i don't know if anyone is still reading this but i do apologise for the *ahem* slight delay. not thrilled with this so it may probably be redone but i needed to get it out of my head
Disclaimer: Squaresoft owns
The rain thundered down over the sleepy town, the lone figure walked slowly across the now muddy street. His heart breaking with every single step he took. He couldn't bring himself to look back, he kept his head down, counting his footsteps.
He had to leave the town and home, that much was clear. Shera didn't want him near her or the blonde captain. She didn't want him in the home that she was trying to build with Cid.
She doesn't want you anywhere near him, came the voice of reason, go back and fight for your man Valentine!
"He's not my man," Vincent stated quietly as the rain cooled his skin.
He didn't understand as to why he was having this conversation with himself, he had decided that he had to leave. Cid didn't need this sort of issue in his life. He didn't need him.
A hitched sigh caught painfully in his chest as he thought about that. Cid was strong and he might be sad for a few days but he would get on with his life and forget about him.
He kept telling himself that it was better that way, it was better that Cid thought he was well enough to be by himself though it tore at his own heart. He would miss the captain.
Vincent had hated leaving the warmth and safety of the Highwind residence. He had left Cid sleeping on the couch, static on the television and a stack of video recordings to one side. Shera had seemed to glow when he said he was leaving, she would no doubt come up with some intricate of lies.
He wondered if he actually hated leaving the warmth and safety of the house or if it was something else? A small smile flickered across his pale lips as he briefly entertained the idea that the captain might actually come out looking for him but the small spark that he felt was doused by the falling rain.
Why would Cid do that if she told him a decent enough lie? She was no doubt trying to figure out a believable story, saying that he had slipped out in the middle of the night while they were sleeping. He wrapped his arms around his chest, his long hair falling over his eyes like fat rat tails. Cid would have made a joke about the way he looked, something to make him feel human even though he wasn't.
He walked towards the rocket supports, he could see the Highwind hovering in the sky. The airship looking unloved and battered in the blackened sky. The bikini goddess looking weary and almost foolish on the tarnished metal that had managed to pull them to safety. His friend hadn't been near the airship since they had returned. Was it because of Shera or something else?
Was the something else the fact that the man couldn't go near it yet? The airship a reminder of a painful past few months or how he was different from what he was?
He is yours, Hellmasker spoke up suddenly, you remember he leaned to kiss you? Don't leave, go check in at the inn. The Highwind even, just get us out of the freaking rain you idiot!
"Forget it," Vincent walked further, his boots making little noise in the mud, "Shera doesn't want me there or anywhere near them. I don't blame them, I tried to kill her..."
No, you tried to kill Hojo, Hellmasker replied surprisingly rationally, I'd have done the same thing. I don't like her.
"Well, you won't need to worry about her any more," Vincent mumbled into the rain.
Nooooo, you're right, Hellmasker huffed, you did what Turks do best. You ran. Even in retreat, you're still victorious.
A fresh wave of pain tore through Vincent, he gasped in surprise as it seemed that the rain was burning his skin that was exposed. Thunder roared above him and he was sure that a heavy storm was making it's way to the town. He had to find shelter, to find the nearest warm place to seek refuge until the storm had passed.
He was torn between heading back to the home or to keep walking. Cid deserved someone who would love him, who would give him a family and a happy heart. Not someone who could kill him if he had a mood swing. He kept walking against the pain that was now coming off him in waves but he knew his body was working against him. His strength was failing, he couldn't catch his breath.
Vincent reached one of the rusty, green support pillars, leaning against it heavily to stop himself from falling face first into the mud. His head thumped in pain but part of that was down to the fact that he wasn't exactly dressed for rain. He shouldn't have left the safe haven that had been given to him. Cid was a good man but he didn't need the problems of a monster.
Seriously, just head back. The woman should get over her jealously. He doesn't fancy her. He's quite happy curling up to you, Hellmasker refused to be silent, voicing his displeasure.
"Shut up," Vincent breathed, "I'm a danger to them. I called Cid...Lucrecia and Shera Hojo. She is nothing like that bastard."
He didn't kick you out then did he? He went out of his way to defend you, Gillian voiced it's own thoughts on the matter, in fact, even when I showed my face, he still shared a bed with you.
Past...Gold Saucer for the first time...
"Ok..." Cloud looked around the newly assembled group, "We're stuck here til the ropeway is fixed, might as well get some rest."
