#ff7 barret x reader

[kyasarinkishinuma]

WHAT DO YOU MEAN THERE'S NO BARRET X READER CONTENT ON TUMBLR--

[demialwrites]

FF7 x Reader

Annoying things about being in a relationship with them

Rufus Shinra

He knows how to clean surprisingly decently because of his time confined to Turk HQ in Before Crisis but stubbornly refuses to do certain things. It's 'beneath him'

Even if you're on birth control or otherwise can't get pregnant, it doesn't matter. He's wearing a condom and how dare you suggest otherwise

He takes up all the space in the closet because of all the layers he insists on wearing

He insists on taking his dog everywhere, even if you explain it terrifies some people. For example: your poor parents

Rude

There's a third wheel in this relationship and his name starts with a Re and ends with a No

Rude is very romantic. However, he only barely has time so his gestures happen spontaneously and it's hard to plan around his schedule

Often comes home with injuries and you're the one who has to patch him up and worry about him. He doesn't worry about himself

He prefers to show not tell. You have to learn how to read him with a glance

Reno

There's a third wheel in this relationship and his name is Rude

His insecurity randomly spikes and he gets mega jealous, sometimes with threats at the offending party

Very loud. All the time

Gets broody about things he has to do at work and sometimes nothing you do will help

Gets whiney when you don't have the stamina to have sex all damned night

Cloud

Cannot communicate his needs. Does not know what his needs are. WHAT ARE NEEDS?

Everyone flirts with him but if you try to talk to him about it, he never noticed the flirting in the first place

Sometimes cute animals follow him home and oops, one day you have seven cats, fifteen chickens, four dogs, several chocobos, and one of those giant elephant fiends because it was injured and alone. You didn't sign up to live at a zoo but here you are, shoveling elephant shit every day

Occasionally, one of his hair spikes stab you straight in the eye when he's being the little spoon

Barret

Thinks he can fix everything himself when sometimes you just need him to listen

Like Reno, Barret can be quite loud. If you like peace, sometimes you have to take some space. It makes the big guy sad

Not very detail-oriented. Leaves little things like ammo all over the garage/shed floor and small bits of trash all over the house. He meant to pick it up, honest!

Occasionally breaks the bed

Tseng

You can't be spontaneous for shit because he anticipates everything

He has certain cleaning standards but he doesn't always tell you. He just redoes it himself

Must be the one to clean and iron his suit himself or he will get annoyed

His handwriting is annoyingly perfect and it makes you feel bad about your chicken scratch

Elena

Puts herself in danger way too often. She doesn't understand your horrified reaction to her story of how she jumped out of a helicopter onto a moving dune buggy in the middle of the Corel desert

It can be hard to tell if she's actually angry or just venting

You know more about her work than is probably safe for you

Too spontaneous. She sometimes makes important decisions without consulting you first

Reeve

Main bad habit: he is a workaholic

Sometimes puts others needs before yours. He's just trying to help

Doesn't take good care of his health

Uses the sad puppy eyes to get out of arguments more often than he should

Sometimes leaves spare cait siths and his parts all over the living room

[dinoace2]

Little Matchmaker

Brief barret x reader fic because my man deserves love and yall are cowards

Post ff7, i...don't think there are any spoilers? Wholesome stuff because I felt like it, ~1.1k words, reader's a she

