Rufus had spent the next three weeks diligently pulling the wool over the eyes of his father and the board of directors by maintaining the facade of a diligent and dutiful son who was willing to jump hoops to prove his worthiness of the position he now held. And while it was demeaning. It was also demanding and somewhat exhausting, but Rufus surmised that he had been so far successful. He had even resorted to taking paperwork back to his apartment and completing it there. But it was a ruse to cover up his extracurricular activities. For example, unearthing the true motivation and details concerning the Jenova Project and why Hojo and his father wanted the young girl, Aerith Gainsborough.
It had been easier than he had originally thought it would be. Beginning with the SOLDIER project, Rufus learned who the members were and what rank they held within the military structure. The screening process for potential new members. The training and Mako infusions and lastly, the different branches of the SOLDIER program. There were The Cetra (Jenova) Project, Project G, Project S, and DeepGround. The first three were surprisingly accessible, but when Rufus ventured further to uncover what the DeepGround project entailed and how it differed from the others, he was met with an unbreakable firewall that his level of security wouldn't access.
Intrigued, Rufus was tempted to put his hacking skills into use when Hojo mysteriously sauntered into his office. "Is there some reason you are accessing sensitive documents about the Science Departments SOLDIER program?" Hojo mildly inquired.
Rufus almost started at the man's voice but took a moment to appear like he was finishing what he was reading before looking up. Then, holding Hojo's gaze and with calm authority, he replied, "I am the Vice-President! And I would think that familiarizing myself and knowing the current techniques being used to enhance our military would be in my best interest. And not something I would have to skulk through the database to find?" Rufus let the statement hang questionably between them.
Hojo stared piercingly at the younger man. Looking for any ulterior motives. But Rufus's calm exterior gave no hint of something underhanded. So nodding, Hojo turned and left but went directly to the President's office to discuss his son's interest in the matter.
Rufus sighed. Obviously, the moment he accessed the data bank, it had alerted Hojo and sent the man flying up to Rufus's office. But that was enough of a warning for Rufus. He was going to have to tread lightly so as not to arouse any suspicion. On the off chance that Rufus would be denied any further access to the Science Department's database, he took a moment and printed off the files on the first three projects and stashed them into his briefcase.
It was fifteen hundred hours and a little early to leave the office. Still, Rufus had been staying late the last few days to attend a multitude of Executive meetings, subtly making his presence known to the other board members and taking the opportunity to observe them. But it was now Friday, and Rufus was tired and wanted to go home. So he packed up his office, locking his desk and file cabinets. Rufus knew his office was under video surveillance. Hence, he refrained from keeping any sensitive documents in there. Still, he also wanted to maintain the illusion that the work he conducted daily would not be trifled with by unauthorized personnel. And Rufus was also by nature a very meticulous and organized person, so once satisfied with the appearance of his office, He shut and locked the door before heading to the elevator and then to his apartment.
All Rufus wanted to do once he got home was to take advantage of his Biosphere, the term he had adopted to describe the Garden and V.R. room, by recording his thoughts and opinions while he a D exercised. The information could then be compiled and stored on drive sticks that Rufus could secure in the safe in his apartment and access should he need to refresh his memory. It wasn't essential, but it had kept his mind busy and off of a certain dark-haired dark-eyed man who the very mention of sent Rufus's mind wandering into very heated territory. Even though Tseng hadn't been around lately- like he was trying to avoid Rufus, Rufus found his thoughts often strayed towards Tseng and what it might be like to pressure something more than an occasional fling.
Upon entering his home, Rufus set his briefcase on the kitchen island and called out for Dark, "Come on, girl!"
A sleepy bark came from the direction of the living room where Rufus had put the large doggie bed he had made specifically for her. Walking into the room, removing his blazer and tie, he laughed at the look she was giving him. A cross of sleepy puppy and alert watchdog. Seeing that it was Rufus, Dark got up from her bed and stretched and yawned widely, showing an impressive set of canines. She then padded over to Rufus and head-butted him affectionately, purring deep within her chest as a way of greeting.
