A/N: Hello everybody, I've been on hiatus for a year. My life has been very busy, there were some ups and mostly downs. I lost the spark, the passion and the motivation to continue with my story. I've never felt so demotivated in my life, but I'm finally bouncing off my feet again. Got a new job - pretty much okay with it compared to the last one. All the stress in the past year has taken its toll and I'm now pre-hypertensive. Stress eating is pretty bad, I know it is! However, food gives me joy and I thought they will make me feel better. But what happened was the opposite, my unhealthy eating habits resulted in pre-hypertension.

Hopefully I can continue and finish my ongoing stories, so far what I have as ongoing are "Echoes of Promises" and "Sliver of a Moon". Right now I'll focus more with Echoes as I've already had a clear set ending for this, as for Sliver - my friend who helps me in writing the "IT" scenes is pretty much busy since she already has a daughter, she's now a very busy woman. Sadly, looks like I have to study and try writing descriptive "IT" scenes lol!

So without further ado, Behold chapter 10. Enjoy!

P.S. Kindly R&R! Thanks heaps!

Disclaimer: Final Fantasy VII is owned by Square Enix, no copyright infringement has been intended in the creation of this fic.

Chapter 10 - Fireworks

It was a quick trip from the train, after a couple of hours they arrived at the Port of New Midgar. Aerith offered to buy their tickets this time as he stayed and watched over their bags. He surreptitiously follows her figure with a lingering look before picking up the journal from his bag. He bites the pen cap and tuck it on the other end. He opens an empty page of his journal and set his pen to writing.

"Hey!"

He haven't wrote much yet when he stops and turns his attention to the familiar voice. He was shocked to see his co-workers in the waiting area, standing in a small group and was waving at him. The youngest approached him eagerly first and sits beside him. He gently closes his journal and rested his hands on it.

"We heard from boss that you're off to another continent, you leaving for good?"

He simply nods.

The tall brute-looking one speaks this time, "We gonna miss you big time though. Hope someday, you'll come visit when you have some time to spare."

He smiled and said, "I hope so too."

"We're not really sure why you're leaving, but somehow we thought maybe because you want to leave some painful memories behind. Heard about your Grandma... my condolences bud." another colleague speaks.

"Thank you."

They were all having a conversation when the youngest noticed the journal.

"Oh, so were you already using the gift I gave you?"

Sephiroth looks at his journal and nods with a small smile.

"It's effective isn't it? For introverts, writing a journal is always a good emotional therapy. Someone who doesn't open much about himself should keep a journal handy. It's one way of letting your thoughts out without telling another soul. Well, if you really don't want to tell anyone about it."

"You have my thanks, Dan." Sephiroth says and Dan's eyes widened in surprise before he shyly scratches his head.

"Gee, all good man."

"Why you blushing in there like a shy kid Dan?" the brute teases and they were all laughing. Sephiroth chuckles softly.

"Oh, are they your friends Sephiroth?" Aerith interrupts politely as the men looks at her.

Sephiroth nods slightly and introduces them to her. Aerith smiles kindly as she shakes their hands and making sure she memorizes each of their names.

"She's Aerith... she's a..." Sephiroth finds himself unsure on how to introduce her to them, should he say that she's a friend? Would she really want to be his friend?

"A friend. I'm his friend, nice to meet you all!" she continues on his behalf, he looks dumbfounded at her but smiles to himself.

'She thinks of me as a friend... that is enough... more than enough.'

"Oi Sephiroth, you didn't tell us that you're actually leaving off to another continent with a beautiful lady huh?"

"I-it's not what you think it is... she's just accompanying me for a little while."

They were throwing him the 'oh-come-on-look' before he glances at Aerith, but the latter just chuckles.

ding-Ding-DiNG-DING!

"All passengers bound for Costa Del Sol at 9pm please head to the departure area. I repeat, all passengers bound for Costa Del Sol at 9pm, please head to the departure area, thank you."

"Oh, that'll be us." Aerith mutters.

Sephiroth looks at his colleagues and said, "We have to go now, I'll see you soon if fate permits."

His co-workers nods and smiles at him, they all tell them to take care but it was Dan who says more, "Just remember, you have friends here. We'll always be here!"

Sephiroth nods as Aerith bows in gratitude before they disappeared right through the departure gate.

The passengers were all lining up and getting ready to board, Sephiroth tucks the journal in his coat pocket as he carries both of their bags. They were standing beside each other as they line up.

