Disclaimer: I do not own FFVII =( =( =(

A/N: I'm alive! Why did this take so long? The short version? Life happened. The long version is at the end.

December

"Could you please stop obsessing over your grades?" Cloud asked from his place in Zack's bed.

"But Cloud…" Zack whined, still checking his e-mail. "It's been a whole week and I'm still missing one grade. What if my professor lost my final test? What if he gives me an F?"

Cloud huffed and kept flicking the TV channels trying to find something worth watching. Zack get an F? Not likely. Zack was the perfect student even if he acted like a ball of energy with the short attention span of a fish with a spastic disorder. Cloud let out a small chuckle at that and Zack glared at him.

"It's not funny! You don't have anything to worry about; you got your grades last week. I already have my schedule for next semester Cloud, I have to pass this class or I won't graduate. You know…"

Cloud sighed and kept flicking the channels. He tuned out Zack's voice and he thought about what he had heard earlier.

He had been in the kitchen getting a couple of soft drinks while Zack hooked the game system up in his room when he heard voices in the living room. Walking out of the kitchen into the hallway he was able to recognize Sephiroth's voice.

"How many times do I have to tell you this? Nothing happened." His voice was low and slightly angry and Cloud could imagine him sitting on the couch with his arms crossed over his chest.

"Until you tell me the truth because Zack refuses to talk about it. He barely talked to anyone after you stopped coming to tutor him. Do you know what that makes me think? Did he say something that bothered you? Did he try something-"

"He didn't do anything Angeal, stop bothering him about it. Like I told you, he didn't need my help anymore so I stopped coming over. Why is that so hard to believe?"

"Because I know Zack and I know you." That was all Angeal said and Cloud wondered if Angeal had his own suspicions about Sephiroth's feelings toward Zack.

"Are you going to let this go? Nothing happened, Angeal, nothing." Both were silent for a moment until Cloud heard Angeal's voice.

"I'll back off…for now."

Cloud decided to end his eavesdropping there to avoid getting caught and quietly went up the stairs to Zack's room.

He looked back at Zack who was still talking about his missing grade and wondered if he was doing the right thing in keeping silent about Sephiroth. He thought again about that night outside the club and Sephiroth's reaction to their innocent hug. Zack deserved to know if Sephiroth had any feelings for him, but there was one thing bothering Cloud. While Sephiroth showing some type of jealousy explained his behavior whenever he had been present, he was still afraid of getting Zack's hopes up just to have Sephiroth hurt him again. Perhaps it was best to keep his thoughts of the matter to himself until he could clear things up with Sephiroth. Satisfied with his decision, Cloud turned to speak to Zack when Angeal came to stand outside the opened door.

"Will you two be going out?"

"Well, we were thinking about going to the club to visit Cissnei," Cloud said as he turned back to Zack. They hadn't been back at the club since that night and Cloud was glad Zack had suggested the idea earlier that day because it meant he was finally feeling better.

"I see. Then come to the living room for a moment," Angeal told them and left.

"Probably going to lecture us on safe sex and how we must refuse candies from strangers," Zack said and Cloud smiled.

They were a few steps away from the living room when Cloud realized Sephiroth was probably still there. But it was too late to warn Zack and he could only watch as Zack entered the room only to stop on his tracks.

"Sephiroth wants to go to that club Puppy, so I thought you two could ride with us." By the way Angeal said it and looked both at Zack and Sephiroth, Cloud realized he had done it to see their reactions. "You don't mind, right Sephiroth?"

Sephiroth shook his head and began putting his coat on. Zack stared at him for a moment before turning to Cloud, who shrugged. Cloud didn't want to go to the club if Sephiroth was going, not when it could mean seeing Zack back to the state he had been since 'the incident' but he couldn't voice his opinion in front of Sephiroth or Angeal. Zack was also having trouble deciding whether or not going with them was a good idea but finally decided that saying no would only make Angeal more suspicious.

"Sure, we'll come with you then. But seriously Angeal, no hovering ok?"

"Of course Puppy," Angeal answered with a smile and turned to Cloud. "Please take care of the Puppy. He's still needs a whack to the head with a rolled up newspaper every now and then."

"Angeaal!"

xoxo

The car ride to the club was a silent one and when they arrived at the club, Sephiroth started walking by himself with Angeal behind him. Waiting until they were out of earshot, Cloud grabbed Zack by the arm to keep him from walking after them.

"Hey, you ok?"

"I'm fine. Why wouldn't I be?" Zack asked putting his hand in his pockets. After only receiving a look, he looked away. "I don't know ok? This is the first time I've seen him since that night. I just...I wanted to see him again, just not here you know?"

"Do you want us to go? We could grab a cab and just watch a movie" Cloud said.

"Nah…Angeal will probably come straight home and ask me again what's wrong or something. He's still asking about why Sephiroth stopped tutoring me. He doesn't believe nothing happened."

"Probably because something didhappened", Cloud offered, "I don't think he would be angry with you or Sephiroth if you told him the truth."

"I know, but he would go into super protective mode and I don't want that. He would just keep Sephiroth from coming to the house, so I don't get hurt. You know how he is. Besides, I don't want to mess with their friendship. I already did enough by messing up what I had with Sephiroth. Maybe we didn't become friends, but he was talking to me and would probably be still doing it if I had just a little bit more control over myself," Zack said. His slump shoulders and the sad look in his eyes tore at Cloud's resolve to stay quiet about his discovery.

"Maybe Sephiroth will start talking to you again after all this settles. If he wanted you to get in trouble he would have told Angeal about the kiss, but he didn't. I hate to say this, but he's not being the asshole we've all come to love." The sarcasm wasn't lost on Zack and he pouted a little.

"Don't be mean to him," he said, his eyes still sad. "Maybe he'll talk to me again and I'll be happy but I still can't forget what I saw. Sometimes I would lay awake listening to them talk; Sephiroth always tells Angeal about the men he…sees. I started hating those walls because I could hear everything. Angeal hates these talks, you know how much of a prude he can be," Zack said with a fond smile, thinking of his brother. "I also saw him inside talking with other men," he said, indicating the club across the street, "I saw him walking with a couple of them to the back and I knew they went there to do more than talk, but seeing it? It was different. I…god, you should have seen how he reacted when I kissed him, Cloud. He was so angry, so offended that I had dared kiss him…and to see him with someone else, to see that he preferred a fucking stranger…I just…that hurt. It made me realize that he's way out of my league and that-let me finish Spike," Zack said as Cloud opened his mouth to protest. "I know what you're going to say Cloud, that I shouldn't compare myself to them and you're right you know, I'm not like them. They're older, attractive, sophisticated men. That's Sephiroth's type and I'm nothing like that. To him I will always be Angeal's annoying little brother."

