#dcyseeker | aerith gainsborough

[myristicisms]

@dcyseeker | Aerith Gainsborough sent;;

she just reaches over and gives his ass a squeeze.

Eyes widen the size of dinner plates, large arms tightening around his lover's frame with a soft yelp before ever so slightly tugging his face away to stare down at Aerith with a flustered grin atop his features. Were it anyone else's hands on his ass, they'd be on the ground and Zack would be horrifically embarrassed by the noise he'd made simply because of how undignified it was. Thankfully though, it wasn't just anybody else. “ Hey princess, I think your hands're wandering. ”

It's a gentle mumble, tawny hands trailing down her sides to rest upon Aerith's hips with a thoughtful hum. Clearly Zack didn't mind the gesture much, not with the way he clung to the woman as though he'd crumple up and die without her pressed into his chest. It's got him feeling all sorts of warm, flustered and bothered in ways that apparently only the brunette could get him with just touch alone. “ Don't do that if you're not trying to rile me up. ”

[myristicisms]

@dcyseeker | Aerith wrote;;

“ zack . . .” there’s a pause , the name leaving her quietly at first before it becomes much louder , earning the attention of the people around her . “ zack !”

she doesn’t hesitate to run from the group , pushing through the people there to get to him . her arms are outstretched , bodies colliding with him as she practically leaps on him . it’s been years , too many years .

The sun, it always felt so nice upon his bare arms when the weather permitted it, allowed him to remember his home of Gongaga and reminisce on simpler times, times where he didn't have to hide away, keep his tags stashed beneath the black tank top that shielded so many secrets from those in the small town he'd found himself residing in during the recovery from his injuries just a year or so ago.

The townsfolk were kind enough, took care of him when he'd been on death's door without asking for much of anything in return save for assistance with the occasional odd job, or at least that was until the local mechanic nearby had decided Zack would make for a good student, thought maybe giving the strange man with no last name a job and help get him back on his feet without giving him a handout would be a great idea, and that was enough to satisfy the guilty feeling within his heart.

After all, he needed the money to make it back to Midgar, to get back to Aerith's church and apologize for the last six years of being missing. Once he'd had enough to leave he'd make sure to give thanks as best he could before running back into the arms of his first love, or at least that's what he planned to do. Gods he missed Aerith so much, how he hoped she hadn't moved on without him or at the very least was happy if she did. He gets lost in thoughts of the brunette, what he'd say or do when he saw her again, or at least that's until his enhanced hearing picks up a familiar voice.

He'd been well ensnared in his duty, enough that he'd only caught the tail end of his name, soft as it was there was no mistake of the fact he'd been called and that voice was one he hadn't heard in years yet still remembered so damn vividly. He visibly perks up, turquoise eyes scanning the crowd before seeing a familiar pink bow and brown hair bouncing and he finds his heart soaring with giddiness. Zack can hear her footsteps, can see the green eyed woman that haunted his dreams and memories rushing towards him and he grins like a fool, opens his arms and sweeps her into his embrace the moment she fumbles into his chest, desperately clinging onto Aerith as though she were simply a figment of his mind, a cruel hallucination despite feeling the warmth of her body.

“ I was supposed to make it back to you, not have you randomly bump into me before I could make my grand entrance... ” He whispers, fingers burrowing into the back of her hair as the beginnings of tears sting within his eyes. His heart hurt, truly it ached so terribly to finally have her back in his embrace, to see her once again and know that she hadn't forgotten him. “ I missed you, Gods I missed you so much. ” He whispers, voice quivering with relief mixing into grief, so much time had passed after all.

[myristicisms]

@dcyseeker || Aerith sent;;

she nuzzles into his side , taking his hand and resting it on the growing swell of her belly . there little family was due to get bigger , and the flower girl couldn’t be more excited . “ they are a boy , i can already tell .”

How pleasant it was to finally slow down and take things one day at a time; No more looming threats of ShinRa nor Sephiroth and most certainly no worries of finding himself stuck in the lifestream, just the usual normal worries of a man working the average 9-5 who just wants to go home and be with the love of his life. He's home though, happy and carefree with his arms wrapped gently around the woman he'd been so very lucky to call his wife and even more happily rubbing the small bump with a tender smile tugging taught upon his features.

Zack never really thought about being a father, he was too busy most of the time and to him, he wanted to at least have stability before even considering settling down and having kids despite the fact that he'd certainly wanted to have a large family of his own, something about growing up an only child making him want at least two should the cards unfold in a way that he got to achieve that dream and he'd managed to pull a winning hand. “ Yeah? I'll just have to agree then, you usually end up being right after all. ”

[myristicisms]

from aerith @dcyseeker

A pout visibly tugs at plush lips, fingers resting against his jaw before turquoise eyes flicker back up to look at his lover with a raised eyebrow. “ You missed a couple. ” He states firmly, pausing before realizing perhaps it would be wise to elaborate. “ You're super kind, big reason I fell head over heels in love with you and also you're super smart! Or at least smarter than I am anyways, so that would give you another bingo. ” Nevertheless though, he folds the card up and tucks it safely away in his pocket, everything Zack received from Aerith would be kept safely in a box to reminisce on later, even if it was something as ridiculous as a little bingo card.

