been there for a while, given the unbuttoned shirt and not quite dry hair. It wasn't obvious Tseng had spent the night with him, however he knew Reno would automatically assume as much. Suddenly Genesis glided up behind Reno and Rufus noted his hair was wet as well. Interesting.
"What are you… hello Tseng, Vice President Shinra," Genesis said, not bothering to salute.
"I think you've earned the right to call me Rufus."
The STC nodded and Sephiroth appeared from around the corner. "Please, come in."
Reno snapped his PHS shut and bolted for the bedroom. Rufus and Tseng entered the apartment, neither saying a word. Sephiroth offered them drinks and Rufus took a soda, then walked around, admiring the décor.
"Heading to Junon?" asked Genesis, sitting on the couch.
"Yes," Rufus replied, only a touch of bitterness seeping into his tone.
"It won't be that bad."
"Easy for you to say," the blond muttered, turning to look at the STC.
"Look at it this way, you'll be the highest ranking individual there. You answer to no one but everyone answers to you plus no daddy to screw with you. That alone has to be worth something."
"I hadn't thought of that," the VP replied thoughtfully. All he'd considered was the distance from his Turks, Tseng in particular. Perhaps during his house arrest he could begin subtly shifting employee loyalty toward him and otherwise undercut his father. The blond nodded to Genesis in appreciation. While they'd had their differences he was beginning to see they might not be all that different. His attention was drawn to the hallway and the reappearing Reno. The Turk's shirt was buttoned and he had found his shoes.
"Ready whenever yo," Reno called, grabbing his bagged pancakes.
"How long will you be gone?" inquired the auburn.
Reno's eyes immediately found Tseng, who replied. "Until tomorrow."
Genesis nodded and rose, wondering whether Reno would be pissed if he gave him a hug and a goodbye kiss. His question was answered when the redhead swooped over and folded him into an embrace. "It's only a day," the STC chuckled, pleased the Turk didn't appear to be embarrassed or ashamed of their relationship.
"An eternity yo."
Genesis rolled his eyes but smiled as his lips touched Reno's. Soon tongues were lazily twining together. It wasn't the kind of kiss that would lead them to the bedroom, rather an affirmation of their feelings. When they pulled apart the STC's eyes landed on Rufus, who had moved closer to Tseng and was wearing a grin. In that instant he knew the VP had told Tseng how he felt and the Turk reciprocated. It pleased him and it must have shown on his face, because the blond smiled wider.
The group headed to the door, Rufus in the lead, followed by Tseng, then Reno, Genesis, and finally Sephiroth. Genesis and Sephiroth stopped, allowing the other three to continue. Just before they exited, Rufus turned and looked straight at the silver.
"You don't like my father anymore than I do, do you?"
Sephiroth's eyebrow arched before he replied. "Would you rather shove hot metal under your fingernails as opposed to be in his company?"
"And then some."
"Our feelings are somewhere close to the same level of dislike," replied the silver, inclining his head.
"You know, I used to hate you for being his golden boy."
"Used to?"
"Reno chooses who he spends time with very carefully and while I don't know Genesis well, I believe he is the same. If you've garnered trust in them I don't see how you could like my father. The only people who get along with him are self-serving, self-centered kiss-asses. If you were one of those, they'd hate you."
"Could still be a spy yo," Reno interjected, giving Tseng a pointed look.
"Hardly. Sephiroth's introverted, not naïve or stupid. Father couldn't weasel information out of him unless he was willing to share it, and what motivation would he have? You don't like sitting behind a desk do you?"
"No."
Rufus nodded. "Which means he's a fighter who would hate being a CEO, therefore why would he want to take over the company? It's nothing but deskwork and meetings. In addition, he has no need to step on people to rise upward. It may not be on record but he's already the third most powerful person in the company and he isn't hurting for money, nor does he strike me as someone who simply does something for money in the first place. Lastly, if he was vindictive or just liked to fuck with people I'd have seen it by now."
"An astute observation," Sephiroth replied, shifting his gaze to Tseng. "You think I'm a spy?"
"It crossed my mind," confirmed Tseng unapologetically.
"Understandable. A declaration of my intentions would mean nothing so I will state this: I may not be vindictive, but if you hurt those I care about or otherwise mess with me, I'll return the favor. Barring that, I see no problem."
