♫ NOW PLAYING: WE FIND LOVE BY DANIEL CEASER ♫

As I sat in my small apartment, feeling a bit lonely, my phone suddenly rang. I picked it up and saw Tifa’s name on the screen. I took a deep breath and answered.

“Hey Tifa, what's up?”

Tifa’s voice was warm and cheerful as she responded, “Hey there! I was just wondering if you’re still up for hanging out tonight. I’m planning a little get-together at Seventh Heaven and I’d love it if you could join us.”

I couldn’t help but feel a warm smile spread across my face. “Of course! I’d love to come. It’s been a while since I've seen everyone.”

Tifa’s happiness was palpable through the phone. “Great! It’s going to be a fun night, I promise.”

Tifa ended the call abruptly, which surprised me a bit but I shook it off. I realized she was probably just busy trying to get everything ready.

As I put my phone down, I felt a pang of loneliness and guilt. I had been so focused on work and putting on my brave face that I hadn’t really taken the time to see my friends.

Sure, I’ve been in touch with them here and there, but it’s been a while since I’ve actually spent some quality time with any of them.

The thought of it made me realize how isolated I had become lately. The stress from all the missions and the constant need to keep my emotions in check had driven a wedge between me and those closest to me.

I sighed deeply, feeling both tired and guilty. Maybe this night out could help me reconnect with my friends again. It’s not like I wanted to be alone, but I didn’t want to burden them with my problems either.

The walk to Seventh Heaven felt longer than usual, but I couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. I took a deep breath before pushing open the door and stepping inside.

As soon as I walked in, I was greeted by the familiar, cozy atmosphere of the bar. Tifa was behind the counter, smiling warmly as she noticed me enter.

I looked around the bar and couldn’t help but notice how empty it was. Turning to Tifa, I asked, “Not so busy today?”

Tifa shook her head, her smile still shining bright. “I closed up early today for the little get-together.”

The thought of being the first to arrive made me feel a mix of anticipation and unease. Tifa walked up to me, her steps full of confidence.

“You’re the first one here,” she said, a warm smile on her face.

Tifa’s words made my heart pound a little faster. I forced a smile and tried to act nonchalant.

“Well, I do pride myself on being punctual,” I joked, trying to hide the mix of excitement and nervousness I was feeling.

Tifa let out a soft laugh and nodded in agreement. She knew me well enough to sense the unease beneath my casual front.

“Why don’t you grab a seat at the bar? I’ll pour you a drink. On the house,” Tifa suggested, gesturing towards the stools by the counter.

I nodded and made my way over to the bar, taking a seat. Tifa leaned on the counter, watching me with a knowing smile.

“You’re a little more tense than usual. Something on your mind?”

As I sat there, Tifa quietly listened to me talk about the various missions I've been going on lately.

I rambled on about how stressful it's been, the constant fighting leaving me exhausted and the close calls making me feel like I was standing on thin ice.

I confessed about how the long hours and constant travel left me feeling isolated from my friends, how the lack of communication had slowly driven a wedge between us.

I shook my head as I finished, a bitter laugh escaping me. “But the pay is good,” I said with a sigh. “It’s what keeps me going.”

Tifa looked at me with a mix of concern and understanding. She knew I was trying to downplay my struggles, to act like everything was just fine and dandy.

As soon as Tifa opened her mouth to say something, I quickly interjected, my smile soft but firm.

“Let’s move on from this conversation. We’re here to have fun, not to talk about my problems,” I said, trying to brush off the heaviness that had settled over us.

Tifa nodded in agreement, her smile soft and understanding. Just then, the bar door opened, and in walked Jessie, Wedge, and Biggs. Their loud conversation filled the air, the joyful energy bringing a smile to my face.

As they made their way over to the bar, I noticed Cloud strolling in behind them. Our eyes met briefly, and he gave me a small nod in greeting.

Jessie noticed me sitting at the bar, a smile instantly spreading across her face. She quickly broke away from the boys and ran over to me, enveloping me in a tight hug.

“Y/N! It’s so good to see you!” she exclaimed, her excitement infectious.

I couldn’t help but return her hug, feeling my heart lift at the familiar warmth of her embrace. She released me, her eyes sparkling with joy.

“You have no idea how much we’ve missed you! These boys are so boring,” Jessie teased, gesturing towards Wedge and Biggs, who both feigned offense.

Wedge raised an eyebrow, acting wounded. “Hey now, we’re not that boring.”

Biggs chuckled, rolling his eyes at Jessie. “Speak for yourself. I’m a delight to be around.”

Jessie rolled her eyes at the two boys, letting out an exaggerated sigh. “Oh please, you two are like watching paint dry.” I laughed, the tension from earlier forgotten as I joined in with their playful banter.

Jessie, energized as ever, jumped up and shouted, “A drink on me!” She then turned to Tifa behind the bar. “Your finest drink, please, Tifa.”

Tifa, used to Jessie’s exuberance, just chuckled and nodded, beginning to prepare the drinks.

The boys joined in the cheer, raising their spirits high. “Aye! Free drinks!” Wedge exclaimed, grinning widely.

Biggs nodded in agreement “Can’t say no to that!”

As everyone continued chatting and laughing, the bar door opened once again. A voice, familiar yet a little deeper, echoed through the room.

“Sorry we’re late.”

A chill went down my spine as I turned around, my heart skipping a beat. Standing in the doorway was a face I never thought I’d see again.

It was him.

His features were sharper, his expression more mature, but the unmistakable eyes were the same as the ones etched in my memory.

Zack.

It wasn’t just Zack that walked through the door. There was a girl wrapped around his arm, her head resting on his shoulder. She was beautiful, with flowing brunette hair and a warm smile. I felt my heart sink at the sight of them together.

I couldn’t help but question myself, my mind going a thousand miles a minute. How did I miss his return? Was he already here in Midgar for long? And most importantly, who was this woman by his side?

I tried to bury my feelings, keeping a brave face on. But deep down, I felt a strange mixture of shock and anguish. It was like seeing a piece of my past, a past I thought I’d moved on from, standing right in front of me, changed and different. It was a bitter-sweet reunion.

The mood shifted as the entire room erupted in excitement. “Zack! You’re back!” Wedge and Biggs shouted in unison, rushing over to greet him. Even Jessie couldn’t contain her joy.

“It’s been too long, man!” Wedge said, slapping Zack on the back. Biggs nodded in agreement. “About time you graced us with your presence again.”

Cloud, ever the cool and composed one, joined the reunion. He stepped forward and nodded at Zack. “Took a late mission?” he asked.

Zack smiled, patting Cloud on the shoulder. “Yeah. You know how it is. Shinra never lets us rest for too long,” he replied, his tone light but with a hint of exhaustion in his eyes.

As I watched from the sidelines, my mind wandered. Zack, a mercenary now? It made sense, given his desire for freedom he had broken free from Shinra’s clutches. It was ironic, really.

When we were together, Zack was under Shinra’s wing, shackled by their control. Zack had to follow certain rules and us being together couldn’t happen but we let it play out secretly.