The blonde could see the mixed reactions from the group gathered. Tifa seemed relaxed, Barret and Red XIII were engrossed in something. Yuffie had decided to stalk a gentleman who had a fantastic win on the chocobo racing and was drunk.
Aeris was standing next to the unofficial leader, her green eyes glittering in the gaudy lighting in the main and spacious lobby. Cait Sith seemed perfectly at ease in the area, the small cat dancing on top of the huge white mog.
Vincent had taken to standing in the non existent shadows, the slender male looking uncomfortable in the lighting. Cid was standing arguing with the Gold Saucer technician about how the tram could be fixed quickly.
"Cid," Cloud shook his head, "It isn't the his fault, like Cait Sith said, these things happen."
Cid snorted his disapproval, "Bull, it's a damn joke! You just happen to win Dio's little battle game and you seriously think that the ass is going to let you walk out with his prize?"
"It is possible," Vincent voiced softly, "It's just bad luck."
"Bad luck?" Cid turned his attention to the the quiet man, "I'm noticing something in regards to that, it follows ya'll around like a bad smell."
Vincent lowered his gaze, "And now you have thrown your lot in with ours."
Blue eyes rolled but Cid offered Vincent a brilliant smile, "Never said I was smart."
"Anyhow," Cloud brought the attention back to him, "We need to split into rooms. Barret, Red and I will take one, the girls will share one..."
"I don't need a room," Cait Sith suddenly said, "I'm just gonna hang out at the Wonder Square."
Cloud nodded as he looked at the mechanical creature, "Alright, Cid and Vincent get the last room."
Vincent closed his eyes, waiting for the blonde captain to voice his displeasure about having to share a room with him. The pilot said nothing but pulled out a cigarette from the red pack that was strapped in place by the thick heavy strap of his flight goggles.
"Sir..." the poor technician that the captain had been arguing with spoke up quietly, "there's a no smoking policy in the Gold Saucer."
Cid stared at the man, "Yeah? And?"
"Well..." the man nodded to the offending item, "Please refrain from lighting it."
Cid snorted again and pulled out his lighter, "Kid, bigger asses have tried and failed to tell me not to smoke. Fuck off."
"I'm sorry sir but it's the rules," the engineer blinked, "You can't smoke in here."
The pilot growled, ready for a much larger and more vicious tirade on the young technician. Cloud had to think fast before the captain ended up in the Corel desert prison. In the short time that Cloud had known the pilot, he had a suspicion that the man was right. Who would actually be stupid enough to try and stop him?
It surprised Cloud when Vincent stepped in, the raven haired male stepping in front of Cid and the young employee of the Gold Saucer. Cid was staring at the male, mocking him by raising his lighter to his lips.
"Forgive our friend, he's...just out on day release. He's not all there," Vincent stated calmly, ignoring the surprised choke of laughter from Cid, "He has a fear of bright lights and doesn't like strangers. Smoking is his coping mechanism."
The man stared at Vincent then at Cid, "Bright lights and strangers? What is he doing here then?"
Vincent opened his mouth and found that while the first set of lies had fell out easily, the second answer was not forth coming. Crimson eyes blinked until Aeris came to the rescue.
"We're trying to help him get over his fears," the pretty woman stated cheerfully.
Cid looked rather amused at Vincent trying to defend him. He almost choked when he realised that the dark haired male had actually made a joke at his expence. Cid chuckled but said nothing. He didn't understand as to why he was doing such a thing for someone who barely knew him. Vincent barely spoke in the large group or when he did, he was so damn quiet. Cid sighed and replaced the white stick back in it's packet.
"Damn bar better be open," Cid grumbled sourly, "I ain't crazy."
Aeris turned round, "Of course you're not Ciddy. Now, how bout we all go and explore huh?"
The tech shook his head and gave the group one last look before he decided that he was of better use working on the tram to get rid of these... unusual people who had decided to spend some money at his work place.
Aeris grinned as she grabbed Cloud's arm, much to the annoyance of Tifa, "Okay people! No killing anyone this time okay? Have fun!"
The group seperated almost as soon as she said those last two words. Yuffie going off to relieve her mark of his cash. The young shinobi rubbing her hands gleefully as a wicked grin spread across her youthful features.
Cloud, Aeris and Tifa headed to the chute that boldly stated Wonder Square, Cloud being a gentleman and helping each of the girls into it. Barret and Nanaki went to the chute that read Battle Square. Cait Sith had decided to stay behind and chat with the greeter at the entrance.