(A/N: is this how second person works? This is a first attempt)

~~~~

You joined Cloud and his friends on their journey to save Gaia, and after the fact, it didn't hurt to keep in touch. You helped out at the renovated Seventh Heaven when you could, and, oddly enough, you found yourself drawing closer to the young Marlene.

She was adorable, and so innocent and sweet. Although shy at first, she opened up more and more with each passing day. Nowadays, she practically considered you family.

Each time you came back to the bar, every day that you finished whatever odd job you took on, Marlene was the first to greet you. With a giggle and a smile, the girl would rush to your side, arms out for a hug. As long as you weren't completely exhausted, your standard response was to scoop her up in a big snuggle.

Unseen to you, these interactions always brought a smile to someone's face.

Barret stood leaning against a doorway, arms crossed and a gentle smile on his lips. Seeing his daughter so happy gave him a sense of ease. To him, it meant things were finally turning up. It meant that the idea of a peaceful future was more than just a fantasy. It meant that he might not have to spend his entire life fighting for change.

You were special to him, for more reasons than one.

Of course, he loved that you were a source of support and joy for his little girl, but lately he...began to think about something more.

You had spent so much time together on the road, alongside everyone else of course. Acquaintances, then allies, then friends, and now...

Now he wasn't so sure.

When did it start, that he began to notice the endearing smile on your face whenever you came by? When did he start to see the glimmer in your gorgeous eyes, a hopeful look for a bright future?

When did he realize his heart began to race in your presence?

When did he first notice that, the person he'd been traveling with, fighting alongside, and, frankly, trusting with his life on a regular basis, could perhaps be something more?

In truth, he could probably only mark it up to the fact that Marlene looked so happy when you were around.

He'd never really thought much about love or anything like that. Up til now, there was always some kind of danger or threat or something to fight for, and now that there was peace? It actually left space to think about something else.

He watched his daughter take you by the hand and lead you outside to play, and smiled as he took a seat at the bar. Tifa set a glass in front of him. "Are you ever gonna tell her?"

He looked at her, a confused look on his face as he took his glass. "Whaddaya mean?"

She chuckled. "Come on, I know you aren't totally oblivious. You light up every time she walks in here."

Barret rolled his eyes. "I dont 'light up' for anyone. I mean...'cept for Marlene." He shrugged.

Tifa only smiled. "Alright then. Do you want a refill?"

A while later, when you and Marlene finally came in for a break from your playing, you both sat at the bar, and Tifa presented both of you with a fresh glass of ice-cold lemonade.

You smiled, taking the glass with a sigh. "Thanks, Tifa. This kiddo here can race fast when she wants to...where's all that energy come from, anyway?" You ruffled the girl's hair and she giggled.

You looked at the only other guest in the building, and you waved. "How have you been, Barret?"

He couldn't help but smile at you. "Oh, i- uh. I'm doin' alright. How are you?" Tifa chuckled at his response, and he only glared back at her.

Marlene set her glass down, then walked up to Barret and put her hands on her hips. "Daddy, you need to ask Miss (y/n) on a date!"

You and Barret both choked on your drinks at the same time, attention very quickly shifting to the little girl in front of you.

Barret chuckled nervously. "Um. I. Sweetheart, where'd that even come from?"

"Well all the time you're talking about how nice and amazing and pretty she is!" She crossed her arms.

His eyes went wide. "I-, heh, i...that was supposed to be secret words, princess..." his eyes darted between you and her, almost seeming nervous.

She turned back to you. "And when we play together you always sit on the swings and gush about how great Daddy is!"

You froze. Had you really done it that much? Maybe a couple times here and there, just as a way of finding something you and her could agree on, her dad is pretty incredible after all. Perhaps it slipped your mind how often you brought it up, but...you never talked that much with her about your feelings for him....did you? Your cheeks flushed, your face felt hot. How embarrassing, to have been utterly exposed by a seven-year-old to someone you looked up to so much.

Marlene took you by the hand and walked you over, so that you stood closer to Barret than before. "You like her, and she likes you, and also I like her a lot! I think she'd be a good Mama!"

With every word she said, you were somewhere between melting out of excitement and happiness, and wanting to curl up and shrink away out of embarrassment.

Tifa looked on at the awkward display, and broke the silence with a chuckle. "Well, no arguing with that logic, huh?"

You turned to her with the most 'shut. UP!' glare in your eyes, and she only replied with a shrug and a smile.

Barret sighed and took a long breath, standing up. "Alright...uh. well..." he cleared his throat. "Um. (y/n), uh." He gestured his hand and fidgeted a bit. "Will you....uh. will..." he let out a long sigh. "....willyougoonadatewithme‐"

You paused, shocked for a moment. Barret Wallace, among the strongest men you'd ever met, reduced to nervous mumbles and shaky fidgets. That was never a sight you could have expected, but...it wasn't necessarily something you didn't find amusing.

You smiled. "Sorry, what was that? I couldn't quite hear you."

He paused, grumbled under his breath for a moment, then sighed. "I, uh. Would you...like to get dinner with me...sometime soon?"

You couldn't help but giggle, and you reached out to take his hand.

"I'd love to."

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Thanks for reading! :]

[lillunna]

whats next

first off im currently writing a biker biggs x reader modern AU bc of booktok and bikertok got me but i it may take a second because I got distracted playing FF7RB and taxes lol but after this which one next? im thinking ex turk reader, actress reader, or even a rodeo AU (shhhh i love me some hot cowboys >:D) im also always taking requests for any FF7 characters EXCEPT yuffie and red unless yall want some platonic sibling or parental fic BC THEY R CHILDREN also if i write for cait it would automatically be a reeves fic

[justauthoring]

quite like this.

request: Haii uhm for the ff7 requests ! I don’t know if you have played rebirth but since there are the golden saucer dates, i was maybe thinking you could do a reader x cloud having a date? Maybe the two have feelings for each other but they are completely oblivious that the feeling is mutual, and they both think their feelings aren’t reciprocated. Maybe the others know about this and so they make it as if to leave them alone during their time there, and you know it all goes from there? Obviously if you don’t like the request that’s alright! by: anonymous.

a/n: eeeeeeee second ff7 imagine :))) i planned to write for zack next tbh but i couldn't pass up this request. it's so cute!

tw: obviously spoilers for rebirth! don't read if you haven't gotten to chapter 12 of the game

pairing: cloud strife x f!reader

It was the most colour you’d ever seen in your life.

And everyone looked so happy.

You could barely contain the excitement bursting through your chest, eyes wandering across with the brightest smile plastered across your lips. You’re blissfully unaware of the pair of eyes watching you, lost in your own thoughts as your feet shuffle beneath you, antsy.

But not sure what you’re antsy for. Or what you want to do.

“Me and Aerith are gonna go look at the chocobo racing.”

Blinking, you’re pulled from your thoughts at the sound of Tifa. When you turn to look at her, she’s already looking at you, a warm smile on her lips as she gestures behind her to Aerith. 

You glance in the direction of the Chocobo racing and think that it could be fun. You’re overwhelmed with the amount of options at the Gold Saucer and you were happy as long as you were with your friends so you step towards them, lips parting to say you’ll join the two girls but then Aerith is grabbing Tifa’s wrist and the two girls are turning around before you even have the chance.

“We’ll see you later!”

Hand held out in front of you, you frown.

“I’m off too!” Yuffie calls in the next second, already shuffling backwards as she sends you a wink and a slap on Barret’s shoulder.

“Oh, but Yuffie–”

“I’m gonna try to get some rest,” Barret calls out gruffly, nudging Cloud who is standing beside you and sends you a nod. “I’ll be at the hotel.”

You blink, lips curved downwards and move to step towards him but he’s already turned his back to you.

“Me and the laddie are gonna look at the battle arena,” Cait calls out, perched on Red’s back as he tips his head at you. You meet his eyes before drifting down to Red’s who is staring up at you in return. “Red showed some interest, you see!”

“Thought I could take some notes,” Red nods at your questioning look. “We’ll see ya.”

And with a speed only Red seems to manage, the two are off before you can offer to join them.

Once they disappear from your sight, you slump back, a huff leaving your lips as you glance around, suddenly realizing that everyone except for Cloud had left, none of them giving you a single chance to ask if you could join them. Realistically, you’d expected to join Tifa and Aerith, but you would’ve had fun with any of your friends.

Well, you guessed Cloud was still here, but you’d imagined he wouldn’t necessarily want to go sightseeing with you; even if that reality hurt your heart in a way you didn’t want to acknowledge.

Sighing, you turn to look at Cloud only to be surprised when his eyes are already on you.

“Did you have plans to?” Cloud asks, voice soft as he raises a brow in question.

Frowning, you shrug, turning away from Cloud to glance around you. “Not sure. Everyone ran off before I could ask to join them.”

“Well.”

And when Cloud doesn’t say anything else, you turn to him in curiosity, wondering if something was wrong, only to be surprised when you see he’d taken a step forward and his arm was held out towards you for you to grab. You blink, once, twice, eyes flickering from his outstretched arm back to his eyes that continue to stare at you in question, silently inviting you in a way you never would’ve expected.

“You want to?” You ask softly in return, feeling your cheeks warm as you lower your gaze, suddenly feeling a whole lot more bashful than you had seconds before. It was one thing to constantly feel Cloud’s presence beside you, a dominating aura that never left you in the way you loved.

He was always near, and it was hard to sometimes pull your gaze away. And the two of you had talked before, you felt that you actually got along well with the boy in the scheme of things given that the truth was he wasn’t all that chatty. But you’d never been alone with you. Not like this. And not in a place like this either.

A quick glance around you told you that you weren’t crazy for assuming this place felt more intimate. There were couples everywhere, holding hands, smiling at each other, kissing, in their own worlds with all the lights and chatter and the warmth of each other.

Being in a place like this, alone, with Cloud made your heart race in a way that made it hard to focus and the worst part was that he probably didn’t even realize it.

“If you want,” he answers gently, nodding, arm still held out towards you. “You looked disappointed that everyone else ran off. But… you don’t have to hang with me if you don’t–”

Feeling guilty you’d made him think you didn’t want to hang with him, and knowing that was quite literally the far opposite of the truth, you hastily shake your head, cutting off his words. You step forward, ignoring the lurch of your heart as you wrap your arm around his own, your hand falling against his bicep. You try to ignore how strong and toned his arm feels beneath your skin, and how instantly you feel a lot hotter than you had seconds ago, keeping your gaze strictly ahead of yourself.

You pray Cloud can’t feel how fast your heart is beating.

Cloud shuffles on his feet for a moment before he glances down at you; “where do you wanna go?”

-

You ended up wandering for a good while.

Nothing particularly caught either of your eyes but you didn’t mind. If you were being truthful, it was enough to just be able to spend this time with Cloud, alone.

Even if it didn’t feel the same to him, which you’re sure it didn’t. Even if this was just a courtesy he’d done for you because he’d seen how sad and pathetic you’d looked after everyone else had run off from you. It didn’t matter. Not at that moment. It was just enough for you then that you got to be with him, close to him like this.

“Do you wanna go on?”

It takes you a second to realize Cloud is speaking but you feel him shift and watch as he points before the both of you, your eyes following the point of his finger only to fall on the Skywheel. 

“Oh,” you mumble, feeling your cheeks grow warm. “Don’t we need tickets for that?”

You glance around, trying to find the ticket booth, secretly hoping there were even tickets left before Cloud speaks up again.

