Chapter Five
Dinner For Two
A/N: I'm sorry! I hope this chapter makes up for the wait. We finally get some answers. Also, there's probably mistakes as I did a quick edit so I could get this posted. Excuse any errors you might find, please and thank you.
Disclaimer: Final Fantasy VII does not belong to me, I personally own Alia, any other OC's and this fanfiction. I hold no Copyright over any direct quotes used from FFVII, FFVII: Remake, or FFVII Advent Children.
~ oOo ~
"Sir if you would please follow me, your table is ready."
An older gentleman with a crisp apron led Reno and Alia through the restaurant towards the private balcony that had been booked specifically for themselves. Hand-in-hand, they both followed, each having changed the moment the reached the red-head's home. Reno had donned into his most expensive suit; a crisp white shirt with a dark navy pants and jacket. While Alia slipped into a maroon, off the shoulder long-sleeved cocktail dress which stopped just above the knee. Her feet were accented with nude pumps, allowing her to be almost the same height as her boyfriend.
The Chocobo's Nest, the restaurant they now resided in, was well established and tonight was crowded with men and woman wearing their best attire. As they passed, people stopped mid-conversation to stare as they walked on by. It made sense as they were to be noticed; the infamous Second-In-Commander Turk and one of the members of AVALANCHE who saved the world. Both were 'famous' in their own right, though neither cared. If people were to seem them together, both whisked it over their heads; it wasn't any other their business.
Thus the reason for the private balcony.
Opening the door to the balcony, the waiter allowed the couple to enter first, Reno having pulled Alia's chair for her as she took her seat. She beamed upwards at him as he pushed her chair in, only to claim his seat next, plopping down the way he usually did.
That's the Reno I know, Alia thought. His attitude might've changed in the last few years, but he still has that 'I don't give a shit what people think' outlook. And I wouldn't change that about him at all. He's unique and I absolutely love it.
As they both took their seats, the waiter provided each the dinner menu as well as a list of their favored selection of decadent wines. "Today we are serving a three-course dinner special, including your choice of an appetizer, then a lobster and steak combination, and then a slice of our infamous chocolate-lava cake. All for ninety-seven gil."
Reno glanced towards the waiter then the female across from him. "Now that doesn't sound bad at all."
"No it does not," she replied. Her eyes drifted across the menu, considering what she wanted even though they landed on the item she typically ordered each time.
"Do we need a few minutes to look over the menu and decide what you'd like?" Alia nodded in response and Reno agreed. "Of course, no problem. Would you like me to get both of you something to drink to start?"
"Yes please." Staring at her options, Alia said, "I'll have a glass of water."
"Would you like that with lemon?"
"Oh yes, please."
Scribbling on his black notepad, the waiter then turned towards the red-head. "And you, sir?"
Having grabbed the list of alcoholic beverages, Reno quickly glanced through. "Let's see…I'll take the Behemoth Claw on tap and we'll also take two shots of your classic Diamond Weapon, please."
"Oh, a man with a taste for hard-core beverages. Right away sir."Snapping his notepad closed, he walked back into the restaurant, leaving the couple to have a few minutes of privacy. Reno left his menu on the table while Alia still scanned its contents.
"Can't decide, peaches?"
"No, it's not that. I think I want the usual but was considering other options."
Reno snickered. "You say that every time we come here, right?"
She peered over the top of the menu at him and arched an eyebrow. "Do I really?"
"Every single time."
"Oh, but the Chicken Alfredo is just too damn good."
"Nothing wrong with that, peaches."
Having pushed through the door, the waiter reappeared, a platter balanced perfectly on his hand as he gave Alia her water and Reno his deadly Behemoth drink along with the requested. When the couple had their drinks, he asked, "Are we ready to order? Or is another minute needed?"
"Nah, I'm ready. Alia?"
"Same here. May I have the Chicken Alfredo?"
"Oh course. And for you, sir?" He indicated towards Reno.
"Yeah, I'll just take the dinner special." He grabbed both of the menus and held them out for the waiter to take. "Cooked medium-rare and the sides it already comes with is fine."
The waiter scribbled everything onto his notepad. "And that does come with an Appetizer and the Chocolate Lava Cake. Have you decided what you'd like?"
"The garlic sticks would be great." Reno answered.
"Ok, I'll go place your order and bring out your Appetizer." He took the menus and walked back inside. Once the door shut, Reno reached across the table and grabbed Alia's hand, rubbing his thumb across the back, her skin smooth and silky beneath his rough phalanges.
But he suddenly pulled back and handed Alia one of the shot glasses. Grabbing the glass by the top and pulling towards her mouth, she watched as Reno did the same. "Ready?"
"Hell yeah."
"Good. Ok, 3…2…1!"
Both tilted the the shot glasses back, allowing the clear liquor to slither down their throats. Alia squinted her eyes as she failed miserably to ignore the burning sensation the alcohol left as it trailed down her throat. Reno mimicked but was able to pass the sensation more easily than she could. Slamming the shot glass onto the table, Reno roared to life for a few seconds. "Holy shit! Damn, I forgot how strong that drink actually is."