It left Cid and Vincent alone. The two men looked at each other before the pilot rubbed the back of his neck. He raised an eyebrow, he had never seen the group move so damn fast since he had joined the team a few days ago. He looked at Vincent who didn't seem that bothered by it, did they ever invite him?
They all seemed to have little cliques. Barret would head off with Red XIII. Cloud had the girls fawning over him while Yuffie was just out to steal everything that wasn't bolted down to the ground. It didn't seem like the group was...a group.
"They disappear that fast normally?" Cid queried, "or is it my startling charm?"
Vincent lowered his gaze, "Yes...it's normal but I do believe you helped."
Cid pulled a face, "They really are sounding like a bunch of asses. They ever talk to you or ask you to join them?"
The two men walked in silence to the chute that claimed it lead the hotel. Cid waiting for the answer that Vincent seemed to be unwilling to give. They stopped and both men looked down the long slide. Cid assumed that the hotel would have a bar there and that Vincent could probably do with a stiff drink to the joke that the man had made.
"Does yelling by Barret count?" Vincent said quietly as they remained peering into the chute.
"Swear right back at the bastard," Cid responded, "Stand up for yourself."
Vincent said nothing as he slid into the chute, hating how the chute seemed to suck at his form, trying to pull him downwards into it. The darkness felt so cold, he spared Cid a look who seemed about as happy as he was.
Cid watched as the raven haired male disappear with a gust of wind. A faint whiff of spices and vanilla came to his nose, he frowned in mild curiosity. Vanilla? The man hadn't been anywhere near a vanilla smelling treat or scent.
He followed the gunman through the tube, not happy about how snug it felt across his shoulders. Vincent would be waiting for him as he wasn't quite surprised at being spat out quite so damn fast. The blonde crashed into the a tombstone, cracking his head loudly against the cold marble. A vile curse came from his lips as he fell to the soft, moss simulated ground. Something warm and slick ran down his temple and he spotted the look of concern on pale features on Vincent.
Vincent carefully pulled him to his feet, "Are you alright?"
"Fuck sake..." Cid growled as he gingerly touched his temple, he saw the crimson red of his blood on his gloves, "How the hell did you not whack your head?"
Vincent watched as the blonde snarl at the tombstone, giving it a hefty kick. He had read the warning above the chute, he even read the brochure that had been lying in the tram. Blue eyes regarded him for a long moment before blinking slowly.
"I had read the brochure in the tram on the way up," Vincent offered, "so I was aware of the sudden exit."
Cid shook his head, instantly regretting it as it felt like someone had smacked him over the head with a four by four plank of wood. He could see the crimson stain on the dark marble of the stone he had been up close and personal with. He moved forward and lost his footing slightly, stumbling into Vincent.
"Let's get you to our room," Vincent took hold of Cid's arm and helped him to the long winding stairs that lead to the creepy hotel that seemed to attract the tourists.
Cid removed his arm and carefully made his way. Vincent lowered his head, a pang of hurt for a brief moment floated in his heart but he pushed it down. The captain offered him a one sided smile, he rubbed the back of his neck in that strange way he did.
"I'm a pilot, I've had enough head bumps to know what I can and can't do," he explained, "I ain't drunk."
The pilot had decided that the head wound was nothing that a beer and a few painkillers couldn't sort out. Maybe some sleep but he was wary about that, he just wanted to get somewhere quiet where he could relax.
Damn, Cid took a deep breath, trying to clear the pain and fuzziness in his now aching head.
"Are you alright?" Vincent asked as Cid pulled his goggles down over his face, "You look...unsteady."
The shorter male blinked, "Yeah...head hurts like a bitch."
Vincent regained his arm and helped Cid up the last few steps to the hotel. The lobby was welcoming in a rather Halloween way, Vincent narrowed his eyes. Cid needed to rest and Vincent wasn't thrilled about how two minutes alone with Cid had managed to wind up with Cid nearly knocking himself out.
Perhaps I am nothing more than bad luck, Vincent thought, he has done nothing to me and I have allowed him to be injured when he is with me.
The two men walked up to the reception desk, Cid leant on it for balance. His blue eyes taking in the lobby, holograhic ghosts disappeared and reappeared at a table in the corner. Dark corners were clear to see and every inch of the floor seemed to be covered with a gaudy patterned carpet.
Vincent looked around the room, looking for a member of staff. He couldn't see a receptionist, there was a little bell on the desk though and Vincent narrowed his eyes.