“No worries,” he calls and your eyes fall on him as he holds two tickets before you. At your wide expression, he lets out a tiny smile. “Tifa handed these to me before her and Aerith ran off.”

Your eyes widen and suddenly it clicks.

Clearly, Tifa and Aerith hadn’t purposely left you like you’d worried. This had all been a plan from the beginning! A plan because you’d told them of your feelings for Cloud when the two had cornered you for the truth. Tifa was hard enough to dodge on her own like you’d grown to learn over the past few years but with the added addition of Aerith, the two were like an unstoppable force and your confession had practically been pulled out of you.

Your chest tightens with worry.

Poor Cloud. Being wrapped up in those twos’ schemes… You’d hoped he maybe did want to hang with you after all, but it was probably more likely that Aerith and Tifa had forced him to take you on the date and had left him no choice when they’d run off.

Which meant the others were probably in on it too…

Oh, you were so going to kill them.

“I’m so sorry,” you find yourself saying before you can stop yourself. Your hand falls to your forehead, pulling away from Cloud’s arm and you miss the way he frowns at the loss of your touch. Brushing back your hair, you meet his eyes. “Tifa and Aerith forced you to spend time with me tonight, didn’t they? That’s why they gave you the tickets… I’m sorry, Cloud. I know you probably would’ve preferred to do your own–”

You're cut off but his hand on your arm, holding tightly enough to pull your attention on him. He’s stepped towards you, closed the distance between the both of you, close enough that his chest presses against your own. Your eyes widen when you realize how close he actually is, feeling your breath get caught in the back of your throat as you stare back at him with parted lips.

“No,” he calls out, the words rushed. “I wanted to spend time with you! I mean, yes… Tifa and Aerith gave me the tickets but they didn’t force me to. I was actually trying to find the way to ask you but I didn’t know how and they saw that so they… Well, um, helped, I guess.”

Cloud desperately avoids your gaze, cheeks warm in a way you’ve never quite seen before and he actually seems genuinely embarrassed as the both of you stand there for a moment longer. His words are still processing in your mind, lips left parted as you feel your heart start to race all over again and the warmth floods you tenfold as his words finally click.

Cloud… Cloud wanted to spend time with you.

“Oh,” you finally manage, glancing at your feet. “Well… me too. I-I mean, I, um, wanted to spend time with you too…”

Cloud’s lips part, and then the two of you are staring at each other.

“Last call for the Skywheel!”

Both of your eyes snap to the attendant standing at the ferris wheel, and with one final look at each other, you both step forward. Cloud hands the ticket to him and then a cart pulls up a second later. You step in first, sitting down and Cloud follows a moment later, and when you expect him to take the seat opposite of you, he instead chooses to sit next to you.

The door to the cart shuts and the attendant wishes you well before you feel yourself moving, slowly going higher and higher. Hands resting at your sides, you try to ignore the nerves bubbling through you, letting your eyes drift across the fireworks dancing across the sky, taking in all the colours.

Then, at first faintly, you feel Cloud’s left hand ghost across your right one. You feel yourself freeze, but you hesitate glancing at him, letting your fingers shift slightly in return, inviting him, and a second later he obliges when you feel his fingers thread through your own. You flip your palm, letting him press his own against yours and smile when you feel him squeeze.

Finally, you let your eyes fall on him and he’s already looking at you, expression soft, not guarded in the way it usually is, and you smile, just faintly, swallowing your nerves.

“Cloud,” you find yourself whispering.

He’s leaning forward, inch by inch, hand never leaving your own. “You’re… beautiful,” he whispers in return to his name and you blink, that flutter returning.

That was the last thing you expected Cloud to say. You never knew he could be so… romantic when he wanted to. But you can tell he means the words, his sincerity floods his tone and it makes your heart burst with the warmth of the feelings you’ve desperately tried to ignore.

His lips are a breath away and all it takes is one more hesitant glance at his eyes before you close the gap and press your lips against his. Cloud doesn’t hesitate to respond, the hand holding your own holding tight as his eyes flutter shut and his free hand falls to your waist, pulling you closer.

You lean into his touch with ease, feeling his warmth envelope you in a way it never quite has before.

And then, as he leans back, and you both pull away, his forehead rests against your own, and you breathe in his scent and his presence, relishing in the way it feels to have him so close.

“I like you,” you whisper in the silence, eyes still shut. “I… really like you.”

Clouds hand twitches against your side and he nudges you with his nose. “Me too,” he mumbles, “if that wasn’t obvious.”

You let out a laugh, letting your eyes flicker open as you pull back, hands still intertwined and shoulders still touching but enough that you can see his face properly. He’s smiling, just faintly, in a very Cloud way but it still touches your heart to see you’d been able to make him smile, and the lights of the fireworks dance across his pale skin and butterflies flutter through your stomach.

It’s exactly and nothing like how you’d dreamed this moment would be.

And you love every second of it because no one has ever quite looked at you the way he does in that moment.

[mr-yuugo]

Consider Me Family

-Reno [FF7] X Reader [Gender Neutral]-

Words: 882

Summary: You regret past words. With Reno, you can't help but feel as if you keep drifting apart.

Quick note! This takes place during Advent Children!

You couldn't think of anything more unbearable. The whole situation with the children or the simple fact of sitting next to Reno. You had barely come downstairs to rest on one of the high chairs after checking up on Tifa and Cloud. That Reno sat next to you. Rude outside, seemingly calling Rufus.

The duo of Turks were able to contact you when they brought Tifa and Cloud back safely. You were never really home anymore, just like Cloud.

You hated it really, Tifa would sometimes call you handing the phone over to Denzel as he would cry to you that it was his fault that the both of you were always away.

In truth, you were in the same boat as Cloud. When you had arrived at the bar you checked on them for any injuries and found out that Cloud had also contracted the disease you were so hopelessly looking to end.

Your head rested on the bar top as you used your arms to cover your face. Not wanting to deal with Reno next to you on your left. Even after so long you still couldn't face him.

Back in that piller where Jessie had lost her life you had encountered and fought Reno and Rude with the help of the others. Reno had told you to come back to him and to join and be part of Shinra again. Your life when you were a Turk was something you weren't proud of. "Join me, we'll be able to be together again. Wouldn't you like that?" He had asked you. "I thought we were friends."

Friends

You remember looking back at Cloud, Tifa, and Barret as if you were really considering betraying them. You had turned again to look at Reno. A disgusted expression on your face.

"Friends? You're nothing to me." You told him as you held your weapon tight in your hand. "It was you who betrayed me. You, the other Turks, and that damn bastard Rufus. Even if you were something, my family always comes first!"

You always frowned at the memory. The way his face morphed into sadness always broke your heart. You were so angry back then. So angry that when you stood in front of Jessie's unmoving body you didn't cry.

You were angry at Shinra, angry at yourself. When Jessie told you it was her fault that she was dying only to later find out it really wasn't you could only hold back your tears of frustration.

You heard him get up his footsteps moving to where the drinks were. "Reno..." Your voice came out muffled as you let out a sigh. He halted his movements and you heard him chuckle. "What? I promise to pay for it! I'm just gonna serve myself!" He said as he continued on.

You only let out a grumble as you didn't stop him. "You want one too?" He asked as he had finished pouring himself a glass. "No," You told him simply. He hummed as he came back to sit next to you again.

There was silence for a bit. There was an uncertainty in your chest. Your mouth daring to speak to him more. You swore he was staring holes at you. Small beads of sweat formed on your forehead as you slowly sat up properly on your seat. From the corner of your eye, you saw him quickly turn his head forward as if he wasn't even looking at you.

Your lips quivered as your foot tapped anxiously on the floor. "Hey, are you alright?" Reno asked as he hesitantly brought up his hand and rested it on your shoulder.

Your eyes landed on his as you nodded your head. You brought up your left hand to get a hold of his. You moved in your seat to face him. His hand was still in yours as you brought them to rest on your lap.

"Reno..." You mumbled as you diverted your eyes away from him. He gulped as he waited for you to continue. "I just wanted to-" The door to the bar opened.

Reno cursed under his breath as you quickly took your hands away from his. Turning to sit correctly in your chair you let out a shaky sigh. "Come on you two." Rude said as he walked to the stairs. "They must be awake by now."

You nodded your head. "Alright..." You quickly walked passed Rude and walked up the stairs. Heading towards Denzel's and Marlene's room. Reno still in his seat grumbled and glared at Rude.

"What?" Rude said as he stared at him in confusion. Reno rolled his eyes as he also walked up the stairs but not before pushing Rude in annoyance. "Maybe next time." He whispered to himself.

He hoped that maybe the next time it was just you two, you might tell him that he is finally someone that you consider to be family.

[spicyoftheearth]

okay either, im an idiot and misspelled Barret's name or there really isnt any ff7 barret x reader or anything

[deadlymagicbeans]

New Request Sheet! (Currently Closed)

The name's Bean, I go by She/They and i love Video games and Cartoons way too much (●'◡'●)

Fandoms:

Devil may cry: Dante, Vergil, Nero, V.

Pokémon: N, Hilbert, Hilda, Leon, Raihan, Piers, Nessa, Sonia, Hop, Victor, Marnie, Gloria, Collress, Cynthia, Kabu, Melony, Gordie, Milo, Roxie, Nanu, Bede, Grimsley, Guzma, Avery, Klara, Ingo, Emmet.

Stardew Valley: Sebastian, Alex, Sam, Harvey, Elliott, Shane, Abigail, Emily, Haley, Leah, Maru, Penny.

FF7: Zack, Cloud, Sephiroth, Aerith, Tifa, Barret, Reno, Angeal, Genesis, Vincent.

The Owl house: Hunter, Willow, Gus, Amity, Vee, Luz, Raine, Darius, Eda, Lilith, Steve, Adrian.

(If you don't see a character from any of these series you want me to do, just hit me up and i might fulfil that request)

Context:

What I will gladly write:

Semi-NSFW (18+ characters only)

LGBT

x Reader/OC

Shipping (all shipping/x reader blurbs all will be 18+ characters only)

Scenarios

Head-canons

Yandere

Fluff

Angst

What i won't write:

Full blown NSFW

Gore

Pro shipping

Any character under 18 in semi-NSFW situations

Inc*st

R*pe

Anything that is Fet*sh related

Underaged shipping

platonic or romantic x reader content with characters under 18

Any requests not abiding by my rules will be instantly deleted, If you want a fanfiction or headcanons etc written please specify what character you want done, if you don't i'll choose 1-2 characters for you. i have a max of 4 characters per request.

Please respect that I might not get around to every request

PRO SHIPPERS AND MINORS DNI

Hope you all have a lovely day and even if you don't request thank you for looking! - Bean <3

[aethes-bookshelf]

two squeezes mean 'i love you' || cloud strife/reader

More fluff to repent for the rest of my angsty, angsty Cloud fics

Pairing: Cloud Strife/Reader

Warnings: none

Summary: Cloud is horrible at words - everybody knows that. You did too and it never bothered you; not really. But when you realize he hadn't told you he loved you even once throughout the entirety of your relationship, you decide to take matters into your own hands.

AO3 link

Cloud was never good at words. Any words. And his previous conversations with, well, literally anyone proved that much. You knew that. You fell in love with a man of actions, not words; that was one of the reasons why you loved him so much in the first place.

That didn't mean him never telling you he loved you stung any less.

The first few times he didn't say it back, you just assumed he wasn't ready for it yet. Which was perfectly fine. After all, you yourself had been with people who pushed for that confession to happen way too soon and you didn't want to put him through something like that. Plus, if he was involved with you in the first place, that meant he was bound to have some feelings for you; he wouldn't be with you if he didn't.

Your faith in that notion weakened with every month that went by. And, suddenly, your first anniversary passed by, and… still nothing. Everytime you told him you loved him, he just made a vague grunting noise and looked away. So, eventually, you just stopped saying it all together.