[myristicisms]

That fog of ‘ what if ’ had faded quickly and he's not sure he's ever been so grateful for that. Zack knows he's got a dopey smile upon his face, knows that Aerith can likely see his relief and his delight sat atop his features and yet the former SOLDIER can't force himself to care. She seems just as delighted as he is and her confirmation that she feels the same only brightens his grin. “ That makes me so happy, I uh... I've missed you a lot y'know. ” He's so awkward, knows he's awkward but this was a happy moment, one Zack had dreamt of for years.

The silence is pleasant, not one that's tense or leaves the sable haired man feeling anxious, rather just a time of basking in the presence of the woman he's loved for the last seven years. Her touch is pleasant, familiar and so sure and it's enough to leave him flustered, damn near speechless even. He's more than happy to entangle their fingers, to follow closely behind the brunette without hesitation purely because this was Aerith and she was the one thing in his life he was constantly sure of, his love for her something he knew wouldn't fade given just how dedicated he was to returning to her. He's sure in each step, confident when he sits beside her and wraps an arm around Aerith's waist to satisfy the desperate need to cling, as though terrified she'll disappear if he doesn't.

He's silent though, allows her time to think before nodding along and listening intently, except his expressions shift. ShinRa couldn't stop themselves from causing problems even still? Not that he was surprised much, all they ever did was cause issues, yet for Aerith to be personally affected, taken in by force... It left him angry, at ShinRa and at himself for not being there to protect her. He hears a name though that's so familiar and he visibly perks up, “ Cloud? ” He questions, tilts his head slightly before continuing. “ Like... Blonde spiky hair and incredible blue eyes? ” He's hoping he's right, hopes that part of her friends includes the blonde man he'd hauled across the continent to safety just so he could see if the man was doing okay, see that he was alive.

To have managed to stay hidden as long as he had was something Zack was proud of, wistfully in a way but he'd found himself in a peaceful life; One that he knew would be ripped away from him should he join Aerith and her companions on their journey and yet the former SOLDIER hardly finds himself worried about that, finds himself damn near giddy about the idea itself. She was standing in front of him, surrounded by flowers that while normally the most beautiful things he'd had the pleasure of being surrounded by, looked dull compared to the brunette in his arms. That was more than enough to leave him satisfied and more than willing to toss aside the tranquil, albeit boring, life he'd made for himself.

He'd worried, gods how he worried so much that she wouldn't want him if she'd known just how different he was, but then that wasn't fair of Zack to assume, knows Aerith is just as pure in her devotion as he was. He remembers that final letter she'd wrote him, how many she'd written before he'd finally received it and rushed to what was damn near his own death hoping to return to her. He knows six years is a lot, enough time for her to change just as much as him and he prays it's not for similar reasons, hopes Aerith never has to know the same horrors he'd had to live through first hand. No, he'd intended to share his tale, give her a proper explanation for his disappearance, and then make good on granting her those twenty three wishes.

A gentle sigh puffs through his chest, so very relaxed from just the small affection, the expression upon her face leaving him feeling safe, comfortable again. He'd rip his heart from his chest and offer it to her were he able, she'd only ever have it after all, to tear open his chest and be completely vulnerable with her just as he had so long ago; But back then was different, where he's been less traumatized to an extent and more proud of who he was, what he'd done, “ I can't argue with that then… you've always been right so I'm not gonna start thinking otherwise. ”

A simple jest, though he'd meant it. There's more he yearns to say, more he wants to confirm only to have every word die upon his tongue as strong arms wrap around her waist, gently tugging her into his body as he attempts to return the kiss, briefly manages to press his own longing lips upon hers before staring at her with soft eyes, tawny features flushing a gentle crimson in a way so similar to when they'd had their first kiss as teenagers. It was so terribly odd how familiar everything felt once again, left him beyond happy. He'd missed kissing Aerith so damned much, enough so that he himself had refused to kiss anyone else in the last six years even if he hadn't known whether he'd see her again. “ Yeah... I... That tells me more than enough. That uh... That settles it then, I'm all yours, though that was never out of the question, I've always been yours. ”

[myristicisms]

Lips twitch slightly, the beginnings of a scowl starting to grow upon Zack's features simply because Aerith wasn't being fair to him at all! He's been so behaved after all, not that he never was anyways but he's being patient despite the hand lingering on his ass and were he in the mood to be petty or spiteful then he'd have ran off to go burn his newly found energy somewhere else.

“ You should figure it out soon then. ” He whines softly, irritation clear as day within his voice though there is no bite. He feels constricted, stuck even, and that's not something Zack was all too keen on being trapped experiencing even if he absolutely loved being at Aerith's mercy. He knows well enough that he might be left high strung, tense and desperate for anything or maybe she'll be kind enough to allow him the privilege of touching her the way he so desperately wanted to.

Which is to say it was maddening, especially when he was left to think about just how pretty Aerith would look with his marks adorning that pretty neck of hers. He perks up though, much like an excited dog once he gets some sort of confirmation and the moment the words leave his lover's lips, his hands are swift to wander her body.

“ Thank you Princess, I'll make sure to treat you right. ”

What a sound. Oh how he loved drawing any little noises from her simply because anything Zack could draw from rosey lips was something he'd found absolutely enamoring. Unfortunately though, as far as he's concerned when it comes to Aerith, the woman in his arms was utterly intoxicating and he'd found he didn't mind that much at all.

A soft growl rumbles deep within his chest, possessive and damn near demanding as he waits on the brunette to ponder her answer all the while placing gentle kisses to pallid flesh. “ It's a promise and you know it is. ” He mumbles against her skin, nudging his nose into that spot between her shoulder and her neck with a happy little hum; Bullying his way into Aerith's space really was the ideal means of spending his time getting vengeance, after all.