Quaint, Vincent thought as he regarded it, he tapped it with the palm of his flesh hand, a loud, clear ring came from it.
He and Cid both jumped in surprise when Mr Hangman screamed from his sudden call. The thing's face twisted in a smile as it hung three feet off the ground from the rope around it's neck. Vincent could feel Galian roaring in surprise and wanting to tear the thing to shreds.
The captain allowed a string of expletives that even the former Turk felt was rude. The man glaring at the receptionist, fire burning in the blue orbs. Cid fell silent but that didn't stop him from thinking murderous thoughts.
"Hi! Welcome to the Ghost Hotel!" came the cheerfully helpful voice, "I'm Mr Hangman, how can I help you today?"
"We have rooms booked," Vincent replied, "I'm not sure however as to which name it is booked under. Try...Strife?"
"Of course!" Mr Hangman kept his cheerful attitude, "Here we are! You must be Mr's Highwind and Valentine. You have room 13, here are your keys."
Vincent took the keys from the skeleton hand, "Thank you."
Cid pressed his hand against his temple, "13? Oh goody. Lady Luck seems to have ditched me."
"I assume there is a first aid kit in the room?" Vincent ignored Cid.
"Of course," Mr Hangman stated cheerfully again, "May I help you to your room?"
"Do we look like we need help?" Cid mumbled as he headed towards the stairs, "This place is freaking weird."
Vincent said nothing but followed his team mate up the stairs, the former Turk surprised at how easily the man was staying with him. The others would avoid him like the plague when they were together, making excuses as to why they had to leave to do something. Cid had done nothing of the sort and would speak to him as though he wasn't a monster with a claw for a hand. What did Cid see in him that caused this friendship?
He's gotten to you, his demon mused, so suddenly as well. It took her longer to get you to care for her.
They fell into a comfortable silence as they walked to the room. They passed merry people who were leaving rooms and Vincent had been stopped by a few of them to ask if he was a member of staff. Cid had smirked but bless fully had refrained from answering.
One man asked if Cid was in costume with the now clotting blood on his white scarf and the pilot had stated 'no, he wasn't, he had simply asked if Vincent worked for the hotel,' the man quickly avoided him, along with everybody else.
Vincent sighed but had allowed a smile to reach his pale lips. That was another thing that the blonde could do easily. Cid seemed to ease smiles out of him easily, a look or a joke or even a smile could tempt him into returning one back.
The two men entered the room they had been given and Vincent was instantly soothed by the darker and more calmer décor of the room. His relief was short lived as his heart crashed into his stomach as he discovered a snag.
Cid said nothing as he discovered the same issue. Long shadows fell across the room and the pilot headed towards the kettle on the large dresser table. Cid grinned to himself, sod the beer, he would murder a cuppa.
"You want a cup?" Cid lifted up a plain white mug, "Screw the beer."
Vincent swallowed, his throat feeling like it was the size of a tiny straw. Why hadn't he said anything about the sleeping arrangement? It wasn't going to be easy, he nodded slowly as he went in search of the first aid kit to give him something other to think about.
"Don't snore do you?" Cid asked as he busied himself with making tea, "or sleepwalk naked do you?"
"...not to my knowledge," Vincent responded as he came back with the kit, "Do you?"
"Nope," Cid frowned slightly, "well, not to my knowledge."
The former Turk snorted softly, "There's only one bed."
"It's a queen size," Cid shrugged as he poured the hot water into the two mugs.
"I don't need to sleep..." Vincent stated slowly, unsure why he was saying this at all. The words were just tripping from his mouth uncalled for.
Cid just looked at him, "I don't bite, if ya have wandering hands, let 'em wander down your own damn body."
"I can sleep on the floor," Vincent suggested, a blush washing over his features as he was surprised as to where the conversation was going.
Don't think he's afraid of you, Galian snorted in amusement, even after turning into me. He's...unusual that one. I like him, let's keep him around. Kill the others but not him, he's fun.
I'm not killing anyone, Vincent shot back, stop suggesting that.
Galian did have a point though. It had only been a few hours since he had turned into Galian in front of him. Cid had been surprised and had fallen silent, as though he was trying to process the new information about the quietest member of the group. It had been in the Gold Saucer that the blonde had found his voice again and he had used it to pick a fight.
"Ya aint sleeping on the floor," Cid handed Vincent the mug, "Like I said, I don't bite."