Alia followed suit. "Damn straight! Burns just like the attacks of the real Diamond Weapon. Heh, guess that's the effect they were going for, especially for those who fought the fucking creature."
"Like you!" Reno smiled.
"Hell yeah! Especially me!" The two laughed in unison and Alia could feel the small alcohol in her system. It was just one shot but she could never handle large amounts of alcohol.
"Already getting tipsy on me?"
"I hope not, but you know I can't handle my alcohol very well." Pushing the glass away from her, reminding herself to not have any more drinks for the rest of the night, Alia smiled. "I can't believe we do this every time we come here."
"It's tradition, you know that."
"I know, I know," she chuckled. "It is kinda silly, if you ask me."
"I don't hear you complaining," Reno noted, grabbing her hand once again.
Alia sighed. The feel of Reno's skin was electrifying and soothing. The more he touched her the more she wanted to be devoured by the red-haired Turk. She covered his hand with hers, closing her eyes to savor the moment. Immediately she was taken to a far-off dream she had been having for quite some time now. Whenever she felt heated, Alia always imagined the hands of the Turk touching her, running his skin across her flushed body. The dream always left her breathless and in the need of something she feared to experience on her own.
A shirtless Reno, his pants gradually slipping off of his hips, stood over Alia as he ever-so-slowly pulled down his jeans until they fell to the floor. She lay completely naked, exposed to the man who could see every scar, every curve, every reaction. Reno managed to rid the rest of his clothes and towered over the trembling girl who could only watch the amazing view she held.
Reno always leaned forward, always planted a kiss on Alia's lips and always traveled further south. His tongue left a winding trail of heat as he coated her body with licks and kisses, creeping his way from her face to her neck, to her chest, the navel and even lower. She always managed to release a hefty moan as Reno nipped across her abdomen and she could feel his fingers snaking their way straight to her core.
He gently tugged at her natural hairs, navigating through the terrain and slipping his fingers inside her river of arousal. She would always cry out, not knowing what he would do next though never caring as it had always felt so damn good. As his fingers gently made their way inside, Reno meandered his way towards her most sacred parts and followed the actions of his fingers. Alia always expected his tongue to finally touch her down there. That was what she had always wanted and was never able to get it…
Because as soon as he was able to give her mind-blowing pleasure, her dreams always ended in a twisted agony of self-denial and how she couldn't, or wouldn't, allow herself to feel real pleasure with her lover.
In that moment, Alia knew it would never happen. Her dreams would stay as that - only dreams.
"Alia, you ok? You've been kinda quiet."
"Huh? Oh, sorry about that, I guess I've just…got a lot on my mind right now"
"Hmm, wanna talk about it?" Alia was about to answer when their waiter arrived once more to drop off their appetizer.
"I just placed your order in so it's cooking right now. I'll come back in a bit to see if you need any more drinks. Or do you need anything right now?" he smiled politely in their direction.
"No I think we're good for right now, thanks." Reno answered and then the waiter nodded and walked back inside. Reaching across the table to grab Alia's small plate, he placed two garlic sticks on it from the bowl and placed it before her eyes, hoping she would nibble on at least something before their meal finally arrived. But she didn't even flinch – and she was the only other person on the planet who Reno knew to eat as much as he did.
He could tell something was plaguing her mind. She suddenly retracted within herself, eyes cast away from the food and himself. Reno grabbed a few pieces for himself and took a bite, the butter-garlic sauce melting in his mouth, watching Alia. Sometimes she fell into a funk, lost in her own thoughts from time to time. Sometimes she grew real quiet, as she did now. And sometimes she would ignore everything around her.
This made Reno nervous. Whenever this happened, he noticed Alia eventually lost her appetite. He had to do something. Reno didn't want to watch her starve when he knew her stomach was growling from hunger.
Swallowing what was in his mouth, Reno said quietly, "Alia? Peaches, you need to eat something, alright?" But she didn't say anything; she was eerily quiet, staring off towards the ocean in the far distance. For Reno, that wasn't a good sign. Pulling the Second-In-Command attitude from deep within, Reno called the woman by her full name. "Aliana Rae Strife, you need to eat something, now."
This grabbed her attention and he could visibly see the corners of her eyes lean upwards as she tried to suppress a smile, failing in the process.
Alia looked up at the concerned man from across the table and she held his gaze, suddenly feeling ridiculous. Her hand snaked towards her plate and she took a tiny bite of the top garlic stick. She immediately took another bite, a bigger one, and then another and another until she had eaten the two on her plate. Her actions received a laugh from Reno and a pure, genuine smile graced her face.
"There's the smile I know and love so much, peaches."
As she reached to grab more of the garlic sticks, Alia said, "I apologize, Reno. I just…I don't know. I've missed you so much and then you suddenly came back from your mission where you were gone for a months time…" That's not a lie, is it? It certainly feels like the truth. I had a hard time grasping that he was gone or so long. Alia argued deeply with herself.
I know that's not the full answer.
At first, Alia didn't even feel when Reno grasped her hand again, squeezing her fingers within his. In return, she squeezed back, trying to let the poor man know that she was better now. At least, Alia kept trying to tell herself that she was alright.