Tseng nodded in understanding, as did everyone else. It wasn't a threat, but an agreement and acknowledgment of trust being placed in the other, even if one or both were reluctant. At any time each could hurt the other and they knew it. Tseng knew of Genesis's imbalance among other things and Sephiroth knew what really happened during the Turk's banishment. The Wutain was well aware that Sephiroth's word held a great deal more weight than his right now, yet Tseng had physical proof and Sephiroth didn't, which balanced it out.
"I have to admit I don't like being an unwilling participant here. My life is out of control enough as it is," Genesis sighed.
"You may be unwilling, but you have ammunition of your own," stated Rufus.
Genesis raised an eyebrow before understanding dawned. His relationship with Tseng.
"Gods, yer all jaded as hell," Reno chuckled, thumping his pancakes on his leg. He eyed the bag then placed it in a jacket pocket. Hope I don't squish them. They'd still be edible. Heh, true.
"You aren't?" Sephiroth asked.
Reno shrugged. "Compared to anyone in this room I'm a fuckin' naïve ray of sunshine."
"I would not go quite that far," stated Tseng, smirking slightly.
"Okay probably not, but I don't feel a need to threaten any of ya with blackmail jus' to make sure yer on my side."
"We are not blackmailing each other."
"Not at the moment no, but each of ya just made damned sure the other knows you've got dirt on 'em, just in case."
"I wouldn't necessarily say that is a reflection of them," the auburn chipped in. "More that they're so used to dealing with people who use any means at their disposal to bring, and keep, someone in line that it's become a habit."
"Yeah, maybe yer right yo."
"I hate to cut this short but we must go. Rude is probably wondering where we are," Tseng interjected.
"He goin' too?" asked the redhead.
"No, but I asked him to prep the chopper for us."
Rufus nodded and finally left the apartment with Tseng close behind. Reno hugged Genesis a final time and turned to Sephiroth. "Take care of him yo. No screwin' while I'm gone."
"Reno!" yelped the auburn and swatted at the Turk while Sephiroth smiled faintly.
"Later yo!" Reno called, dancing out the door. He found Tseng and Rufus waiting for him a few feet from the elevator. Rufus was smiling like a cat that killed a chocobo. "Not what yer thinkin'."
"Uh huh."
"It's not godsdamnit! Gen and I went over for dinner and ended up spending the night 'cause it was late. Nothing happened!"
"The more you deny…" Rufus replied, trailing off with a huge grin.
Reno scowled, opened his mouth, and snapped it closed without saying a word. The elevator arrived, he got on, and leaned against the glass wall in the back of the carriage. Even from this height he could tell the city below was bustling with activity as people began their daily activities.
One floor up the elevator stopped and the three exited. Tseng used his card and called one of the secure lifts. It didn't take long for it to arrive and the three entered. Reno once again took up post in back, watching everything on the ground get smaller and smaller. It took less than five minutes to ascend to the roof and the three exited, this time to the sound of howling wind instead of idle chatter.
Rude stood halfway to the helipad in his normal stance, feet shoulder length apart, arms straight, hands clasped just below his waist. Reno automatically looked around and spotted President Shinra to one side of the roof, looking out over the city. Two Third classes stood three feet behind him, one facing forward, the other to the rear. "Heads up yo."
"Damn, I'd hoped not to see the bastard," Rufus scowled.
One of the SOLDIERs must have said something because President Shinra turned and headed straight toward them, obviously knowing they'd arrived. Reno's hand twitched, begging for his EMR and he had to tell it no, the dickhead wasn't a target. It jerked in protest, and then fell still.
"Rufus," President Shinra said, stopping six feet away.
"Need something father?"
"Just wanted to see you off."
"Well here I am and I'll be off," replied the blond, turning to leave.
"You brought this on yourself Rufus."
"If you simply came to gloat don't waste your breath. I'm tired of hearing it," the Vice President said, moving away. Tseng moved with him while Reno stayed where he was, watching their back.
"Rufus wait."
The blond stopped, but didn't turn around. "I really don't have time for this father. Nor the desire," he called over his shoulder.
"I'm sorry it's come to this. I only want what's best for you."
"Then let me go. I'd like to be settled in before dinner," the VP replied, moving away again.