No, Galian grinned mentally, I might though.
Vincent felt a blush wash over his cheeks again, Silence, he's with that woman Shera.
Galian fell silent, seemingly bested for the moment. The creature skulking back to it's place in Vincent's mind to have a sulk about losing the battle for the time being. Vincent took a sip of the tea and found it to be lacking any real strength or taste.
Cid clicked his fingers in front of Vincent's face, "Ya seem to zone out when talking to me. I'm really that dull?"
The former Turk blinked his crimson eyes in surprise. He focused on the shorter blonde, he had noticed that? It wasn't something that he had done deliberately, Galian seemed to be more vocal when the captain was around.
"No...of course not," Vincent watched him as the blonde sat on the bed, "I...I just..."
Cid sighed softly as he took a sip of his tea, pulling a face as the flavour tasted bitter. It was horrible, cheap tea bags and the milk had been left out for a while. Vincent placed his mug on the dresser table and went to fix the cut on the pilot's head. Cid watched him, his blue eyes saying nothing but a pleasant enough look on his features. The pilot sat a little straighter, not phased at all about the fact that the scariest member of the group was playing nurse to him.
"You still want that drink?" Vincent stood close to the blonde, regarding the wound on how to sort it.
Cid remained still as he stared into the chest of the taller male, "I'm good, this entire place is giving me a damn headache though."
"Tell me about it," Vincent murmured, "I think we have a few hours before the tram is fixed, grab some sleep. I'll watch over you."
"Watch over me?" Cid closed his eyes as Vincent softly began cleaning the wound on his head, "I'm fine."
Vincent smiled softly at that, when the pilot didn't have a cigarette in his mouth, he actually looked handsome. Dark lashes framed Wutain shaped eyes and Vincent wondered which part of the blonde's family had came from there. Cid opened his eyes and raised a blonde eyebrow as Vincent held up two fingers.
"What are ya doing?" Cid queried as he looked at two pale fingers, "Two what?"
"Your eyesight is fine," Vincent stepped back, "I'm concerned that you may have concussion."
A deep laugh filled Vincent's ears, Cid looked genuinely amused. The pilot shook his head and winced slightly as he tapped his head.
"I'm a pilot," Cid offered as an explanation, "I aint concussed, takes more than a little knock on the head to take me out."
"Sleep then," Vincent stated.
"You sleep," Cid countered like a child.
Vincent sighed mentally, it was like dealing with a stubborn child. He had seen the mood swings the blonde could have, the former Turk removed his cloak but kept the cowling over his lower face. He kicked off his heavy boots. Cid did the same but he was loath about leaning over to remove them and he seemed reluctant to remove his flight jacket.
Vincent sat beside him on the bed in silence and the captain fell back on the bed. Cid sighed contently as the softness of the mattress seemed to soak up some of the discomfort he had in his body. He could feel the warmth from Vincent beside him and he couldn't explain as to why it felt rather nice.
Hours later...
Vincent heard knocking on the door, an unguarded yawn rushed from him as he gathered his thoughts into working order. Galian was still silent in his mind, something that he was rather happy about.
He felt something warm on his left side, heavy and snoring lightly. Vincent looked down and spotted the blonde captain curled up beside him, an arm snaked around his waist comfortably.
What? Vincent froze for a moment, what happened? How...?
He was relieved to see that they were both dressed, minus footwear and his cloak. Cid seemed to be perfectly relaxed in his position, his tanned features soft and twitching slightly in his sleep. Vincent snorted softly as not to wake the male in his arms, why had they ended up like this?
He remembered Cid crashing as soon as his head touched the pillow and Vincent had kept a lamp on so he could read the dismal reading material provided by the hotel. Cid had mumbled in his sleep about strange things that Vincent had no clue about and he was worried when the captain had stray tears falling from his closed eyes.
A gentle touch to the shoulder had soothed the tears away and had calmed the captain back into a peaceful sleep. Vincent had watched him for a long time after that, making sure that his sleep was undisturbed for the duration. The former Turk must have dozed off at some point during the lulled silence.
"Wake up chief," Vincent said softly, "I believe we're being summoned."
Cid slowly stirred, his arm slowly pulling away before resting just a few inches away from the former Turk's groin. The captain seemed to be totally oblivious to the fact as to where his hand was, simply cuddling up closer.
You both fell asleep, Galian yawned mentally, he dozed off first, he was rather cute.
Be silent, Vincent closed his eyes and rubbed his temple, leave him alone and me.