Even if it means still yelping in surprise at the pressure against his ass, embarrassing as it is. “ That a yes? ”

[myristicisms]

What a sound. Oh how he loved drawing any little noises from her simply because anything Zack could draw from rosey lips was something he'd found absolutely enamoring. Unfortunately though, as far as he's concerned when it comes to Aerith, the woman in his arms was utterly intoxicating and he'd found he didn't mind that much at all.

A soft growl rumbles deep within his chest, possessive and damn near demanding as he waits on the brunette to ponder her answer all the while placing gentle kisses to pallid flesh. “ It's a promise and you know it is. ” He mumbles against her skin, nudging his nose into that spot between her shoulder and her neck with a happy little hum; Bullying his way into Aerith's space really was the ideal means of spending his time getting vengeance, after all.

Even if it means still yelping in surprise at the pressure against his ass, embarrassing as it is. “ That a yes? ”

A final sigh signifies Zack has simply given up on warning the brunette, instead deciding to lean down and gently nip at the flesh of her throat with a hum. If Aerith wants to continue with her little game then Zack has no qualms with playing along and even starting his own. “ You and I both know damn well what you're doing. ” He rumbles softly, fingers carefully squeezing at her hips to keep the woman in place.

“ You sure you wanna keep doing that? ” It's a final warning, one that's punctuated with the subtle glow within turquoise eyes, “ Because you're giving me some ideas right about now and if you keep grabbing my ass like that, you're gonna end up pinned on your back. ”

[myristicisms]

A final sigh signifies Zack has simply given up on warning the brunette, instead deciding to lean down and gently nip at the flesh of her throat with a hum. If Aerith wants to continue with her little game then Zack has no qualms with playing along and even starting his own. “ You and I both know damn well what you're doing. ” He rumbles softly, fingers carefully squeezing at her hips to keep the woman in place.

“ You sure you wanna keep doing that? ” It's a final warning, one that's punctuated with the subtle glow within turquoise eyes, “ Because you're giving me some ideas right about now and if you keep grabbing my ass like that, you're gonna end up pinned on your back. ”

A gentle huff thrums through his body, she really was too cruel for someone with such gentle features; Then again Zack did like to be surprised so he guesses he shouldn't be too shocked that his beloved girlfriend would take so much joy in tormenting him. Truly Aerith was so terribly lucky he let her get away with so much, though that was simply because she was who she was and Zack wasn't a man who could deny the Cetra anything even if he wanted to, which he very much didn't want to. Not when he relished in being tormented by her, anyways.

“ Aerith. ” He warns softly, stares down at her with a raised eyebrow before grumbling to himself, something or another about wondering why he'd even issued a warning. “ Keep it up and you're gonna end up real sore. ”

[myristicisms]

A gentle huff thrums through his body, she really was too cruel for someone with such gentle features; Then again Zack did like to be surprised so he guesses he shouldn't be too shocked that his beloved girlfriend would take so much joy in tormenting him. Truly Aerith was so terribly lucky he let her get away with so much, though that was simply because she was who she was and Zack wasn't a man who could deny the Cetra anything even if he wanted to, which he very much didn't want to. Not when he relished in being tormented by her, anyways.

“ Aerith. ” He warns softly, stares down at her with a raised eyebrow before grumbling to himself, something or another about wondering why he'd even issued a warning. “ Keep it up and you're gonna end up real sore. ”

@dcyseeker | Aerith Gainsborough sent;;

she just reaches over and gives his ass a squeeze.

Eyes widen the size of dinner plates, large arms tightening around his lover's frame with a soft yelp before ever so slightly tugging his face away to stare down at Aerith with a flustered grin atop his features. Were it anyone else's hands on his ass, they'd be on the ground and Zack would be horrifically embarrassed by the noise he'd made simply because of how undignified it was. Thankfully though, it wasn't just anybody else. “ Hey princess, I think your hands're wandering. ”

It's a gentle mumble, tawny hands trailing down her sides to rest upon Aerith's hips with a thoughtful hum. Clearly Zack didn't mind the gesture much, not with the way he clung to the woman as though he'd crumple up and die without her pressed into his chest. It's got him feeling all sorts of warm, flustered and bothered in ways that apparently only the brunette could get him with just touch alone. “ Don't do that if you're not trying to rile me up. ”

[myristicisms]

To have managed to stay hidden as long as he had was something Zack was proud of, wistfully in a way but he'd found himself in a peaceful life; One that he knew would be ripped away from him should he join Aerith and her companions on their journey and yet the former SOLDIER hardly finds himself worried about that, finds himself damn near giddy about the idea itself. She was standing in front of him, surrounded by flowers that while normally the most beautiful things he'd had the pleasure of being surrounded by, looked dull compared to the brunette in his arms. That was more than enough to leave him satisfied and more than willing to toss aside the tranquil, albeit boring, life he'd made for himself.

He'd worried, gods how he worried so much that she wouldn't want him if she'd known just how different he was, but then that wasn't fair of Zack to assume, knows Aerith is just as pure in her devotion as he was. He remembers that final letter she'd wrote him, how many she'd written before he'd finally received it and rushed to what was damn near his own death hoping to return to her. He knows six years is a lot, enough time for her to change just as much as him and he prays it's not for similar reasons, hopes Aerith never has to know the same horrors he'd had to live through first hand. No, he'd intended to share his tale, give her a proper explanation for his disappearance, and then make good on granting her those twenty three wishes.