The President took a step forward, arm outstretched to grab his son, except his path was suddenly blocked. "Get out of my way!"
"I don' answer to you," Reno said. The SOLDIERs shifted, trying to decide whether to draw weapons. "We can dance if ya want, but I'm kinda in a hurry." At that the SOLDIERs relaxed but watched him warily. One wrong move and it would get ugly.
"You most certainly do answer to me!" Shinra snapped in the redhead's face.
"According to the Directives of the Department of Administrative Research, Vice President Rufus Shinra is the department's executive. Unless otherwise ordered we answer to him and him alone," Reno calmly replied.
"Look you son of a bitch, I'm the President of this godsdamned company! Everyone answers to me. You follow my orders."
By this point President Shinra was so close Reno could kiss him with little to no effort. "Actually Sir, technically I am following your orders yo."
"What? You most certainly are not!"
"It was your order that the DoAR answer to Vice President Shinra and no one else."
"That doesn't… that's not what I meant!"
Reno heard the chopper come to life and a hand dropped onto his right shoulder. Without looking he knew it was Rude. "Have a pleasant day President Shinra," Reno said, sliding out from between the man and Rude. He jogged to the chopper, jumped on, and made his way to the cockpit.
"Everything go well?" Tseng asked after Reno slipped his headset into place.
"Well enough yo."
"Did you hit him?" inquired Rufus, having a headset as well.
"No."
"Damn."
"Did piss him off pretty good though."
"Explain," Tseng said as they lifted off.
"He ordered me to move and I wouldn'. Told him the DoAR answered to no one but Vice President Shinra. Told me that didn' include him so I pointed out that technically I was followin' his order, since it was his order we didn' follow anyone but Rufus."
"Nice," Rufus said. "Bet he didn't think of that when he gave me the department."
"I would imagine he did not," replied Tseng, hiding a smirk.
"Who's runnin' things while we're gone yo?"
"Rude."
"Oh shit," Reno chuckled.
"What?" asked the Wutain, part concerned, part curious.
"He's gonna kill me when I get back."
"Why?"
"Who ya think Shinra's gonna go off at?" Reno sniggered.
"I will make sure you have a proper headstone," Tseng replied. Even though the redhead was talking and making jokes, he could still hear irritation in his voice. "Why is it bothering you so much?"
"What?" Reno asked, confused.
"That Rufus believes you slept with Sephiroth."
"Don't tell me you didn't think the same thing!" exclaimed Rufus, voice crackling slightly as he shifted.
"I did."
"Can we not talk about this yo?"
"Again I ask why it is bothering you so much. You have never seemed to care what others think about you before."
"Who says I care what ya think about me now?"
"Then why are you upset?"
The redhead didn't reply. Instead he gave Tseng an undecipherable look and faced forward, fingers drumming along the side of the cyclic control stick. After takeoff Rufus had moved to the bench closest to the cockpit. Now he twisted so he could face the two Turks.
"He doesn't care what we think about him, he cares what we think about them," the Vice President breathed in amazement.
Reno made no comment and though he continued to stare forward, Tseng thought the redhead briefly winced or scowled. He couldn't be sure which from profile. "Reno?" The redhead ignored him and he debated on letting it go, but his curiosity was getting the better of him. "Reno," the Wutain snapped, getting that edge he used with his subordinates.
"You spend the night at Rufus's yo?"
"How is that relevant?" Tseng bristled.
"It's as relevant as my relationship with Genesis and Sephiroth," snapped Reno. "Gettin' personal ain't always a one way street."
Though he hid it, Tseng was taken aback by Reno's attitude. While he could understand wanting privacy and keeping personal things personal, the redhead had never minded sharing before. The Wutain also noted that Reno's reaction wasn't purely annoyed, it was defensive. Wondering if the VP noticed the changes he looked over his shoulder and their eyes met. The gaze told him two things: that Rufus had noticed and that whether the redhead's question was answered was up to him. "I did and yes, before you ask, we slept together."
"You datin' or jus' fuckin'?"
"Watch it," Tseng bit.
"He didn't exactly ask me out," answered Rufus, unable to completely blot the amusement out of his voice.