Smiling softly and giving her head a good scratch, Rufus asked, "You wanna go for some exercise?"
Dark looked up at him with anticipation, her tentacle coiling and uncoiling with eagerness as exercise also meant pee time."Okay, just let me get out of this monkey suit." He stated as he headed to his bedroom. Rufus had even made it down the hall before his door buzzer went off. "Great! Probably father come down from aloft to chastise me!" Rufus muttered angrily as he changed direction and headed for the front door.
Looking out the peep-hole, Rufus is startled to see Tseng standing there. Opening the door, and before Tseng could get a word out, "Help yourself to the bar. There's food in the fridge! Whatever you need to discuss can wait until I take D for a walk!" And turned back in the direction he had come from. A little confused, perhaps, but Rufus didn't want Tseng to leave, but he did need to take Dark to the Garden so she could at least relieve herself. He might not be able to go for a run now, but perhaps he might get a different kind of workout? And with that pleasant thought, Rufus quickly changed into a comfortable-fitting polo shirt, khakis and loafers.
After the embarrassing episode of being caught by Veld while he was ogling over Rufus, Tseng had determinedly taken any mission that took him away from the Tower and Rufus. But that didn't seem to detour Tseng's wayward thoughts concerning the handsome young man. Actually, he found himself fantasizing more frequently about Rufus and what a relationship with him might entail. Tseng was under no illusions when it came to Rufus. His relationships thus far all were casual affairs that didn't become very emotionally deep. This wasn't too surprising considering the role models Rufus's parents, especially his father, were. But Tseng was unsure of what he wanted. Turks avoided emotional bonds as they could become situations to be used against them. But Tseng began to acknowledge that what he felt for Rufus might indeed be more than just lust. And so he had stayed away.
That is until Veld had called Tseng to his office. "I know you might find this a little bit uncomfortable at this moment." Having notice Tseng's adamance on taking assignments that required him to be away from H.Q. "But the President has planned an unveiling for the new Memorial Museum, and the ceremony is being held Monday afternoon in the Arcade in front of the main entrance!" Veld stated in a slightly disturbing voice.
Tseng arched his brow, "But the museum is on the 60th floor...?" Tseng returned questioningly.
"It is! But the president has stated that this is to be a grand affair. He has invited many dignitaries, business moguls and the press to this event! And there is to be a buffet lunch and open bar before the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Then, after this ribbon-cutting, attendees can make their way up to the museum to see it for themselves. I will be acting as the President's official bodyguard, and I need you to be Rufus's. Right now, I am not comfortable divulging my suspicions to any of the Turks. And I have a horrible feeling as the location is wide open." Veld stated grimly.
Tseng nodded and internally sighed. The area would be ideal for an opening ceremony. But the vastness of the plaza and the design of the surrounding buildings made it difficult to monitor for threats adequately. And Veld obviously wanted individual surveillance on the President and Rufus. And knowing what they both did, it only made sense to be the ones to protect Reginald and Rufus, So as not to arouse suspension. And Tseng being a professional and would conduct himself so. "What other measures are you taking?" Tseng asked. Knowing Veld wouldn't leave security to just the two of them.
Veld took out a blueprint and showed Tseng how things would be set up for the event. "During the meet and greet. The Turks will be patroling the crowd while the three first, even though they are actually 'attending' the function, will be guarding the Directors. Director Lazard has assigned a group of thirds to patrol the perimeter. And I have already gone through and vetted the staff who will be catering for the event."
"That will work, but what SOLDIERS will Lazard be assigning? I didn't think there was enough of them to cover the perimeter?" Tseng asked thoughtfully.