Now, he was finally free, yet we were worlds apart, our lives diverging in ways I never could have imagined. And the thought of him finding someone else, of him moving on, stung deeply. He gets to love that girl publicly without worrying about following some stupid rules. As for me, I was a whole secret.

I couldn’t help but think, maybe if I hadn’t let him go, maybe things could’ve turned out differently. But at the same time it wasn’t my choice to let the relationship go.

The room was alive with the laughter and chatter of the group, and yet I felt oddly detached. Zack was there, with a new girl wrapped around his arm, and here I was, still thinking about what could’ve been.

Why was I so upset over him moving on? It’s not like I expected him to hold a torch for me years after breaking up. But the sight of them together, with her clinging to his arm, it just made all those old wounds resurface.

I was pulled out of my thoughts by Tifa’s voice, “Hey, you okay?” she asked, concern in her eyes.

I blinked, realizing I had been zoning out for a while. “Yeah, fine,” I said, forcing a small smile. I didn’t want to burden her with my confusing emotions.

Tifa looked apologetic, her voice soft “I’m sorry. I didn’t know he was going to be here. Aerith probably invited him along.”

Aerith. It matched her perfectly—soft, gentle, and beautiful, just like the girl it belonged to. “It’s fine, seriously,” I replied, trying to act nonchalant.

Tifa didn’t look convinced. She knew me too well, knew that this unexpected reunion with Zack was stirring up old emotions. But I wasn’t ready to talk about it, not here, not now. I just wanted to get through the night without anyone noticing the turmoil brewing under my surface.

I forced a polite smile and introduced myself, trying to keep my voice steady. “Oh, um, I’m Y/N.”

Aerith tilted her head, still curious. “Y/N? Nice to meet you! I’m guessing you haven’t been around here forawhile, huh?”

I nodded, trying to ignore the pang in my chest. “Yeah, I live around here, but I’ve been too busy to visit, sadly,” I replied with a vague shrug.

Tifa watched our exchange, her gaze flitting between me and Aerith. She knew my history with Zack, and she could sense the unease I was trying to hide.

Aerith seemed oblivious to the tension, her smile never wavering. “That’s a shame. We could always use more girls around here,” she teased, nudging me with her elbow.

I forced a laugh, playing along as best I could. “Yeah, could always use more girls around.”

As we spoke, Aerith caught Zack’s arm proudly, tugging him over. “This is my boyfriend, Zack,” she declared, her voice filled with affection. “Two years strong.”

Hearing the words felt like a knife twisting in my gut. Two years. Two years they’ve been together. Two years of happiness.

The room suddenly seemed too small, the air too thick with the weight of those words. I tried to keep my composure, tried to act like it didn’t affect me at all, but the truth was, I was struggling to breathe.

Two years. I couldn’t help but think, was it really that long ago since I last saw him? And he has been with her the whole time. Two whole years of building a relationship, while I’d been stuck in loneliness.

I shook myself out of my thoughts, forcing a smile as I turned to face Zack. “Nice to meet you, Zack.” My voice came out steady, despite the whirlwind of emotions I was feeling.

Zack’s gaze lingered on me for a moment, and I thought I saw a flash of recognition in his eyes.

The air between us felt charged, like we were both holding back words left unspoken. But before either of us could say anything, Aerith grabbed Zack’s arm, pulling him away with a cheerful “Let’s join the others.”

Zack shot me one last glance before allowing himself to be pulled away. My heart ached as I watched them walk away, his arm wrapped around her waist.

Tifa noticed my gaze linger and placed a hand on my shoulder comfortingly. “You okay?” she whispered.

“I need a shot. The strongest one you’ve got.” Tifa looked concerned but moved behind the bar, pouring a shot of the strongest liquor she had. As she handed it to me, her voice was soft, “Take a deep breath.”

I took the shot without hesitation, trying to banish the thoughts from my head. The strong liquid burned my throat, but it didn’t do anything to numb the ache in my heart.

I let out a deep breath, feeling the burn of the alcohol. It was a temporary distraction, one that didn't last long. As I sat there, my face buried in my hands, Tifa silently watched me, her concern evident in her expression.

Tifa watched me, her expression full of worry. “You should head home,” she said gently. “Being here won’t make anything better.”

I sighed, knowing she was right. I lifted my head, meeting her gaze. “You’re probably right,” I murmured. “Sorry for ruining the vibe.”

Tifa shook her head, waving off my apology. “Don’t worry about it. I understand.” She paused, her expression softening. “Seriously, go home and get some rest.”

I nodded, feeling a pang of guilt for spoiling the night. “Yeah…I will.”

I rose from the stool, intending to leave, when Jessie stepped in front of me. “Leaving already? The fun’s just started,” Jessie protested.

I forced a smile, shaking my head. “Yeah, sorry, gotta cut it short. Early mission tomorrow,” I lied, hoping the excuse would keep the questions to a minimum.

Jessie tsk-ed, feigning disappointment. “Early mission, huh? You work too hard, you know that? You gotta find some time for fun.”

I smiled faintly at her words, appreciating her concern. “I know, I know. But you know how it is. A mercenary’s work is never done,” I replied, half joking.

Jessie sighed, knowing I had a point. “Alright, alright. Can't argue with that. But you better come back soon, okay? We miss you around here.”

I nodded, touched by her sincerity. “I will. I promise.” With a final wave, I made my way towards the door, the weight of the night’s unexpected reunion still hanging heavily on my shoulders.

As I pushed open the door and stepped outside, the cool night air hit me. I took a deep breath, trying to dispel the tension that had built up inside me.

I made my way home, feeling the exhaustion finally settling in. Once I entered my apartment, I sluggishly walked over to the couch and slumped onto it, letting out a deep sigh.

The silence in my apartment was deafening, almost claustrophobic. I closed my eyes, trying to block out the memory of Zack and Aerith’s arrival. But their image was still burnt into my mind, mocking my attempts at peace.

Opening my eyes, I couldn’t help but look around. Every corner, every surface seemed to hold a memory of us. Our laughter echoed through the empty rooms, a ghost of our past happiness. The furniture, the decoration, even the goddamn paint had memories etched into it. I couldn’t escape it.

Everywhere I looked, I could see us. Zack’s jacket, thrown carelessly on the armchair, his boots, haphazardly kicked off nearby. I remembered how he’d waltz in and immediately make himself at home, like he owned the place. It was a habit I’d chastised him for countless times, but secretly loved.

The kitchen, with the worn-out chopping board, still marked with the remnants of countless meals we cooked together. The bathroom, where he’d insist on sharing the shower, despite my initial protests. And the bedroom, with its messy sheets and creaky bed that bore silent witness to our intimate moments.

Zack was always full of surprises, and one of his most consistent habits was finding ways to break the rules for me. No matter what day or time it was, he always managed to slip away from his duties at Shinra Headquarters and make his way to me.