Tseng growled, tore his headset off, and resisted the urge to throw it. He lowered it to his lap and noticed his hand was clenched so tight his knuckles were white. With a sigh he flexed the digits then pinched the bridge of his nose with his right index finger and thumb. Topics like this were far from his comfort zone and he felt like the two were ganging up on him. It pissed him off and was embarrassing.
"Now ya know how I feel," Reno yelled over the noise of the chopper.
The Wutain pinched his nose harder in frustration. Reno was the only person who managed to crumble his stoic front without putting any effort into it at all. When in the redhead's presence it seemed he constantly alternated between enjoying the closeness and wanting to strangle him, often in rapid succession.
After a moment of gathering himself Tseng replaced the headset and turned so he could see Rufus. "Would you like to date me?"
"Seriously?" Rufus replied, shocked. It wasn't the question per say, more the location and the fact he'd asked at all. The blond sort of figured it was a given and Tseng already knew the answer. His earlier comment had only been made to lighten the mood. Talk about a backfire. Or was it?
"I would not have asked if I was not serious."
Rufus scowled. "Don't be a smartass. Yeah, I'd like to, ah, date you."
Tseng nodded, gaze shifting to Reno. "You have your answers. I would like mine."
Shit, the redhead thought, enjoying the entertainment. As creepy as it was he was happy to be a part of it. He knew how much the kid had pined for his boss and right now he'd bet his entire paycheck that the VP was the happiest person on Gaia. Aside from the show ending, he wasn't thrilled that the focus was back on him. "Rufus is righ', I care what ya think about them."
"Why?"
Reno sighed. "With Genesis it's like bringin' someone home to meet your parents." He chuckled at Tseng's raised eyebrow. "I don't really know how to say it yo."
"You like him and want others to see what you see," Rufus filled in, thinking he understood.
"Yeah," Reno said, straightening his back. "The Turks are my family and I'm bringin' home our archenemy, a SOLDIER. I expect there ta be some bumps and I don't expect everyone to completely get along, but I'd at least like everyone to tolerate each other enough to be in the same room and not try ta kill each other." He couldn't help but flash back to the incident with Cissnei. Isolated incident I hope.
"You don't want the Turks to judge him simply because he's a SOLDIER," Rufus said.
Reno nodded. "That and I've heard some of the shit people say about Gen. Most of it's just that, shit. It's the same thing though, I want them ta give him a chance, not judge him based on preconceived notions."
"What about Sephiroth?" asked the Wutain.
"Honestly he's just a friend but I don't want people thinkin' we're a fuckin' threesome. Least not unless we actually are," Reno grinned before getting serious again. "Rufus said it earlier, the guy's introverted as hell. I've heard people say he's a cold, arrogant prick, but I got a feelin' most misinterpret or misunderstand his words and actions the majority of the time. I know I did," the redhead stopped and blew air out of his mouth, then started laughing, causing Tseng and Rufus to stare at him like he'd lost his mind. "I went off at Gen for being all defensive about him and here I am doin' the same thing." He chuckled a few more times and added, "Ya know, I don't think the guy's ever had a friend."
"I'm sure he has. How could he not?" Rufus doubtfully replied.
"Don't know, but name one person he hung out with prior to me and Gen. Yer damned daddy don't count." Rufus and Tseng looked at each other, clearly unable to name anyone. "See? When does anyone see him in public unless he's on duty or being shown off by SEPC?"
"He likes his privacy so he stays in the building," said Rufus.
"So SEPC says, yet Gen didn't have a damn bit of trouble gettin' him outside."
"Maybe he has the hots for your boyfriend."
"Yeah maybe," Reno chuckled, thinking he knew he did.
"I know very little about him," said Tseng, speaking to no one in particular.
"No one does, which is fuckin' weird yo."
"How so?" inquired Rufus.
"He's one of the most famous people on Gaia yet virtually nothing is known about him. Ya know it ain't fer lack of tryin'. Hell, what do you know about him?"
Rufus opened his mouth, but nothing came. Finally he sighed, "Nothing more than trivial facts."
"Well that takes the weird factor to a whole new level don't it? SEPC doesn't hire anyone, anyone, without doin' a ton of background checks and research. Everything they find goes into a file on that person. Whether they get hired or not is irrelevant. They keep the data for reference and just in case," Reno said, placing air quotes around 'just in case'.
"So check his file," Rufus shrugged.