Cloud failed to understand how being sophisticated meant getting on your knees to suck someone off in the back of a club but didn't say anything. It was hard keeping quiet just by looking at his friend's face. He wanted to tell Zack that Sephiroth returned his feelings, but that nagging voice in the back of his head kept telling him that he couldn't get Zack's hopes up, at least not yet.

"I don't want you sad," he said, "let's just go ok? We can't tell Angeal I have a headache so he doesn't bother you."

"Nuh-uh…I want to stay, maybe it'll help," Zack said with his usual optimism, "besides you owe me some booty shaking remember?"

"I'm not dancing with you, Zack."

"But Cloudy, this is club and I'm sad, see?"

Cloud was treated to the Zack combo: full pout and big, puppy eyes. He smirked, amused at his friend's antics and glad Zack had cheered up a little.

"Glad I'm immune then," he said.

"Cloud-"

"You guys don't say hi anymore?" Both turned to find a smiling Cissnei walking toward them. As soon as she was close, Zack put an arm around her and drew her close.

"I'm sorry sweetness; Spike here was having a midlife crisis and only I am equipped to deal with his moody, angry, antisocial-"

"Zack…" Cloud warned, giving Zack a mock glare.

"-cuddly self?" Zack finished with a smile. "Anyway, we came here for you because we missed you! Well, I missed you more because I'm not a moody, angry-"

"How are you Cissnei?" Cloud asked, cutting Zack off and making her smile.

"I'm good, taking a little break. I have to go back soon though; Rude needs to make a phone call."

"Where's by the way?" Zack asked and Cissnei chuckled at Zack's newest nickname for Rude.

"He's by the door, just on the inside. His partner texted him a little while ago to tell him he had a surprise for him. He's waiting for me to come back to make the phone call. But I already know the surprise," she said, excited.

While he was curious as to what the surprise could be, Zack was more interested in the way Cloud had started walking slower at the mention of the 'partner'.

"What's the surprise honey?" Zack asked, still curious.

"His partner is coming to work here," Cissnei said with obvious happiness.

"That's nice but-wait, what? Rude's gay?"

Cissnei looked up at Zack with confusion. "What? Oh no! By partner I mean he guy he usually teams up with when working."

"Reno," Cloud whispered and if Zack hadn't been leaning over to see his face he would have missed it.

"You know this Reno guy then Cloud?" Zack was treated to the rare sight that was a blushing Cloud. He knew where to look and even if it was nighttime, the lights from the club sign were enough for him to check out Cloud's ears. And to Zack's delight Cloud's ears were a deep pink. Precious!, he thought. Cloud's face never betrayed him, but his ears? They spoke volumes.

"I might have seen him a couple of times when I was staying with Rufus," Cloud said but by the look on Zack's face, he knew he had given way too much. Thankfully Zack didn't say more in front of Cissnei and as they came to club's door, Rude came out and took out his cell phone.

"Speak," he said as soon as someone answered on the other line, and Zack figured it was Reno. "I see. When are you coming Red?" Zack came to stand beside him, shamelessly listening to the conversation.

"Ask him about Mr. Cheerful!" Zack told him, poking him on the arm. Rude turned to look at him and then to Cissnei who smiled and answered.

"He means Vincent."

"Valentine?" Rude asked Reno as he tried to stand away from Zack, only to have the brunet follow him. "See you, partner."

"That was like the quickest call in history!" Zack declared. "So how's Mr. Cheerful?"

"He's fine."

"Come on Zack, let's go inside before your brother comes out looking for us," Cloud said, trying to spare Rude from more exposure to Zack.

"But what about Cissnei?" Zack asked as he put his arm around her again. "What about Mr. Rude here? I need to make him his reach his verbal quota of twenty words. Maybe tonight I can make him break his record!"

Cissnei giggled behind her hand at Rude. "You can go inside, my break comes in an hour and I can go chat with you guys."

After finally convincing Zack to go inside, they both made their way into the club. Standing by the bar Cloud was able to see Angeal and Sephiroth talking up on the second level.

"Sooooo?" Zack asked, nudging him with his elbow.

"What?"

"Well, can I get the 411 on the new guy? You know, Reno?" Zack asked with a grin, wiggling his eyebrows. "Spill!"

"There's nothing interesting to say."

"Bullshit! Oh come on Cloud, I've known those ears for years and they never lie. Tell me about this Reno!" Zack's grin widened when he saw Cloud's ears turn a deeper shade of red.

"He works for Rufus and they're friends. I saw him when I was staying with Rufus but I haven't seen him in years. There, see? Nothing interesting." Cloud said before ordering some water.

"Well, is he cute? Sexy?" Zack asked and Cloud shot him an annoyed glare. "Look Spike, I know your libido is pretty much dead because I've never caught you checking someone out. But seriously, you can't even tell me if this guy was cute? I'm your friend right? Tell me."

With a grumble, Cloud finally answered, "He's alright."

"And does my Cloudy have a lil somethin' somethin' for this 'alright' Reno?"

"God Zack, you're like a dog with a bone, can you leave this alone?" Cloud muttered.

"No, so tell me! Tell me, did you have something with him?" Cloud was quiet for a moment and knew that no matter how much he wanted to stop talking about Reno; Zack would keep asking questions until his curiosity was satisfied.

"We didn't have anything. He was a flirt, probably still is. He was an arrogant ass with a filthy mouth that flirted with anything that moved."

"Ohhh, so did he flirt with you?" Zack asked, sipping at his water. He noticed Cloud turning away and immediately felt bad.

"He didn't flirt with you? But you're so adorable Cloud!" Zack said as he pinched Cloud's nose.

"Stop that," Cloud pushing Zack's hand away. "He didn't and I'm glad, I never liked him. Can we change the subject now?"