"Looks like you've earned some friends." Aerith tells him with a smile.

"I... never knew they thought of me that way." Sephiroth says as he contemplates on the thought.

"You're likeable you know, just have more confidence that you are. Your sins, your past... don't let it tie you down."

"Perhaps I should try... that."

"You'll be fine." she says as the line started moving.

They have entered their small cabin, he put their bags in one corner as Aerith make herself comfortable on the bed. Their room was small, contains two small double size beds, a small coffee table and two chairs along with it in one corner. A small potted succulent plant sits atop the coffee table as a centerpiece, on the opposite corner is a door leading to their own bathroom. The room has a small circular window which allows them a view of the sea.

"You'd like to get some dinner?" Aerith asks casually as Sephiroth removes his coat and folded it neatly before placing it on the foot of the bed.

"I really don't mind."

"Right! Onto dinner then, let's go." she says as he follows after her.

They grab their dinner at the ship's dining hall, Aerith treats herself to some ramen and gyoza while Sephiroth settles for Mushroom soup and buttered soft rolls. They were both eating without saying a word, it was Aerith who breaks off the silence.

"So, have any plans once we reach Costa?"

His spoon paused midway as he replied, "None, do you?"

"Well... if it's alright with you, can we stay you know at least a couple of days in there?"

"I don't mind..."

She claps her hands in delight and said, "Great! Plus we have the villa so we really don't have to think about the lodging fees. I just don't want you to think that I'm slowing you down."

"Not really... unless you would want me to hurry up and disappear?" he smirks.

"Of course not! Speaking of which, do you... still want to perish after seeing her?" she speaks with too much concern in her tone that Sephiroth was appalled at himself for bringing that up as a joke.

"My... decision remains the same Aerith..."

"It's still too early to say that."

"Nothing can really change my mind."

"At the moment." she counters.

He sighed, how stubborn.

"Aerith..."

She holds up her hand and said, "No, I know you're going to tell me I know nothing yada, yada, yada... But I am just here hoping you'll try to learn and live life of what is offered to you right now. But I guess, no use asking about it."

Aerith clasps her hands once again and said her thanks for a delicious meal. He ate the last piece of his bread and did the same.

"Let's go to the deck?" she invites him.

"I'm sorry, but I think I'd like to go back to the room."

She places a hand over his forehead and leaned closer which surprises him, "W-what are you-"

"Hmm...looks like you don't have a fever. Are you not feeling well?" she asks as she removes her hands, he covers the lower half of his face with his left hand. Heat creeping up on his cheeks and with a muffled voice he answered, "I'm fine..."

"Your face is red." she points out bluntly.

'Of course it is after the stunt you just pulled' is what he wants to tell her but decided against it.

"It's the heat I guess..."

"Oh...?" she dares as she smirks. "In an air conditioned hall?"

"Whatever..." he replies avoiding her gaze.

She chuckles and said, "I'm just kidding you know. Come on, accompany me to the deck please?"

He sighs exasperatedly and said, "Fine."

The breeze was gentle and the stars are abundant in the clear, dark sky. There were a few people on the deck with them as Aerith eagerly walked over towards the railings. He treads behind her then leans himself on the railings.

"The skies are beautiful, the seas are calm." She inhales deeply as she lets out a deep breath. "Can't believe we're now leaving Midgar. I can't wait to have a fun time at Costa, before meeting up with my old friends for your mission."

"Your friends... will they really help us?"

She looks up at him and said, "Vincent knows your mother, and I think he will. As for Yuffie, hmm... I don't think we need to meet up with her at all. I just don't think she'll be more mature in handling this situation unlike Vincent."

"Vincent is fine, besides he's the only one who knows about my mother."

Aerith looks at him with uncertainty before shifting her gaze back to the sky, "Well, let's not think too much about it. Let's enjoy the view for now, and cross the bridge once we get there."

Once back in their rooms, Aerith took a half-bath and pamper herself a little before dressing up to sleep. Sephiroth did the same after her. By the time he finished bathing, she was already asleep. He switched off the main light and turn on the lamp, the room is now dimmed with its soft warm glow. He took his journal and sat on the chair. He set his pen to paper, his eyes were still enhanced due to the mako infusions he has in the past. It's one of the abilities retained within him after the Planet strips him off his Jenova enhanced abilities.