The goodbye kisses we shared in the early mornings, just as the sun was starting to rise, were bittersweet. Those moments were filled with a mixture of joy and sadness, knowing that he had to rush back to the headquarters before anyone noticed his absence.

~

Zack smiled, reluctantly pulling himself away from me and out of the bed. “I gotta head back to headquarters before anyone finds out I’m gone,” he said, his voice filled with a mix of excitement and guilt.

I couldn’t help but chuckle, watching him hastily pull on his shirt. “You’re going to get in trouble one of these days, you know that?” I teased, still lying among the sheets.

Zack grinned, shrugging as he put his shirt on. “Eh, they’re all just a bunch of uptight assholes. I can handle ‘em.” He approached the bed, leaning down to give me a quick kiss on the forehead. “Don’t worry about me.”

I rolled my eyes and gave him a playful swat on the arm. “I always worry about you, you idiot.” My voice was stern, but there was no hiding the worry in my eyes. “If you get caught, you’ll be in for a world of trouble.”

Zack sighed, running his fingers through his messy hair. “I know, I know. But sometimes it’s worth the risk, y’know?” He leaned down, giving me a warm smile. “Besides, I’d do anything just to see you smile, even if it means risking my neck with Shinra.”

I couldn’t help but chuckle at his words, amused by his fearless attitude. Just then, Zack leaned down and gave me a tender kiss, his lips lingering on mine for a moment longer than necessary.

“I’ll be back before you know it,” he murmured against my lips. The words were like a promise, one he made every time he had to leave. It was his way of reassuring me, of calming my worries and fears.

I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him closer. “You better be,” I replied, trying to conceal the worry in my voice. “Or I’ll be the one kicking your ass for a change.”

Zack laughed, a deep, infectious sound that made my heart flutter. “Oh yeah? I’d like to see you try,” he teased, pulling me into a tight embrace. “You’re all bark, no bite.”

I pushed him away playfully, a smile on my face as I said, “Get out of here before you get in trouble, SOLDIER.”

Zack chuckled, reluctantly pulling away from me. “Fine, fine. I’m going, I’m going.” He leaned down again and pecked me on the lips, his touch sending a tingle through my body. “See you soon, sweetheart. Be good while I’m gone.”

Zack grabbed his sword from the corner of the room, slinging it onto his back with practiced ease. He spared one last look at me, his expression filled with longing. “I’ll see you soon,” he repeated, his voice soft. Without waiting for a reply, he walked out of the room, shutting the apartment door behind him with a soft click.

~

The memories were bittersweet, a sharp pain in my chest as I relived the moments I’d shared with Zack. The early mornings, filled with stolen kisses and whispered promises. The playful banter, a familiar comfort that now felt distant and out of reach. The stolen moments of intimacy, so precious and scarce.

A single tear traced its way down my cheek, a testament to the ache in my heart. It was a raw, gut-wrenching feeling, one that left me feeling raw and vulnerable.

I clenched my fist, trying to hold back the wave of emotion that threatened to consume me. The memories were like a double-edged sword.

On one hand, they brought back the happiest moments of my life, the ones that seemed like they would last forever.

On the other hand, they served as a stark reminder of what I’d lost, of how everything I’d thought was mine had been ripped away.

My heart ached with every memory, a raw wound that refused to heal. The sound of his laughter echoed in my ears, a sweet, sweet sound that would never be heard again. The touch of his hand, the way he held me, the warmth of his body against mine—all things that I’d taken for granted, now lost forever.

Tears streamed down my face, each memory more painful than the last. It was a relentless, all-consuming pain, one that I couldn’t escape no matter how hard I tried.

I wrapped my arms around myself, trying to find comfort in the memory of his touch, but it was like trying to hold onto smoke. I missed him so deeply, so fiercely that it felt like I was drowning.

I longed for the sound of his voice, the feel of his touch, the warmth of his smile. It was a longing that seemed hopeless, a lost hope that left a gaping hole in my chest.

It felt like the universe was playing a cruel joke on me, rubbing salt into the open wound that was my broken heart. And no matter how much I tried to move on, no matter how much time passed, that pain never faded.

The sound of the knocking snapped me out of my thoughts, jolting me back to reality. I wiped away the tears from my cheeks, trying to compose myself. Who could be knocking at this hour?

The knock sounded again, more insistent this time. I stood up from the couch, my legs feeling shaky. Taking a deep breath, I walked over to the door, preparing myself for whoever was on the other side

My hand trembled as I reached out to open the door, my heart racing with anticipation and maybe a little fear. I braced myself, as the door slowly opened...

“Hey…”

And there he was… Zack standing before me, rain dripping from his hair and his clothes soaked through.

His blue eyes stared directly into mine, a mix of emotions swirling in their depths. It was like time stood still for a moment, the world around us disappearing as we stood there, frozen in place. I could barely believe it…

I couldn’t speak, my words stuck in my throat as I looked at him. He was different—older, more mature, the boyish charm replaced with a hardened edge. But his eyes, those eyes... they still held the same warmth, the same intensity that made my heart beat a little faster.

Zack broke the silence first, his voice barely above a whisper. “Can I come in?” he asked, his gaze never leaving mine.

I leaned against the door, a thousand thoughts running through my mind. The sight of him standing in the doorway, rain dripping from his hair, was like a flashback to a past life.

I finally found my voice, my words coming out in a soft, almost disbelieving whisper. “You still remember your way here.”

Zack nodded silently, his gaze still locked on me. There was a hint of pain in his expression, like an old wound that had never quite healed. “I never forgot,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

His words sent a shiver down my spine, stirring memories and feelings that I had long thought buried. I felt a lump form in my throat, my heart pounding in my chest.

“Why?” I whispered, the single word loaded with so much meaning.

He looked down, hesitating for a moment before meeting my eyes again. “I needed to see you,” he simply said, his voice low and rough. He took a step forward, his wet clothes dripping onto the floor.

I could feel the heat radiating off his body, his proximity making me feel both vulnerable and powerful at the same time. Every memory flooded back, the good and the bad. The way he had made me feel wanted, loved… and then abandoned.

I felt my heart skip a beat, my body responding to his proximity. I took a step back, trying to put some distance between us. “You shouldn’t be here,” I found myself saying, even though the words felt like a lie.

Zack took another step forward, closing the distance between us a little. As he got closer, his eyes never left mine. He whispered my name, his voice soft and familiar. “Y/N...”

But I stood my ground, resisting the urge to give in to his presence. I took a step back, keeping my voice cold and detached. “Where have you been?”

Zack opened his mouth to speak, but I cut him off, my voice cold and filled with pain. “It’s been five years, Zack.”

I couldn’t hold back the anger and pain that had been building up inside me for years. The words spilled out of me, a dam breaking. “You told me nothing would change. You promised. But then you just... disappeared. No warning, no explanation, nothing. Just gone.”

My voice shook with every word, each sentence like a punch to the gut. “Why?…Why did you just leave? Why couldn’t you just reach out?”