"Sure," Zack said but couldn't resist adding, "But on a scale of one to ten, how sexy would you say he is?"

xoxo

Angeal had never been fond of these places; there was too much noise and half his time was spent fighting wandering hands. He knew Sephiroth hated the noise, but if the young man humping his friend's leg was any indication, Sephiroth liked the company. He looked down to find Cissnei with Zack and Cloud. He couldn't shake away the thought that Zack had done something to make Sephiroth angry. He knew that Zack liked Sephiroth, but he also hoped it was only temporary. Sephiroth was not the best candidate for a relationship and the last thing he wanted was for Zack to fall in love with someone who refused to even talk about the subject. He was already used to Sephiroth's sarcastic remarks and icy behavior, but his brother was another thing. Zack thrived with affection and that was something Sephiroth could not give him. Zack was now trying to get Cloud to dance and Angeal smiled. He liked Cloud and looked after him just as if he were his own bother. Zack was a social person and made friends easily but in Cloud he had found a true friend; a confidant, and for that, Angeal was thankful.

"Are you going to stand there and brood all night?" Angeal turned to look at his friend who still had the same man using him as a stripper pole. Sephiroth seemed more amused than interested.

"There's nothing else to do. You're…currently engaged in more interesting activities."

Sephiroth let out a low laugh, amused as always at Angeal's prudish behavior. He looked down to where Angeal was looking and found Zack dancing in a similar manner as the man he had in his arms, only to Cloud.

"Aren't you going to stop your brother?"

"He's only playing." While Angeal wasn't thrilled with Zack's choice of dance moves, he could see Zack was just doing it to bother Cloud. Sephiroth on the other hand, noticed the stares of many females and males on the lower level of the club. He pushed the man dancing around him away and turned back to Angeal.

"This isn't like you. You're always lecturing him about how to behave in an appropriate manner and look at him. He's being vulgar."

"What do you want me to do? I can't expect him to stop dancing. It's a club after all," Angeal said as he turned to look at Sephiroth who was again pushing the young man again.

"I said, not now," Sephiroth told his companion and realized he couldn't even remember his name. It didn't matter, anyway. Turning back to Angeal he said, "Look at the people around them, they're practically undressing him with their eyes. You're not going to do anything?"

"What's it to you anyway?" Angeal asked because Sephiroth's reaction was confusing.

"I'm just looking out for your brother. How many times have you told me you don't feel comfortable knowing he comes to this place? You know what some people have in mind when they come here and you brother is giving them the wrong idea. Can't you fucking see?"

"I know and I still don't like it when he comes here but I can't tell him not to. I'm right here and if anybody tries anything I can be there in less than a minute. Besides, have you looked at those two?" Angeal asked indicating Rude and Cissnei. "There are more men walking inside the club looking out for any trouble but those two are always keeping an eye on both Zack and Cloud. I feel better when he's here because of that."

"Look at those men standing beside them; can't you guess what they're thinking about?" Sephiroth continued as if not hearing a word Angeal had said. "They see your brother dancing like that to that brat and they are probably thinking he'll be an easy fuck."

"Are you thinking that?" Angeal asked, now angry at Sephiroth's comments. "What are you so angry about?"

Sephiroth finally lowered his voice and turned away. "I'm not angry, I just…I'm just telling you what I think. I don't even know why you had to bring them tonight," he said, his voice rising again at the end.

"They were coming here anyway and I did asked you if-"

"And now we have to fucking watch over them!"

"Nobody has asked you to watch over them. There're perfectly fine and Cloud-" Angeal tried to say only to have Sephiroth interrupt him again.

"It's his fault. He brought Zack here and you're allowing it. Why do you trust him so much?"

"I trust Zack. I want you to leave Cloud alone too. He looks after Zack and if there's anyone I trust Zack to, it's him. I would actually feel better if their friendship turned into something else. That might help Zack forget about his infatuation with you." Angeal kept looking at Zack and Cloud who were now just talking. He understood part of what Sephiroth was saying, he didn't like the place because he knew about what went on in the back and some other activities that also took place inside the club but he did feel better knowing people were watching over Zack when he couldn't. He turned back to look at Sephiroth and was taken by surprise by the look on his friend's face. There was so much anger but what confused him was the obvious disappointment that was also present.

"Seph? What's the-"

"I need some air" was all Sephiroth said before turning around and walking to the stairs.

xoxo

"So did you like it? Would you say I could make a living as a stripper?" Zack asked laughing at Cloud.

"I think you should stick with the medicine Zack."

"But being a stripper does sound like an interesting living. Imagine all-oh look, I think Seph and Angeal are leaving," he said pointing to the stairs that led to the upper level. Cloud turned to look at where he was pointing and saw Sephiroth walking down with Angeal a few steps behind.

"They'll tell us if they're leaving, we came with them."

"I don't know," Zack said as he watched Sephiroth walk out of the club, Angeal doing the same just a few moments later. "Seph looks angry. Can we go see if they're ok?"

xoxo

"Sephiroth, wait!"

Sephiroth stopped walking as he came closer to where they had parked the car. He didn't turn around and Angeal walked around to face him.

"What's the matter with you? Are you really that angry that I brought them along?" Sephiroth was still looking away without saying anything. "Seph?"

Sephiroth started shaking his head and finally looked at him. "I can't do this anymore, Angeal. I didn't want this to happen…I don't even know when I started-"

"Angeal? You guys want to go?" Zack's voice interrupted them and Angeal saw him cross the street with Cloud. He turned back to Sephiroth who was again looking away. Zack looked between his brother and Sephiroth, "Is everything alright?"

"Everything's fine Puppy, just get in the car with Cloud," he told them and Zack hesitated for a moment before Cloud grabbed his arm and led him to the car.

"Sephiroth, what were you going to tell me?"

"Nothing," Sephiroth answered before walking toward the car, "Nothing important."

xoxo

Zack tapped his fingers on his leg as he looked down at the cell phone in his other hand. Nothing. He let out a sigh, wondering if he should call or send another text message. He was worried about Sephiroth and he wanted to make sure he was ok. During the ride back home, Sephiroth had asked to be dropped off first even though his car was parked outside their house.

"What about your car?" Angeal had asked.

"I'll get it tomorrow. Just take me home," was all Sephiroth had said because after that he didn't respond to anything Angeal asked. He and Cloud had noticed the tension between them and Zack wondered if they had gotten into a fight. It wouldn't be the first time after all, they had been friends for what seemed like forever and fights while practically something that only happened every few years, could still happen between them. As soon as they arrived at Sephiroth's apartment, he had gotten out without even saying goodbye.