A gentle sigh puffs through his chest, so very relaxed from just the small affection, the expression upon her face leaving him feeling safe, comfortable again. He'd rip his heart from his chest and offer it to her were he able, she'd only ever have it after all, to tear open his chest and be completely vulnerable with her just as he had so long ago; But back then was different, where he's been less traumatized to an extent and more proud of who he was, what he'd done, “ I can't argue with that then… you've always been right so I'm not gonna start thinking otherwise. ”

A simple jest, though he'd meant it. There's more he yearns to say, more he wants to confirm only to have every word die upon his tongue as strong arms wrap around her waist, gently tugging her into his body as he attempts to return the kiss, briefly manages to press his own longing lips upon hers before staring at her with soft eyes, tawny features flushing a gentle crimson in a way so similar to when they'd had their first kiss as teenagers. It was so terribly odd how familiar everything felt once again, left him beyond happy. He'd missed kissing Aerith so damned much, enough so that he himself had refused to kiss anyone else in the last six years even if he hadn't known whether he'd see her again. “ Yeah... I... That tells me more than enough. That uh... That settles it then, I'm all yours, though that was never out of the question, I've always been yours. ”

Turquoise eyes shimmer with the beginnings of tears, ever the one to grow easily overwhelmed in his own feelings even now, when nothing but pure, unfiltered joy managed to warm the hole deep within his belly. Her touch, however light even while guided by his own hands, had been more than enough to further cement within Zack's mind that he hadn't been hallucinating, that for once Gaia was being kind to him and his mind was finally allowing him a moment of joy untainted by the horrors of the last six years.

It was small, certainly, but anything was better than nothing and the gentle thrumming of his heart, aching to break from the confines of his chest, was enough to remind the former SOLDIER that he'd survived for this, a reunion with the woman who haunted him every night in the best of ways because it was always going to be Aerith he'd yearned for, would always be the green eyes he thought of on nights where he'd felt hopeless, worthless even. He knows they had a long road ahead of them, knows her affiliation with AVALANCHE now and how Shinra would definitely be sticking their noses in their business.

It's bothersome to think about so he doesn't, instead focusing on the way Aerith leans into him, his body shivering beneath the brief touch before pressing into her palm further with a gentle, calmed huff. “ I've... Changed a bit since I saw you last, comes with age but I hope those changes aren't enough to scare you off. ” His voice turns soft, wistful and hesitant, true he was still Zack Fair, but who was he if not a SOLDIER operative? The man standing before her was one who struggled to sleep, one who flinched at any noise he deemed uncommon or strange; Yes, the man standing before Aerith was still Zack, but he certainly was no longer the carefree man he'd been when he'd seen her last.

“ If you'll still have me, then I'd be honored to give us another try, but I gotta remind you that my love is intense and you won't be getting rid of me this time around. I mean it Aerith, I love you. I love you so much that being away for so long was driving me insane, so if you still want to give us another shot, even after seeing how different of a man I've become, I'd like that a lot. ” He'd never been sure of much in life, not anymore, but this was something Zack stood firm on, knows that these feelings of his that never quite simmered down were one of very few certainties in his life, and he'd had every intention of further proving his dedication to the woman in his arms, desperate to show just how much he loved her even after being apart for so long, just how deep his devotion truly ran.

[myristicisms]

Turquoise eyes shimmer with the beginnings of tears, ever the one to grow easily overwhelmed in his own feelings even now, when nothing but pure, unfiltered joy managed to warm the hole deep within his belly. Her touch, however light even while guided by his own hands, had been more than enough to further cement within Zack's mind that he hadn't been hallucinating, that for once Gaia was being kind to him and his mind was finally allowing him a moment of joy untainted by the horrors of the last six years.

It was small, certainly, but anything was better than nothing and the gentle thrumming of his heart, aching to break from the confines of his chest, was enough to remind the former SOLDIER that he'd survived for this, a reunion with the woman who haunted him every night in the best of ways because it was always going to be Aerith he'd yearned for, would always be the green eyes he thought of on nights where he'd felt hopeless, worthless even. He knows they had a long road ahead of them, knows her affiliation with AVALANCHE now and how Shinra would definitely be sticking their noses in their business.

It's bothersome to think about so he doesn't, instead focusing on the way Aerith leans into him, his body shivering beneath the brief touch before pressing into her palm further with a gentle, calmed huff. “ I've... Changed a bit since I saw you last, comes with age but I hope those changes aren't enough to scare you off. ” His voice turns soft, wistful and hesitant, true he was still Zack Fair, but who was he if not a SOLDIER operative? The man standing before her was one who struggled to sleep, one who flinched at any noise he deemed uncommon or strange; Yes, the man standing before Aerith was still Zack, but he certainly was no longer the carefree man he'd been when he'd seen her last.

“ If you'll still have me, then I'd be honored to give us another try, but I gotta remind you that my love is intense and you won't be getting rid of me this time around. I mean it Aerith, I love you. I love you so much that being away for so long was driving me insane, so if you still want to give us another shot, even after seeing how different of a man I've become, I'd like that a lot. ” He'd never been sure of much in life, not anymore, but this was something Zack stood firm on, knows that these feelings of his that never quite simmered down were one of very few certainties in his life, and he'd had every intention of further proving his dedication to the woman in his arms, desperate to show just how much he loved her even after being apart for so long, just how deep his devotion truly ran.