Zack stood there, taking in my words, the pain and hurt evident in my voice. He tried to reach out for me, but I pushed him back, my touch harsh and unforgiving.

“Don’t,” I said, my voice sharp and cold. “Don’t touch me. You lost that right a long time ago.”

He let his hand drop to his side, his eyes filled with regret and pain. I could see the struggle in his expression, the guilt eating away at him. But I didn’t care.

All I wanted was answers, an explanation for the hell he had put me through. “You broke my heart. You broke us,” I said, my voice cracking with emotion.

I felt my heart ache with every word, the unfairness of it all crashing down on me. “And it hurts even more knowing you’ve been with another girl for two years, while I’ve been waiting for you for five,” I spat out, my words like knives.

I felt my tears starting to form, my voice breaking as the pain and anger washed over me. “You didn’t even try to look for me once. You just moved on, like I never even existed.”

Zack shook his head fiercely, his voice barely above a whisper. “That’s not true. I’ve thought about you every damn day.”

Zack’s voice trembled as he struggled to find the right words. “I couldn’t bring myself to see you,” he repeated, his eyes fixed on the floor. “I thought it would be better if I just stayed away.”

I scoffed, shaking my head in disbelief. “Better? How could leaving me behind for five years be better?”

Zack opened his mouth to speak, but I cut him off before he could say anything. “You thought it was better to break things off because you didn’t have any time on your hands, and you had to constantly leave. But what about me? I could’ve waited. For you, I would have waited. I’d rather be with you when you had time than not have you at all,” I said, my voice tight with emotion.

Zack’s face crumpled, guilt evident in his expression. “You think I wanted things to end like this?” he asked, his voice rough with emotion. “You think I didn’t love you? That I just left because I didn’t care?”

I could only stare at him, my heart pounding. “Tell me something,” I said, my voice tight. “Did you even miss me? Even once?”

Zack’s eyes met mine, his face crumbling. “Every day,” he whispered brokenly. “Every single day I missed you.”

Zack’s voice was soft, a hint of pain in his words. “You were my last thought when Shinra was after me and Cloud,” he said quietly. “Every time I thought we were done for, you’d flash through my mind, like a lifeline I couldn’t quite hold onto.”

My heart ached at his confession, my anger and pain momentarily giving way to the familiar ache of missing him. I looked away, not wanting him to see the effect his words were having on me.

Zack exhaled slowly, his expression pained. “Ever since the day that I met you,” he repeated softly, “I knew you were the girl of my dreams. But we could never be.”

The words hit me like a punch in the gut, my heart clenching with sorrow. I swallowed back tears, refusing to let him see how deeply his words had affected me. “Why?” I whispered, not trusting myself to speak any louder. “Why couldn’t we be?”

Zack shook his head, his expression pained. “Don’t you see? It was never going to work. I was a SOLDIER. I couldn’t give you the life you deserved.” He took a step closer to me, the gap between us shrinking. “You deserved better than me, someone who was around, someone stable.”

I finally broke, letting the tears fall freely down my face. “I knew the consequences of you being a SOLDIER but it didn’t matter to me,” I said, my voice cracking. “How can you stand here and tell me I should’ve moved on with someone else when I only craved the way you loved me. I only wanted you to love me.”

Zack stepped closer to me, his eyes filled with pain. He reached out, his hand trembling as he tried to touch me. “You have no idea how much I wanted to come back to you,” he said softly, his voice rough with regret. “Every damn day felt like torture without you.”

Zack slowly reached out and cupped my face in his hands, his touch sending a jolt through me. “Y/N,” he whispered, his voice laced with longing.

Zack held my face gently, forcing me to look at him. “I’m sorry. For everything,” he said, his voice choked with emotion. “For how things ended. For disappearing. For losing contact. For the pain I caused. It eats me up, every single time I think about it. But I’m here now. I’m here with you.”

I shook my head, trying to hold back the tears. “No, you’re not,” I whispered, my voice cracking. “You’re with her now.”

Zack caressed my cheek gently, his touch sending shockwaves through me. “No, I’m not,” he said firmly, shaking his head.

Zack took a deep breath, his hand still on my cheek. “I broke things off with her,” he said softly. “I realized she wasn’t who I wanted, and I couldn’t bring myself to continue leading her on.” He looked at me, his eyes filled with sincerity.

“You are what I truly want, Y/N.”

Zack rambled, his words tumbling out in a rush of emotion. “And I understand if you don’t believe me or can’t trust me again. But you are truly who I want to spend the rest of my life with—”

His words were cut off as I noticed a familiar look in his eyes, a habit he had whenever he was being honest. Without hesitation, I interrupted him, standing on my tiptoes and wrapping my arms around his neck, pulling him into a kiss.

He responded instantly, his arms encircling me tightly, pulling me close. The kiss was like a homecoming, the feel of his lips against mine familiar and longed for. I felt all the pent up emotions rushing out, years of missing him washing over me in a tidal wave of feeling.

I clung to him, holding onto him tightly with a sense of desperation. It was as if I feared that if I let go, even for a moment, he would disappear like a ghost, slipping through my fingers forever.

The embrace was a lifeline, the connection between us an electric current that coursed through my veins. Every touch, every brush of his skin against mine sent shivers down my spine. The world around us faded away, replaced by the sound of our heartbeats synchronizing.

It was as if the universe had conspired to bring us together once again, every cell in my body buzzing with a newfound energy. As he kissed me, my soul felt complete, finally whole.

Zack pulled away from the kiss just enough to whisper against my lips, his breath warm against my skin. “I’ve missed you so much,” he murmured, the words sending a shiver down my spine.

He looked down at me, his expression filled with such intense yearning that it took my breath away. He reached up tentatively, tenderly pushing a piece of hair out of my face, his touch gentle and filled with tenderness.

“You’re so beautiful. More beautiful than I remembered,” he murmured, his gaze roaming over my face, drinking in every inch of me.

Zack traced his fingertips lightly against the curves of my face, his touch featherlight. It was as if he was trying to memorize every contour, every detail, desperate to remember every last feature to memory. I could feel the weight of his gaze on me, the intensity of his focus almost stifling.

his fingers traced the shape of my jaw, the contour of my chin, the curve of my lips. He paused there, his finger lingering against my lower lip. “Your lips are just as soft as I remember,” he whispered, his voice husky with desire.

“And your eyes,” he continued, his gaze fixed on mine. “I could get lost in those eyes for eternity and never grow tired of them.”

He traced my jawline and ran his fingers along my neck, his touch sending a shiver down my spine. “Your skin, so soft and supple. I could touch you forever and still want more.”

His gaze wandered over me once more, taking in every detail. “Everything about you is just…perfect, no matter how many years passed.”

I felt the tears building up in my eyes, a mixture of joy and relief overwhelming me. Zack noticed, his expression softening as he gently wiped away the tears that were beginning to spill over. “Don’t cry,” he said softly, his voice a soothing balm to my soul.

I buried my face in his chest, wrapping my arms tightly around him. He encircled me with his own, holding me close as he rocked us side to side, a steady rhythm that felt like coming home.