"What happened Angeal?" Zack asked his brother only to receive a "Don't worry, Puppy. It's nothing." But he was still worried about Sephiroth. He had called a few times before leaving a voice mail. A simple "Hey,I just wanted to know if you were ok...bye." His text messages were the same, just asking him if he was ok but none of them were answered.

"What are you doing in there?" Cloud asked from outside and quickly added, "Don't answer that! I just want to turn off the lights."

Zack rolled his eyes as he slid off the bathroom sink. He had been sitting there since getting home because he didn't want to call Sephiroth in front of Cloud. He called Sephiroth again and when it went straight to voice mail, he decided to leave one last message. When he got outside the bathroom he found Cloud getting in bed. Cloud often stayed the night with him and Zack wondered if they were getting too old for that. Angeal seemed to think he and Cloud were one day going to realize they liked each other. The sudden thought made him wonder about something.

"Hey Cloud," he said as he began to change into his pajamas, "why did we never date?" Cloud stopped what he was doing and turned to look at Zack as if he had grown two heads.

Zack blurted a laugh. "I can't be that bad looking! We get along so well, why did we never date?"

Cloud was silent for a moment. "I don't know. I can't really imagine myself dating you now. It'd be weird," he said.

"Hmmm I know, it'd be weird for me too," Zack said as he got in bed and fumbled with the blanket. "But you can't deny we would be the perfect couple. Best friends and lovers? That's everyone's dream, Spike."

"Maybe, "Cloud admitted before letting out a laugh, "But where the hell did that come from?"

"Well," Zack started as rolled to his side and regarded Cloud for a moment before continuing, "you know Angeal wants us to get together right? Like a couple?"

"What? No! He told you that?"

"He didn't exactly tell me to date you but from what he said I know he'd be ok with it and if I'm not mistaken, he's actually cheering for us," Zack said with a smile. Cloud considered this for a moment.

"Wait, so he wants us to date?" he asked and after Zack nodded he continued, "And he lets us sleep on the same bed even when he wants us to date?" Zack laughed.

"I think he's that's desperate to get me away from Sephiroth. He thinks that if I start dating I'll forget about him and since he really likes you, you're his best choice to keep me from going after his best bud."

"I guess I can understand why he's doing it," Cloud finally said.

"Yeah me too," Zack said and grinned, "He probably thinks I'm going to wake one of these days and see how adorable you are and immediately jump your bones. You think that's possible Cloud?" he said as he got closer to the blond and letting out a flirty smile. "Hmm Cloud? You think I'm cute?"

"I've seen you throw up and other things I won't mention, so believe me, cute is the last word I'd use," Cloud said, but he still moved away from Zack.

"What? Am I making you all hot and bothered Cloudy?" Zack asked, succeeding in lowering his voice enough to sound sensual.

"You're actually creeping me out so can you stop?" Cloud asked and Zack laughed.

"Chill Cloud, I'm just playing with you. I love you, but not like that. It'd be like incest or something," he said and made a show of shivering to making his point. "Besides, my feelings for Seph aren't that superficial. I do like him you know?" He leaned back again and was quiet for a moment before turning to Cloud again, "I really like him and I can honestly say it's never been like this with anyone else."

Cloud thought again about what he knew. "Have you actually told him how you feel?"

"Seph? Of course not, although I don't think I hide it very well so I'm sure he knows. Besides, I kissed him remember?"

"But it's different when someone actually tells you they like you. You never know what his reaction might be," Cloud said, thinking that perhaps Sephiroth only needed to hear the words.

"I don't think so. Like I said, the way he reacted to me kissing him was enough. He doesn't see me the way I see him. I'm just…a pest in his eyes," Zack said. Checking his phone again he saw he still had no messages. "Hey Cloud, can I ask you something? But promise not to make fun of me first."

"Promise," Cloud said, knowing he would be making fun of his friend anyway.

"Well you see…I sent Seph a message and called him a couple of times. I was worried about him. You saw how he ignored Angeal all the way home and I just wanted to make sure he was ok."

"Did he answer you?"

"No," Zack said, deflated.

"I'm sure he's alright. If Angeal is not worried, I'm sure everything's fine," Cloud said.

"But here's the thing. You know how my phone's been giving me trouble lately? Some of my text messages get lost, that's why sometimes you get the same text twice because I send it twice to make sure you get it. Sooo…I sent Sephiroth like two or five messages and I called him a couple of times or four to be exact but he didn't respond. I'm going crazy because like there are three possibilities: one, he got my texts and calls but really didn't want to answer me; two, all my texts and calls were lost in the shitious network that is my phone; three, he got them all but he was already asleep so he'll see them tomorrow. So the way I see it, I should call him or text him a couple of times again right? Because that way if situation one is the case, it doesn't matter how many calls or texts he gets, he's not going to answer and he's going to be annoyed at me anyway. If situation two is the case, he'll get my call or text this time and he's going to pick up and say he likes me too and we'll be happy for the rest of our lives. But if situation three is the case, then he's going to wake up tomorrow to a lot of calls and texts and he'll be even more angry at me and I'll just be screwed. And not the way I want to be. So what do you think? What would you do if you were Sephiroth?" Zack finally finished. Cloud only blinked for a few moments, trying to process everything his friend had said.

"Well…if I was Sephiroth I would probably be running away from the psycho that keeps calling him. God, Zack how many times did you text him?" Zack actually looked embarrassed for a moment.

"I know! I know ok? Maybe I exaggerated with the calling and the texting but I'm really worried about him," he said and Cloud refrained from saying anything else because Zack was already making puppy eyes and pouting.

"How about you wait until tomorrow and if he hasn't answered by then, ask Angeal again to make sure everything's ok," Cloud said and then laughed. "You really got it bad don't you?"

"You said you wouldn't make fun of me! Besides, I'm not happy with you either, you've been keeping me in the dark about Reno," Zack said and grinned at the way Cloud's grin turned into a scowl. "Now I want all the details and don't tell me there's nothing interesting to say because I'll just say one word. Bullshit!"

"He works for Rufus-"

"You told me that already, get to the good part. Where you like him but he doesn't flirt with you," Zack said and by the look on Cloud's face he knew he had gotten it right.

"I did not like him Zack," Cloud said as he began to fumble with the covers, with every intention of going to sleep. But Zack had other ideas as he yanked the covers and grinned.