Cid yawned loudly and stretched slowly, Vincent felt the captain freeze suddenly as reality crashed down on him. He felt the blonde swallow heavily and the muscles in the captain tense instantly. Both said nothing as Cid pulled himself into a sitting position but had managed to tangle himself quite thoroughly leg wise.
He sighed in resignation, "I uh...did I...shit...did I curl up to you?"
Vincent nodded but he kept his face still. "I believe so but I don't mind. You were cold and the bump to the head..."
"Right!" Cid agreed quickly, "Right, it doesn't happen often. One off."
Vincent raised an eyebrow, it wasn't the first time and he doubted it would be the last time. He found it rather intriguing how the blonde would curl into him whenever they shared the same small area. He had always been awake before the blonde and would elegantly move the blonde away as not to disturb him.
The door opened slowly and Tifa popped her head in. Chocolate eyes widened in surprise when she spotted the closeness of the newest members. Vincent was partially hidden by the broader frame of Cid who had his arms placed either side of the former Turk. The two men seemed to be mere inches away from each other.
"We got a meeting downstairs," Tifa collected herself, "Head down in a couple of minutes, I think we're gonna be leaving soon."
"Cheers," Cid replied as he got off the bed, "We have time for some breakfast right?"
"Ahh..." Tifa pulled a face, "They stopped serving about an hour ago."
The young woman left the room but had left the door open. Cid leaned over the side of the bed and began pulling on his boots, his head still throbbed but he could ignore it once he got his nicotine intake. He didn't want to think about how he had woken up next to the raven haired male yet again and once again, Vincent had said nothing.
"I'd uh...ya maybe not tell anyone what happened?" he said quietly, "I don't..."
Why is he so upset about it? Vincent went to get his boots, "It's alright. I...don't mind."
No, we don't mind. It's rather nice actually, it's been ages since we last had someone who cuddled up to us like that. He's even warmer than... Galian spoke up again, he seemed to have forgotten his sulk from earlier but Vincent didn't want the demon speaking about Lucrecia the way it had been doing.
Stop doing that, you will not speak her name, Vincent growled at the demon, you have no right.
"Ya keep doing that," Cid clicked his fingers as he paused from lacing his boots, "Who are you talking to?"
"No one," Vincent stated quickly, "We should join the others."
Present...
Vincent leaned against the support railing, his strength gone and he was soaked to the skin. He was freezing and the rain didn't seem to be stopping any time soon. Huge muddy puddles had formed across the fields.
His mind went back to those in the Highwind residence, what would Shera have told the blonde about him leaving the home? Vincent closed his eyes, he was exhausted. His demons had fallen silent as they went through that night. They went as far to try and drum up more images or times when the captain had ended up in his arms.
Return to the Highwind residence, Chaos spoke for all four of the demons, rest, allow the blonde to look after you.
"He doesn't want me!" Vincent struggled to push himself off the support, "He has Shera, he left me in the home when I asked him not to. He has no need for me."
He fell to his knees as he tried to move again, "...I'm a monster who's demons are dying. I have no place in his world."
A pair of warm arms pulled him up, Vincent avoided the face of his helper. He focused more on his now filthy cuffs on his sweatpants, staring at the dull tips of his boots. A heavy jacket wrapped around him, soaking up the rain and supplying him with warmth. He recognised the smell.
"What the hell are you doing?" Cid asked, anger clear in his voice, "I wake up to find that you aint in bed, Seriously, any reason?"
"I...I can't stay with you," Vincent sniffed back tears that were desperately wanting to fall, "It's too dangerous, I could kill you."
Cid took the information in, "But ya won't. I trust you."
Vincent closed his eyes, wanting nothing more than to fall into Cid's arms. He felt comfort when the blonde didn't remove his hands from his shoulders. He wanted Cid, to look after the blonde and to be looked after but Shera would not allow that. Shera had rightful claim on the the captain.
Crimson eyes avoided sky blue of the the man in front of him. Trust wasn't the issue, he trusted the captain without question, he just didn't trust himself. He would unleash his demons to an enemy that threatened his friend but right now, if he had a mood swing or another episode where he thought Shera was Hojo... could Cid really stop him?
"Vincent," Cid rarely used his first name, "Come..."
The mayor of Rocket Town found himself falling backwards into the huge muddy puddle that had formed in the rain. Warm lips crushed against his own as Vincent fell on top of him, the former Turk had straddled him. The former Turk might have been soaked and cold but Cid found himself enjoying the contrasting heat on his thighs and lower stomach from where Vincent was sitting.