I pulled away slightly, looking up at him with teary eyes. “You’re home,” I whispered, the words a tender plea.

He looked down at me, his expression softening even further, a hint of a smile playing at the corner of his lips. “I’m home,” he murmured, his voice tinged with the same sweet satisfaction.

He leaned down and kissed me, the touch of his lips on mine a tender yet passionate claiming. In his arms, I knew he was finally where he belonged, the place that had always been reserved for him.

Zack was finally home.

As the last of the customers said their goodbyes and made their way out the door, I was left standing behind the bar, a feeling of emptiness lingering in the air. The clink of glass was the only sound that could be heard, the faint hum of neon signs cutting through the bar’s silence.

I began to collect the dirty glasses people had left behind and took them to the back to wash. As I was cleaning them, the sound of the bar’s door opening caught my attention. Turning around, I saw Cloud walking through the door.

He seemed weary, his shoulders tense from whatever mission he had just come back from.

“Hey, didn’t know you were closing tonight?”

He said softly, his voice low and gravelly. There was a softness in his eyes that I only ever saw when he was with me. He walked over to the bar and took a seat on one of the stools.

“Yeah, just finishing up.” I replied, drying my hands on a towel. “Everyone else is already upstairs.”

He nodded, his eyes flickering to the empty bar. “Quiet night?”

“Yeah, it’s been pretty slow.” I said, leaning against the counter. “What about you? How was your mission?”

He shrugged, his expression darkening. “It was fine. Just more Shinra bullshit.”

I nodded, knowing better than to ask for details. “You hungry? I could make you something to eat.”

“No, I’m fine.” He replied, running a hand through his spiky blond hair. “I’m just... tired.”

I could see the exhaustion etched on his face, the way his eyes drooped shut for a moment before he forced them open again.

“You should get some rest then.” I said gently, placing a hand on his arm. “You look like you need it.”

He looked up at me, his gaze meeting mine for a moment before he looked away. “I can’t. I’m leaving again soon. Got another mission lined up.”

I felt a pang in my chest at his words. Every time he left, there was no telling if he would come back. But I didn’t say anything, knowing he wouldn’t change his mind.

He pushed himself off the stool and stood up, his back to me. “I should go.”

I wanted to tell him to stay, to beg him not to go. But I knew it was pointless. So instead, I simply nodded. “Be safe out there, okay?”

He turned around and gave me a small smile, his eyes soft once more. “I will. Don’t worry about me.”

With that, he walked out the door, disappearing into the night.

The quiet of the bar closed in around me, the silence even more oppressive now that he was gone. I let out a sigh and leaned against the counter, staring at the now-empty stool where he had just been sitting.

The night stretched on, and eventually I found myself in my room, the only light coming from the dim lamp on my nightstand. I laid in bed, unable to sleep, my mind racing with thoughts of Cloud.

Suddenly, I heard footsteps outside my door, the sound of someone approaching. I tensed, my pulse quickening. Quickly, I closed my eyes and pretended to be asleep, my body going limp under the covers.

The footsteps stopped outside my door, and for a moment I held my breath, waiting for what would happen next. Then, the door quietly opened, and I could hear the sound of soft footsteps making their way into the room.

I peeked a bit, able to see through my eyelashes that it was Cloud who had come into my room. He moved slowly, placing his buster sword down against the wall by the door before making his way toward the bed.

My heart was pounding in my chest, but I kept my breathing steady, still pretending to be asleep.

Cloud sat down at the front of the bed, letting out a weary sigh as he took off his boots and placed them down on the ground.

I could hear the sound of his clothing rustling as he moved, the soft thud of the boots falling to the floor.

He removed the remaining pieces of his armor, his fingers deftly undoing the straps and buckles. He removed his gloves, letting them fall to the floor.

Then taking off his pauldron, the metal clinking softly as it hit the ground next to the gloves. He was now left in just his pants and a sleeveless turtleneck shirt.

I could see the outline of his muscular physique through the shirt, the fabric hugging his body in a way that made my heart flutter. I had to force myself to remain still, to keep up the facade that I was asleep.

He let out another weary sigh, and ran his hands through his spiky blond hair before placing his face into his hands. He looked exhausted, his shoulders slumped forward as he sat on the edge of the bed.

His head was bowed, and I could see the stress and worry etched onto his face even in the dim light. Despite his tough appearance, I knew that underneath all the layers of armor and stoicism was a man who cared deeply, and who carried the weight of the world on his shoulders.

I couldn't take it anymore. As I watched him sitting there, his face buried in his hands, I couldn't pretend to be asleep any longer. I sat up suddenly, calling out softly, “Cloud?”

I didn’t hesitate, crawling across the bed towards him, my arms wrapping around him from behind. I could feel the muscles of his chest and torso tighten as I touched him. I placed my hand gently on his heart, feeling the steady but quickened rhythm.

He lifted his head a little, turning to look at me over his shoulder. “Sorry for waking you,” he said softly, his voice weary.

I shook my head, my forehead pressing against his shoulder. “Don’t apologize.” I said softly, my voice barely above a whisper.

He didn’t say anything in response, but he let out another sigh, his hand coming up to cover mine, holding it in place over his heart.

I could hear the vulnerability in his voice, the uncertainty in his words. He sat up straighter, his hand still holding mine against his chest. “I just needed to see you,” he said, his head dropping slightly. “If that’s okay.”

My heart ached at the sound of his voice, the way he sounded so unsure. “Of course,” I whispered, my hand rubbing circles over his chest.

He let out a deep breath, his shoulders sagging a little. It was rare for him to show this kind of vulnerability, and I knew how much it must have cost him to come to me like this, in the middle of the night, when he was supposed to be leaving again in the morning.

It wasn’t the first time he had come to me like this, slumped and weary, like the weight of the world was too much for him to carry on his own. I knew what was going on, what kind of night he must have had. I acted quickly, knowing what he needed, how to make him feel better.

I could tell just by looking at him that tonight was one of those nights where he needed to blow off steam. He was tense, his muscles coiled like a spring ready to snap. I knew what he needed, how to help him release some of that pent-up aggression.

I leaned forward, my face finding the crook of his neck. I inhaled deeply, the scent of him filling my senses. He smelled like leather and sweat and something distinctly Cloud, something that was uniquely his. I pressed kisses against his skin, my lips lingering over his pulse point.

He shivered at my touch, his breath coming out in a sharp exhale. “Y/N…” he murmured, my name rolling off his tongue like a prayer. I continued to press kisses against his neck, my hands roaming over his body.

My fingers skimmed over the fabric of his shirt, feeling the lean muscles underneath. He let out another soft sigh, his head tipping back to give me better access.

“Relax,” I whispered against his skin, my hands slipping under the hem of his shirt, my fingers tracing over the muscles of his abdomen. “let me take care of you.”

He shivered at my touch, his breathing quickening as my hands explored his bare skin. It was a heady feeling, having him here like this, completely at my mercy. I could feel the tension leaving his body as my fingers danced over his skin, my lips never leaving his neck.