"Don't worry about a thing, Alia. I know with me being gone for so long on all these different missions have caused unnecessary stress on you. And I apologize for that. But, just remember," Reno squeezed her had slightly harder until he had her focus solely into his eyes. "Everything I am doing, I'm doing to protect you. Can you remember that, peaches?"
Alia could feel another blush creep upon her already flustered cheeks. Outside, she could feel the effects of Reno's words, but inside, she was killing herself knowing that she wasn't giving him the answer he truly deserved.
Should I finally tell him tonight what's really going on? Alia couldn't help but continue to think to herself. I trust the man wholeheartedly, but…can I trust him with this?
As he thrust more of the garlic sticks into his mouth, Reno continued to stare in Alia's lovely face. He knew she was torturing herself about something. But what exactly was it? What would be keeping her from enjoying a nice meal together? The Turk scratched his head, unsure of what to do with the current situation. But, as suddenly as he was questioning it, an idea popped inside the Turk's head.
"Alia?"
"Yes, Reno?"
"I…have a question to ask you."
"Ah, ok, what is it?"
"Tonight, are you quiet because…" Aw hell, why did I decide to bring this topic up at dinner? Reno mentally kicked himself in the ass, because he sure felt like one for what he was about to ask. He sighed before continuing. "Aliana…"
Ah shit, he's calling by my first name again, she thought.
"Are you really quiet tonight because of what happened back at the apartment?" Her eyes widened but quickly went back to normal, but Reno was able to register the difference in her actions, especially since she retracted her hand from his and placed it along the edge of the table.
"W-why would you ask me something like that, Reno?"
"I…it just occurred to me. We technically went farther tonight than we have in the past. It's the only thing I could possibly think of. Alia, I just want to make sure you're ok. You're starting to worry me."
The man's intuitive, I'll give him that. Sighing, Alia rubbed her eye, knowing she was stalling for time to speak. The man needs to know, he deserves to know everything that's happened.
"I'm sorry, Reno. But…" A sigh escaped her lips. "You're…somewhat r-right. I…" Before she even had a chance to state anything that was on her tongue, Alia began to cry. A tear escaped one of her eyes and leaked down the side of her cheek. As it slid off of her chin, another fell and then another and another until she wasn't able to control the tears as they dropped on their own accord.
Reno flew from his seat, instantly by her side as he kneeled with a napkin in his hand, gently wiping away the tears that fell from her beautiful face. One by one, the tears slowly dropped and Reno was there to catch them all. Alia didn't move but the more that her man cleared her face the more she leaned into his hand, desperately wanting his warmth to take away the pain deep within. A few minutes passed before the silent tears stopped dropping and Alia was finally able to look at her lover's face. But this time, she didn't expect for him to smile.
"Well, hey there, beautiful," was all he said as he, sliding a few pieces of hair behind her ear.
"You're not mad at me…?" was all she whispered back, fearing he would be.
He shook his head. "No, of course not, Alia, though I won't lie and say this hasn't crossed my mind. I didn't want to pressure you into talking about it, but tonight…" Reno's hand grazed her cheek, tracing the outer line of her jaw.
The more Reno touched her face, the more she leaned into him. The more she leaned into him, the more she wanted to cry, and as if on cue, another teardrop fell from her lAlias. "I am so…so sorry, Reno. I-I should've said something sooner…"
"No, don't be sorry. Whatever it is you've been feeling, you have every right to feel that way."
Caressing the skin around her eyes one last time to ensure no tears were left, Reno stood, grabbing Alia's hand and pulling her up towards him. He stared down into the magnificent color of her eyes, knowing that he could drown in the mixed colors. Leaning down and placing a swift kiss on her forehead, he leaned towards her ear and whispered "We'll talk about this later. But right now, let's just enjoy our dinner first. I've missed you this past month." Alia nodded, and as Reno took a step to reclaim his seat, she grabbed his arm, holding on as if her life depended on it.
Knowing exactly what she needed, Reno pulled Alia into his arms, positioning his head to sit on atop hers; she linked her arms around his waist and held on firmly. "Alia, I know exactly what it is that's running through your head." He gently pulled her away and leaned down until he was eye-level with her. He studied her expression for a few seconds and immediately detected that she had fear within her heart – and he knew where that fear was coming from. "I swear to you, Alia Strife, I am not going to leave you. Nothing could ever force me to leave your loving embrace. Do you believe me?"
"Yes," Alia instantaneously answered. She was shocked at how quick she found her voice but continued to speak so she wouldn't lose it again. "I just…needed to hear you say it." She leaned forward and planted a soft kiss on his lips, retracting just as quickly as she had acted.
Reno kissed her forehead once more before saying, "Believe me when I say, Alia, that I would be a fool if I ever were to leave such an amazing woman such as yourself." This caused the woman's cheeks to burn bright red, her smile radiating, only growing wider. Kissing her one more time, Reno pulled her chair back, allowing Alia to sit first before reclaiming his seat. Mere seconds passed before the waiter returned with their food, leaving the two alone for their privacy.