As he finished writing he looks out the window, the bright moon shines directly above. It was a full moon and the light it emits was being reflected inside their room through the circular window, he looks at the sleeping Aerith.

"Somehow, I feel like we're two souls trying to find our place in this world. I hope when this little adventuring of ours is over, we all find our calling in the end. We all find our place, our purpose, our contentment. So until then, we're sticking around together."

He sighed and mumbles to himself, "My calling... is to perish. it's the only fate for me. I don't belong here or anywhere..."

He stands up, takes his journal and he puts it back in his bag before tucking himself to sleep.

It was midday when they arrived in Costa, there were lots of tourists sauntering around as the famous summer capital is filled with people trying to unwind from the hustle and bustle of their regular busy days. Aerith and Sephiroth quickly made their way to Cloud's villa based on the directions given to them by Tifa via PHS message.

"I think this is it." Sephiroth said as he handed Aerith's PHS back.

Before them lies a huge two-storey residential villa, Aerith clasps her hands on her chest as the villa left her in awe.

"It's beautiful and extravagant! I didn't even know Cloud could own something like this! But then again, he owns the famous 7th Heaven pub in Edge plus a decent home with Tifa too. My, my... how time flies." She exclaims as she started walking up the stone steps and stopping at the door.

She pulls the key from her purse and unlocks the door. She steps inside the property as she beckons for her companion to follow her. He picked up their bags and steps inside, he closed the door behind him and locked it preventing any unwanted visitors from entering the property.

The property was well maintained, it is clean and dust-free, Aerith was walking slowly admiring the interior as Sephiroth followed behind carrying their luggages. Her PHS rings and the sound bounces off the walls, she was startled before realizing it was the sound of her phone ringing. She picks it up from her purse and saw Cloud's name flashing on the screen. She press the answer button and hears Cloud's disembodied voice from the other line. As much as Sephiroth doesn't want to eavesdrop, he can't help it. He was just standing right behind her with his arms crossed against his chest. He was leaning his left shoulder on the wall and from where he stands he can clearly hear the blonde speaking from the other line. After all, he still has his enhanced hearing,

"Hey, Aerith. So heard from Tifa that you already arrived at the villa. Well, uh... how do you find it?"

"It is beautiful Cloud, I do appreciate you lending this place to us for free. Are you sure it's okay?"

"Stop worrying about the money, you can stay there as much as you like."

Aerith's lips curls up in a small smile and said "Thanks, Cloud."

"You're always welcome Aerith... I miss you already, to be honest."

Aerith's eyes widened in surprise as she covers the mouthpiece before glancing back and saw Sephiroth staring at a huge painting on the wall. She returns her gaze on the polished floor and takes a deep breath before replying, "Cloud, you shouldn't say such words, It will be offensive to Tifa."

"She knows that, she knows how I felt for you, how I still feel for you."

Aerith sighed and said, "Yeah, but it doesn't mean you have to be insensitive with her feelings."

"I'm not, I cherish Tifa but I adore you too, Aerith. No one can take that away from me, I've lost you unexpectedly and now that you're back, I feel ecstatic."

'Jerk.' Sephiroth commented in his head as he pertains to what he's currently overhearing from their conversation.

"Cloud, is that the only reason why you called?" Aerith replied exasperatedly.

"No, the reason I'm calling is to give you an instruction. There are two large rooms in there, be sure that you and Sephiroth doesn't sleep in the same room."

"Seriously, we already slept in the same room." she said rolling her eyes.

Sephiroth scoffs and she glanced at him, he cleared his throat and pretended that the plant on the corner is quite interesting. Aerith looks the other way again as Cloud keeps asking her when it happened, how it happened and why would she let him, that it's inappropriate and good thing nothing bad happened to her.

She got tired of his nonsense rumblings so she halts him and said, "We slept together in the ship's cabin but we're on separate beds, happy? Oh and why would I even explain myself to you? Ok Cloud, thanks for calling. See ya again soon!" she hangs up and huffs angrily as she finds Cloud's unseemly behavior irritating. She looks back at Sephiroth and said, "C'mon let's check the rooms ok?"

He nods and picks up their luggages, he followed behind her as she climbs up the staircase towards two huge wooden doors. One door was on the farthest corner of the second floor while the other one is just right after a few steps from the staircase.

"These must be the two large rooms Cloud was talking about." she mumbles to herself as she opens the first door and saw one king size bed with bedposts and a mesh canopy. The floor was carpeted and there was a huge oblong-shaped furry rag right on the foot of the bed.