"No hiding Spike, just tell me you liked him and I'll leave you alone. The truth will set you free, come on," he said. He was doing this not only because he was curious about Reno, but also to tease Cloud. However when he saw how hard it was for Cloud to even admit this, he sobered up and let go of the covers. "Hey, I'm kidding Cloud. You don't have to tell me but…you know you can tell me anything right?" Cloud was silent for a moment before nodding and turning back to him.

"I…I don't think I liked him…liked him. We never really talked. He was always busy and Rufus didn't like me hanging out at his company so I was always at the house. Vincent was usually there and Reno is always with Rufus so I just saw him a few times. I don't think he even noticed me the few times he was at the house," Cloud said. Zack didn't say anything about it, but the talk got him thinking about something else.

"Why don't you ever date Cloud?" he asked softly. "Even when I see you as a brother, I can say you're cute and if it weren't for that and my feelings for Seph I would be all over you like a squid." Cloud laughed at this and relaxed even when the topic was uncomfortable for him.

"I don't know, I guess I just don't want to. I'm ok being by myself right now," he said and it was half the truth.

"What about that hot swimmer you stopped dating last year? You dated for a few years but you never told me exactly why you two stopped. What was his name? Oh yeah, Squall."

"Leon, his name is Leon," Cloud corrected with a smile and when Zack looked at him confused he shook his head. "Nothing. Well…nothing really happened to us. Sometimes I think that we met at the wrong place at the wrong time in our lives. We both needed to grow up and learn how to deal with certain things. It was just the wrong time. Maybe in another lifetime," Cloud said smiling, "Besides, he's dating someone now."

"Yeah, I've seen him. The guy with the tattoo on his face right?" Zack asked, trying to remember his name.

"Yeah, Zell. They both made it into the swim team."

"Oh, I'm sorry. You still tried out for the team though; does that mean you're ok with Squall dating again?" Zack asked and Cloud remembered he had lied to him about not getting into the team.

"I'm ok with it. As I said, it was the wrong time for us. I'm happy he found someone. And I don't mind they got into the team and I didn't, maybe next year," Cloud said. He felt guilty about lying to Zack but he knew it was for the best. If Zack learned that the students that always bothered them had threatened Cloud about joining the team, he would go straight to them and that would only get his friend in trouble.

"I still think you should date more. There are many girls and boys at school who look at you with little hearts in their eyes," Zack said and Cloud laughed.

"Shut up and let me sleep. You're talking nonsense now."

"It's the truth! You're just too modest to accept you're one hot sexy thing. Apart from Leon and your little crush with Reno, was there anyone else?"

"I don't have a crush on him."

"But there was someone else?" Zack grinned.

"No. Well, maybe," Cloud said and by the excited look on Zack's face he knew he would have to share the story. "This was many years ago so it doesn't count. He was…I think you could call him my first crush. He was everything I wanted in someone and he was my friend. But that's as far as it got."

"Why?"

"He had a girlfriend," Cloud answered.

"Ohh, ouch, I'm sorry Cloudy," Zack said ruffling Cloud's hair.

"Aghh stop it, I'm ok. This was many years ago, I got over it."

Zack laughed. "Now we can sleep."

"Why thank you" Cloud turned and switched off the lamp on his side of his bed. The room was engulfed in darkness and he could hear Zack tossing and turning until he found the perfect position. Just a few minutes later, he heard his friend's breathing slowing down indicating he had fallen asleep. He lay on his side, thinking about everything that he had talked with Zack. What would Zack say if he knew he had been his first crush, Cloud wondered and smiled. It had been more than five years ago when they had met in high school; Zack had taken an instant liking to him even when Cloud had always been a loner. He had been unable to resist Zack's cheerful personality and charm. It had been the first time he had been comfortable with another person enough to develop a friendship and while that friendship grew, Cloud began liking Zack in a more different way. But the only problem had been that Zack was dating a girl, which meant he wasn't available and even if he was at some point, Cloud didn't know whether Zack only liked girls. He had wanted to hate the girl Zack had been dating, but it was impossible; she was just too sweet and nice for him to hate. Cloud smiled as he remembered how she had blushed from head to toe the day Zack bought her a simple pink ribbon so she could tie it around her hair. Eventually, he got over his crush and the three of them became good friends. Even after Zack and she broke up, they still kept good communication between them, with no hard feelings. Then, three years ago Angeal's best friend had returned from Europe and Zack still swore to this day to whoever listened, that it had been love at first sight. It was around that time that he had met Squall 'it's Leon' Leonhart and he had been stupid enough to confess to Zack that he found Leon attractive. Zack of course, had teased him day and night about it like a good friend. Cloud began to think about his and Leon's first awkward meeting but quickly shook his head to clear his thoughts. That was another story and like he had just told Zack, he was glad Leon was with someone now. That story had ended and it was time to sleep. Turning on his side he closed his eyes, willing sleep to come. A few moments later, he felt himself fall into a peaceful sleep; vivid red hair, blue eyes and tattoos the last things on his mind.

xoxo

Sephiroth lay on his side, staring at the vibrating phone in his hand. The little light kept blinking indicating he had a new voice mail or text message. He already knew who was calling him. He had checked the first voice mail and the first couple of messages. Sitting up on the bed, he opened his phone and pressed the button for the voice mail as he brought it to his ear.

You have two new voice messages. "Hey, it's me again. I know you're probably angry at me right now, but…could you please just let me know you're ok? Just a text if you want…I just want to know you're ok. Um…and I'm sorry again for what I did…I just…well it doesn't matter now. So please let me know if you're alright…I have to go to bed now because Cloud wants to turn off the light…yeah…well…bye." To repeat press-

Without thinking Sephiroth threw the phone against the opposite wall of the room. Laying back down, he stared at the ceiling, thinking that from the sound of the crash he would need a new phone. He swallowed the lump of something he felt on his throat as he wondered what the little pain on his chest meant.

xoxo

Zack was on his way back to his room with two sandwiches in hand. He stopped by his brother's room and seeing that the door was opened, he poked his head in.

"I brought a snack," he said before noticing that Angeal was on the phone. Angeal motioned him to put it on the table beside the bed and to sit down before he could leave. Zack sat on the corner of the bed and began to eat.

"I see you have your new phone now…We haven't decided but it'll probably be just a small dinner…But I thought you said you were going to spend some time with your family," Angeal said and then chuckled, "Yes, my mistake, with your brother and his family…I see, so he's already with you?...I want to spend it with him…I guess we could do that. Let me talk to Zack about it and I'll call you right back. Bye Sephiroth." Angeal noticed how Zack perked up as soon as he heard the name and he was again reminded of a puppy.