Although the couple could feel the slight uneasiness in the air, both ate their meals respectively, providing conversation with the other. Neither stopped talking to the other as topics flowed easily from their mouths. Reno watched Alia closely, loving how her eyes would dart upward, catching his, causing her to blush even more.
So, I was right all along. Reno thought as he swallowed several bites of his meal. She is hiding something. Whatever it may be, it won't ruin what he have.
Engaging in conversation, Reno discussed the recent mission as much as he was able to without giving away too many details. He didn't discuss much as Alia focused more on Elena's injuries, especially the way she broke her leg. Although she heard the story earlier from her friend's perspective, she wanted to hear it from Reno's and, albeit she felt sorry for her friend, she thought the story was quite funny.
From Alia's perspective, she conversed about the various jobs she completed over the past month, mainly assisting Cloud with the business, as well as taking care of the kids. By the time she covered her entire month, they had both finished their meals and were waiting to receive their dessert.
As Reno pushed his now empty plate forward, he said, "Well, sounds like you have been quite busy while I've been gone."
"Honestly, it worked to my advantage. I was able to push my loneliness away by keeping busy."
"Was it that hard to be away from me, peaches?" Reno arched an eyebrow, knowing full well he was being cocky.
Alia leaned forward, ready to play at his own game. "Couldn't I just ask you the same thing, Reno?"
"Tch, yeah, you could. And to answer: yes, it was hell not being able to see you. Night and day, knowing that you were back in Edge waiting for me to come home while I was off fighting to protect the thing we created…it was a nightmare." Reno ran his hands through his red hair.
"It felt longer than one month."
"Oh, I wasn't the only one thinking that?" Alia nodded in agreement. "Thank god…I don't know why, but time was such a bitch…each day lagged on longer than the previous. I never thought that our mission would end."
The click from the patio door captured both of the couples attention as they noticed the waiter walked in. "Well, it looks like both of you have finished your entrées. Are we ready for your dessert?"
"Actually, would it be possible to take our dessert home?" Alia asked. She was eager to share the dessert with Reno here and now, though she knew it was better if they headed home. The sooner they headed home, the sooner the truth would come out.
Was she ready for that to happen?
"Of course, I'll go get that right now for you. I'll just leave the check here, there's no rush you can stay as long as you need." The waiter started to grab their plates and noticed that both were out of their drinks. "Do we need any refills here?"
Reno shook his head. "Nah, we're good. Just the dessert and we should be good to go."
"Of course, I'll be back in a few."
As their waiter walked away from their table, Reno grabbed the check, quickly glancing at the price. He never cared, because whatever it the amount was, he always paid it. The man had enough money saved up to last hime until he floated back into the Lifestream. Pulling out his wallet, he dropped two-hundred gil into the money folder, leaving it on the edge of the table. Noting how much he paid, Alia raised an eyebrow, seeming bewildered. "Was the bill really that much?"
"What? Oh no, it was less than a hundred, but I gave him a huge tip; I think he deserves it."
"I know he was good, he's been our waiter before, but why such a big tip this time?"
Reno smiled and looked deep into her eyes. "Because he waited patiently by the door when you were crying." Alia's mouth opened slightly, not quite knowing what to say. Now she felt embarrassed at how she was acting but Reno shook his head. "Don't overthink it, Alia. It's been a long day for both of us."
Their waiter came back one last time to drop off their boxed dessert. He took the folder with him to grab their change when Reno explained that wasn't necessary; he wished them a goodnight and a safe drive back as the couple began to stand. Holding the dessert in one hand and Alia's in the other, Reno led them out of the restaurant. Making their way over to Reno's truck, the red-head Alia followed, taking her seat on the passenger side. Igniting the engine, Reno took hold of her hand once more, her grip never letting go.
"Hold on peaches," Reno said, steering the vehicle onto the freeway. "I'm gonna get us home in record time." Alia only nodded, the tight smile she wore painful to bear.
Turning her attention outside the window, a single tear escaped from her eye as she knew that, when they finally reached home, she and Reno were going to have a difficult conversation that she had been trying to avoid the last eight years.
~ oOo ~
The ride back to the apartment was unnaturally quiet. Alia kept her hand tightly around Reno's as he sped forth from Kalm back to Edge. As the vast expanse of the open plains plagued her eyes, Alia allowed her eyelids to droop until she had finally lost consciousness. Through her sleepiness, her grip grew slack. Steering his attention over to the female, Reno couldn't withhold the grin covering his face as he watched the woman fall into a peaceful sleep, her head leaned perfectly against the window.
As the truck hummed into the distance, Reno watched the scenery change before him. Leaving Kalm, he drove the newly developed freeway through the plains back towards Edge. At first, everything remained luscious and green, even in the dark of night there were plants and flowers growing at the side of the road. Once the reached the halfway mark, everything turned to dust, resembling a wasteland. They had reached the boundary between the mako that hadn't been sucked from the earth and what had shriveled to die.
Easing into the city, Reno wasn't surprised to see people still walking around. It was fairly early into the evening. Maneuvering through the city, Reno guided the truck around the citizens, eventually making his way back towards his apartment complex. Parking in the lot beneath his building, he turned the humming to he engine off, leaving them in silence.
