from an ask: "what did you say?"
The SOLDIER swirled around, his eyes zeroing on Cloud.
"What?"
"What what?" Cloud answered automatically, his heart picking up the pace when the dark-haired man approached and loomed over him.
"What did you just say?"
Cloud made a choked sound, his face heating up. For once he was glad about the issued helmet.
"Nothing, sir."
His voice sounded weak and Cloud's shame showed in each syllable. He was toast.
"Remove your helmet, look into my eyes and tell me that again."
Cloud closed his eyes a second, sending a prayer to his gods. His comrade - and the duo sent to relieve them - snickered at his situation. Cloud took a deep breath, made peace with his near death, thanked preventively Hel for her welcoming embrace, and pulled his helmet. He stole a few seconds by running a hand through his sweaty hair, then met Zack Fair's eyes, noticing a clear surprise.
"I'd tap that."
Zack's face changed from surprised to amused, he put a hand on his hip and grinned. He clearly looked up and down Cloud's form. The blond felt like he changed dimension suddenly at the appreciative hum Zack gave.
"Yeah, I accept the compliment." Zack tapped Cloud's forehead. "I'd tap that, too."