"How is he?" Zack asked as soon as Angeal closed the phone.

"He's fine, just like the last time you asked me which was this morning," Angeal said, thinking that perhaps what he was about to say was a bad idea. "How do you feel about spending this Christmas over at Sephiroth's apartment?"

"Really? He invited us?" Zack asked, forgetting his half-eaten sandwich.

"Yes, he was going to spend it with his family but since his brother is staying with him for a few days, he's staying here this year," Angeal answered. Sephiroth always spent this time with his family in whatever country they were spending their money on, but he only went for his brother for he could barely tolerate his parents.

"Oh I'd love to!" Zack exclaimed happily but then he remembered something, "Oh, I can't. I told Cloud he could spend this Christmas with us."

"Tell him he can come with us," Angeal said as he got up.

"I don't think that's a good idea…you know they're not the best of friends," Zack said and Angeal chuckled.

"I'm sure Sephiroth won't have a problem with it. Here, call him," he said handing his phone to Zack who looked up at him uncertainly. "Just call him; I need to go wash my hands." Zack bit his lip as Angeal left the room. Sephiroth hadn't answer his calls or texts messages from the other night and now he didn't know if he wanted to know how angry Sephiroth was with him for that. Perhaps he wasn't angry anymore or he wouldn't have invited him to spend Christmas at his house. Taking comfort in his reasoning, Zack dialed Sephiroth's number. He chewed on his lip as he waited for him to pick up.

"Yes Angeal?" How did he manage to sound sensual even over the phone, Zack didn't know.

"Uhm..it's me, Zack," he said and when he only received silence as an answer he spoke again. "Angeal told me you invited us for Christmas this year."

"I invited him. He wanted to spend the day with you too so I told him he could bring you." Zack closed his eyes. He should have known it had been something like that.

"Oh…I see. Well…I think it works out then. I was telling Angeal that I promised Cloud he could spend Christmas with us so I wouldn't be able to go. This way Angeal can go to your apartment and I'll spend the day with Cloud here. You don't have to put up with me," the last part came out in a whisper. Of course Sephiroth was still angry with him. If it wasn't for the kiss anymore, he was now probably angry with all the calls and texts he'd sent him.

"You would rather spend the day with him than with…Angeal?" Zack heard Sephiroth ask.

"I don't feel bad about not spending it with Angeal. I know he's not going to be by himself. He's going to be with you and your brother. Cloud on the other hand…his cousin doesn't live in the city and I won't leave him alone. I would have liked to spend it with Angeal also but…I guess maybe next year."

Sephiroth was silent for a moment and then he said, "Tell your friend he's also invited."

Zack was surprised for a moment but then thinking that Sephiroth was only doing this for Angeal he said, "It's alright. I'm sure Angeal won't have a problem if we don't go. I don't want to ruin your Christmas."

"You wouldn't ruin my day Zack," Sephiroth said and Zack noticed his tone was gentle now and not the clipped tone he had gotten at the start.

"Really?" Zack asked, a smile now on his lips.

"Tell Angeal you're all coming over. I need to go now."

"Ok, bye" Zack said. Angeal returned a few moments later to find Zack smiling at his phone. His younger looked up at him and his smile grew bigger.

"We're all invited. I don't even know how I'm going to tell Cloud," he said and then frowned, "It's going to be difficult trying to convince him that Sephiroth actually invited him but don't worry, I'll get him to go!" Angeal watched as Zack all but ran out of the room. He smiled, happy to see Zack acting like his self again.

xoxo

"Please, please, please?" Cloud looked up at Zack's pleading eyes and he let out a sigh.

"You do know he and I can barely stand each other right?" he asked.

"That's not true. I mean, I know you guys don't get together and paint each other's nails every Friday night but I'm sure you can tolerate each other for one day. Besides, he said you were invited so he must not hate you like you think. Please Cloud, do this for me and I will never ask you for anything else in my life…Ok, I probably will but please?" Zack pleaded as he began putting his gifts in bags.

"Why are you asking me this at the last minute?" he asked and Zack looked at least a little embarrassed.

"Well…I knew that if I asked you right before we had to go there would be a bigger possibility of you saying yes. Come on Cloud, please?" Cloud stared at Zack and it was in the tip of his tongue to say that he had probably been invited only because Zack wouldn't have gone otherwise. Thinking this was the perfect opportunity for the little talk he wanted with Sephiroth, Cloud smirked.

"Fine, I'll go." He was promptly hugged by Zack who began to thank him and promise him the world. "You owe me one Zack. Oh and please try to control yourself, remember Angeal is also going to be there." Zack laughed.

"I know, I know. I'll remember not to throw myself at Sephiroth even when I really, really want to. Now let's go, I don't want to be late." Zack took his bags and Cloud followed him to Angeal's room.

"We're ready!" Zack announced. Angeal turned and smiled.

"I see Zack was able to convince you. I'm glad you're coming with us Cloud."

"I had no choice. He just told me," Cloud said throwing a mock glare to his friend.

"Angeal, why aren't you ready? We have to go now!" Zack said as he began to take some of Angeal's bags too in an effort to make him move.

"It's still early. Sephiroth is probably not even ready. We'll be fine," Angeal said, still moving too slow around the room in Zack's opinion.

"I don't even know what surprises me more, that Sephiroth is cooking a Christmas dinner or that he celebrates Christmas at all. Doesn't that like…require a soul?" Cloud asked and Zack turned to look at him with a pout on his lips.

"You're being mean," he said and when Angeal laughed he turned to his brother, "You're both being mean. He was nice enough to invite us to his place and cook for us."

"We know Zack, Cloud is just joking," Angeal said and Cloud refrained from saying he wasn't. Angeal picked up his keys and turned to Zack. "You're going to behave tonight right?"

Zack rolled his eyes. "Yes, can we go now?"

"No. Puppy…you know what I mean right? I don't want you get any ideas about Sephiroth inviting all of us to his house. Like you said, he's only being nice. Nothing more."

Zack lowered his eyes and shrugged. "I know. You don't have to tell me. I promise I'll behave. But you also have to promise you're not going to tell embarrassing stories about me," he said and Angeal smiled.

"Fine, I'll stop myself before telling him how when you were five you used to wet-"

"Can we go now?" Zack asked, interrupting. "I want to meet his brother. I've only heard of him but I've never seen him."