My hands found the hem of his shirt, and I slowly began to lift it up, pulling at it to free his upper body from the fabric. His breath hitched as the cool air hit his skin, my hands running over his bare chest.

I let the shirt fall to the floor. I sat back a little, taking in the sight of his broad shoulders, his muscles rippling beneath his skin. I let my eyes roam over his back, running my hands over the planes of his back, amazed at how strong he was.

I leaned forward, pressing a kiss against his spine, feeling the muscles of his back ripple under my touch. I continued to kiss him, my lips moving upwards towards his neck.

He let out a soft moan, his head tilting back to give me better access to his neck. I could feel his pulse thudding under my lips, his heart beating faster with every kiss.

My hands roamed over his body, unable to get enough of him, wanting to touch every inch of him.

I pulled back a little, my hands still on his body, my fingers tracing patterns on his skin. I gave him a soft nudge on the shoulder, signalling for him to turn around.

He obeyed, turning around to face me, his eyes dark with desire. He crawled over to me, his body moving fluidly, like a predator stalking its prey.

I reached up, my hands finding purchase around his neck, my fingers tangling in his spiky blond hair. He braced himself on his forearms, his body hovering over mine, our faces just inches apart.

I could feel the heat radiating off him, the tension and desire between us palpable. I pulled him down, my mouth finding his in a desperate kiss.

I whispered against his lips, my voice low and desperate, “I want you to use me. Take it all out on me.”

He let out a deep, guttural moan, his body shuddering at my words. He was holding back, I could sense it, trying to control himself.

“Are you sure?” he said, his voice raspy. “I...I might get rough.”

I met his gaze, my eyes steady and sure. “I can take it.” I said, my hands moving to the buckle of his belt. “Don’t hold back.”

A low, guttural sound rumbled in his chest, his eyes darkening with desire. He let me undo his belt, his hands gripping the sheets tightly as he fought to hold himself back.

“If it’s too much…” he trailed off, his voice rough with need.

I shook my head, my eyes never leaving his. “I trust you,” I said firmly. “It won’t be too much. I can take it.”

He leaned down, his lips finding mine in a soft, gentle kiss. His body was trembling with the effort to hold himself back, but he complied with my hands on his belt, letting me undo the buckle and drop it to the floor.

I took hold of the button of his pants, deftly undoing it before slowly pulling down the zipper. I could feel the heat radiating off him through the fabric, the desire and need rolling off him in waves.

I let my hand slide into his boxers, my fingers finding him hard and ready for me. He let out a low moan, his head dropping down to rest on my shoulder. I wrapped my fingers around him, my hand stroking him slowly.

Cloud’s body trembled slightly as I touched him, his breathing becoming heavier. He struggled to maintain his position in the air, hovering just above me, but my gentle strokes were making it difficult for him to focus. His hands gripped the sheets tightly, knuckles turning white as he fought to keep himself steady.

I continued stroking him, my thumb swirling around the tip, collecting the pre-cum that had already formed.

Cloud’s hips started to move slightly, fucking into my hand. I could feel his control slipping, his hovering becoming more unstable as pleasure overwhelmed him.

“Just like that,” I murmured against his ear, my voice low and encouraging. My hand continued its slow, steady rhythm, squeezing him just right as I pumped him.

Cloud’s breathing hitched at my words, his eyes closed as a soft moan escaped his lips.

I took my hand out of his boxers and brought my fingers to my mouth, coating them with saliva before reaching back inside his boxers once more. My hand felt slick and warm as I resumed stroking him, using my own spit to lubricate him further.

Cloud let out a sharp gasp as my wet hand wrapped around him again, the sudden slickness sending a jolt of intense pleasure through his body. His hips jerked forward involuntarily, pushing himself deeper into my grasp.

“Fuck,” he hissed softly, his body tensing slightly. He watched intently as my spit-slick hand moved up and down his length. His boxers were slightly wet from my saliva, making the material cling to him. I could see his abs contract with each touch, each stroke.

Cloud’s voice became higher pitched and whiny, his hips bucking into my hand. “Stop... stop...” he whined repeatedly, his face contorted in a mix of pleasure and desperation. His hands grabbed at my wrist weakly trying to pull my hand away as he approached his limit.

“Fuck... I’m gonna cum…” he whined, his entire body shaking. “Please... stop...” But I didn’t, instead I increased the pace slightly, using my thumb to rub over the sensitive tip. Cloud broke, his back arching as he came hard in his boxers, whining loudly.

Cloud collapsed against my shoulder, his body limp and trembling as he caught his breath. He let out deep, shuddering breaths, his face buried in my neck as he tried to recover from the intense orgasm. His boxers were soaked through with his release, sticking uncomfortably to his sensitive skin. “Fuck...”

I giggled softly, my fingers still wrapped around him gently despite his release. Cloud lifted his head to look at me, his eyes filled with a mix of satisfaction and desire.

He leaned forward suddenly and pressed his lips against mine in a passionate kiss. His tongue pushed into my mouth eagerly.

Cloud growled softly as he grabbed the hem of my shirt. He pulled it off roughly in one swift motion, revealing that I wasn’t wearing a bra.

My breasts sprang free, the nipples hardening from the sudden exposure and cool air. He saw that I was completely bare underneath the shirt.

Cloud kissed down my neck, his large hands palming my breasts possessively. He took one hard nipple into his mouth, sucking on it deeply. He then switched to the other one, his tongue swirling around it before he kissed down my stomach, his touch gentle yet urgent.

As he reached my lower stomach, he looked up at me with those beautiful blue eyes, hungry for more. His hands slid beneath me, lifting my hips slightly as his lips pressed kisses just above my waistband. “You’re fucking perfect...” he murmured against my skin.

Cloud hooked his fingers into the waistband of my shorts and underwear simultaneously, pulling them down in one smooth motion.

He kissed along my inner thighs teasingly before spreading my legs wide open. He blew a soft breath against my sensitive flesh making me shudder and whimper softly. “Shh...” he whispered.

“Don’t wanna wake up Tifa and Aerith,” Cloud whispered softly against my skin, his breath tickling my sensitive flesh. He glanced up at me one more time before he lowered his head between my legs, his tongue running up my slit slowly.

I gasped and brought my hands into his hair, pulling him closer as his tongue worked its magic on me. “Cloud... oh fuck... ” I whispered urgently, trying not to moan too loudly. My legs wrapped around his shoulders involuntarily as he licked and sucked at my pussy gently yet intensely.

Cloud hummed softly against me, the vibration sending waves of pleasure through my body. He slipped one finger inside me, then another, curling them slightly to hit that spot that made my eyes roll back. His tongue never stopped moving, flicking against my clit in perfect rhythm with his fingers.

I tried to close my legs, overwhelmed by the sensation, but Cloud held them firmly apart. “Stay still,” he commanded quietly, his fingers continuing to move inside me as his tongue focused solely on my clit. I whimpered and tried to push his head away, but he was too strong.