A huge sliding four panel glass-door which leads to the balcony also serves as a window overlooking the beach, the bars, restaurants and souvenir shops. Aerith was so thrilled as she draw back the curtains and opened the glass door. The cool sea breeze entered the room but the humidity can also be felt. After all, it was a hot-summer afternoon.

The room has a walk in closet as well, Aerith checks those and true enough, there were clothes in there - probably Tifa's and Cloud's. She gently closed the door of the walk in closet. The room also has a vertical air conditioning system in one corner, big enough to cool the huge room. There's also a mini sofa set in one corner with a mahogany dresser table, an airpot kettle and a coffeemaker is sitting atop the table with a tray containing two coffee mugs, two teacups and two tall glasses.

The table's drawer has a set of cutleries, three different kinds of tea boxes, extra glasses and mugs as well as teacups. There's also a set of champagne flutes and wine glasses. Right beside the dresser table is a mini fridge, Aerith opened it as well revealing sodas, sparkling water, some chocolates and pudding. The freezer contains some frozen berries and ice cubes.

"Wow, this seems so complete for a bedroom." Aerith exclaimed in astonishment.

"You mean like a hotel suite room." Sephiroth comments casually. Putting down her luggage on the bed.

"Oh is it like this in a hotel suite room? I've never been to one." she replied innocently.

He shrugged and said, "Pretty much."

"You must've been to countless hotels and has been given the most expensive suites! Must be a wonderful experience."

Sephiroth puts his hands on his back and looks at her before replying, "Yes, I've been to numerous hotels, given the most expensive services. But the experience? Not as wonderful as you think."

She looks at him in wonder and said, "Why not?"

He smirks and said, "Who would want to sleep in such a huge room alone? Sleeping in a small, confined room with Josie taught me a lot of things that are truly beautiful. That it's better to sleep in a small room along with someone you cherish, than alone in a huge room feeling so empty."

Aerith's eyes widened in surprise before looking at him with a warm expression painted across her beautiful face. She nods and said, "I agree..."

Sephiroth picks up his luggage and said, "I'll sleep in the other room, I wouldn't want our generous host to think I'm taking advantage of you. Let him know that I'm being a good guest." He smirks and leaves the room, closing the door behind him.

Aerith and Sephiroth went to the market to buy some ingredients for dinner and as they sat and enjoys their hearty dinner of roast chicken and mashed potatoes, Aerith writes down her itinerary while they were in Costa.

Sephiroth just agrees to everything she says and occasionally informs her that he won't be joining her in those itineraries, saying he just want to stay cooped up in his room until they're ready to move on to Wutai. Aerith calls him a "kill joy" and keeps on planning nonetheless.

The next day, Aerith and Sephiroth were up early for breakfast. After eating, Aerith readies herself for a day tour in Costa while Sephiroth just stays in the living room reading some books from the shelves.

Aerith went home that night as they enjoyed dinner together while she chats on how the beach is so packed with people, the markets offering some goodies and how some bars and restaurants looks and smells enticing.

The next day, Sephiroth was the only one who went to the market to buy something for breakfast and lunch, while he was browsing through the stalls in the market, a flyer caught his eye.

"Fireworks Festival on Saturday Night!" - is what it says on the flyer, he continue reading and saw that it's a festival open for everyone, exclusive seaside bazaars and stalls will be open that night as the people will enjoy the fireworks display. He took the flyer and folded it before putting it in his pocket. He finished shopping for groceries and heads back to the villa.

Aerith wasn't awake during breakfast, he tried knocking on her door twice, thrice before giving up, thinking she might be too exhausted the day before.

By lunch time, he tried knocking on her door again, this time she answered and said she'll be joining him for lunch. He prepared the table and she went down, she also thanked him for preparing the meal. While they were eating, Sephiroth took the flyer out from his pocket and unfolded it before sliding it over to her on the table.

Aerith's eyes widened in surprise and took the flyer, "Oh Gaia! A fireworks display!"

"I knew you'd like it." he comments.

"Of course! This looks fun, so are you inviting me to this fireworks display huh?" she replied teasingly.

"Actually... I'm not interested in those kind of things. I just assumed you'd like this so I showed it to you."

Aerith crosses her arms and said, "You're not coming with me?"

Sephiroth shakes his head as he continues to eat.

"That's no fun, so in all my itineraries, you're not really coming?"