Truly it was odd how just a few moments of familiarity can bring back such strong waves of emotions. Zack has learned to keep his feelings in check since he'd managed to escape the wastelands, it was necessary given how irritable the average person was towards anyone with ties to Shinra. He's grown overwhelmed, not agonizingly so but the flood of warmth within his heart burned brighter than the sun as his turquoise eyes focused upon Aerith's form, fondness glimmering in dull glowing irises. This is what he fought so hard for, what he's worked his ass off for, his hopes and dreams finally coming to fruition and he couldn't be happier.

Tufts of raven bounce alongside the tilt of his head, curiosity so very obvious within his expression as he watches her stick the flower into his pocket, glances down at it before laughing softly, warmly. He'd felt young again, younger anyways given this was a familiar ritual they'd had, perhaps with different flowers but it was still familiar nonetheless. He'd always liked those yellow flowers in specific, something about them always reminding him of his first love from how delicate and lovely they always looked, they made the longing in his heart all the more painful but served as a reminder of what he's fought so damn hard for.

Eyes flicker back to meet the brunette's, a gentle smile tugging at his lips as tawny fingers gently find themselves resting atop hers, pressing the woman's hand to his chest once it grows close to his heart, hopes she can feel just how hard it beats against his ribs and prays she understands just how terribly he'd wanted what they'd had once before. He notes the color dusting her features, almost wants to tease her but knows damn well he's no better.

“ Fitting is... Certainly a way to put it, y'know, if I were that dumb seventeen year old you first fell for I'd be confused but... Are you hinting towards something Angel ? ” He whispers, hesitation raw in his voice even with the term of endearment he'd given her so long ago. He was hopeful, beyond so even because gods he wanted this so bad just the same. “ Because if you are, I'd... I'd love to give us another go, I still love you y'know. ”

[myristicisms]

Truly it was odd how just a few moments of familiarity can bring back such strong waves of emotions. Zack has learned to keep his feelings in check since he'd managed to escape the wastelands, it was necessary given how irritable the average person was towards anyone with ties to Shinra. He's grown overwhelmed, not agonizingly so but the flood of warmth within his heart burned brighter than the sun as his turquoise eyes focused upon Aerith's form, fondness glimmering in dull glowing irises. This is what he fought so hard for, what he's worked his ass off for, his hopes and dreams finally coming to fruition and he couldn't be happier.

Tufts of raven bounce alongside the tilt of his head, curiosity so very obvious within his expression as he watches her stick the flower into his pocket, glances down at it before laughing softly, warmly. He'd felt young again, younger anyways given this was a familiar ritual they'd had, perhaps with different flowers but it was still familiar nonetheless. He'd always liked those yellow flowers in specific, something about them always reminding him of his first love from how delicate and lovely they always looked, they made the longing in his heart all the more painful but served as a reminder of what he's fought so damn hard for.

Eyes flicker back to meet the brunette's, a gentle smile tugging at his lips as tawny fingers gently find themselves resting atop hers, pressing the woman's hand to his chest once it grows close to his heart, hopes she can feel just how hard it beats against his ribs and prays she understands just how terribly he'd wanted what they'd had once before. He notes the color dusting her features, almost wants to tease her but knows damn well he's no better.

“ Fitting is... Certainly a way to put it, y'know, if I were that dumb seventeen year old you first fell for I'd be confused but... Are you hinting towards something Angel ? ” He whispers, hesitation raw in his voice even with the term of endearment he'd given her so long ago. He was hopeful, beyond so even because gods he wanted this so bad just the same. “ Because if you are, I'd... I'd love to give us another go, I still love you y'know. ”

Being earnest was simply something he'd never lose, not that he'd ever want to anyway given how much Zack loathed liars. He'd spent the last two years attempting to return to Aerith, rushed to what could have been his death in an attempt to return to her as soon as possible, he'd had no reason to hide the fact that he so desperately wanted to return to what they'd been before, so long as she wanted the same thing. Mako eyes notice the subtle flush of her features, a knowing grin slowly growing upon plush lips as he easily shifts his hand out of her own, wraps his arm around Aerith's waist and tugs her into his side. Oh he'd missed her so terribly, missed the way she fit into his body so easily.

“ Not as good an eye as you have, but… I did learn from the best, maybe I'll be able to help that mission a little better than I thought. Midgar full of flowers, wallet full of money. ” He repeats back, amusement heavy in his voice as he recalls her own gardens back in sector six, wonders just how much she'd expanded in his absence and a new sense of bitterness strikes deep within his heart at how much he'd missed. He'll have to work double time to make up for that, make sure she knew he was around permanently. At her next comment, his grin drops into something softer, more sorrowful.

“ I'll make sure you'll only need one then, and hopefully I'll be able to make sure that you won't permanently need one too. ” A soft mumble, the skin around his jaw shifting with the way he clamps his jaw in frustration at their situation. Shinra would pay, Zack would make sure of it himself, just like he'd make sure Aerith wouldn't need to worry about anything outside of smaller dumb things like which flowers would suit a bouquet best. Even if it wasn't as a lover, as a friend he would do everything for her and that was his own silent promise.