Cloud wrapped his muscular arms tightly around my thighs, keeping my legs spread wide open as he buried his face deeper between them.

My view was now filled with his bare, muscular back and the top of his blonde hair between my legs. The sight was incredibly erotic, seeing him like this—focused solely on pleasing me.

I reached my climax with a muffled cry, biting my lip hard to keep quiet. My hips bucked off the bed uncontrollably as wave after wave of pleasure crashed over me.

He immediately brought his hand up, intertwining his fingers with mine as I squeezed tightly, needing the anchor during my intense orgasm.

Cloud kept his face buried between my legs, his tongue continuing to lick and suck at me through my orgasm, drawing out my pleasure.

He slowly pulled back, giving my oversensitive flesh one last gentle kiss before releasing my thighs. He kissed his way up my body, placing gentle pecks on my stomach, ribs, and breasts.

He kissed all over my body, leaving faint red markings on my breasts and neck. His kisses were soft yet passionate, each one sending shivers down my spine.

He finally reached my lips, pressing them together gently before deepening the kiss immediately. I tasted myself on him as his tongue entered my mouth.

The kiss was slow and deep, filled with tenderness and desire. Cloud’s hands cupped my face gently, his fingers tangling in my hair as he poured all his emotion into the kiss. He broke away only to press soft kisses along my jawline and down my neck before returning to my lips again.

I wrapped my arms tightly around his neck, pulling him closer. Our bodies pressed flush against each other, his abs against my stomach and his half-hard length nestled between my thighs.

He moaned softly against my lips, his tongue sliding in deeper as his hands slid down to my lower back possessively.

Cloud broke away from our kiss, his breathing heavy. He quickly sat up and shimmied out of his remaining pants, kicking them to the floor.

His hard length sprang free, making my stomach flutter with anticipation. He crawled back onto the bed, hovering over me with a hungry expression in his eyes.

He settled between my legs, his hard length pressing against my still sensitive and wet folds. He reached down to position himself, his tip teasing my entrance.

He paused, looking into my eyes with an intense gaze, seeking permission without words. His arms trembled slightly with restraint as he waited for my response.

I nodded softly, biting my lower lip as I gazed into his eyes. A shudder ran through Cloud’s body at my silent consent.

With a slow push of his hips, he entered me gently yet firmly. We both let out matching moans—a blend of pleasure and relief—as he filled me completely.

Cloud stayed still inside me, giving my body time to adjust to his size. His arms were braced on either side of my head, his muscles tensed. He pressed soft kisses along my jawline and neck while whispering reassuring words into my ear.

“Give me all of you,” I whimpered softly, wrapping my legs around his waist and pulling him closer. “I can take it.” Cloud groaned deeply at my words, his control slipping. He pulled out slightly before thrusting back in deeply, burying himself to the hilt. “Fuck...”

He started moving slowly at first, testing my reaction. Each thrust sent waves of pleasure through my body, building up the intensity with every movement.

Cloud’s eyes locked onto mine as he picked up his pace gradually. He reached down to grab one of my legs and placed it over his shoulder, opening me wider.

I gripped his bicep tightly, my nails digging into his muscle as he hit a spot inside me that made my eyes roll back in pleasure.

“Right there,” I gasped out, my voice breathy and needy. Cloud’s eyes darkened with lust as he realized he had found my sweet spot

Cloud’s thrusts became more focused and deliberate, hitting that spot over and over again. His grip on my leg tightened as he hitched it higher on his shoulder, allowing for deeper penetration.

With each powerful thrust, he elicited sharp gasps and whimpers from me that only spurred him on.

“Is this... too much?” he asked through clenched teeth, sweat beading on his forehead as he maintained his relentless pace. His eyes were filled with concern mixed with raw desire. I shook my head feverishly, my hair splaying out underneath me. “More... Fuck, more...”

Cloud lowered my leg slowly, his eyes never leaving mine as he hovered over me. His arms came down on either side of my head, caging me beneath him.

He leaned forward slightly so our bodies pressed together completely—his chest against mine, our breaths mingling—before he resumed his thrusts.

His new position allowed him to hit even deeper inside me, his length filling me completely. I could feel every ridge and vein on his cock as he moved in and out of me.

Cloud’s face was inches away from mine, his hot breath fanning over my lips as he groaned loudly with each thrust.

“Harder,” I moaned wantonly. “God, Cloud. Fuck me like that.” His eyes darkened dangerously. He withdrew almost completely before snapping his hips back powerfully. He set a faster, harder pace, the bed creaking loudly with each thrust. “Shit...”

“Hold onto me,” he whispered hoarsely against my mouth. I immediately wrapped my legs around his waist, my ankles locking behind him. I held onto his back tightly, my face buried in his neck as he continued to slam into me with brutal force.

Cloud’s hands gripped my thighs, holding them open wide as he fucked me deeply and relentlessly. His lips found mine in a messy kiss that tasted like sweat and desire.

He was hitting so deep inside me that stars began dancing behind my eyelids—each thrust sending waves of pleasure through my entire body.

As Cloud continued his relentless pace, I pulled away from the kiss suddenly and sank my teeth into his shoulder—marking him deeply like an animal claiming its mate. Cloud growled loudly, his thrusts turning almost feral at the sharp pain and intense pleasure combined.

Cloud suddenly flipped us over so that he was on his back and I was straddling him, his hands gripping my hips tightly. “Ride me,” he demanded roughly, his voice strained with urgency and pleasure. His cock was still buried deep inside me as he lay there panting heavily. “Now.”

I placed my hands on his chest and began moving my hips, riding him slowly at first. Cloud’s head fell back against the pillow with a groan, his fingers digging into my flesh before I picked up speed.

I sat straight up, holding onto Cloud’s thighs for leverage as I rode him harder and faster.

His hands immediately reached out to grab my breasts, squeezing and playing with them roughly while I bounced on his cock. The new angle allowed him to hit even deeper inside me, making both of us moan loudly.

“Fuck, just like that,” Cloud groaned, his fingers pinching my nipples hard. “Ride my cock like a good girl,” I whimpered at his dirty words, moving my hips faster. “You like that, don’t you? Being filled with my big dick?”

“Shut up and fuck me,” I snapped back. Cloud cursed loudly, his hands moving from my breasts to grip my hips tightly again as he started thrusting up into me harshly while I continued riding him. “Fuck yeah,”

“You take my cock so well,” Cloud moaned through gritted teeth, slamming up into me hard enough to make the bedframe shake. One hand moved from my hip to grab my neck, pulling me down for another brutal kiss.

Our tongues fought each other aggressively, our lips smacking loudly. A string of saliva connected our mouths when we pulled away slightly.

Below where our bodies joined, a white ring was already forming around the base of Cloud’s cock, evidence of how wet and turned on I was.

Cloud broke the kiss abruptly, his hand leaving my neck to grab both of my hips harshly. He started pounding into me aggressively, the wet sounds of our sex filling the room along with our heavy breathing and moans. “Gonna cum...”