"No."

"Why is that? Don't you like my company Mr.?"

"I told you, I'm just not used to being social. I prefer staying at home."

Aerith huffs and picks her plates and cutleries, heading over to the kitchen to wash them.

Aerith went out again that afternoon as he stayed in the villa, passing the time reading the book he was reading since yesterday. He waited for Aerith to be home before he decided to call it a night as well.

The next day was Saturday and tonight would be the fireworks festival. They spent the day like the days before, eating breakfast alone as Aerith skips breakfast again. They ate lunch together with Aerith still trying to convice him to join her in the fireworks display but he refuses.

Around 6pm Aerith was prepared to see the fireworks festival. Sephiroth was still spending his time in the usual spot on the couch, a glass of ice-cold lemonade rests atop the coffee table.

"You really don't want to come with me?" Aerith tries one last time in a hopeful tone.

Sephiroth looks at her and said, "No, it would be much better for you to enjoy it alone. I might just rob you off your enthusiasm."

Aerith places her hands on her hips and shakes her head before saying, "Ok, I'll just find something for you then. See you later."

"Hold on a minute please, before you go I have something for you." Sephiroth says as he puts down the book he's been reading on the table and pulling out his wallet. He pulled out some gils and hands it over to her.

"Take it and enjoy the night, consider it a treat from me."

"This is how you compensate for not coming with me huh? How thoughtful, though I prefer your company more than these gils." she replied dispassionately as she took the gils and mumbled a thanks.

"Don't get me wrong, I just want you to enjoy the night." he replied in defense as he puts his wallet back from his pants pocket.

"Hmph, yeah right. I better get going now, see ya later!" she says as she heads out the villa.

Aerith arrived in the festival as the beach is filled with people, there were new bazaars put up exclusively for the festival and she decided to stroll and browse them all. The fireworks display won't start until 9 in the evening so she decided to check some booths who sells snacks. She decided to buy a corndog and nachos plus a a bottle of coconut juice. She sits in one of the coachella themed tables. She saw that the other tables were occupied by a group of friends, a pair of lovers, a family. Only she was alone in the table and she felt absolutely out of place.

"Why won't Sephiroth join me? Does he not like my company?"

She was in deep thought as she eats her nachos. She was trying her best to enjoy the bazaar alone, a reggae band was playing their tune serenading the people enjoying the night. Once she's done eating, she throws her trash in the garbage can before taking another stroll.

She came across a bar, now she's really tempted to drink some alcohol to give her that boost of confidence. She heard people in the slums mentioned about how alcohol helps them forget the bad things and gives them a boost of confidence.

"Might be good to drink just a little." she says to herself as she heads over to the bar.

As she was on the bar table she asks the bar tender for a girly drink she would surely love and the bar tender suggested a Mojito. She took a sip and found that it's quite good, simple but definitely good.

She was on her second glass of Mojito when another drink was given to her by the bar tender.

"Cosmopolitan for you miss."

Aerith looks confused and refused the drink with a small smile. "I think you're mistaken, I didn't order that."

"But someone did." The bar tender replies and winks before pointing to a guy with a toned physique and a raven hair tied up in a man bun. He salutes her and smiled.

"Oh..." Aerith finds the man physically attractive, she doesn't really know what to feel. As soon as the couple seating beside her left the bar, the man who ordered her a drink seats himself right next to her.

"I'm not sure what you would like so I ordered the safest drink of choice for ladies."

Aerith felt a little awkward and said, "Actually, I don't drink. I just decided to try today."

"So this is the first time, Mojito... nice choice though. The safest and mildest I know. So how was it?"

"It's nice... tastes like juice with a hint of warmth down my throat."

"That's because of the vodka. Anyway, I forgot to introduce myself - Gian." he said offering a handshake.

"I'm Aerith..." she replies shyly as she shakes his hands.

"Wow, such a lovely name perfectly befits a lovely lady." Gian compliments sincerely.

"Thank you." she replied shyly - a blush creeping at her cheeks.

"You should try the cosmopolitan too, it's nice." he suggested.

"I think I will." she answered with a smile.

Aerith and Gian enjoyed talking to each other as Gian treats her more drinks and some pica picas to pair with her cocktails.

Meanwhile Sephiroth finishes reading the book and decided on what to read next. As he was putting the book back to the shelf, he heard a phone ringing. He doesn't own a PHS so definitely it's Aerith's. He went upstairs and open the room Aerith occupies, the ringing grew louder and he saw the phone on top of the dresser.