Her smile though, it certainly manages to ease his anger, the way she gently breaks from him to admire the field, that too brings him an ease he seldom feels anymore. Aerith's joy was infectious, truly even the toughest of SOLDIER wouldn't be able to resist cracking a smile at how excited she'd been to see the many plants and as he draws closer, he can't help but to beam more. “ That's what I thought when I first found this place, then I thought 'Aerith would love it here' and since then it's been my... Happy place, I come here after work every day. ”

[myristicisms]

Being earnest was simply something he'd never lose, not that he'd ever want to anyway given how much Zack loathed liars. He'd spent the last two years attempting to return to Aerith, rushed to what could have been his death in an attempt to return to her as soon as possible, he'd had no reason to hide the fact that he so desperately wanted to return to what they'd been before, so long as she wanted the same thing. Mako eyes notice the subtle flush of her features, a knowing grin slowly growing upon plush lips as he easily shifts his hand out of her own, wraps his arm around Aerith's waist and tugs her into his side. Oh he'd missed her so terribly, missed the way she fit into his body so easily.

“ Not as good an eye as you have, but… I did learn from the best, maybe I'll be able to help that mission a little better than I thought. Midgar full of flowers, wallet full of money. ” He repeats back, amusement heavy in his voice as he recalls her own gardens back in sector six, wonders just how much she'd expanded in his absence and a new sense of bitterness strikes deep within his heart at how much he'd missed. He'll have to work double time to make up for that, make sure she knew he was around permanently. At her next comment, his grin drops into something softer, more sorrowful.

“ I'll make sure you'll only need one then, and hopefully I'll be able to make sure that you won't permanently need one too. ” A soft mumble, the skin around his jaw shifting with the way he clamps his jaw in frustration at their situation. Shinra would pay, Zack would make sure of it himself, just like he'd make sure Aerith wouldn't need to worry about anything outside of smaller dumb things like which flowers would suit a bouquet best. Even if it wasn't as a lover, as a friend he would do everything for her and that was his own silent promise.

Her smile though, it certainly manages to ease his anger, the way she gently breaks from him to admire the field, that too brings him an ease he seldom feels anymore. Aerith's joy was infectious, truly even the toughest of SOLDIER wouldn't be able to resist cracking a smile at how excited she'd been to see the many plants and as he draws closer, he can't help but to beam more. “ That's what I thought when I first found this place, then I thought 'Aerith would love it here' and since then it's been my... Happy place, I come here after work every day. ”

Mako tinged eyes glimmer almost knowingly, a dopey smile quirking plush lips as Zack raises his eyebrows in mock curiosity, something to attempt hiding the gentle flush in his face because he knows well that the mind behind those brilliant green eyes was just as magnificent as everything else about her. The remark only further justifies his knowledge, forces him to laugh softly, fondly. “ Is that so? ” A pause, boldness washing over his body much as it did when they'd first met. “ Hopefully it'll be your last love too, hm? ”

Because Zack himself knows Aerith was his first and only love; Had long since understood that the brunette had taken his heart from his body and kept it with her even if she'd not known. Even if he wasn't her only love or even her last he was still content, happy to allow the hollow within his chest to remain so long as he's able to bask in the warmth that was simply just Aerith. He feels happier, lighter than he has in years as he easily falls into a rhythm of dragging her through the crowd, closer to somewhere more private yet still basked in sunlight.

“ What kind of first boyfriend would I be if I didn't? Y'know how often I stare at flowers and think about how much you'd like them? ” Sheepish, he's embarrassed to admit it but it never hurt to be vulnerable, not with Aerith anyways. He seems far more relaxed the further out from town they go, happy to observe her, notes the familiar ribbon he'd tied into her hair on their first date and his heart aches. She'd kept it all along, and that idea only makes him all the more guilty, more love stricken.

“ Oh? Well I think we found out the hard way that I'm terrible as an assistant but a bodyguard... Looks like you're in luck, I happen to be pretty good at work like that. ” Amusement and warmth crept into his voice, turquoise eyes blankly staring ahead before tugging her into a field with a hum. Even despite the fact he looked completely helpless, Zack was still SOLDIER, combat a second nature even without the large Buster Sword attached to his back, he'd known Shinra was likely looking for them both, heard all about AVALANCHE and given Aerith's being in the middle of nowhere suddenly..?

Zack was smart enough to know, even without asking for details, he also had already decided that no matter what, he'd always protect Aerith, that had been a given since he'd met her and it stayed that way even six years later. Peace would be nice, but for now? He just wanted to bask in her companionship, perhaps earn her love again.

[myristicisms]

Mako tinged eyes glimmer almost knowingly, a dopey smile quirking plush lips as Zack raises his eyebrows in mock curiosity, something to attempt hiding the gentle flush in his face because he knows well that the mind behind those brilliant green eyes was just as magnificent as everything else about her. The remark only further justifies his knowledge, forces him to laugh softly, fondly. “ Is that so? ” A pause, boldness washing over his body much as it did when they'd first met. “ Hopefully it'll be your last love too, hm? ”

Because Zack himself knows Aerith was his first and only love; Had long since understood that the brunette had taken his heart from his body and kept it with her even if she'd not known. Even if he wasn't her only love or even her last he was still content, happy to allow the hollow within his chest to remain so long as he's able to bask in the warmth that was simply just Aerith. He feels happier, lighter than he has in years as he easily falls into a rhythm of dragging her through the crowd, closer to somewhere more private yet still basked in sunlight.