"I'm actually interested in seeing his apartment. I bet it has a scary, Norman Bates thing going on," Cloud said and Angeal chuckled. Zack threw his hand up as best as he could with all the bags he was carrying.

"You two are impossible!" he said as he began to exit the room, with Angeal and Cloud following him with amused smiles.

xoxo

Angeal rang the doorbell, ignoring Zack who was practically bounding in his place beside him with excitement. Before the doorbell could ring three times, the door opened to reveal a young man with long silver hair. He smiled up at Angeal and opened the door further to let them in.

"Good evening Yazoo how was your flight?"

"Boring, but I slept through half of it so it wasn't that bad," Yazoo answered and he turned to see Angeal's companions before turning his gaze back to the taller man expectantly.

"Oh, forgive me; this is my brother Zack and his friend Cloud. This is Sephiroth's younger brother," Angeal said. Yazoo bowed his head politely before settling his eyes on Zack and smiling.

"The puppy," he said and Zack threw a glare in his brother's direction. Ignoring Zack, Angeal looked around.

"Where's Sephiroth? Are we too early?"

"Not at all. He's in the kitchen finishing dinner. He actually threw me out saying I was only getting in his way. You know how charming my brother can be," Yazoo said turning around to guide them to the living room. He was smaller in height and had a more slender frame but there were so many similarities that Zack couldn't help but think he looked so much like a younger version of Sephiroth.

"Stop with the ogling," Cloud whispered, elbowing him on the stomach.

"Ow! I'm not ogling him!" Zack whispered back, "He just looks so much like him. But he's not my type."

"Really? I thought your type was anything breathing," Cloud said.

"I am not that boy or girl crazy Cloud and you know it. I just like to look. There's no harm in looking at the menu just because I'm on a diet ok?" Zack whispered and turned to look around as they came into the living room.

"Make yourselves comfortable, I'll go tell my brother everyone's here," Yazoo said before walking away.

"I feel I should take off my shoes, everything is so clean!" Zack said and Angeal smiled. Indeed everything looked clean and perfectly in order but he knew Sephiroth had always been like this. He worried a little about the trouble Zack could get into tonight, but he was there already and he could only hope Zack would be able to control himself. Cloud had to admit Sephiroth had good taste. The furniture was elegant and modern and it somehow reminded him of his cousin's home. As Sephiroth walked into the room with Yazoo right behind him, he tugged on the band that held his long silver hair in a ponytail at the back of his head. Cloud was close enough to hear the barely whispered "Oh god," that escaped Zack's lips. Sephiroth was dressed in black as always but he had the top buttons of his shirt opened and with the little display, Cloud had to grudgingly admit he looked like a model from a hair commercial.

"Dinner will be ready in a few minutes," Sephiroth said.

"We brought cheesecake for dessert," Zack said, "I didn't know what else to make." When Sephiroth didn't answer Cloud took a step forward and raised his hand where he had a bottle of wine.

"I brought this for you and Angeal. It seems my cousin's secretary doesn't check who she's sending this to. He orders her to send a gift to everyone he knows and she either doesn't know I'm his cousin or that I'm not allowed to drink yet. I thought you and Angeal could enjoy it better." Sephiroth took the bottle and raised an eyebrow when he noticed the brand for it was very expensive wine.

"I appreciate it," he said after a moment.

"And the cheesecake?" Zack asked, trying to see who to give it to so they could put it away.

"I don't like cheesecake, but I'm sure everyone else will enjoy it," Sephiroth answered and Cloud scowled at his rudeness as he saw Zack's smile falter.

"Ah…well…I didn't know that-" Zack started saying before Yazoo came forward to take the tray.

"Don't mind him. He's just being fastidious. He counts every single calorie that goes into his mouth. I don't even know why he went through all the trouble of making dessert too. If only he could be that careful with everything he puts in his mouth," Yazoo finished saying, smiling at Zack. Sephiroth ignored the comment and turned around.

"We can have dinner now. Yazoo, help me bring the food to the table."

xoxo

Cloud was surprised at the variety of food that Sephiroth and Yazoo produced from the kitchen. There seemed to be a little of everything for everyone's taste. Sephiroth talked with Angeal about work and Zack was fully immersed with the food on his plate. Yazoo, who was sitting beside him, was smiling in amusement.

"Were you starving?" he asked and all of them turned to Zack who had a fork full of food halfway to his mouth. Zack looked embarrassed for a moment before replying.

"I just never have home cooked meals other than the ones I make. Angeal can't cook and when he tries it's mostly simple stuff," he said, smiling at his brother. "This is really delicious. Thank you again for inviting us," he said looking at Sephiroth.

"He did spend all day in the kitchen," Yazoo started, "He wanted everything to be perfect. And let's not even talk about dessert, he spent hours on that. It makes me wonder who he wanted to impress and why." Cloud noticed Sephiroth and Yazoo looking at each other and he guessed there was some type of communication going on between them. Sephiroth looked like he wanted to strangle his brother and Yazoo looked more amused than anything. The younger brother finally smirked and turned to Zack again.

"So please don't fill yourself with dinner. We wouldn't want big brother's dessert to go to waste. But you should know I'm really looking forward to tasting your cheesecake. It looked delicious." Zack was mortified to be the center of attention, particularly because of the way Yazoo was looking at him.

"It's not that extraordinary really," he said, gathering food on his fork.

"I still want to taste it to give my opinion. But I'm sure it's delicious-"

"Yazoo," Sephiroth said and Cloud hid the smirk on his lips behind his own cup of water. "Finish your dinner."

"I will big brother; I'm just talking with Zack here. You may not like cheesecake but I on the other hand, I'm dying to taste his. I just want a piece of that-"

"If you're done with your dinner, take your plate to the kitchen," Sephiroth replied and Cloud could hear the anger clearly this time on his voice. Yazoo didn't even blink at the tone and kept on smirking.

"Yes of course, big brother. But must you always treat me like a five year old?"

"Must you always act like one?" Sephiroth replied and Cloud noticed them staring at each other again. This time Yazoo seemed to know he was finally at his brother's limit because he gathered his plates before excusing himself and going to the kitchen. Zack and Cloud looked at each other, not knowing what to do.

"He reminds me of you at that age," Angeal said, finally breaking the silence. He chuckled at the look his friend threw at him. "It's the truth. He might not show it but he looks up at you for everything."

"Yes well, that's not exactly comforting," Sephiroth replied.