Veld sighed. As Director, he had extensive knowledge about the other departments. Much of it being classified even for senior members of his staff. But Tseng would replace him when the time came, and Veld wasn't going to let Tseng walk into his shoes blindly. "I will be 'reading' you in on much of the information that I have access to! This includes the full SOLDIER program!" He stated sternly. "But for now, we have four thirds. Roche, Luxiere, Kunsel and the newest one, Zack! And they are more than capable of keeping the perimeter secure!"
Tseng groaned softly. Roche was a motorcycle jockey, and speed demon and his personality leaned towards the more crazy side. Even though he was more than qualified for advancement, Roche had declined any promotions, citing that he was better suited and more comfortable in his current position. It also meant he wouldn't have to give up riding his beloved machine. Luxiere and Kunsel could pass for twins. Quiet and non-descript, always in full uniform. They rarely, if ever, brought attention to themselves. But that in itself was strangely unique as most SOLDIER members tended to develop and exhibit eccentric personalities when they started to receive their Mako shots. The point, in fact, being Zack Fair, The Puppy. And even though the lad was being mentored by SOLDIER First, Angeal Hewly, who was the most level-headed of the three First Classes, the kid was like a ball of rubber bouncing off the walls.
"Well, at least when they are on duty, they do toe the line and behave themselves. But do you think having Roche is really a good idea? The man is known for creating drama!" Tseng stated.
Veld nodded. "He will be patrolling the area on his bike. Lazard has assured me that Roche can conduct himself accordingly, and he has been officially ordered to perform this specific duty. Besides, I am more concerned Genisis will try an upstage the ceremony at some point by reciting that damn poem!" He growled.
Genisis had become a pain in the ass since returning from the front lines. Always laminating that the younger generation had no love or proper knowledge for great works of literature. And had seemed to take it upon himself to educate those who showed their ignorance.
Tseng chuckled. "Well, let's pray Sephiroth keeps him in line for the duration," Tseng commented.
"Indeed! But my reason for calling you here today. Is I need you to go over this itinerary with Rufus! He is a good kid, but I don't want him becoming stubborn and balking at the extra security." Veld insisted.
Tseng's stomach lurched. He wasn't sure if he was ready to confront Rufus. Especially if it was only going to be the two of them. But the look of determination on Veld's face brooked no arguments. So Tseng just nodded and took the folder. "If you'll excuse me then?" Tseng asked, wanting to get this over and done with.
Veld gazed at his subordinate, reigning in his mirth. Tseng might fool most people, but Veld could see the multitude of micro emotions Tseng exhibited. And Veld knew Tseng was weakening in his resolve to not feel anything for Rufus. So he just nodded his permission and watched Tseng briskly exit his office. A knowing smirked on his face.
Tseng took the elevator to Rufus's penthouse, a myriad of conflicting emotions battled inside his brain. Some of which were causing his body to react in the most uncomfortable ways. Stepping out of the elevator once the car reached Rufus's floor, Tseng adjusted his pants and blazer before crossing the foyer. Pushing the door bell and waited for the vice-president to answer. Lost in thought, Tseng was taken aback as the door was flung open, and Rufus abruptly spoke, "Help yourself to the bar. There's food in the fridge! Whatever you need to discuss can wait until I take D for a walk!"
Blinking in shock, Tseng watched Rufus head for his bedroom. So Tseng stepped in and closed the door. As he walked through the apartment, Tseng noticed the briefcase on the counter. The tie and blazer hung over the back of the couch, and a very disgruntled-looking guard dog, who was staring at him as if to say, "Really?" Tseng couldn't help himself and began to laugh at Darks' expression. "Sorry girl, but this can't wait!" At which had Dark flopping back down on her bed.
Rufus joined in on Tseng's laughter seeing his beloved pet's somewhat theatrical response to Tseng's comment. "It's alright, Dark! Tseng won't mind waiting! Tseng, I won't be too long. Please make yourself at home!" Rufus instructed as he led Darknation and exited the abode.
Tseng shook his head and set the folder on the coffee table. He then poured himself a drink and on the sofa to await Rufus's return.