“ What kind of first boyfriend would I be if I didn't? Y'know how often I stare at flowers and think about how much you'd like them? ” Sheepish, he's embarrassed to admit it but it never hurt to be vulnerable, not with Aerith anyways. He seems far more relaxed the further out from town they go, happy to observe her, notes the familiar ribbon he'd tied into her hair on their first date and his heart aches. She'd kept it all along, and that idea only makes him all the more guilty, more love stricken.

“ Oh? Well I think we found out the hard way that I'm terrible as an assistant but a bodyguard... Looks like you're in luck, I happen to be pretty good at work like that. ” Amusement and warmth crept into his voice, turquoise eyes blankly staring ahead before tugging her into a field with a hum. Even despite the fact he looked completely helpless, Zack was still SOLDIER, combat a second nature even without the large Buster Sword attached to his back, he'd known Shinra was likely looking for them both, heard all about AVALANCHE and given Aerith's being in the middle of nowhere suddenly..?

Zack was smart enough to know, even without asking for details, he also had already decided that no matter what, he'd always protect Aerith, that had been a given since he'd met her and it stayed that way even six years later. Peace would be nice, but for now? He just wanted to bask in her companionship, perhaps earn her love again.

Oh how he'd missed her delicate touch, six years without it was far too long and he loathed to admit just how badly he'd yearned for it again. Even with the memories of his body feeling like it'd been torn to shreds fresh on his mind, the brief moments of fear that perhaps he'd be caught, it was all worth it just for this moment. Unknowing, instinctive even as he gently rubs his thumb against the back of her hand, serenity easing into his large frame. There was never a chance to deny the fact that even after so long, Zack's heart still thrummed a familiar tune, sang a familiar song only for Aerith, and that was something he'd long since learned to embrace.

That gentle laugh, too, managed to soothe the nerves that threatened to make his body twitch away, eased the worry of being rightfully struck and abandoned. It was a melody, something Zack didn't even realize he'd missed nearly as much as he did until it reached his ears once more and he can't help but to chuckle; Either at the realization of just how much he'd yearned for this moment or from the gentle nudge against his chest, he didn't know which was the cause but either way the former SOLDIER was content, enough to note that despite the subtle changes that the years had caused, Aerith too was still the same. “ Hey! I'm just saying, they'd gang up on me and I'd be a goner! Then you'll have to be my knight in shining armor. ”

Turquoise eyes gleam curiously, head turning about as though also looking for the brunette's friends despite having no clue what they'd looked like or how many were there, he feels almost bad, almost being the key word, to have taken her attention. The town wasn't large but it certainly wasn't a great place to lose a travel companion without a game plan, that was something he'd learned the hard way when he was first brought to the little city, half dead and confused but just coherent enough to wander around foolishly. He rests a gentle hand on her shoulder, pulling himself from his own thoughts to focus on offering reassurance that he wasn't going to fade away, even to silently promise she's stuck with him until he's forced to go away.

“ Yeah? You talk about me still? Hopefully only good things and not about how terrible I am at building carts, I think... I think I'd like to meet them, thank them for helping bring you back to me even though they don't know they did. ” A soft hum, content and joyful as he takes her hand into his own. “ I know a perfect field of flowers that'll be perfect to lay in, I was hoping I'd get the chance to show you. ”

[myristicisms]

Oh how he'd missed her delicate touch, six years without it was far too long and he loathed to admit just how badly he'd yearned for it again. Even with the memories of his body feeling like it'd been torn to shreds fresh on his mind, the brief moments of fear that perhaps he'd be caught, it was all worth it just for this moment. Unknowing, instinctive even as he gently rubs his thumb against the back of her hand, serenity easing into his large frame. There was never a chance to deny the fact that even after so long, Zack's heart still thrummed a familiar tune, sang a familiar song only for Aerith, and that was something he'd long since learned to embrace.

That gentle laugh, too, managed to soothe the nerves that threatened to make his body twitch away, eased the worry of being rightfully struck and abandoned. It was a melody, something Zack didn't even realize he'd missed nearly as much as he did until it reached his ears once more and he can't help but to chuckle; Either at the realization of just how much he'd yearned for this moment or from the gentle nudge against his chest, he didn't know which was the cause but either way the former SOLDIER was content, enough to note that despite the subtle changes that the years had caused, Aerith too was still the same. “ Hey! I'm just saying, they'd gang up on me and I'd be a goner! Then you'll have to be my knight in shining armor. ”

Turquoise eyes gleam curiously, head turning about as though also looking for the brunette's friends despite having no clue what they'd looked like or how many were there, he feels almost bad, almost being the key word, to have taken her attention. The town wasn't large but it certainly wasn't a great place to lose a travel companion without a game plan, that was something he'd learned the hard way when he was first brought to the little city, half dead and confused but just coherent enough to wander around foolishly. He rests a gentle hand on her shoulder, pulling himself from his own thoughts to focus on offering reassurance that he wasn't going to fade away, even to silently promise she's stuck with him until he's forced to go away.

“ Yeah? You talk about me still? Hopefully only good things and not about how terrible I am at building carts, I think... I think I'd like to meet them, thank them for helping bring you back to me even though they don't know they did. ” A soft hum, content and joyful as he takes her hand into his own. “ I know a perfect field of flowers that'll be perfect to lay in, I was hoping I'd get the chance to show you. ”

A nod, silent confirmation for only a mere moment as guilt corrupts the tender expression sat atop his features. “ I did. I tried so hard to get back to you, didn't know it had been as long as it did but... Shinra made that a difficult feat. ” He offers vaguely, could see the way her mind turned his words over; He'd hurt her enough unintentionally, would explain better in due time but he prays that's enough for now, to at least make it known he hadn't chosen to stay away. Zack truly did try his hardest, even now he'd been working his ass off to be able to afford a trip back to Midgar to see Aerith again, though clearly the goddess smiled upon him for once.