"Alia?" Gently shaking her shoulder, the woman groaned, eyes flickering beneath the lids. "Peaches, we're home."
"Mmm, no…"
Chuckling, Reno moved the woman so her head leaned back against the seat. Stepping out, he moved around towards her side, opening to door to cup her cheek. Slapping the skin as softly he could, the man muttered her name several more times. "Sweetheart, you fell asleep, it's time to wake up." Head tilting in his direction, her mix-matched eyes peered through tiny slits. Smiling gently upward at the man, she took his hand as she did her best to wake up. "There's my beautiful woman," he kissed her forehead.
"Mmm, we're home?"
"That we are."
"I…fell asleep?"
"Heh, yes you did." She's always like this whenever she falls asleep in the truck. "We're finally home."
"Oh, yay," she giggled, moving to straighten her legs outside of the door. Jumping from the truck, she stood on shaky legs. Grasping her shoulders for reassurance, Alia brightened her smile, reaching back inside to grab their dessert.
Taking her hand, he locked the truck, guiding the two of them inside. With eyes half-closed, Alia didn't let go, even as he led her into the elevator to take them to the top of the building. Vaguely aware of her surroundings, Alia didn't care as Reno was watching out for her; that's all that mattered. With the ding of the elevator indicating their assigned floor, Reno softly tugged her hand, walking down the hallway towards his door. As he opened the door, Alia released her hand only to walk straight towards the couch and fall onto the soft cushions.
Locking the door, Reno stood beside the couch, watching as her chest rose and fell, matching the even breathing she held as she was lulled back into a deep sleep. He couldn't believe how exhausted she seemed compared to earlier. Kneeling, Reno traced the contour of her face, his fingers trailing from her chin, down to her shoulder when they eventually landed on her hip. The farther his touched reached, the deeper Alia breathed. He knew the effect his touch had on her.
But why doesn't she give in to her sensations? Reno wondered.
Making his way towards the kitchen, Reno took the boxed dessert out of its bag, placing it in the fridge. He scrunched his nose as the fumes made contact with his brain and he quickly retracted from the fridge. Damn, he thought. Need to take care of the tomorrow. Scratching his head, Reno was unsure of what to do next. Should he leave Alia to sleep on the couch or should he take her to their room?
Deciding on the latter, he walked back into the living room to find Alia completely stretched out against the couch, with an arm above her head with the other sprawled across her stomach. Stopping dead in his tracks at the edge of the couch, Reno couldn't help but admire the woman that was before him. She was the epitome of perfection in his eyes with her hair sprawled across the pillows along with the way her mouth slightly opened as she breathed in and out. Knowing she would be better off in the comforts of their bed, Reno lifted Alia from the couch, her head slanted against his chest and Reno couldn't help but stare into her beautiful sleeping form.
Making his way upstairs to the bedroom they shared, Reno placed Alia on her side of the bed, her body unconsciously shifting onto her side. Reno began to undress. Carefully removing his jacket and trousers, he hung them perfectly in his closet. Even going so far as to refold his shirt the way Alia had in his closet. Now clad only in his boxers, the red-head made his way towards the bathroom. Switching on the lights he stood before the sink, bathed his face in cold water then dragged a towel across his skin before tossing it into the hamper.
Walking back into the bedroom, Reno searched in its drawers until he grabbed a clean shirt as he placed over his head, and the usual set of pajamas Alia wore whenever she was over; short cotton shorts and a simple tank top.
"Reno…?" He turned towards the bed and noticed that Alia was no longer asleep, her mix-matched eyes softly searching for his.
"I'm here peaches," Reno replied, walking towards her side. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he cradled her cheek. "Did you have a nice nap?"
"How long was I asleep?"
"Practically the entire way home."
"We're home?"
Alia was rewarded with a chuckle from Reno. "Yes, we've been home almost…twenty minutes now?"
She only groaned in response and sat forward. "I can't believe I fell asleep… How did I end up here?"
"You honestly don't remember waking up outside, do you?" Alia shook her head and Reno scratched his own, a particular spot right behind his left ear - a nervous habit he gained when he entered the Turks. "Don't worry. You wanna change real quick so you can go back to bed?" She nodded in response. "Alright, I'll go get us some water."
Making his way back downstairs, Reno grabbed two glasses and filled them with water from the fridge, idly waiting while Alia took her time to change. Taking a drink from his own glass, Reno gulped down nearly half, thinking back towards how the day had progressed. It had been an extensive day, one he would gladly repeat again if given the chance. Yeah, their dinner had produced some unwanted tension neither person wanted, but the way Reno looked back on what they discussed, it was needed for their relationship.
I know Alia is always open with me but I want her to be able to talk about our potential sex life. Forget the fact about whether we have sex or not, I just want her to know that I won't ever leave her. Waking back towards the door, Reno only took a few steps before he stopped mid-step. Wow, would you look at that. A few years ago, I would never have cared about another girl with the way I do about Alia. I would've straight up fucked anyone if I could but with her, I honestly don't mind if we ever make it to that level.
He smiled at this sudden revelation.
Does that mean I changed for the better?