That was the moment you noticed a slight change in his behaviour. He always kind of reminded you of a grumpy, old cat. But now that you stopped showing your affection like you used to, his face soured even more ー if that was even possible ー and the crease between his brows became nearly permanent.

Eventually, when you refused to kiss him goodnight, he snapped.

‘Okay, what is it?’ he asked, crossing his arms in front of his chest.

‘What?��

‘Don’t “what” me. What. Happened.’

‘I… I really don’t know what you mean, Cloud.’ You stifled a yawn. ‘Can we please talk about this in the morning? I have an early shift tomorrow and I really don’t want to be late.’

‘No, we are having this conversation now.’

Seems like your weak attempt at deflecting failed. Miserably.

You sighed. ‘Alright, alright. What is it?’

‘Well…’ he stammered. ‘It’s just that… You never…’

‘I never what, Cloud?’ It was your turn to cross your arms. ‘Are you going to tell me, or are we going to sit here all night?’

He stared at the comforter like it was the most fascinating thing he’d ever seen. ‘...You never tell me you love me anymore.’

You must’ve heard him wrong? ‘Can you speak up a bit?’ Your voice was softer this time.

‘You never tell me you love me anymore,’ he repeated, finally looking you in the eye. ‘You always did that and now you don’t… So something must be wrong. Right…?’

‘You never tell me “I love you” either. I just… didn’t think you liked that kind of mushy stuff, so I stopped. It gets weird, always saying it and never getting an answer.

A moment of silence passed.

‘I do say “I love you”.’

‘No, you don’t.’

‘I do!’

‘Well, then clearly not to me, ‘cause I’ve never heard you say it!’

Cloud furrowed his brows. You could practically see the gears turning in his head. ‘But on our first anniversary…’

‘...I said it.’

‘On your birthday…’

‘That was me too.’

‘On my birthday…’

‘Keep trying, you might get it sometime.’

At that, he fell quiet.

Eventually, the silence got nearly stifling.

‘Look, Cloud, I get it if you don’t feel the same way. I’d just really appreciate it if you could tell me that to my face instead of… doing all of this.’ You gestured vaguely.

His eyes went so wide it was almost funny. And it would be, if not for the context. ‘You really think I don’t love you back?’

‘...Yes?’ It came out as more of a question than you intended it to.

‘Hm.’ He pursed his lips. ‘Well, I do. A lot. I’m just not… very good at this stuff.’

‘Yeah, I noticed.’

You both shifted, clearly uncomfortable.

‘I… might have an idea,’ you said slowly, meeting his eyes. He nodded; you took it as a sign to continue. ‘Since you’re not the best at words, how about we… set a code? A non–verbal way to say it?’

‘But… how would I say it without words?’ He tilted his head to the side. Cute.

You took his hand. ‘How about… two squeezes?’ You squeezed his hand gently. ‘Just like this.’

‘And that would mean?’

‘“I love you.”’

He looked down, deep in thought. After a moment, he nodded. ‘Okay,’ he said and squeezed your hand back.

Twice.

* * *

Ever since then, Could would squeeze you constantly. And not just your hands ー your arms, your thighs. Even your stomach sometimes, if you were cuddling. You’d scold him gently for the last one. You were a bit insecure about your belly and such direct attention to it made you quite ashamed, but he’d just squeeze it again and kiss you.

‘Bastard,’ you muttered in between kisses. ‘You’re lucky I love you.’

And he’d squeeze you again.

Sometimes, he'd deliberately do it in places where he knew you were ticklish; like your sides or your back. He’d pin you down and proceed to fondle you all over until you were a giggling mess ー always in sets of two.

It warmed your heart, honestly. You never really expected him to use that ‘code’ so much. When you set it, you thought he’d use it once, maybe twice a week. But at this rate, he’d be ‘saying’ it more than you were.

On one evening, when you were all hanging out in the bar ー Barret, Tifa, Aerith and the two of you ー Cloud was getting especially touchy. He always had a hand on you, hanging off your shoulders, around your waist or on one of your thighs. The rest of the group must’ve noticed; they kept stealing glances at you amids the conversation.

Finally, Tifa gave in. ‘Cloud, why do you keep squeezing them?’

Cloud went red.

‘Please tell me it’s not a sex thing,’ she added.

‘It’s not!’ you said, giggling. ‘It’s just… a little secret.’

‘You still make it sound like a sex thing, you know?’ said Aerith.

Cloud went even more red ー if that was even possible.

‘Stop, you’re gonna give him a heat stroke at this rate!’ you said, amusement clear in your voice.

Barrett snickered. ‘If he’s still that blushy when we talk about sex, then I’m honestly sorry for you.’ He patted your shoulder.

‘And your sex life,’ added Aerith, hiding her grin behind her glass.

Cloud groaned. ‘Can we stop talking about that?’

‘Why?’ Oh, Aerith was having way too much fun with this.

‘’Cause it’s none of your business.’

Tifa sighed. ‘Okay, okay, we’ll stop.’ Cloud didn’t like the look in her eyes. ‘If you give us some details about this whole squeezing situation.’

The other two cheered, raising their glasses.

‘Yeah, we wanna know!’ said Barret. ‘Come on, spill it.’

Cloud gave you an unsure look.

‘Go for it, babe,’ you said.

He sighed, defeated. ‘Well, it’s…’ He straightened his back a bit when you squeezed his hand. Twice. ‘It’s code for “I love you”.’

‘Awww,’ Aerith smiled. ‘I honestly didn’t expect it to be this cute!’

‘Me neither.’ Tifa refilled her glass. ‘Whose idea was it?’

‘Mine!’ You grinned. ‘Cloud’s awful at saying it, so I decided to do something about it.’

‘Could’ve spared them that part,’ grumbled Cloud, looking away.

‘Is she lying tho?’ asked Barret. ‘Don’t worry about it, little man,’ he added after a moment. ‘A lot of people are like that. It’s a good thing you two found a way to make it work.’

‘He’s right,’ said Aerith. ‘No shame in that.’

‘They’re right, babe. Cheer up.’

Cloud grumbled something under his breath and went back to nursing his whisky. You smiled wide when you felt him squeeze your hand.

Twice.

[mishmosh-chaos]

Make A Wish

- Final Fantasy VII Oneshot/Fanfic -

Pairing: Cloud x Reader

Words: 5,3k

Genre: angst/fluff (and my poor attempt to try and write 'funny scenes' 🤭)

Warnings: some swearing

A LITTLE A/N : First, hello to all! 👋 So, this is my first Final Fantasy VII based fanfic / oneshot. I write for another fandom with my main blog, but atm I have a serious writing blockage there. 😩 And as I recently had a pleasure of re-watching Advent Childern, and got reminded of how much I loved this whole FFVII/AC story (and Cloud), the idea for this came to me. So, to whoever might read it, I hope you'll somehow find it likable.😊🖤

And I apologize for any mistakes as english is not my native language.

Thoughtfully, you make your way to the Seventh Heaven, going in your mind through all that still need to be done for tonight, when your thoughts get interrupted by someone shouting your name.

„Hey, Y/N, wait!“

You didn't need to turn to see who it was – you would recognize Cloud's voice anytime, anywhere.

Cloud Strife, a blond, mysterious and rather withdrawn guy who made your heart beat faster from the very first moment you met him little over a year ago, was sprinting to catch up with you.

You met Cloud through Tifa, who you knew for years, and when you ended up here in Midgar helped you settle down and even offered you a job at the bar, that you happily agreed to. From then on, you got to meet them all, and new friendships accrued, including the friendship with Cloud.

You were actually surprised yourself how quickly and easily you two became so close, as you weren't exactly the most easiest and open person in the world to befriend. Heck, it took Tifa ages to even get you to talk to her all those years ago, let alone anything else.

And Cloud wasn't that much different from you, so you always assumed that was probably the reason you two clicked so quick – you know, two peas in a pod and all that.

Tifa would constantly tell you that Cloud was ten times worse than you before, and always teas you that he must like you, that there must be something special he sees in you when you managed to crack...uhm, how did she say it again? Ah, yeah – to crack Mr. Grumpy's defense wall so easily.

And as always, you'd just laugh at it, but deep inside, your heart would skip a beat as you so much wished for it to be true. Because, no matter how well you thought you were managing to hide it from others, you couldn't hide it from yourself – you were definitely, utterly, over-your-head in love with Cloud.

But you never dared to say anything to him. Although, there were moments between the two of you that got you contemplate on the possibility those feelings were mutual. But you always ended up convincing yourself that it was all just your imagination.

So instead of stopping to wait for him, you quicken your steps. And it wasn't just because you were affraid to be alone with Cloud, since you weren't sure how much longer you could keep all that inside you. Well, it was mostly because of it, lets be honest here. But there was another good reason for your behaviour.

It was Cloud's birthday today, and Tifa and you were planning a surprise party for him, even though his grumpiness levels would spike up drastically whenever someone mentioned his upcoming birthday in these last two weeks. But you clearly saw a hint of excitement about it in his eyes no matter how well he thought he was hiding it.

So now you had two secrets to keep from him, and all things considered, you were terrified of what might slip from your mouth first, so you just wanted to get to the bar as fast as possible.

But you were in no luck, Cloud was by your side within seconds, matching your pace with ease.

„Where's the fire, shorty?“

Argh, why did he have to make it even harder for you than it already was! It was a nickname that he first started to use for you after you asked him to help you reach something from the shelf in the bar, even though you were perfectly capable of reaching it yourself and you two are practically the same hight. But he was standing right there beside it! And so the teasing started, and eventually everyone started calling you that. And you had to admit, you liked it, especially since it came from him.

Without slowing down you give him a quick side look „Oh, hey Cloud. No fire, why you ask?“

„Hmh, you sure?“

„Ofcourse I'm sure, why wouldn't I be sure? Are you calling me a liar?“

„Whoa there, who managed to get you so wound up already today?“

Ah, shit, get it together Y/N.

„Sorry.“ You had no idea what else to say. Trying to sound more calmer, you try again „No fire, just, uhm, heading to the bar.“

„All right, but what's with the rush?“

„Uhm, nothing. Just promised Tifa I'll be there as soon as possible.“

Having enough with your vague answers, in a flash he stands infront of you, so you run full speed right into him not expecting it.

„What the hell, Cloud!?“

„No, what the hell you, Y/N?!“ He looks serious at you, crossing his arms in front of him. „Ok, what's going on?“

„I don't know what you're talking about, everytghing is fine.“ You tried your best to sound normal, trying to avoid his eyes, but no luck again.

„Bullshit.“

Oh, wonderful, now you gonna hear it.

But the question that came from him next caught you completely off guard.

„Did I...did I do something wrong?“

„What? No, ofcourse not! Why would you ask that?“ You couldn't believe he would think so, but when you looked at him, when you finally got the courage to look at him, your heart squeezed. He was staring at you with worry and sadness clearly readable on his face.

„Hm, I don't know, maybe because for days now you have been acting strange and you've been doing a hell of a good job avoiding me! So, I'll ask again, did I do something?“

Ah, shit, shit, cappital s SHIT! Better think of something, anything, lie if needed and fix this fast Y/N!

Taking a deep breath you meet his gaze „You're right, and I'm sorry, I really am. You didn't do anything wrong. It's just...there's some things on my mind that's been bothering me a lot lately, and again, I'm sorry, but that's definitely not an excuse for me to act like I have.“

Well tehnically, what you said wasn't exactly a lie, there were things bothering you, he just didn't need to know that he was the things you were talking about. Especially not on his birthday.

The unconfortable silence that crept between you two made you so nervous, your hands started to shake, so you quickly clasp them together before he could notice and lower your head.

„Anything I can help you with?“

Hearing those words coming from him relaxed you. But it also made you agitated. Maybe it was time you finally admit your feelings to him, and just be done with it, no matter the consequences. Que sera, sera...right?

You lift your head to look at him and smile „Maybe. But not today. Ask me again tomorrow.“

„Ok.“ he replies after a moment of silence looking serious „But you know I will. Ask again tomorrow, that is.“

„I'm counting on it.“ you say, hoping he won't notice the sorrowful tone of your voice.

Few seconds later, he just nods and steps back beside you, and you both continue walking towards the bar. Slower this time.

„So, birthday boy, any big plans for today?“ you ask grinning after you walked for a while.

He grunts „No. I plan to stuff myself with junk food and probably fall asleep.“