As it was, the former SOLDIER was technically off the clock anyways, staying back and helping out was just a habit he'd picked up to show his gratitude therefore he didn't have to worry about any calls cutting their time short, not like how they often did back when he'd been an obedient dog to the power company. He couldn't wait to properly get a look at Aerith now, notes how her hair has gotten longer since he'd last seen her, and even fondly notices that she'd taken to wearing pink.

A gentle sigh puffs from his lips, eyes narrowing gently as he leans into that familiar touch, calloused fingers gently laying atop the more delicate one trailing his scar. It was amusing just how soothing it felt to have her touch him again, enough so that he leans into her palm with a tender smile. He still loved her, and that thought alone was utterly terrifying, what if she'd moved on or simply didn't feel the same? Heartbreak was easier to deal with when one didn't know, it's how he coped while working towards getting them both some form of an answer and yet the way she spoke to him, touched him and held him, he already felt like he'd had his answer.

“ No, yeah... Way too many people, they'll all be jealous of me and beat me up for having such a pretty girl want to spend time with me. ” He jokes softly, voice cracking on another soft sob. “ I know a place we can go, assuming your poor friends don't think some strange man came and nabbed you we can go there. Catch up, I can... Give you a better explanation and an apology that's less incoherent and more understandable. ”

[myristicisms]

A nod, silent confirmation for only a mere moment as guilt corrupts the tender expression sat atop his features. “ I did. I tried so hard to get back to you, didn't know it had been as long as it did but... Shinra made that a difficult feat. ” He offers vaguely, could see the way her mind turned his words over; He'd hurt her enough unintentionally, would explain better in due time but he prays that's enough for now, to at least make it known he hadn't chosen to stay away. Zack truly did try his hardest, even now he'd been working his ass off to be able to afford a trip back to Midgar to see Aerith again, though clearly the goddess smiled upon him for once.

As it was, the former SOLDIER was technically off the clock anyways, staying back and helping out was just a habit he'd picked up to show his gratitude therefore he didn't have to worry about any calls cutting their time short, not like how they often did back when he'd been an obedient dog to the power company. He couldn't wait to properly get a look at Aerith now, notes how her hair has gotten longer since he'd last seen her, and even fondly notices that she'd taken to wearing pink.

A gentle sigh puffs from his lips, eyes narrowing gently as he leans into that familiar touch, calloused fingers gently laying atop the more delicate one trailing his scar. It was amusing just how soothing it felt to have her touch him again, enough so that he leans into her palm with a tender smile. He still loved her, and that thought alone was utterly terrifying, what if she'd moved on or simply didn't feel the same? Heartbreak was easier to deal with when one didn't know, it's how he coped while working towards getting them both some form of an answer and yet the way she spoke to him, touched him and held him, he already felt like he'd had his answer.

“ No, yeah... Way too many people, they'll all be jealous of me and beat me up for having such a pretty girl want to spend time with me. ” He jokes softly, voice cracking on another soft sob. “ I know a place we can go, assuming your poor friends don't think some strange man came and nabbed you we can go there. Catch up, I can... Give you a better explanation and an apology that's less incoherent and more understandable. ”

His arms are tight around her body, desperation thrumming through his very being out of fear she might leave him, rightfully so he thinks to himself. What had Aerith been up to while he'd been away, wonders if perhaps this was just a moment of shock that would fall into being slapped and yelled at for disappearing without a word and not reconnecting sooner even though Zack would have loved to. Instead, he feels her face press into his chest, shame washing over him in waves so intense that were it anybody else he would likely have tried to break away.

But this was Aerith, not just somebody else.

His body shakes slightly, silent sobs bubbling through his excitement as he buries his nose in her hair, simply stays in that position until he feels the brunette shift, hears her soft laughter and damn near fawns once more. She was as beautiful as he remembered and he wishes, selfishly so, that he could continue to hold her like this, savor the familiarity of his first love's frame within his arms for the rest of his life. Had he gotten his other wish, they'd likely be sitting within the church, laughing and catching up, maybe even go for a walk around the sector 5 slums just as they did so long ago.

“ I was starting to worry about the same thing… ” He whispers, and it was true; As far as Zack knew, Shinra still wanted him taken in, dead or alive it didn't matter much, they'd already demonstrated just how far they'd go to keep him quiet after all and yet here he was, finally able to sing his adoration that had laid heavy within his heart since the day he'd broken out from that hellish lab. Seeing her now though? His heart only thrummed harder within his chest, almost painfully so from a mixture of guilt, fear, and relief, the flames of his love for Aerith only being rekindled the more he took in her presence alone.

“ I wish I had... I got your last one, that Angeal copy had brought it to me just before… ” He flinches, Banora was a painful memory, that entire year was something that he couldn't help but to look back and frown when thinking about it. But, at the very least, he was alive and he was able to once again look into familiar greens that haunted his dreams every damn night, they were as hypnotic now as they were when he was just some dumb kid blindly chasing after a dream that, frankly was not worth any of what he almost lost. “ I'm here now though, little worse for wear still but... We've got a lot to catch up on, don'tcha think? ”