“Not inside me,” I moaned weakly, knowing that if he came inside me, there was no way I’d be able to move for the rest of the day. But Cloud seemed to like that idea a little too much. “Too fucking bad,” he growled possessively.

“Take it all like a good girl,” Cloud commanded, his hands squeezing my hips possessively as he started pounding into me faster and deeper than before. “Take every fucking drop of my cum inside that tight pussy...” His dirty talk only made me wetter and tighter around him.

I whimpered, my nails digging into his chest as he continued to fuck me brutally. The white ring around his cock was now a thick white cream coating his length as he thrust in and out of me.

“I’m gonna fill you up,” he promised darkly. “Make this pussy mine.”

“Cloud...fuck!” I moaned his name loudly as he slammed into me with one final thrust, burying himself to the hilt. His hot, sticky cum flooded my insides instantly, filling me up completely. I could feel his warmth spreading inside me, marking me from the inside out.

“Fuck, fuck, fuck,” Cloud groaned loudly as he continued to dump his load inside me. His fingers dug into my hips painfully as he held me down, making sure every last drop of his semen was planted deep inside my womb. “Look at this fucking pussy...”

“So fucking full of my cum,” Cloud muttered possessively, his hands spreading my thighs wider apart to watch his semen leak out of my pussy slowly. “No condom... no pull out... just raw dogging this tight pussy all night.” He slapped my inner thigh suddenly.

“Marked this pussy as mine now,” he stated firmly, his thumb pressing against my clit and rolling it roughly. I moaned weakly, too sensitive from the brutal fucking and the sudden attention to my clit.

I giggled at his words, finding them adorable despite the brutal way he had just fucked me. Cloud stopped his movements and spread his arms out on the bed, trying to catch his breath. Sweat dripped down his forehead as he looked up at the ceiling, his chest heaving heavily.

I slowly brought my hands up his body, tracing every scar and admiring his muscular physique. He was covered in scars from his battles. As I leaned my chest against his, wrapping my arms around his neck, he looked down at me with a soft expression.

His hands automatically went to my waist possessively as you cuddled close. My breasts pressed against his chest, my legs tangled with his. He could feel his cum slowly leaking out of me and onto the bed sheets. He captured my lips suddenly in a deep kiss.

The kiss was slow and deep, a complete contrast to the rough sex we just had. His hands roamed my body gently, almost reverently, as if he was trying to memorize every curve. He broke the kiss to press gentle kisses along my jawline and neck.

“I didn’t hurt you, did I?” he whispered against my neck, his voice unexpectedly tender after the brutal way he’d just fucked me silly. His strong hands were now gentle as they caressed my body, checking for any signs of excessive bruising.

“No,” I whispered back, pressing a soft kiss to his throat. He breathed out heavily, relieved that he hadn’t hurt me too much. His fingers traced the outline of my hips gently, as if he was still trying to convince himself that I was okay.

I carefully pushed myself off him, feeling his cum leaking out of me in a messy display. Without missing a beat, Cloud grabbed my shirt that had been discarded earlier and gently began cleaning me up. His touches were gentle and meticulous as he wiped the mess between my legs.

After cleaning me up, Cloud pulled me into his embrace, my head resting on his bare chest. His arm wrapped around me possessively, his hand gently tracing circles on my bare hip.

I looked up at him, catching a glimpse of his intense gaze directed towards the ceiling before it shifted down to meet mine. His eyes softened when he saw me watching him.

Seeing my tender gaze and knowing it somehow carried an undercurrent of farewell made his heart skip a beat.

Before I could lean in fully, he took control of the kiss, deep and passionate, as if he was trying to memorize the taste of my lips. His hand moved from my hip to cradle my face gently, as if he was afraid I might disappear.

He pulled back, his forehead still pressed against mine, his breath ragged. “Get some rest,” he whispered, his voice full of huskiness.

His hand lingered on my face for a moment, his thumb tracing the outline of my cheekbone like he was trying to commit it to memory.

I nodded, unable to find the words to speak. I could see the exhaustion in his eyes, the weariness etched into every line of his face. I knew he needed sleep just as much as I did, but I also knew he would be gone by the time I woke up.

I slowly stirred, sunlight filtering through the curtains and illuminating the room. I sat up and looked towards the foot of the bed, my heart clenching at the sight of Cloud sitting there, pulling on his boots.

I wrapped myself in the sheets, crawled my way over to him. I wrapped my arms around him from behind, my face burying into his back.

He tensed slightly, but then relaxed into my embrace. “You’re awake,” he said, his voice still gravelly with sleep.

I didn’t say anything, just held onto him tighter, trying to savor the moment before it was gone. The weight of his leaving was heavy on both our shoulders, and I could feel his tension and uneasiness.

“I have to go,” he said softly, his hands coming up to cover mine. “I have a mission.”

I clutched him tighter, my forehead pressing between his shoulder blades. “I know,” I murmured. “I just... don’t want you to go.”

“I know,” he said softly, his voice thick with emotion. “I don’t want to go either.”

He got up, turning around to face me. He looked at me for a moment, really looked at me, and I could see the pain in his eyes as he took in the sight of me, wrapped in a white sheet, bathed in the soft light of the morning sun.

“You’re such a goddess,” he whispered, his hand reaching out to brush a stray hair out of my face. “You make it so hard for me to leave.”

His touch was gentle, so tender it made my heart ache. I leaned into his touch, my eyes never leaving his. “Then don’t leave,” I whispered, my voice pleading. “Stay.”

He took a step closer, his body towering over mine. His hands cradled my face, his thumbs stroking my cheeks gently. “I’ll be back before you know it,” he said softly, his gaze intense. “I promise.”

He leaned down, his eyes locked on mine, and kissed me gently. I wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him closer, returning the kiss with everything I had.

He deepened the kiss, his arms wrapping around me, pulling me against his chest. It was like he was trying to savor the moment, trying to hold onto it for as long as possible.

We broke apart, our foreheads resting against each other. “Please be safe,” I whispered, my voice shaking slightly.

He cupped my chin, angling my face up to meet his gaze. “I’ll be fine,” he assured me, his voice steady. “Don’t worry about me. Just take care of yourself while I’m gone.”

He slung the buster sword over his back, the weight of the weapon grounding him. He looked back at me, and I saw the hesitation in his eyes as I made my way over to him, wrapped in the sheet.

“I’ll see you soon,” he said softly, his gaze lingering on me.

“I love you.”

“I love you too,”

I said softly, as he leaned in for one last kiss, my heart feeling heavy as I watched him pull away.

He turned towards the door, and I held it open for him, reluctantly letting him go.

My eyes widened as I caught a glimpse of Tifa in the hallway, a knowing smirk on her face. “Oh my god, go! go!” I hissed, trying to shoo Cloud out the door before she could say anything.

He quickly stepped out into the hallway, the door swinging closed behind him. Tifa had already caught a glimpse of us, and I knew I was in for it now. The secret was out, and there would be no end to the teasing from her.