He saw Cloud's name flashing on the screen, he decided to leave it be. The ringing stops and registered as missed call. He puts it back on the dresser but before he could leave the room, the phone started ringing again. Irritated and thinking that Cloud would never stop calling until he speaks with Aerith - decided to pick up the phone.

"Aerith? You're not answering my sms, are you okay?" came Cloud's frantic voice from the other line.

"She's not here, she went for a stroll Cloud." Sephiroth replied impatiently.

"What? Why did she leave her phone? Are you sure you didn't do anything to her?"

"If you don't trust me, I'll let her speak to you as soon as she gets home."

"You allowed Aerith to take a stroll alone at night? What the hell?!"

"It won't do good for me to join her as I'm uninterested in social gatherings. Hold on, why am I even explaining this to you?"

"Because you're a dumbass! Costa is full of tourists and people, but you shouldn't leave her alone at night! Who knows if she might be in danger you asshole!"

"Fine, I'll get her home."

"Yeah you should and bring the PHS, I want to speak with her asap." Cloud hangs up as Sephiroth puts the PHS in his pocket.

He decided to go out and look for Aerith.

Aerith and Gian were having a good time as the alcohol already has an effect on her, she was being so talkative, her awkward self discarded as she speaks with a total stranger.

Gian was now too close with her as he tries to take advantage of the drunk Aerith. He ordered a tequila sunrise from the bartender and puts a drug on her drink. He offered it to her oblivious to the fact that the drink was drugged.

"Have some more and we'll watch the fireworks later alright?" Gian said as he pushes the glass to her.

"Alright... you promishe, you'll shee the fireworksh wiz me..."

"But of course, how can I even refuse a beautiful young lady of her simple request?"

Aerith giggled and said, "You are shuch a gentleman unlike shomeone I know, he refushed to be with me to watch the fireworksh."

"What a jerk, how could he even refuse you? Don't worry, I'm here okay? And I'll accompany you I promise, now drink this up so we can go find the perfect spot for the fireworks display." he replied as he's very keen for Aerith to drink the drugged cocktail.

"I'm drunk now, I'm not sure if I can shtill finish this up though..." she answered in a slurred tone, not knowing what danger lies for her once she takes a sip.

"C'mon you can do it." Gian cheers her on.

Aerith was about to drink the tequila when a hand stopped hers before the rim of the glass can even touch her lips.

"I think you already have enough drink young lady." says a deep, velvety voice.

Aerith shifted her gaze to the familiar voice and saw Sephiroth in front of her. He placed the glass back on the table.

"S-shephiroth, w-what are you-?" Aerith exclaimed in surprise.

"Hey, what he hell do you think you're doing? We're having a good time here!" Gian protests.

Sephiroth smirks and said, "Really? I saw you put something on her drink, date-rape drug I presume?"

"Hah! You speak big scar-face, do you have any proof?"

"Do you want to request a CCTV footage?" Sephiroth replied pointing at a CCTV to which Gian was oblivious of.

Gian couldn't protest and just clenched his hands into fists.

"Well then, if you don't have anything to say, I'm going to bring my friend back to our villa. Because I think, she already had too much to drink." He gently pulled Aerith back on her feet and whispered, "Can you walk?"

Aerith was staring at him incredulously, "W-what are you... doing here?"

"Let's just say I'm just doing my duty as a 'good guest' alright?"

Sephiroth assisted Aerith as they slowly walked outside the bar. He can't help but feel annoyed when he saw her having a good time with another man as he admonishes her "I thought you're here to watch the fireworks and not to entertain a total stranger?"

"He wash being nishe to me and all... and beshides he wants to watch the fireworksh wiz me! Unlike you!" Aerith exclaimed loudly.

"Okay my apologies, if you want we'll watch the fireworks together." Sephiroth replied noncholantly.

"Really?" she exclaims in delight.

"Yes."

"Alright! Ooof!" Aerith suddenly becomes limp as he catches her.

"Are you alright?" he asked concerned.

"I... I am feeling sho dizzy..."

"Of course you are, I'll take you to the villa." he replied as he carried her form against his chest.

"Wait... no... what about the fireworksh...?"

Sephiroth shrugs and said, "We'll see what we can do."

"Okay... but you promishe..." she leans her head against his chest, her eyes starts to droop slowly and she smiled. "I love the shound... of your heartbeat."