His mind kept telling him to push the gun slinger off him but his body and his heart seemed to be working against him yet again. Cid blinked in surprise as Vincent didn't break the kiss. He felt Vincent's cold hand snake up his now wet t-shirt, pale fingertips traced old scars as they travelled upwards.
Cid did the same, Vincent was surprised at the captain for having bare hands. The man normally wore his long flight gloves as though they were attached to his skin. Cid's hands slipped under the heavy jacket and the wet shirt of the brunette's. Vincent pushed further, gasping slighting when the blonde's hands copied his soft movements of tracing old scars. Why did Cid allow this contact? They were both soaked now, the combined weight of the two men making them sink into the mud.
He was pulled closer to Cid, a contented moan came from the blonde. The blonde raised his knees so the former Turk could sit back slightly on them, allowing him to relax even further.
I need this, the former Shin-ra employee groaned softly as he felt Cid buck slightly as Vincent managed to find a still tender spot, he needs this. He needs me, not her.
They broke the kiss only long enough to breathe, this time, it was Cid who recaptured Vincent's lips. His hands still roaming but he slipped his right hand into the golden claw on Vincent's left. Vincent stilled for a moment but he felt the blonde smile softly. It seemed as though Vincent was intent on sucking the very air from the blonde's lungs.
I shouldn't be doing this, Cid thought but he pushed the words down, it felt right however. Having Vincent on top of him felt amazingly right. It made his mind fuzzy and yet clear at the same time but there was one thing that kept resonating in his skull.
It felt right.
Vincent broke the kiss, "Cid...I..."
Cid panted for breath, his lips burning from the kiss. His mind slowly lifting the fog that had gathered, he didn't trust himself to move or speak. His backside was freezing but his chest was warm. He didn't want to move right now, neither did Vincent but both of them were soaking. Thunder roared above them and lightening flashed.
There was nothing to say, they were both consenting adults. Cid knew he shouldn't find the man on top of him attractive but there was something about him that made his body react. Vincent searched the blonde's eyes, looking for the anger or revulsion that he knew should be there but he suddenly realised that the blonde still held on to his hand. He didn't seem to be wanting to move it soon either.
"I'm sorry," Vincent blushed at the captain, "...Cid..."
"Where the hell did that come from?" Cid rolled his eyes and smiled shyly, his hair sticking down over his forehead.
Vincent lowered his eyes, "I...I just...I've been..."
"An idiot? Frustrating? Come on," Cid shook his head in mild amusement, "let's head home. Ya can explain when we get back what the hell you were doing."
Highwind residence...
Shera stared at the two two muddy and soaked men in front of her. Cid had woke up about half an hour after the former Turk had left the home, not best pleased about finding the sick man had left without telling him. Shera had lied of course, she wasn't wanting to say that she had watched the man leave the home and hadn't even tried to stop him.
She had felt relief when the man had left, finding comfort when the door had clicked closed. The comfort had now gone, the man now standing back in her kitchen, dripping water and mud. Cid looked the worse of the pair, his blue eyes watching everything that moved.
Vincent had done the decent thing and had avoided eye contact with her. He was wearing the captain's jacket and his thick hair was covered in mud at the tips and his clothes weren't better off. Cid raised an eyebrow, shivering in his wet clothes.
"You pair stay here," Shera ordered, "I am not letting you traipse mud through the house after I've spent all day cleaning it."
Cid grinned in amusement but he moved to the kettle only to be given a hard stare from the woman. He froze and lowered his head, he wasn't going to push his luck with the mousey woman at the moment. He couldn't explain it but he felt lighter even though his clothes were caked in mud.
"Stay exactly where you are," Shera stated as she went to find dry clothes and towels, "I mean it."
Shera walked out of the kitchen, her heart sinking in her chest. Cid had went off to find the man, returning in a pleasant mood. Vincent obviously hadn't told him that she had seen him leave. The engineer didn't want him here, every second that he stayed here felt like Cid was being lost to her. Rocket Town's mayor should be fussing over her, fussing over the airship, not playing nurse.
Why is he here? I thought he wanted to leave, Shera went to the linen cupboard and pulled out some towels, It was his choice after all.
She paused for a moment, trying to hear what the two men in the kitchen were talking about. They seemed to be quiet. The timid engineer had never hated anyone in her life but she had a growing dislike for the man the captain had brought back with him.