„Oh, that's no fun at all.“ you protest.

„It's perfect to me.“ he shrugs.

„Gah, you're hopeless! At least let me buy you a drink tonight when you're done working. You definitely should have a drink or two on you birthday. And also make it as another apology from me for my behaviour lately. Pleeeeeeas?“

You tried to make the best puppy face you could, and seeing his face you knew you were successfull.

„All right, it's a deal, shorty. Although, it might be pretty late when I finish. Tifa said there's a lot of work she could use my help with for today.“

You knew that very well. It was all a plan to keep Cloud away from the bar for as long as possible for his surprise party preparations. And your job was to make sure he shows up at the bar after finishing with it. Which you executed perfectly, although not in the way you planned originally. But, hey, all's well that ends well.

„Excellent!“ You exclaime cheerful, grabbing him under his arm. You were happy things were going according to the plan, even though you were anxious, too. You knew Cloud will keep his word and ask you that same question tomorrow, and this time you will have to deal with it. But you still have till tomorrow to worry about that, right?

„Y/N?“

Cloud's voice snapped you from yor thoughts, and it took you a moment to realize you were standing in front of the Seventh Heaven.

„I said you can go in, I'll be right there, just want to get the bike out first.“

„Oh, ok. See you inside then.“

You start up the stairs, but then stop and start going back. „Hey, Cloud?“

He turns to see you quickly bouncing down the stairs, and you throw yourself at him, hugging him so tight „Happy birthday, blondie.“

„Thanks.“ You could feel him chuckle before his arms close around you hugging you back even tightier, and you wish you could stay like that forever.

You finally decide it is time to release him from a hug, but you dont't move, both of you just keep standing there staring at eachother. You have no idea what got into you, but in an heartbeat, you cup his face with your hands and crush your lips hard against his.

Oh, gods, what were you thinking?? That's right, you didn't! Oh, you stupid, stupid girl. Now you definitely messed everything up!

As suddenly as you did it, you move away covering your gasping mouth with your hands. Cloud just continues standing there, mouth open, but no words came out from him.

„Oh, gods...I'm so sorry..I..don't...“ you stutter, trying to form a sentence, but the shock of what happened was messing with your brain. So you do the only thing that came to your mind – turn around and run two-three steps at the time to the entrance of the bar.

„Hey there Y/N!“ Tifa greets you cheerfully as you burst inside, but you just ignore her, going behind the bar to pour yourself a drink.

„You ok?“ she asks, observing you worryingly as you refill your glass and drink that one, too.

You shake your head and put your forehead on the bar „I did the most stupidest thing possible!“

Tifa laughs „Oh, come on, whatever you did, I'm sure it's not as bad as you think.“

You turn your head to look at her „I kissed Cloud.“

„Finally!“ she laughs harder, and rolls her eyes at you when you shot her a mean look.

„Tifa! It's not funny, it's a disaster!“ you say desperately.

The sound of Cloud's bike stopping in front of the bar make you jump. „Uff, I can't deal with him now. Please, please, just send him out on errrands quickly. We still have a party to prepare, and I had enough stress for one day as it is.“

Tifa shakes her head „Fine, but you know, you will see him at the party, and I doubt you will be able to avoid him all night.“

„I know, I know.“ you sigh „And I will deal with it when the time comes. Just, not right now.“

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

„I'm bored! When is Cloud gonna be here?“

You turn to look at Marlene's pouty face as she sits at the table where you were finishing the cake for the party. You liked the girl a lot, and who wouldn't, she was adorable! Besides, you two got along amazing, she loved when you were taking care of her sometimes when both Barret and Tifa were away.

You crouch down to her „Would you like to help me decorate the cake?“

Her head shot up so fast, the pout vanishing instantly, replaced with her usual contagious smile „Yes, please!“

Smiling yourself, you pull a chair and help Marlene stand on it and place a box with eatable decorations in front of her „Go wild, kiddo.“

All your friends gathered at the Seventh Heaven's basement, which only made you nervous again. It meant Cloud will be here soon, too, and you knew Tifa was right, no matter all of them, you won't be able to avoid him all night. But just the thought of having to talk to Cloud about the kiss made your stomach twist.

You always knew there was a possibility he doesn't feel the same, no matter how close you two became. And you were scared of that possibility, because you didn't want to lose Cloud. Or any of them. And you knew that would eventually happen, if it comes to that.

No matter how much you would try, you knew yourself too well – you wouldn't be able to continue being just his friend, it would be too painful for you. So eventually, one day, you would just pack up an leave. No warnings, nor goodbyes, you'd just disappear. And now, after what you did, that possibility was knocking on your door, and you were dreading of opening them.

„All right, people, the birthday boy is here!“ Barret's booming voice made you turn to him. „Is the cake done?“ he asks coming to you.

„All done!“ Marlene says excitedly, and you turn your head to look at the cake, and oh my, did you have something to see! Cloud's cake looked, well, striking. Marlene really outdid herself this time

„What do you think, daddy? Will Cloud like it?“

Barret didn't know what to say looking at all the pink flowers and hearts Marlene used to decorate the cake with.

„Ohh, Marlene, I love what you did with the cake, it's beautiful! Right, Barret?“ Yuffie say cheerfully showing up next to Marlene. With no response from Barret, her head shots up giving him a death stare, gritting through her teeth „Right, Barret?“

You barely managed to suppress a laugh – Yuffie might be young and small, but darn, the look she gave Barret was deadly.

Barret finaly found his voice „Uhm, yeah...yeah, it's beautiful, sweetheart. I'm sure Cloud will love it.“

„It sure is...pink.“ You make a little jump scare at Vincent's sudden appearance. You will never get used to him sneaking up like that.

„All right, people“ Barret say again lifting Marlene on his shoulder „Time to get this party started!“

☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆

The moment Cloud sat down at the bar, Marlene runs out, pausing next to him smiling „Hi, Cloud! Bye, Cloud!“

Before he could say anything, she rush to the bars doors and lock them. She turns back to look at him and grinn, then move sideways to the light switch next to the doors.

Puzzled, Cloud tilt his head „Marlene, what are you doing?“

But she just grinns harder and hit the switch, turning the lights off. And that was your queue.

You emerge slowly behind the doors carrying the cake with the lit candles on it and start to sing Happy Birthday, with everyone following behind you and joining in.

Crossing his arms, Cloud tried hard to pretend he wasn't that much touched by it, but as before, you could see that excitement dance in his eyes as you lower the cake in front of him.

„Make a wish.“ you smile as you all finish singing, and with his recognizable hmph he turns towards the cake, but being this close, the light from the candles let you catch the corner of his mouth lifting into a smile moments before he blew at them.

Everyone cheer and the lights come back on, and you were met with Cloud's intense gaze, making your insides twist again, hard. You were well aware of the meaning of it, but you so hoped you won't have to deal with it until tomorrow.

Fortunately, 'lady Luck' decided to smile at you, and you got extremely grateful as the others started to gather around Cloud to convey their wishes, so you quickly use that opportunity to step away from his view and catch a breather, at least for a little while longer.

☆

As the time pass, it seemed like everyone was having a good time, including Cloud. He got more relax, making you smile seeing him actually having some fun. And by the miracle of some unknown forces, you managed to keep a safe distance from him all this time, but the feeling of unease was getting stronger in you whenever someone left the party.

The nausea accompanying that feeling wasn't from all the drinks you had, not at all, your tolerance for alcohol was amazingly good – it came from knowing that it was just a matter of moments until that luck runs out, and the harsh reality comes crashing back down on you. So by the time only the four of you were left in the bar, well five if you count Marlene sleeping soundly on Barret's lap, it turned to a matter of seconds.

You stood behind the bar drying some glasses when Cloud come and sit on the stool in front of you. You could feel his intense gaze on you, but he stayed silent, and it drove you even more agitated at that moment. You knew to expect it, he never was the one to say something first. But for once, just this one time, you wished it was different, that he would say something, anything.

A minute later with nothing but silence from him, you sigh and take two glasses filling them up, placing one in front of him, barely managing to put a small smile on your face „So, did you have fun?“

„Is that really what you want to talk about?“

„Yes, Cloud, that's really what I want to talk about. Why so surprised?“ You say a bit snappy, feeling frustration rising up in you.

„Hmph, fine.“ was all you got back from him.

„Expected.“ You mumble under your breath shaking your head , but obviously not silent enouhg.

„What's that suppose to mean?“ he ask offended.

A fair question, actually. You knew damn well he didn't deserve this. But you felt so damn distraught with everything, because...because in that moment the realisation that everything that became important to you and everyon you cared about might soon stop being a part of your life struck hard at you, making you frustrated, mad, but most of all, sad.

Downing your drink you look back at him „It means nothing. I'm just... tired, so think I'll just call it a night. Good night, Cloud, and happy birthday again.“

You grab your stuff waving goodbye to Tifa and Barret on your way out, but Cloud's words make you stop as you pass him „So that's how it will be? Back to playing the avoid game again?“

You really didn't have the strenght for this kind of conversation with him now, just wanting to drag yourself back to your place, hide under the covers, shut the world out and pretend, for tonight at least, that everything is still as it was.

Without turning to look at him you sigh tiredly „No, Cloud, I'm not back at playing that game again. I'm just really, really tired, so please, whatever it is that you want to say, leave it for tomorrow, ok?“

„No.“

„No?“ you repeat surprised, still not turning to face him.

„You heard me.“

You could clearly distinguish determination in his voice, you got to know him well enough to realise when his stubborness was in play and he wasn't about to let you off the hook that easy. But this definitely wasn't the right time for that trait of his to emerge, it just made you frustrated more.

„Cloud, if you ever walued us and our friendship, then heed my words, and just leave it until tomorrow.“ The tone of your voice was like ice, but you wanted to make sure he understands, before he makes you say something you might regeret instantly.

„Yeah, well sorry, can't do that.“

„Why? Why can't you? Why you have to be so damn stubborn?!“ you snap turning to look at him now, not paying attention to the curious and worrying looks from Tifa and Barret.

„Because this isn't you!“ he snaps back standing up from the stool. „Because until now, you've always let me help you, and for some unknown reason this time you won't! So, no, I won't wait till tomorrow, I want to know now what the hell is going on! What have I done that you keep avoiding me like I'm radioactive or something?“

„You did nothing, and that's the thing!“ you scream back unable to control yourself any longer, all those emotions you kept suppressed all this time erupting to surface. He was taken aback by what you said, with confusion clearly readable on his face as he definitely wasn't expecting that kind of an answer from you.

Closing your eyes you take few deep breaths to calm down a bit. So this is it then, the point of no return. It was time to finally admit your feelings to him and put the rest in Fates hands.

„You did nothing“ you repeat calmer with trembling voice lowering your head „And at the same time, you did everything.“

„I... I don't und...“ he starts saying, but you ignore him and continue.

„Ever since the day we met I felt drawn to you. I don't know why, but there was something that made me want to, no, need to get close to you. And it only got worse as we did. That need turned into craving and you became like a drug to me, turning my life into a living hell. I thought of leaving and running as far away as possible from here, from you, so manny times, but I always ended giving up that thought. I became so addicted to you that I'd rather stay and suffer in silence than leave.“

You had no clue what was going through his mind right now, you dared not to look at his face, not until you say all that you wanted.