He forgot how to breathe and adjusted his hold on her as he smiled and dismissed her comments with a shake of his head. "You are really drunk."

As soon as they arrived at the villa, he placed her on her bed, her PHS started ringing again, "Damn Cloud..."

He pulled it out from his pocket and true enough it was Cloud calling, he answered the phone.

"Aerith?"

"No, it's Sephiroth."

"What the hell? Where is Aerith?"

"She's drunk, we just got back."

"Are you fooling me? Let me speak with her, I need to know she's okay."

"Ok." Sephiroth handed the phone to Aerith who's already half asleep on the bed.

"Hey, your friend wants to speak with you." he gently tells her.

Aerith just groans.

"He wants to speak with you, I know you're sleepy and you're too drunk to speak. But they just want to know that you're safe."

Aerith motioned for him to give her the phone. He placed it in her hands and she hastily placed it in her ears.

"Hey Cloud, don't worry about me, I'm fine, just shleepy..." she slurred and put down the phone from her hands, the blonde's dismbodied voice still in the background.

Sephiroth took the phone and said, "You can speak with her tomorrow, she's sleeping now."

"If you do something malicious to her Sephiroth, I swear to the Planet I will kill you the fourth time!"

Sephiroth sighs exasperatedly and said, "Whatever Cloud, I'm tired." and with that he hangs up. He saw the time on the phone screen - 8:27 pm. thirty-three more minutes and it will be the fireworks display. He glanced at Aerith's sleeping form and sighed.

"She won't be able to see the fireworks display, given her state."

He placed the phone on the dresser and went down the kitchen. He took some basin and filled it with cool tap water. He experienced drinking but never gets drunk, because he knows himself when it comes to alcohol. He knows when he already had too much to drink, but not for Genesis. He remembers the time when Genesis was so drunk Angeal had to carry him back to their quarters. And he would assist anyway he can to ease their friends drunken stupor.

He was now thankful he get to see how Angeal cared for their friend during those times because he can apply those interventions to Aerith. He gently placed the basin on top of the bedside table and dips a face towel on it. He wrings it and gently dab it on Aerith's face and neck.

Aerith groans and moves a little but remains fast asleep. He did it again for about three times more, his heartbeat couldn't even keep a steady beat. Then folding the towel neatly, he placed it on her forehead. He gently caressed her cheek with his knuckles, a longing expression etched on his face and with a sigh he whispers, "My apologies... all you wanted was to see the fireworks with someone and I couldn't even grant you that. I still think I am unworthy of your presence."

He stared at her for a few more seconds before he pulled his hand away but was eventually stopped by Aerith. He didn't move and his heart was beating fast, her eyes were still closed but she held his hand to her face again - this time his palm was on her cheek. She was smiling and mumbles, "Your handsh... are sho warm..."

His breath hitches as he softly caressed her cheek with his thumb, to be able to touch her face like this gives him an unexplainable feeling of wanting to touch more of her, but at the same time a nagging feeling which tells him to back away. Because if he gives in to this desire, it will spiral down to the point where he won't be able to come back and be rational.

He gently pulled his hand away, closed his eyes and took a deep breath. He then heard the sounds of fireworks outside. He hurriedly stands up and draw back the curtains and true enough, the skies are filled with colorful explosions. He glances back at Aerith and contemplates if he would wake her up or let her rest up for the night. Then an idea crosses his mind - hopefully, she won't hate him for not keeping his promise to see the fireworks with her.

The next morning Aerith wakes up with a headache, she saw a glass of orange juice on the bedside table plus a pain reliever pill.

"Oh! Did Sephiroth... do this?" she mentally told herself as she took the pill and drinks up the orange juice. She decided to pamper up before going down.

Sephiroth just finished prepping up the breakfast table, two bowls of chicken noodle soup graces the table paired with grilled cheese sandwiches and a pitcher of orange juice. Sephiroth noticed her going down the staircase and smiled, "Good morning, how are you feeling? You must be famished, I have prepared breakfast have a seat."

Aerith smiled and said, "Thank you, I really didn't know what happened last night, last thing I remembered was you pulling me away from a guy I've been talking to for hours... I think his name's... Gian?"

He shrugs and said, "I'm not interested to know who he is."

"Oh... well, fine I mean he's not half as bad as you think though. He was funny, reminds me so much of... Zack."