Cid seemed to be torn between her and Vincent. It upset her to see the man she was pregnant to taking care of a man he had known only for a few months. He didn't need the Avalanche member in his life.
Where had the man been when Cid had woke in the nights from nightmares? Where was he when the blonde needed him years ago? Shera was the one constant solid thing in the captain's life and she would be damned if some monster took him away from her.
She took a calming breath and walked back to the kitchen, a snort of surprise came from her. The two muddy men had actually followed her orders and hadn't seemed to move. Muddy pools of water had formed at their feet. The pilot looked deep in thought, staring thoughtfully at the washing machine. A shiver raced down his spine and he jerked suddenly, Vincent snapped his eyes to him.
"Someone walked over my grave," Cid replied sheepishly.
Shera threw the towels over to the two men, they caught the fluffy items with ease. She suddenly realised that she hadn't brought them clothes. Cid peeled off his wet t-shirt, showing off his tanned torso to the other two people in the room. The woman frowned slightly when she saw the ugly scar that ran across his waist, he had never told her how he got that scar.
She knew about some of them, not the why though. Her captain would talk a lot but he would never really talk about anything of himself. Had the captain shared the tales with the former Turk? Had he told him things that Shera didn't know about?
Vincent was more reluctant in shedding his clothing. He stood next to the blonde, Shera wondered what had been said to make him return. He was standing close to Cid, his crimson eyes watching the blonde with a look that Shera couldn't exactly place.
It's probably nothing, Shera thought as she went to get clean clothes, he probably just followed him like a puppy.
She frowned as she looked out some clothes for both of them, again, she pulled out some sweatpants, underwear and t-shirts. The captain had quite a few pairs of everything that he had never worn once. Shera stopped as she reached the kitchen door, listening to see if they were talking but she heard Cid take his boots off. One of them sneezed but Shera didn't know who.
She walked into the kitchen and was surprised when she spotted Cid in his boxers and eyeing the wash basket on top of the washing machine hopefully. Vincent was covered by both towels and his clothing was a neat pile compared to the messy bundle that Cid had left. The dark haired man seemed to be hugely uncomfortable standing in naught but his underwear and the two towels.
She said nothing but she looked down at his feet, her heart dropped slightly when she saw scars running upwards from the top of his big toe to his ankle.
They...look painful, she thought as she handed them the clothes, how did he get them?
Cid shunned the underwear but pulled on the warm clothes. Vincent was more discreet and had slipped off to the bathroom. He had gave her a grateful smile when she handed him his bundle of clothes but he didn't say anything. He knew that he wasn't welcomed in the home.
"I'm freezing," Cid sniffed as he wandered to the washing machine, he shoved the two wet bundles of clothes in, "Think that damn storm followed us from Nibelheim."
Shera smiled awkwardly as she rubbed her swollen belly, she wanted to scream. He was acting like this happened all the time, she wasn't jealous but she had fought to be with Cid for five long years after the failed rocket launch.
What is so damn alluring about Mr Valentine? Shera snorted in amusement as Cid battled with the washing machine, she kept playing that scene back at the inn over in her mind.
"Cid?" Shera took a step forward, "Why did you kiss him?"
She hated how he froze, his back facing her. She knew that he would be racking his brain, trying to think of an answer. His broad shoulders sagged, she knew his body language off by heart.
He didn't know or he did and he wasn't wanting to say.
If he didn't know then Shera still had a hope, it meant that Vincent hadn't completely stolen him from her. It could be a phase, Shera knew that people in close quarters and horrific situations could fall for one another. It might have been a lack of options but once the captain settled down, he would see things clearly.
Vincent was quite feminine to look at, delicate features, long hair and a soft voice. Perhaps Cid had been fooled?
"Well?" Shera pressed, "You've had time to think over it."
"I don't know," Cid breathed quietly as he fiddled with the controls on the machine in front of him, "It felt...it was..."
It was what? Great? The right thing to do? Cid frowned as he remained staring at the controls. He hadn't fought the man off at the inn and the rocket support. In fact, he had pretty much encouraged the man second time around. It had been a messy kiss then, surprising to say the least. Vincent had been intent on the kiss and Cid tried to respond in the same way.
They had always been close in the group, they always bunked together in the same room. They always looked out for one another in battle. Cid had refused to let the man feel depressed about how he looked or how the others treated him.
"I still need time," Cid said softly.