The sound of the door opening above his head signaled that Alia was done. Taking two steps at a time, Reno hurriedly made his way back towards her, suddenly needing to simply hug the woman. Stepping through the door, he found Alia sitting in the middle of the bed, threading her fingers through her ashy hair. Hearing his footsteps, she glanced upwards, giving Reno with a small smile.
Sitting down next to her, Reno handed her the unopened bottle of water, which she took and softly replied 'thanks'. They both sat in silence; Reno drinking the rest of his water while Alia continued to knead her hair, pulling at invisible knots. After a few minutes, Alia turned towards Reno. "We…need to talk don't we?"
A sigh escaped from Reno's lips as he processed her words. He held his face within his hands; not sure where to begin, and not sure where the conversation would end. "I-I guess the question remains is…what is it you want to tell me?"
Alia swallowed a sudden lump in her throat. "I…I don't know where to start, Reno."
Taking her shaking hand into his, Reno rubbed the skin with his thumb. Inside, he desperately wanted to know what was plaguing the mind of this beautiful woman; though he didn't want to rush her. "Just…start by telling me what you are feeling. Is that ok?"
She docilely nodded. "W-well," Alia stammered, trying to find the words she wanted to express. All the emotions she had wanted to tell Reno from day one suddenly burst through her body; every sensation of fear and sadness coursed through her veins. Needing strength to finish what she hadn't even started to say, Alia squeezed Reno's hand. "Since we've been together…we've never really been intimate with e-each other…And, before I push any further, I m-must apologize." She tilted her head downward only for Reno to grasp her chin with his fingers and pulled her eyes up to meet his.
"Don't ever apologize for whatever it is you are feeling; I believe I've already told you this."
"I c-can't help but feel the way I feel…"
"Shh, I know, it's ok. Alia, whatever it is you have to tell me, I won't be mad. You know that, right?" She shook her head, signifying no. Reno tilted her head to face him. "You have to trust me; I won't."
Taking a deep breath and forcing it out, Alia again started playing with her hair; it was her nervous habit just as when Reno scratched his head. "I'm…" she began. "We – I haven't instigated sex b-because…I'm scared…"
I knew it. "But why?"
"Reno," she spoke low and softly; Reno had to tilt forwards in order to hear her words. "I know of your reputation as a w-womanizer back before everything that happened with Sephiroth…we've discussed this before."
"...yes?"
"I…well, what if I-I can't…" Alia cut off her sentence and immediately began to speak again, focusing on another topic. "What if I'm not g-good enough…?"
Reno blinked and, for one of the rare moments in his life, he went speechless. Oh…for fucks sake.. I would have never, EVER thought that's what's been bothering her all this time. "Alia, you've been feeling this way for the last two years?" She nodded in agreement. "Why didn't you ever say something? Why did you have to keep it a secret from me?" It was now Reno's turn to speak softly; he didn't want to come off as an ass just because she finally told him. Hell, he didn't even know what he was supposed to feel at that particular moment.
"I don't know, I guess…I was so afraid that we would have sex and then…you wouldn't want anything to do with me after that…"
"And you really believed that?" He slipped, accidentally raising his voice; he could see Alia recoil at his words.
"No, not at first. But gradually, I started to believe it the longer we were together. I mean…why would you…want someone as b-broken as me…? What's to stop you from fucking me then l-leaving?" As she was speaking, several tears began to leak down her face and Reno let them fall, guessing that she most likely didn't want him to touch her at that exact moment.
"No, I would never do that to you, Alia. You're not some toy that I can play with when I have a sudden desire too; you're much, much more to me than that." Cupping her hand in his, Reno pulled his close to his, lips molding against each finger. All he did was kiss her, it was all he ever wanted to do; but he could feel Alia pulling away from him, so he let go. Once apart, Alia covered with her mouth and looked away, more tears staining her face.
"Alia…"
The woman froze, eyes moving upward to meet his. Her mouth trembled, body doing the same as she suddenly recoiled from his touch. The words were there, right on the tip of her lips. All she had to do was admit the truth. Why was it that much harder then? Why couldn't she simply state that she had been -
"Reno…I-I'm sorry I can't…I can't do this!"
Alia jumped off the bed, leaving the safe enclosure of Reno's arms. Bounding towards the bathroom, she slammed the door shut and, from the bed, Reno could hear the faint click as she locked the door; ensuring that the two remained dumbfounded on the bed, Reno held his gaze on the bathroom door. He was still trying to wrap his head around the sudden information, unsure of how to process what she said.
So, he thought. Alia's afraid because she think she's broken and I'll just use her for one fuck? Standing, Reno quickly moved towards the door and the closer each foot gave him, the more he could hear Alia from within the confined walls of the bathroom. Leaning his ear against the wood, Reno listened intently and it only took him a few seconds to realize that Alia was now crying, washing away her fears and her doubts.
Not being able to express the feelings that were rushing through his veins, Reno leaned against the door; his heart being torn in two as he could hear the ragged sobs of his girl. Drawing in a raggedy breath of his own, he gently tapped on the wood. "Alia…hey, peaches, please…open the door." He didn't get a reply; instead, Alia began to sob harder. Unable to control the vast amount of emotions she had stored within, her sobs echoed within Reno's ears that cringed in pain.