"I have. Before all this shit started even. His public file didn't say shit so I hacked into his private file."
"What did you find?" Tseng asked, curiosity sufficiently peaked.
"Nothing. The files are identical."
"What?" exclaimed the blond. "Those files are never the same."
"Check fer yourself if ya don't believe me."
"I didn't mean that," Rufus replied. "It's just strange."
After a long pause Tseng said, "Why did you not say anything to me before?"
"I thought it was strange but it wasn't none of my business. 'Sides, ya probably would have jumped my ass for hacking into sealed records."
"Now it is?" asked the Wutain, agreeing with the last bit.
"Probably not," Reno grinned. "I ain't gonna push it Tseng. It's just strange, that's all."
"Perhaps he will sate some of your curiosity."
"Who knows?" shrugged the redhead with a sigh.
"I'm still confused as to what brought all this on," Rufus said.
"Have ya ever talked to him Ruf?"
"Not really."
"When ya get a chance, talk to him, then come talk to me," Reno replied. "You too Tseng."
"While this is interesting, what does this have to do with your relationship with Sephiroth?" Tseng asked.
"Nothing, everything. I don't know his past but I don't think anyone gave a damn 'bout him anymore than they did me."
At the comment, Tseng and Rufus glanced at each other. To his surprise Rufus's eyes held comprehension, meaning either the VP had done independent research or Reno had opened up to him about his past. Tseng was betting the latter, which was a surprise in of itself.
What seemed like an eternity ago, Tseng had found an unconscious, nearly dead Reno lying prone in the mouth of an alley. After a few moments of slapping and yelling the redhead opened his eyes, but that was all. Without thought, Tseng picked him up and carried him back to Shinra, depositing him in the infirmary where he stayed for a month without waking.
During that time he'd interviewed Reno's employers and found they knew little about the redhead. He learned Reno's name, address, and that they all thought he was intelligent, hard working, and personable. No one had a clue where he'd come from or if he had any family. The kid was paid in cash and no one even knew his last name.
After a few days he'd gone to the redhead's apartment and found nothing useful. There was absolutely nothing personal to be found: no photos, no letters to or from family or friends, no names or addresses, no phone numbers. He'd thought it was bizarre because typically the young surround themselves with personal trinkets in some form or another.
The entire time Reno lay in the Intensive Care Unit unconscious every free chance he got Tseng tried to discover more about the youth. He dredged up missing person reports from all over Gaia, looked at police reports, spoke with sources, youth gangs, everything or anything that might give him a lead. In the end he'd failed to find anything of relevance and the kid remained a complete mystery.
During this time Tseng also began to question his decision to bring Reno to Shinra's infirmary. By this point he knew Reno had no way to pay for the care he was getting since it was obvious the kid lived from pay period to pay period. His actions had quite possibly sentenced the redhead to a life of abject poverty, whereas before he'd at least had a chance to climb out of it. Yet surely death hadn't been the better option. Had it?
Noticing that he seemed preoccupied Veld had confronted him. Unwilling to lie and wanting feedback, Tseng spilled everything like a man at confession. Veld's reaction was predictable and involved a great deal of yelling. The man believed Tseng had a problem with letting his emotions get in the way and the incident was all the proof he needed. He left Veld's apartment feeling worse than before and the following day when his boss called him into his office he had gone with a sense of dread. Much to his surprise Veld apologized and said that if the kid woke up and agreed, they would find something for him at Shinra. Three days later Reno came around.
At first, the redhead refused the offer to work at Shinra, but he was back within a month begging for a job. Tseng told him he'd get back with him and spoke with Veld. It took a few weeks but finally an opening was made within the Department of Administrative Research. It was little more than the position of errand boy but it paid well and Reno didn't care. The redhead threw himself into the job with gusto and quickly made an impression on the Turks.
Over the next few weeks Tseng and Veld both received complements about the new hire. Despite his laid-back demeanor his work was precise, quick, and efficient. Everyone enjoyed having him around and he seemed to enjoy being there. Tseng began to teach him some of the skills required to be a Turk. It was then he discovered Reno's knack for electronics and that he never had to teach him anything more than once. Yet he didn't approach Veld with the idea to promote the redhead right away. Instead, he once again tried to find out more about the kid, but the redhead refused to talk and he still couldn't dig anything up. It wasn't until a routine inspection that he finally found his answers.
