#cloud: ask

Everyone around here was completely nuts. He just stared at Biggs for a few moments, trying to process what he said. “What are you, grilled cheese? If they can’t tell you’re male then I can’t help them.” Biggs was so obviously a man, it hurt. “The hell is a ‘real man’ anyway?”

“What gave me away?” Zack was always so sunny, it was inspiring. He always had a big smile on his lips. Cloud absolutely can’t relate but he sure does envy. “I have time and can really use a drink.” Also spending time with Zack, no matter what they did, was usually the highlight of Cloud’s week. “I’m just taking a shower, then I’m coming over.” It was a long day and he really wanted to be as appealing for Zack as possible, and not sweaty and dirty.

Ah, that reminded him. “Stay away from the don.” If Corneo were to see Hope, they’d have the next victim Cloud would have to come and get out of that house.

“...Yeah.” His pride was more hurt than anything else. Getting screwed over during a battle was always embarrassing enough, but getting screwed over by actual scammers was even worse. And that after he took on every available merc and hunting job for money too. His angry expression must have given Cloud away. But wait, this man he was talking to...He’s seen this man around, Cloud realised, as he looked at Lan closely. “You’re hanging out in the Seventh Heaven occasionally.”

“Now you’re overdoing it a little..” Cloud was flattered, but was what Zack said really true? “I remember you being so very powerful. I never thought I’d ever make it SOLDIER, lest first class. I think you’re selling yourself short.” Cloud grasped Zack’s hand and kissed his palm. “Fine, I’ll leave the breadwinning to you then.” They were doing well currently. They weren’t wealthy, but had enough to get by. “Just don’t get any weird ideas..” Cloud saw Zack on a stripper pole for a brief moment. Hopefully Zack didn’t realise that ‘that’ would bring him way more money in much shorter time.

Cloud wrinkled his nose and cursed Zack for being so amazing. He always managed to turn Cloud so damn mushy, and with so little effort. “I love you too, you silly goose.” And despite Cloud acting like he was the toughest guy around, he once again moved close to Zack to press himself against him like the needy affectionate man he actually was. 

“Is everything alright?” And then Tifa took Aerith’s other hand and also curled her arm around Aerith’s shoulder to guide her over to a bench and sit down with her, making Cloud look like an utter buffoon.

“Zack..Zack,” he moaned affectionately, eyes pressed shut in concentration but he leaned down for kisses and found Zack’s lips right away without even having to look.