„But when I kissed you today, that changed everything. I've opened the doors that can't be shut anymore. I'm in agony, Cloud, and it's eating me up inside. Just being close to you started to hurt so damn much and I can't go on like this anymore. I can no longer play this game, driving myself crazy wondering if that unexpected touch of your hand against mine was really that, unexpected; or if, when I catch you watching me from the other end of the bar and you smile when our eyes meet has some deeper meaning or not, or if I'm just naively imagining something that doesn't even exists at all.“

„I was afraid to say anything out of possibility that what I'm feeling might be one sided, so my defense wall came back up again, pushing you away. And it's not fair to you for me to act this way, so it's time for you to know that I'm in love with you, Cloud, and no matter what I try, I can't change the way I feel.“

The silence that was present in the bar after you finished was almost eerie. You were glad everything was finally out in the open, and although it didn't seem like it, you knew that this was actually the easier part. Now the misery of waiting begins.

Taking one heavy breath you finally lift your head to look at him „There, now you know. But please, I beg you, just let me leave now and say what you want to me tomorrow, because for tonight I really can't deal with anything more.“

You stay standing there for a few moments more before turning your back to him, but as you were about to leave Cloud's voice stops you once again „Do you want to know what I wished for?“

„What?“ you ask incredulous turning back to look at him.

His gaze was fixed on the floor now „When blowing the candles. Do you want to hear what I wished for?“

You laugh in disbelief „Seriously, Cloud? I just poured my soul out to you, and you ask if I want to hear what you wished for when blowing the candles out?“

„Yes.“

And he was, dead serious. This whole day was screwed up as it is already, and your sanity was seriously close to the edge of breaking. Exhausted, and just wanting for this torture to end quick, you throw your hands frustratedly in the air „Fine! Please, enlighten me.“

He continues standing there, motionless, his look firmly on the floor, before he finally slowly raise his head to look at you. And that's when you got to see his eyes.

You got lost in those mesmerazing blue Mako eyes a thousand times before, their every little detail indelibly imprinted in your mind. But in this moment, it was like you saw them for the first time. There was unfamilliar glow in them, almost hypnotizing, you had a hard time concentrating on the words that came out from him.

„I wished for you.“

Did he...did you hear him right?

Unsure if it was just a trick of your mind, and being overwhelmed from everything that happened today made you hear what you wanted to and not what he actually said, it took you a moment before your brain got fully functional again.

„I'm sorry, what?“

„Is something wrong with your hearing today?“ he says sarcastically, crossing his arms in front of him

„Apparently.“ You grit through your teeth, not missing the amused tone of his voice. He can be such a dork sometimes, messing with you like this, when your heart was threatening to jump out of your chest from beating so fast. But he was an adorable dork, nonetheless. „Humor me, anyway.“

„All right.“ he says closing those few steps of distance between you two, leaning into your ear.

„What are you doing?“ you ask quizzical leaning backwards a bit so you can look at him.

„Making sure you hear me good this time.“

His warm breath on your neck as he leaned in again sent tingles all over your body, his voice sweetly humming to your ear „I wished for you.“

„Oh.“ was all you managed to breath out, as a sudden rush of heat spread all over you, unsure if it was from all the emotions that were swirling inside you in that moment, or from him being so close, but you were positive your cheeks were red as a lobster and your legs were seriously threatening to give up holding you.

But you still didn't completely believe in his words, unable to let go of the doubt hovering in the back of your mind. Was what he said true or was he just speaking the words you needed to hear to calm you down and stop this drama from continuing any further?

Closing your eyes, you lower your forehead on his shoulder „Please, Cloud, don't toy with my heart like that, not after everything that happened today. Don't give me false hope, just to make me feel better. So, please, don't go telling lies.“

Feeling him place both hands on you, he gently move you from him and look you straight in the eyes „I have never lied to you and I'm not about to start now neither.“

And in that moment, his words and tenderness with which he regarded you dispersed any trace of that doubt. The wave of relief washed over you, your eyes glazing from happines, finally realizing that all your fears were in vain all this time.

Throwing your hands around his neck, you pull him in for a long passionate kiss, and even though you startled him by doing so his hands were soon around you, embracing you tighter, deepening the kiss, until you both got breathless and reluctantly parted.

„So, is everything in the clear now?�� he ask leaning his forehead to yours.

„Almost.“ You reply, and he straightens and give you inquiry look.

„Just been wondering...you could have say all this sooner to me and not wait till the last minute.“

His eyes went wide „Are you kidding me?!“

„No, I'm being serious here.“ you say, mimicking his 'arms-crossing-in-front-of-himself' gesture he so much like to use.

He makes a step back from you „What do you think I've been trying to do all evening? I tried so many times to come and talk to you, but you sure didn't make it an easy task for me! And now you nonchalantly tell me I could say something sooner? I can't believe it!“

His face got so flustered, waving his hands frustratedly all over as he talked, you couldn't keep a straight face any longer. And when he finally noticed you snickering, the stare he gave you was priceless. Deathly, but priceless.

Ok, maybe it was too soon to teas him like this, but when he grunted and crossed his arms in front of him, you just burst with laughter. Giving you incredulous look he shakes his head „You're impossible.“

„Aww, c'mon, don't be mad.“ you grin. „You kinda deserved it for teasing me earlier. And besides, you should know me well enough by now to be expecting something like this from me.“ You grin even harder „And you like me, nonetheless, you can't deny that now.“

Barely managing to hide the smile from his face he raise his eyebrow „Yeah, yeah, luckily for you. And now, if we're done, I believe you owe me a drink. And I could really use one.“

„Were done.“ you say happily and smile.

„Good.“ He leans over the bar to grab the bottle and a glass, then takes you by the hand to the table where Tifa and Barret were sitting.

„Finally!“ Tifa smiles broadly when you two sat down. „It was about time you take some action, Cloud!“

„Not you too, Tifa.“ he sigh and say pleadingly „Can't I just have a drink in peace?“

„Sure, go ahead.“ Barret say then give him a bit threatening look „Just don't forget I need you here tomorrow bright and early, and I expect you to be at your best.“ He stands up carefully not to wake Marlene „'Night y'all.“

„Who made him 'miss sunshine'?“ Cloud say looking after Barret.

„Oh, it's nothing.“ Tifa replies with a laughter. „He's just grumpy because he lost a bet to me.“

„What was the bet?“ he asks reaching for the bottle and pouring drinks for you all.

„Ahm, well, umm... you know what, that's not important.“

It took a moment before it dawned to you why Tifa avoided to give him an answer.

„Tifa!“ you exclaim, and she looks at you. „I expected more from you!“

„Ohhh, sorry Y/N, but it was a sure win, I couldn't miss that chance!“ She winks and grins „And I like taking gil from Barret.“

You both start laughing, when Cloud's annoyed voice made you turn to him „Ehm, hate to interrupt, but care to share?“

Tifa laughs again shaking her head „Oh, Cloud, it's adorable how clueless you sometimes are.“

„Huh?“ Cloud seemed even more confused, his look constantly shifting bewteen you two.

Tifa smiles and stand up, patting him sympathetically on the shoulder walking away.

He turns and look at you questioningly and you smile and give him a quick kiss „Don't worry, blondie, you will figure it out...eventually.“

With his usual hmph, he leans back in his chair and cross his arms in front of him „Whatever.“

[holdin-out-for-a-hero]

Creep- FFVII Biggs X Reader Ch.17

Warnings: blood, descriptions of wounds

A/N: Sorry it took over a year for an update lol. Ya girl’s been through it. But I promise I will finish this fic this year. There are only two chapters left after this.

The familiar lights of sector 5 came into view. They shone like beacons of hope, sparkling in the dreadful darkness. Relief washed over you at the sight, albeit only for a moment.

Crowds of people were staring up at the sky behind you, pointing, gasping, and whispering to each other; the fear in their eyes was impossible to miss. Children were crying, people were moaning in pain, and worst of all, every gunshot and every explosion carried through the air as if it were right behind you.

"Help! We need a doctor!" One of the neighborhood watch boys shouted.

Some of the crowd turned their eyes to look at your bloody, panicked group. More gasps, more whispers of disbelief, looking at your dear friend like he was some type of sideshow attraction. Some of the parents shielded their children's eyes.

There was blood, so much blood. It dripped onto the dirt below; a puddle began to form. You felt sick.

You tore your eyes away from the sight.

"Is anyone a doctor?!" You shouted, eyes darting through the crowd for someone, anyone to help.

A white coat caught your eye, worn by a man crouching down on the dirt and wrapping bandages around a woman's arm. There were a few other wounded people sitting or lying around the man, but none nearly as urgent as Biggs.

"Hey!" You shouted, pushing through the crowd to reach him, "Doctor!"

The man looked up at you.

"We need your help!" You said.

You grabbed him by the arm before he could reply and dragged him towards your friend. You shoved him the final distance towards Biggs.

He stumbled, but quickly regained his composure as he looked at the source of your commotion.

"Oh my god," the man muttered. There was too much blood, anyone could see that. He placed two fingers on Biggs' neck. You felt your own heart stop as you waited for him to say something, anything.

A woman pushed her way through the crowd. Tan skin, dark curly hair, and glasses; She looked familiar.

"Biggs!" She shouted, running forward to get a better look at him.

She stopped in her tracks and gasped, her eyes wide like saucers at the sight.

"Quick!" She beckoned, "bring him inside!"

She ushered the men into the nearest building: the orphanage. Biggs had taken you there many times before. It always felt so warm and full of life, but this time was different. The children all crowded around the windows, oddly silent.

They all turned to look as the doors bust open, a group of men carrying a bloody, limp form up the nearest staircase. The face of the man was hidden from most of the children, who were either too short to see past the men's heads or had their eyes covered by one of the caretakers.

Except for one little girl. Five, maybe six years old, who just happened to be on the stairs as the men were going up. Her face grew pale at the sight, and her lip began to quiver.

"Biggs?" She asked.

The rest of the kids heard it.

Gasps, questions, shouts, and cries erupted before any of the caretakers could stop it. Children rushed forward, following you and the group of men up the stairs. Most were pulled back by the caretakers, but not without a struggle. The children were nearly impossible for the small staff to contain, and a few stragglers made it to the second floor.

The woman pushed a door open and held it for the men, who rushed inside. They dropped Biggs on the small cot, clearly made for a child, and the doctor made quick work cutting off his bloody shirt.

Everything was happening around you so fast you couldn't keep up with it all. The room felt like a whirlwind, people rushing past you, running in all directions; it was dizzying. The doctor shouted orders to the watch members quicker than you could process them. You could hardly process anything at all.

Your mouth felt dry, incredibly dry. And every time you swallowed, the lump in your throat nearly choked you.

"Is he gonna be ok?" You asked.

The doctor didn't look up from his work, and neither did any of the neighborhood watch members. It was as if you hadn't said anything at all. And yet you waited, unable to breathe until you received your answer.

"I don't know," the doctor finally answered, continuing his work without a second thought.

Your eyes locked on Biggs' abdomen. With his shirt now gone, you could see his wounds on full display. A gash, a bullet hole, both oozing fresh blood. There was dried blood everywhere.

You couldn't stop staring at it. The sight of the still bleeding wounds scared you to death. He had already lost so much blood, and yet you were afraid that if he stopped bleeding, that would mean his heart had finally stopped. So you watched the blood, it bubbled at a steady pace, fluctuating with every beat of his heart.

Beat.

Beat.

Beat.