Reno had been with the DoAR for six months or so when Tseng was sent to evaluate work being done on the Sector 3 Plate. Upon his arrival he was greeted by a tall, burly man with red-orange hair and his wife, who was a brunette of medium height with a delicate bone structure. Apparently many commented on the man's unusual hair color, for without prompting he said it used to be redder but that years in the sun had faded it.
Outwardly Tseng showed no reaction, but his mind was reeling. After a quick tour, the man, who was the area foreman, invited him to their home for dinner and to finalize paperwork. Tseng decided to join them thinking he might find answers or evidence to confirm his suspicion.
The home was only a few years old, medium sized, and comfortable, though not fancy. While the wife prepared dinner the foreman quickly cleaned up, giving Tseng a chance to look around. There were no family photos or keepsakes aside from a tattered and worn stuffed moogle sitting upon a shelf. Not finding anything of importance, when the foreman returned the Wutain asked point blank if the couple had a child named Reno. The loud bang of a dropped pan was all the answer he needed. While the foreman looked at him in shock, the wife rushed over and grabbed his arm, but said nothing. There was so much hope in her eyes that he had to look away.
After a few moments everyone sat at the kitchen table and the tale unfolded. He learned that the couple had been young and stupid, which lead to an unplanned pregnancy and a loss of family support on both sides. Not knowing what to do they'd had the child and the wife had suffered from postpartum depression. Unable to afford treatment, they did what they could but it wasn't enough and she seemed incapable of bonding with the child or taking proper care of it. The foreman admitted to growing jealous and resentful of his son's intelligence, of denying his son a proper education, and of forcing the boy to work a menial job he was ill suited for. One day the parent's returned to find their son gone. When he still hadn't returned three days later they'd finally been able to come to terms with their own shortcomings. They'd searched for the boy but never found him and after several weeks they'd finally decided he was dead or didn't want to be found and that they only had themselves to blame.
Tseng debated on what to tell the pair. He wasn't certain of Reno's feelings and wasn't in the habit of giving intel away. Finally he told them Reno was alive and well, though he refused to give them his location. After a few moments of begging he promised to tell the redhead of the meeting and said the rest was up to him. That appeased them and things got back on track. Dinner was had, papers were signed, and Tseng left.
Finally having enough information on Reno, the following day Tseng put forth a request to Veld that the redhead be granted status as a Turk. His boss said if Reno passed the firearms test he would sign off on it. The next day the redhead was promoted. Eventually Tseng told the redhead of the meeting with his parents, but he didn't know if anything ever came of it.
Given how hard it had been for Tseng to find information on Reno, he doubted Rufus had better luck. Very little of what he'd learned had been placed in his file. Tseng hadn't listed the names of his parents, where in Midgar he was from, or of his rocky upbringing. It wasn't important, only that he wasn't a security threat.
The Wutain shook his head and returned to the present. Both Rufus and Reno were staring at him with raised eyebrows.
"Nice trip boss?"
"It could have been better."
"Heh, Ruf you need ta screw him more."
"Where'd that come from?" Rufus chuckled, then laughed at the nasty look Tseng gave Reno.
"Man can't even have relaxin' daydreams. Waayyy too uptight."
"Reno?"
"Ya boss?"
"Shut up before I throw you out the cargo door."
"Yes boss," Reno grinned. He mouthed 'uptight' to Rufus and Tseng grabbed at him, but he leaned out of his reach, causing the chopper to veer to the left.
Rufus chuckled, turned around, and closed his eyes. "Wake me when we get to Junon."
"Yes, Sir," Tseng replied.
"Godsdamnit Tseng stop calling me Sir!"
"I will when Reno stops calling me boss."
"Ain't gonna happen yo. 'Sides, being called sir in bed is kinda sexy."
Rufus laughed and heard Reno yelp, probably getting smacked by Tseng. A few minutes later the VP fell asleep and the rest of the trip passed without event. Two hours later they touched down in Junon and Rufus groggily looked around. It was going to be difficult being away from his Turks, but Genesis had been right. There were upsides to this arrangement and he'd be damn sure to make it work and take advantage of this opportunity. Thank you father, for your brilliant screw up.
Cyclic control stick – fancy term for flight stick. XD