(Cloud Strife x Reader x Rufus Shinra) A Bolt from the Blue

Chapter 16 - Goodbyes

You are mindlessly helping with the washing up and drying the dishes while reliving that night of the mission. It is now a few days since the successful commission but the events of that night are the only thing occupying your mind these days.

You feel the rush of the wind and the pull of gravity in your stomach as you jump down after finally giving in. You replay how the undercity grew closer and closer and the warmth of Cloud's body strapped together against yours in the harness. You remember how safe and secure it made you feel. You relive the upward thrust of the harness as Cloud deploys the parachute and you both drift peacefully through the air. You see in your mind's eye the expansive view of both the stifling plate above and the raw humanity of the undercity below. The exhilarating experience was one of the best in your life and you were grateful you were able to share it with Cloud.

During the day there is not much chance for you and Cloud to spend time alone, but you are content with the stolen glances and hidden lingering touches that are exchanged between the two of you. At night, you steal away to the rooftop of the school building where Cloud would be waiting. He thoughtfully brought blankets both for you to sit on and cover yourself with when it got chilly as he recalled you shivering that first night.

However much you appreciate his small gestures to show that he cares, you still could not be totally truthful with him. After the mission, rumour has it that Shinra heard of the school break in and had upped security in all areas. You are not sure if it is related, but there are many more Turk sightings in and around the slums which you suspect have something to do with you, courtesy of Rufus. You know you cannot stay here with your new friends for much longer and that you had to leave in order to keep them and their way of life safe.

"Hello? Anyone in there?" Tifa's pretty face refocuses in your line of vision.

"Those glasses are going to wear out by how long you've been absent mindedly shining them." She jokes.

"Everything ok?" Her stunning crimson eyes are full of concern.

"Erm, yes. No problem. I mean - I'm fine. Thanks Tifa."

Cloud does not draw attention as he enters the bar.

You give Tifa the most convincing smile you can muster but knowing it must be written all over your face, you confess to her.

"I'm just worried about the Turks and guards."

Cloud sits at the end of the bar for a quick bite before he has to leave on his merc job for the day. He coolly nods a greeting at you and Tifa and pours himself a coffee.

Tifa gives him a bright smile and makes him a plate of red shelly and bread for breakfast. Cloud thanks her simply and with a lingering look from her, Tifa returns to your conversation.

"Don't worry about it. I'm sure they won't find you. Even if they do, I know everyone will fight to keep you here." She raises her fists up and punches the air in front of her to show she means business.

"Thanks Tifa but I can't have anyone getting hurt on my behalf. It's just not worth it. You would all be risking everything you have built for yourselves."

Cloud shuffles in his seat at the end of the bar. Neither you or Tifa takes notice.

"If it's your choice to stay, then stay. We will fight to help keep you here." Tifa says still determined. "Cloud will fight, won't you?" She directs a question at him wanting him to join in the conversation.

"Until my dying breath." Cloud responds dryly, not looking up from his breakfast.

Tifa rolls her eyes.

"Don't listen to him," She says reassuringly to you. "He will fight, as will everyone else." She places a gloved hand on yours in support.

"Thanks Tifa." You avert your gaze from her, your guilt playing on your conscience as only you can hear the hidden sincerity behind Cloud's words.