A hand grabbed at your arm gently; the woman. She gave a small sad smile. And without a word, she led you out of the room.

She closed the door quietly behind her, ushering away the children who had managed to sneak upstairs against the staff's wishes. She scolded them quietly and told them not to talk to the other kids about what they saw. A request she knew would not be fulfilled.

She turned back to you, the same unconvincing smile on her lips as she whipsered, "Let's get you cleaned up."

Her hand wrapped around your wrist, giving a slight squeeze as she led you to the bathroom. The gesture, although kind, made you feel like a child in trouble.

Pushing the door open, she led you inside the small communal bathroom. Then, she crouched down to search through the cupboard under the sink.

You took a step towards the mirror, finally taking in your own appearance. It was then that you understood why she dragged you in; you likely would scare the children.

Your face was covered with sweat and dirt, black mascara had pooled under your eyes and run down your face, and worst of all, trails of blood caked your skin. It was his, you realized. His blood was all over your face.

You reached a shaky hand up to touch it. Some of it flaked off with the pressure, the brown flecks falling into the sink.

"My name's Folia," the woman said, moving beside you to wet the washcloth. You snapped out of your trance and looked at her.

"I'm-" you started

"Y/N, right?" She cut you off.

"How did you know?"

"He talks about you all the time to the kids," she said, giving you a smile that faded into nothing as she wrung the cloth. The mention of him made both of you grow silent.

She took your face in one hand and started dabbing at the blood with the washcloth. It came off your skin with relative ease, and so did the dirt. The mascara was a little bit difficult, but it came off eventually. And then she was done.

She took the washcloth under the sink again, washing away the stains.

"What all did he say about me?" You asked quietly.

"Don't worry, It was all good," she gave a small laugh, "he really seemed to have a thing for you."

The lump in your throat grew and your vision went blurry. The lights in the room looked like starbursts.

"Were the two of you ever... Y'know, together?" She asked.

You quickly shook your head no, a tear sliding down your face.

"Hey, don't lose hope just yet. He's a fighter, a real stubborn one too."

You huffed out a small laugh.

"You're right about that," you said, wiping the tears away. "What about you? How did you know him?"

"He was my teacher when I used to stay here as a kid... more like the older brother I never had. He was the whole reason I wanted to become a teacher."

Another solemn beat of silence.

It occurred to you that he had touched everyone's lives that he was a part of. He brought joy, comfort, humor, intelligence, strength, guidance, and solidarity to so many people. What a selfless man he was, spending all his spare time and paychecks on the kids at the leaf house, like a modern day saint.

It made you wonder, how could a man like him fall in love with you? And how on earth is if fair that his life could be taken so easily?

No, You shook your head.

He wasn't dead yet. He wasn't dead yet. He still had hope.

He was in the safest place you knew of, all things considered, and being treated with the best care a citizen of the slums could ask for.

There was nothing more you could do to help him. Whether he lived or died, that was up to Gaia.

Your friends were still on the pillar, though. And you couldn't live with yourself if something happened to them. Jessie, Wedge, Barrett, Tifa, and even Cloud. They were still fighting. Even though the battle was clearly lost...

You had to go get them.

You looked back at Folia, who was wringing out the wet washcloth, and mustered up the courage to tell her.

"Look,” you exhaled, “I really want to stay and look after Biggs, but I've got to make sure my friends in Sector 7 are ok."

Folia stopped what she was doing and stood frozen as she looked back at you, reading your expression.

"Are you sure that's a good idea?" She asked, “I heard it's like a war zone out there, and the plate could fall any minute."

"I can't just stay here and wait for it to happen," you said, “They could be hurt, just like Biggs.”

Folia's brows knit together as she looked down at the cracked linoleum tiles. 

"What if you don't come back?" She looked up at you, "When he wakes up, the first thing he's gonna do is ask for you."

You bit your lip, there was nothing more you wanted than to be by his side if he woke up. You'd do anything to stay with him. But you wouldn't, no, you couldn't, just leave your friends.

You couldn't shake the images of them in your head, images of them riddled with bullets, slumped against the pillar, covered in blood. Just like Biggs.

"I know...," you looked Folia in the eye, "But I need them to be safe too. If something happened to them, I don't know what I'd do."

Folia shut her eyes and sighed, she knew you weren't going to be persuaded.

"I understand. If you've got to go, I'll stay here and make sure the doctor doesn't need anything."

"Thank you," you said, turning to leave the bathroom. But before you could leave, Folia caught your wrist.

"You better come back," she said, her gaze was intense, "He needs you."

You nodded to her.

"I'll come back. I promise."

She let go of your wrist.

You hurried out the hall and down the stairs,  brushing past the confused children crowded in the lobby. Little hands tried to grab at you, and little voices tried to ask how Biggs was, but you weee too quick. You made it out the door before they could get to you.

You looked up in the sky. The plate was still there. There was still time.

But then you felt something. Something bad, something wrong.

The ground shook beneath you, and a deafening rumble echoed through the streets.

Your heart sank.

You could only stand and stare as the sector seven plate fell from the sky and crumbled to the ground, in large, flaming chunks.

What couldn't have been more than a minute felt like a lifetime as you watched each piece of debris descend upon the city below...

Then came the wave of dust.

You managed to break free from your trance and run back into the leaf house just before it hit you. As soon as you turned around, the windows had become fully clouded over.

You placed a hand on the glass, trying to look past the endless sea of brown. It was pointless, you couldn't see anything, and yet you couldn't tear your eyes away, trying to find any figure, any silhouette in the fog.

Your friends weren't in there, right?

They had gotten out, right?

If there was one thing you knew about them, though, is they'd rather die fighting then sit back and watch this happen, so the answer was quite clear...

You suddenly felt lightheaded, your mouth incredibly dry, and a lead weight in your heart.

Folia rushed down the stairs, stopping in front of the window only for a moment before running to console the screaming kids.

Weird, it was only then you noticed the kids crying. You didn't notice anything happening around you. And even now, you still felt disconnected from it all. Chaos was unfolding all around you, and yet it didn't feel real. Nothing felt real.

Brown splotches were taking over your vision, and you grabbed onto the chair next to you, your hands shaking as they guided you to sit down. It was only then you realized how quick your breathing had gotten.

You leaned forward, trying to increase the bloodflow in your brain. Shutting your eyes, you took a couple deep breaths. They didn't come very easy, so you counted each inhale and exhale, just like Biggs had taught you.

Inhale...1...2...3...4...

Exhale...1...2...3...4...

Inhale...1...2...3..4...

All your friends were dead.

Inhale ...1...2...3...4

Barrett, Wedge, Cloud,

Exhale...1...2...3...4

Jessie and Tifa

Inhale...1...2...3...4

Marlene.

Your eyes shot open.

It couldn't be... she couldn't be...

Your breathing regressed back into a shallow, ragged mess, like someone or something was crushing your chest, breaking each and every rib in the process. You gasped for air, tears pricking at your eyes.

"Y/N!" A voice shouted, and footsteps rushed towards you. You didn't look up, you couldn't. Any sudden movement and you'd surely pass out.

"Y/N, you gotta breathe," the woman said, kneeling down to your level and taking your hands into her own. You recognized the voice; Folia, “Hey, look, breathe with me."

"Breathe in..." she instructed, you sucked in a quick breath, "Hold..."

Your lungs felt like they were on fire.

"Breathe out..." she said calmly, you quickly expelled the air out of your mouth, "Breathe in... hold... breathe out."

"Marlene," you managed to spit out, "I-I think Marlene was still in there."

She froze, you could feel it.

She must have recognized the name; Biggs probably brought her up all the time.

She didn't say anything, instead she sat down on the chair beside you, dropping her own heard into her hands as the full weight of the realization hit her. 

And with that, you fell back into your fit of sobs, crying for your friends, crying for your family, crying like your life fucking depended on it.

[demialwrites]

Former AVALANCHE/Turk Reader x ff7

HCs for when they find out you used to be the enemy.

Barret - Turk Reader

Pre AC (Advent Children)

You might think it's automatic breakup, but it depends on how long you've been together

It's especially favorable for you if you've been along for the hunt for Sephiroth for a while without betraying the group to Shinra

You and Vincent make a good team when it comes to espionage against the Turks and Shinra, especially since you'll have more up-to-date info than Vincent. It gives Barret great satisfaction to stick it to 'em

Sometimes he has doubts about you but he feels guilty and will probably admit to it and apologize during a moment of rest

If you helped drop the plate, it's over. Let the man cry. He's gonna carry on with the adventure

Post AC

Again, it depends on how long you've been together

Huge, huge bonus points if Marlene has taken to you. Because then it's a break from her, as well. He really wants stability for her

He'll have a really hard time justifying continuing the relationship if you were involved in dropping the plate, especially since that means you were hiding it until now

If he breaks up with you, his heart is just as broken as yours

Rufus Shinra - AVALANCHE Reader

Pre AC

It's likely that he'll break up with you unless you can prove you've got something useful for him

If you can help track AVALANCHE, minor brownie points

He's very slow to trust a romantic partner so dropping this truth on him will probably put him in a sour mood and he may lash out a bit. Or he may just go cold and shut you out

His presidency has not gone well and he doesn't want more stress and uncertainty

If he hasn't done that, and you have some of the necessary skills, perhaps he'll have you join the Turks. He can keep an eye on you better. You can slowly earn his trust back. If you get hurt this way, he'll get angry at himself

Post AC

It doesn't matter as much what you did before

It matters more that you're committed to helping him with his current projects

You should make an effort to get along with his Turks, though

Major bonus points if you were around while he was sick with geostigma

If he has any lingering doubts, be patient and he may eventually try to talk it out with you

Tseng - AVALANCHE Reader

Pre AC

When you tell him, it's clear he's feeling some kind of way: angry, sad, or conflicted. Maybe all three? But the silence stretches so long that it's uncomfortable and you wish you were arguing loudly instead

It's not that he wants to breakup with you but he doesn't feel like his life is his, so he leaves without confirming either way

It's a dick move and he knows it. However, he can't leave well enough alone. He keeps tabs on you from afar, hoping something changes and he can try to come back

Post AC

He is surprised you want to stay with him. After Shinra collapsed, there's much less for him to offer you (he definitely took a pay cut). And most of his time is spent helping Rufus

Give it time and these boys (and Elena) will probably realize there's more to life than living how things were before Meteorfall

If someone who used to be a part of an organization that opposed Shinra wants to be with him, perhaps it'll give him the courage to open up about why he's repressed most of his feelings for so long

There's clearly sadness and shame inside and if you're lucky, you can help him through it

Tifa - Turk Reader

Pre AC

She's more lenient than Barret but she also can't abandon her found family if they reject you, saying they don't trust you

She can recall all the good memories you've had together, squeeze your hands, and ask you to wait for her

It's a tearful farewell, with you wishing you could come along and help, even if just to support her. She's strong but she's also got a weak side that you want to protect

If you can convince them to let you tag along, she will eventually convince them to be friendly. After saving the world, they'll become your found family, too

Post AC

She may be distant for a while, busying herself with her bar

If her long-time friend, Cloud, refuses to have anything to do with you, she's torn but

She'll come around eventually if you prove that you don't have any bad intentions and intend to stick by her