Forcing himself to leave their room, Reno pushed himself away, dragging his feet out the door down into the kitchen. He wanted to help Alia feel better but he wasn't sure where to start…or what he could even do. Without even realizing Reno stood in front of the sink, his hands grabbing the edge of the counter so hard, the skin around his knuckles felt it would split. Hot chocolate…the drink he knew Alia was slightly addicted to - Reno knew that even if she didn't drink it, she would appreciate the thought.
At least, that's what he kept repeating to himself.
Grabbing the kettle from the stove and filling it with water from the faucet, Reno ignited the burner and placed the chocobo-style kettle on top of it. Grabbing both the cocoa from Icicle Village and her favorite mug, Reno waited against the counter as the water boiled. Letting his face fall into his hands Reno groaned, unsure of where their relationship was heading after this.
After all this time, I never knew Alia had been feeling this way. But why…why does she think she's broken? And what does have to do with her thinking I only want her one time? I would never do that to her. Alia is different than all those other woman.
Reno looked above him at the ceiling, the exact spot where the master bedroom was outlined.
Alia…you are the only person who has ever made me feel whole, complete…and loved. Those other woman were just a distraction from the constant paint I felt everyday knowing all the stuff I had to endure as a Turk.
But you accepted me wholeheartedly. Please…don't give up on me now. Even if you are broken as you say, I would never, NEVER give up on you.
The kettle began whistling as the water boiled and Reno pulled it off the stove, pouring the steamy water into Alia's moogle mug. Breaking open the package, he dumped the cocoa, stirring the chocolatey-goodness, the once clear liquid turning dark brown. Sitting the kettle back down, Reno pulled the bag of mini marshmallows and placed exactly seven inside. Grabbing it firmly in his hand, Reno began his way upstairs, wanting to know that, even if she was still unhappy with the situation, that she could find it in her heart to forgive him.
~ oOo ~
Alia sat on the edge of bathtub, fresh, cold tears streaming down her cheeks. She didn't even bother trying to hide her face anymore. She knew Reno had left, she could hear his footsteps walk away and leave the room. She began a process of clenching and unclenching her hands, not sure of where she should place them. Already she had hidden away her face in them, but what next? Should she hide some more or should she face the hole she had just dug?
Oh Gaia I can't believe he now knows…Looking back, I feel foolish for thinking that. I knew I was right…who would want someone as broken as me…? Alia looked across the bathroom into the wall mirror, her red, swollen eyes piercing back. The skin across her cheeks was turning a pinkish hue from embarrassment. She didn't know what to think of the situation, but the last question she had asked herself echoed loudly within her ears.
No, was all she told herself.
Alia knew she was keeping more information from Reno. She was self-conscious about the circumstance and truly did not want Reno to know what else she had yet to tell him. And yet, she did – Alia knew that by telling Reno she would have the courage to go through with what she desperately wanted to do. That's what confused her most, knowing that she wanted to have sex with Reno but was scared because of what she was hiding in her past.
Looking back into the mirror, Alia suddenly felt disgusted with herself. She had been with an amazing man for a long time and knew him from inside and out. She knew his favorite color, his morning routine, how he liked to have his clothes folded and even the darkest secrets he had kept within himself about being a Turk. Hell, she even knew his family history and origins – something not even the people of Shinra knew about. Thinking about that alone, it occurred to Alia that Reno must've had faith and trust within her to tell her his secrets without a second thought. If he can do that, then why can't I?
Because you're afraid of being alone and that he'll drop you off without a moment's notice, a voice reverberated in Alia's head.
At this realization, Alia nodded her head to no one but herself. I'm a fucking idiot for letting this get to me…but sex is such a big deal and I'm…
"…so fucking scared" she whispered to out loud, the confines of the bathroom wall silencing her word from leaking out into the world.
"Knock, knock."
Snapping her head in the direction of the door, Alia's heart froze. Reno. "Alia, peaches please…can I come in? I've brought you something."
Feeling her heart skip several beats, she stood more quickly than she thought she would. But as she grasped the handle, she froze once again. Taking a deep breath, knowing that she needed to face her lover and apologize for her idiocy on the matter, she unlocked the door and pulled it open.
Seeing her face come into view, Reno gave her a soft smile, and placed the steamy cup of hot chocolate into her field of vision. He could see the redness of her eyes, but made no move to acknowledge it. "I made you your favorite."
Slowly reaching out to take the mug, she held it within her hands and asked, "With seven mini marshmallows?"
"Of course, peaches. No more, no less."
Walking back into the bathroom, Alia reclaimed her seat on the tubs edge, gently bringing the hot mug towards her lips, blowing against the steamy liquid to cool it off. As she took her first sip, Reno followed suit and sat down on the toilet. Resting his elbows on his knees, he watched as she greedily drank the cocoa; he could see a faint smile on her lips. They sat together in silence; Alia steadily drinking what was left of her cocoa while Reno watched her with a close eye. Neither one spoke until Alia placed the mug in her hands for good and turned her head to look in Reno's eyes.