Sephiroth seated himself across from her and begins to dig in, "Except Zack wouldn't take advantage of women despite him being a womanizer."

"What? Did... Gian tried to pull something on me last night?" she replied in disbelief.

"Tried to drug you and who knows what else he plans to do to you."

"Oh gaia... makes me shiver just thinking about it. I don't want to even think about it ughh."

Sephiroth smirks and remembered something. He pulled out her PHS from his pocket and puts it on the table. Aerith looks at it then to him in confusion, "Why do you have my phone?"

"Our landlord wants you to call him the moment you wake up, but I though you might need to eat something first before you divulge yourself to an hour long conversation."

"Oh no... Cloud would be mad at me for being so reckless."

"He already reprimanded me for my incompetence."

"That's not really your fault... I'll let him know." she protests.

"It's fine... I admit, I shouln't just leave you off on your own... If something happens to you I... I won't be able to forgive myself." He sighed deeply and looked at her in the eyes, "Forgive me, Aerith."

Her heart skipped a beat as she saw how he looks at her so sincerely then she giggles, "Don't be too formal... it's fine! At least I'm back in one piece, thanks to you."

"There's also another thing I would like to apologize to you." he said as Aerith starts digging on her own bowl of soup.

"What is it?"

"I couldn't keep my promise... of watching the fireworks display with you last night." he tells her, noting the expression from her face changed to that of a frown.

"The fireworks display... I... I didn't get to see it..."she mumbles as she sighed helplessly. "That's because I was so drunk?"

He nods impassively.

She simply shrugs and said, "Never mind that, I'm sure we'll get to see one someday."

"I recorded it on your phone though."

Aerith's eyes widened in surprise, "You did?"

He nods with a smile.

Aerith quickly browse the video from her PHS and true enough, there was a video of the fireworks display.

"It's not as beautiful as it is in person, but I tried to capture the best parts, not all of it though, the display took about half an hour" he explains.

Aerith was smiling as she watches the video, "This is enough, it's more than enough. I get to see the fireworks through your eyes." She looks at him beaming and said, "Thank you, Sephiroth."

Day 3

My friends from the pier see me off today, Dan gave me this journal and I am thankful for the gesture. This is my way of voicing out thoughts I cannot just share with another soul. Aerith called me her friend... It's a step and I greatly appreciate that she sees me as one. I would forever treasure our friendship.

Day 4

We arrived at the Villa, it was extravagant. I saw how Aerith was so impressed with Cloud's Villa, I can't help but think - I wish I could impress her the same way. I wonder... why I even feel like competing with him. Aerith has never been to any hotels, if only I was still as powerful and influential as before, I could've given her the privilege to stay in prestigious hotels. But I'm sure she would be lonely to sleep in huge and extrvagant suites alone. She's just a simple woman, she wouldn't like those sort of things.

Day 6

There will be a fireworks display happening tomorrow night and Aerith is looking forward to it. She keeps asking me to go with her, I would love to but I believe I am unworthy to stay by her side and enjoy the pleasantries. It's better if she goes off alone rather than be seen with me.

Day 7

Aerith was drunk, I can't believe I let her face danger on her own. If Cloud didn't reprimand me, I wouldn't have shut down my ego and look for her. She is far more important than my angst, a man was trying to take advantage of her, I'm glad I made it in time before the dullard could even do anything to her.

When I carried her against my chest, she rested her head comfortably and mentioned that she likes the sound of my heartbeat. I am unsure of what to feel... I felt happy and yet there was something more I couldn't explain. She asked me to watch the fireworks display again - this time I agreed.

However, she was so drunk and fast asleep, I cannot bring myself to wake her as she slumbers peacefully. She held my hand to her face, I forgot how to breathe... Gaia... she was so beautiful, her beauty radiates her character as well. She's the perfect embodiment of a true Cetran lineage - beautiful and benevolent.

I want to be with her, to hold her but I must not for I still think I am undeserving of her. My senses were distracted by the fireworks outside, I couldn't wake her so I decided to record the show. While I was looking at the display I realized something deep.

The fireworks run for nearly half an hour, flashing strobes of colorful light, a burst of colorful dandelions brightening up the night sky. Just as how Aerith and Josie filled my dark and dull life with colors and spark of joy.

But just like the fireworks, it won't last forever... the lights and the sparks will eventually fade, my life will still remain dark and dull. However, it will be etched in my memory, that once in my life I get to experience the fireworks.