If you want the same things as her in a relationship, you've found your best girl for life. Work with her at the bar until you retire

Reno - AVALANCHE Reader

Pre AC

Reno's response is most likely to continue the relationship mostly because "why the fuck not?" ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ He's already this deep

If he gets caught, he'll get in trouble, so he's extra careful when meeting up with you. He was already being discreet so he gets extra sneaky

He does tell Rude, reluctantly. Since Rude was taken advantage of by an active AVALANCHE member in Before Crisis, he's very skeptical that this is a good idea

Step a toe out of line, however, and it's over. Reno isn't going to go against his boss and his best friend

Fights extra recklessly for a while because the man is upset

Post AC

Honestly, who gives a fuck? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ I think the most he'll feel is a little guilty. He knows what he's done over his lifetime

He'll be curious how you can reconcile having been part of AVALANCHE and then switch to dating a Turk

When you explain that AVALANCHE could sometimes be just as violent as the Turks, it eases his conscious but only a little

[isla-the-fickle]

100 gil

Cloud Strife x GN!Reader - Fluff

Word Count: 1196

Summary: In which you pay the new merc in town for a job well done, and he pays you back without you even knowing

The first time you saw him, you blanked completely. You were the one who had requested for help from the new merc, but you weren't expecting this. You weren’t expecting a man like him.

You realized you were staring when he started walking away, quickly catching up to him and grabbing his wrist. "Hey, wait! Sorry about that, I just spaced out. Are you the new merc?" you asked, utterly embarrassed and hoping he'd still help you.

"Yeah. So what's the job?" he asked.

'Wow. He's pretty straightforward.' you thought. "Well there's been a few reports from my tenants about wererats, and I can't exactly check it myself. I'm not much of a fighter."

"Alright, I'll take care of it. But if there's no wererats, I am still getting paid, right?" He asked curtly, looking towards you for an answer.

"Yeah of course, I'm not an idiot. You either get paid for getting rid of 'em or for confirming that there aren't any." you laughed. He nodded at you, and while you expected him to leave right away, he stood staring at you. Confused, you were about to ask what was wrong when you realized the feeling under your hand. It had still been on his wrist, so you quickly whipped it back.

"Oh, sorry. Didn't even realize." you said, once again embarrassing yourself in front of him. He grunted, but didn't budge an inch, still staring at you. You shifted under his gaze, getting slightly uncomfortable. You looked up at him and met his eyes, "Uh, what is it?" you asked nervously.

"You look really familiar. Where do I know you from?"

You blanked. You couldn't remember seeing him before, and with a face like his there's no way you could've forgotten him. Your eyebrows furrowed as you tried to think of where you could've met him. "Um, well, Marle is basically my grandmother. Maybe you've seen me near her apartments?" you suggested.

To which he replied with a simple "No."

"Oh. Um, well, maybe at Seventh Heaven? I work shifts there sometimes with Tifa, and I run the bar when she's not available." you suggested, as it was really the only other place he could've seen you since he didn't live in your building.

"Oh... yeah. Yeah, that's probably it." The man couldn't even look you in the eyes, so you figured he probably mistook you for someone else and just didn't want to embarrass you or himself by admitting it.

“Alright. Well now that that’s out of the way, do you think you could…” you trailed off, not wanting to seem rude by cutting off the conversation so abruptly but also wanting the wererat situation cleared up.

“Shit, sorry. Yeah, I’ll get right on it.” he said while turning to get on his motorcycle.

“Oh, really quick, uh… What’s your name? I don’t wanna just call you ‘merc’, you know?” you yelled.

“It’s Cloud.” And with that, he was off.

~ x ~

“Hey Tifa, who’s Cloud?” you asked as you walked into the bar. Tifa glanced at you, a look of surprise on her face.

While you greeted Marlene and Barret, she said “He’s an old friend and the new merc, why do you ask?”

“He said I looked familiar when he came by my building, but I swear I’ve never seen him before. He said he saw me working here.” you said, still thinking about your encounter.

“Oh yeah, he definitely saw you here. Multiple times actually.” Tifa said as she laughed, leaving you puzzled. When had he seen you here? Tifa usually ran the bar on her own, only calling you in when it was especially busy or if she had to go on a mission with Avalanche. Neither had happened in a while, so how could he have possibly seen you? You’d only gone for a drink a few times, and every time the bar was empty except for you and Tifa.

Your confusion had probably shown on your face, as Tifa laughed again. “You really don’t remember seeing him at all?”

“No! I swear, every time I’ve come in lately, it’s just been you and me. And maybe Marlene.” you sigh, wondering if Tifa was just messing with you or if your memory had actually been failing you.

“Well I promise he’s seen you here. I don’t know, maybe you never saw him.” she said with a chuckle. Just as you were going to ask her what she meant, the doors to Seventh Heaven opened.

You turned around, and your eyes were met with piercing blue ones. “Hey,” said Cloud as he approached you at the bar. “There were a few wererats near your building. They’re gone now.”

Your face brightened at the news, “Thank you so much. God, I don’t know how I would’ve gotten rid of them if it wasn’t for you. So how much do I owe you?”

“100 gil.”

“That’s all? Are you sure?” you asked with uncertainty. Sure, Cloud seemed plenty strong, but 100 gil seemed so little for the job he had done.

“Yeah. 100 is fine.” 

Barret turned to the two of you, looking at Cloud with an incredulous look. “The hell? You ain’t never taken a job from us for less than 1000 gil. Not even taken one from around town for less than 300. What’s got you discountin’, huh?” Barret says with a smirk.

You glance back and forth between Barret and Cloud, “Oh, well if that’s the case, then 100 gil is way too low! Here,” you say as you grab Cloud’s hand and put the gil into his palm. “This is the 100 for the job, and an extra 150 for your hard work.” You smile up at Cloud before turning around to ask Tifa for a drink. 

With your back turned, you don’t see Cloud’s glare at Barret, nor the smug smirk Barret sends back. After finishing your drink and conversing with the others, you realize you don’t have any gil on you to pay for your drink, asking Tifa to put it on your tab. As you wave, your eyes meet Cloud’s, and you flash him a small smile. 

Once you’re gone, Barret and Tifa turn to Cloud. “What?” Cloud asks, already suspicious of what they’re going to say.

“So, when are you gonna admit that you have feelings for my best friend?” Tifa asks with a smile. Cloud looks at her shocked.

“What? What are you talking about?” he stammers.

Barret leans back and lets out a loud laugh. “Oh come on now, even Marlene’s been askin’ me when you’re gonna say ‘I like you'."

“Well tell her it’s not gonna happen. I don’t have feelings for anyone” Cloud says as he gets up to leave. 

As the other two laugh and continue talking, they pretend not to notice the light blush on Cloud’s face or the very small smile he wears when he says your name. What they actually don’t notice until after he’s left is the 150 gil he leaves next to your drink, and the 100 he leaves next to his.

[final-fantasy-imagines]

can I please request headcanons for barret & cloud with an affectionate best friend? like their relationship is completely platonic but the friend can be cuddly sometimes. they occasionally enjoy resting their head on cloud/barrets’s shoulders, and holding their hand or arm when they’re walking some where. thanks a bunch!! 💕

This was such a cute request, thank you very much for sending it in! <3 I really hope you like what I came up with. Have a good day/night, dear! 

having an affectionate best friend

Barret Wallace

Barret doesn’t mind your affectionate behavior at all. It’s actually quite the opposite, and he thinks that it’s great to have a friend like you. He’s someone who likes to cuddle (although he would never admit that in front of others), so it’s awesome that you’re a pretty affectionate person and don’t hesitate to act like that around him, even though you’re not in a romantic relationship in any way.

Also, Marlene loves to cuddle with you too which is something that makes Barret appreciate your personality even more. He can’t be with his daughter all the time, so it’s great to know that she feels comfortable with your presence and your behavior. Sometimes, the three of you even spend a whole day at home, maybe watching a movie while you’re snuggled up to each other.

Barret doesn’t care about other peoples’ opinions at all. He knows that your friendship can seem a bit strange to others, especially since you often hold hands in public or occasionally hug each other, but as long as the two of you are comfortable with the situation he wouldn’t change anything about that. How you act around each other is something that’s completely up to you, no matter what others might think about it.

In general, your friendship is something that’s very important to Barret. He might seem like a really tough guy who doesn’t need anyone but he’s actually a kind and caring person who would do anything to make his friends (and his daughter, too) happy.

Cloud Strife

At first, Cloud was a bit uncomfortable with your affectionate demeanor because he wasn’t really used to someone who liked to hug him or hold his hand. It also felt a bit weird to him since you weren’t a couple and he had never expected a friend to be so cuddly and affectionate.

However, once he gets used to it he actually begins to like it. It’s nice to have someone to lean on whenever he needs some comfort, and he also appreciates the fact that you’re both comfortable with being not more than friends.

It’s not unusual that people mistake you for a couple when they see you together, especially since you like to hold his hand or arm when you’re walking somewhere together. Most of them tell him to finally make a move before you disappear and leave him which makes both of you laugh every time it happens.

Don’t expect him to return your affection right away. Cloud isn’t overly comfortable with physical contact and therefore avoids it most of the time but he gets less and less defensive as your friendship develops and actually starts to initiate hugs and acts more affectionate around you. For example, he wouldn’t hesitate to hug you immediately when he notices that you’re upset about something and need someone to comfort you.  

[cruellae]

chapter 2 of not interested. Cloud gets to know his new guild mates a little better...

read it on AO3

[leeus-writing]

Thank you for taking my confident cloud idea! It was a joy to read. Wanted to see your take on a different idea that had popped in my head a while back in the shower when I made my shampoo bottles wish i just left already. You don't have to if you don't wanna, but could you do something with Cloud and Barret both liking a Fem reader and what they would do to get her attention? Stay safe

Hi

I’ve never written for Barret before, he’s not on my list of who I’d write about but I thought I’d give it a go anyway. I’ve written them as Headcanons but if you want me to expand on it I can do. 

I hope this is alright.

Affections - Headcanons

Cloud

·       Cloud is a naive person, having years missing from his life. He’s not one that would recognise his feelings at first.

·       It isn’t until someone points out that he likes you that he realises and acknowledges his feelings.

·       He takes a while to study them at first. To fully comprehend his feelings and decide how to move forward. If he wants to move forward, he does.

·       Cloud was trying to get your attention before he truly realised, he liked you. He was often trying to find time to spend with you. For example, inviting you for lunch, or just to hang out at the Seventh heaven Bar.

·       When you were around, he was often trying to gain your attention by trying to engage you in conversation.

·       Once he decides to move forward, that’s when he tries to pluck up the courage to ask you on a date.

 Barret

·       Barret is loud by voice and by nature.

·       He’s not stupid he recognises his feelings for you in perhaps a matter of seconds and from then on tries to get your attention by inviting you to work at Seventh heaven, without asking Tifa. Tifa doesn’t mind though, she knows he likes you.

·       When your working however, he can be quite distracting. He’s always trying to talk with you, and he gets extremely overprotective when customers trying to complain. He puts up a tough persona, but anyone who knows him will say few people care as much as he does.

·       You know that Barret likes you, it’s pretty obvious after a while. Its not until Marlene tells you one day when your baby sitting her that perhaps you should approach him.

·       Barret would often start conversations and just finish with Never mind. You had it in your mind that that’s probably when he’s going to ask you out. So, you ask him instead.

·       That’s stuns him, but a date is set up regardless.

~~~~

Ao3