He was the first to speak. "Did you finish it already?" She nodded. "Want me to go make more?"
"No, I'll be ok." She twirled the mug in her hands. "It was delicious by the way…thank you."
"You're most welcome, peaches."
"Listen, Reno…" He raised an eyebrow as Alia's grip tightened on the mug; he knew she had something to say. "I'm sorry…for everything. I was a fool in thinking what I did."
Reno didn't respond. And after a few quiet minutes, he still didn't say anything – he couldn't even think of what he should say. Instead, he took hold of her mug and sat in on the counter, his voice still silent.
"Reno?" He turned; Alia's voice full of question and confusion. Without asking, in his Reno-way, he bent down and lifted the woman beneath her legs.
"Eeep! Reno! What're you doing?!"
"Taking you to bed, what else?" She smacked him on the back of his head and he laughed, realization of what his words caught up to him. "Not in that sense!" Leaving the bathroom, Reno stepped towards their bed, gently laying Alia on her side of the mattress. Turning the overhead light off, he then made his way, to his side, claiming his seat beside her. Reno untied the leather band which bound his air together and set it on the nightstand for the next morning.
"You're not going to do anything to me?"
Alia's voice caught him off guard and he looked into the darkness to find her glowing eyes staring at him. Reaching down through the sheets he found her hand, holding it firmly. "No Alia, I won't."
"But why?"
"You sound disappointed that I'm not."
"N-no…" Reno could see a faint blush smear her cheeks as his eyes began to adjust to the darkness.
"Don't worry, we won't do anything until you're ready."
She sniffled. "Reno…"
"Hey," turning on his side he pulled her towards his chest and began to run his fingers through her long hair. Alia didn't object, only snuggling closer to the warmness he offered her. She shivered and Reno reached down, grabbed the covers and pulled it over their bodies. Immediately Alia enfolded her arms around his waist, Reno only tightening his grip on her. "Alia, please don't cry…you've shed enough tears, and it's all because of me."
"No! I'm the one who -" She was cut off by Reno's lips. This time, she did not push away but pulled him towards her. They stayed that way for a few minutes; Reno's hands tracing her back while Alia ran hers through his fiery hair.
When they finally pulled away, both slightly panting from the sudden onslaught of raw and needed passion, Reno said, "Don't you even say it; I'm not gonna have this conversation with you where we go back and forth."
"But I am sorry."
He sighed and placed a kiss on her forehead. "Peaches, you apologize for your feelings way too much. Listen," he looked deep into her eyes. "I'm the one who's sorry. To think you were feeling this way for that long…I never considered what you might be thinking, and for that, I am sorry. I was ignorant of whatever you have gone through."
"Reno," she stroked his cheek. "Why? Why do I mean so much to you? Why do you call me peaches?"
"Because, peaches, you're perfectly imperfect. You're the most gracious and unbelievably kind person who has ever been in my life. You've forgiven me for my sins, for being a Turk, hell, for even trying to annihilate AVALANCHE back in the good 'ol days." He kissed her eyebrow. "You've given me a second chance." Her cheek. "You've given me hope." Her nose. "You've simply been there for me when others have walked out on me." And finally, her lips.
"That still doesn't explain why you call me peaches."
"Oh, I've called you that because of the way you blush. Plus, peaches are my favorite fruit." This made the woman chuckle as she swiped at her cheeks, removing any remaining tears. "But you wanna know something?" She nodded her head enthusiastically. "All those women from years ago," her smile disappeared but she still listened nonetheless. "Were nothing more than a distraction – a distraction from all the pain I felt everyday knowing what I had to do with my life in order to survive. All of them were a mistake; I never loved any of them, I never truly wanted any of them. But when it comes to you, I get this rush of heat in my chest that I've never felt before. You've given me a place in this world when I was always told there would never be one for me." He kissed her again and Alia went limp. She couldn't believe her ears; Reno had never gone into so much explicit detail about what she meant to him.
"Reno…" was all she could manage to say.
"Alia…please don't let this trivial matter about us not having sex ruin our relationship. I don't want to lose you over this," he skimmed his hand over her cheek, unable to believe at how her skin always managed to be soft. "Whatever has happened in your past for you to believe you're broken, I will love you regardless. I just want us to be together. Having you by mays side is all I care about."
"I won't," she replied immediately. "I won't ever let you go; I belong to you and you belong to me."
"Forever Alia, I'll never lose you,"
Reno tightened his grip and Alia did the same. Her breathing relaxed and within a matter of time, she had fallen asleep, exhaustion causing her to collapse long before Reno did. He looked down at her sleeping face and kissed the top of her head. His last statement was true – he would never lose her, but he was scared shitless about her safety. Reno had no idea why the hell this one random guy wanted Alia or what he wanted her for. But he'd never let him get her, Reno would protect her with his life, he promised himself that the day he had laid his eyes on her and the same promise only grew with each passing day.
They'll never lay a fucking finger on her, was the last thought Reno processed through his head before his eyes finally closed as well.
~ oOo ~
We'll get more answers later. Maybe?
DragonGoddess629