"Should I bring out the desserts?" Yazoo asked as he poked his head out the kitchen's door. "I want a piece of Zack's." Cloud smirked at his friend's childlike embarrassment and at the obvious annoyance on Sephiroth's face; Yazoo clearly had the charm his brother lacked.

"Let me clean the table first," Sephiroth said standing up and getting the plates.

Cloud stood as well and before Sephiroth could stop him he said, "I'll help you." Both went into the kitchen where Yazoo was getting the other plates ready. When Yazoo went back into the dining room, Cloud took his opportunity. "I've been meaning to talk to you."

"Leave the plates here and I'll take care of the rest."

"About Zack," Cloud continued and saw Sephiroth place one of the plates on the sink before turning to him.

"There's nothing to talk about. Go back outside and I'll-"

"I saw you that night outside the club. I know. Stop being a coward and just tell him," Cloud said, getting annoyed.

"I don't know what you're talking about. Just go back out there and-"

"I care about Zack and I will not let you-"

"You will not let me what?" Sephiroth finally slammed a hand down into the counter, "You will not tell me what I'm allowed to do or not. Now, I will say this just one more time, go back to the table and do not speak to me for the rest of the night."

"Is everything alright?" Both men turned to see Yazoo standing by the door and Cloud forced himself to keep silent. The blond made his way out of the kitchen and Yazoo kept looking at his brother.

"You better calm down before your dinner ends in a disaster. The little birdie has been watching you all night and your little jealous tantrums are quite obvious." He ignored the glare sent his way and he took a few steps closer. "You do not hide it well big brother. Even your friend will notice if you're not careful."

"You don't know what you're talking-"

Yazoo turned around, "Fine, I'll go back outside." He knew he was risking his brother's wrath for the rest of his vacation but Sephiroth was being an idiot. A boring idiot. But he knew how to amuse himself even if his brother had to suffer the rest of the night.

"So, you made the cheesecake Zack?" he asked as he took his seat next to him.

"Yeah, it's simple and I didn't want to come empty handed," the smiling boy said and he couldn't understand why Sephiroth felt the way he did. Zack was beautiful but sweet and innocent. Two qualities he couldn't even begin to imagine being compatible with his brother's personality.

"You shouldn't have bothered. Like I said, my brother took care of everything. But I'm glad you did, cheesecake is my favorite," he said smiling as he placed his chin on one of his hands as he leaned toward Zack.

"You still have to taste it, it might not be good enough and you'll be disappointed," Zack said and Cloud managed not to roll his eyes at Zack's innocence.

"Nonsense, I'll love it. Is it as sweet as you?" Yazoo asked and he would have moved closer had Angeal not cleared his throat.

"How are your parents Yazoo?"

Yazoo pulled back as Sephiroth came out of the kitchen. "They're fine. They miss big brother of course, especially mother." Cloud noticed the distaste in Sephiroth's face at the comment and he wondered about the man's family. Sephiroth's dessert was a cake Cloud had never had before with some type of fruity sauce and he was forced to admit the bastard was a good cook.

Yazoo, who apparently had a death wish, moaned when he took a small bite of the cheesecake, "Oh god, this is so good Zack." Everyone stared at his display: closed eyes in rapture and licking his lips as he savored the treat.

"Yazoo," Sephiroth's voice cut through and this time everyone heard the anger in his voice. "Stop it." Suddenly Zack and Cloud found their desserts the most interesting things in the world and proceeded to stuff their mouths with it and swallow compulsively as they felt the heavy atmosphere around them. Angeal was uncomfortable as well but with additional reasons. He didn't like the fact that Yazoo was openly flirting with Zack because for all his charm and education, Yazoo was just a replica of Sephiroth when it came to relationships. Never nothing serious, everything was just for fun. There was also the tiny fact that Yazoo liked only women. But Sephiroth's brother seemed to understand he had just crossed a line but even then he still smirked at no one in particular as he took another bite of the cheesecake, this time enjoying it in silence.

The dining room was filled with silence that was only interrupted by the clinking of the spoons on the plates. It was Angeal who broke the ice by starting the conversation again and Zack and Cloud relaxed slightly on their seats. Sephiroth and Angeal began talking about work again while the three younger men ate their desserts in silence. Cloud noticed Sephiroth's eyes wandered to Zack every now and then, so quickly but enough times to confirm his suspicions.

Zack had offered to wash the dishes with Cloud much to the blonds' displeasure but Sephiroth appointed the task to Yazoo who didn't look like he was happy about it but managed not to open his mouth to complain. They moved to the living room where Zack and Cloud sat on the floor as they talked quietly while Sephiroth and Angeal kept talking about work until Yazoo joined them again.

"So Zack…I hear my brother was helping you with a class? How did that go?" The sly smile on his lips gave away the fact that he knew more than he let on.

"It went well, your brother helped a lot," Zack said and Cloud noticed Sephiroth and Angeal became interested in the conversation.

"Really? I can't imagine my brother being a good tutor. He never helped me with my classes," Yazoo said, smiling at his brother.

"You never asked," Sephiroth pointed out.

"And Zack did?" Yazoo asked and then turned to Zack, "You asked my brother for help?"

"No, he offered his help," Zack answered, feeling uneasy again with everyone's eyes on him, "But I'm sure he helped me because I was desperate. If he hadn't helped me I would have failed the class. By the way," he started, turning to look at Sephiroth, "I passed the class with an A minus. Thank you, I wouldn't have done it without your help," Zack smiled and was surprised when Sephiroth smiled back.

The rest of the night was spent with everyone talking. Yazoo toned his teasing down and was telling them about his life where he lived with his parents. When Zack talked about his classes, Angeal joined in and little by little Sephiroth also began to talk. Cloud noticed Sephiroth seemed more relaxed, perhaps because Yazoo had stopped with his teasing or maybe because he had already gone through half of the bottle of wine. Whatever the reason was, Cloud couldn't help but feel happy for his friend. Zack was smiling and laughing and it was obvious to him that the main reason was that Sephiroth was talking to him again. Yazoo announced it was time for presents and Zack couldn't hide his excitement as he went to get the presents he had brought. Cloud began to feel uncomfortable when it became clear everyone had something for everyone and he had only brought something for Angeal and Zack.

Angeal was quick to tell him not to worry. "You didn't have to bring anything and it isn't your fault Zack told you we were coming over here just before actually leaving."

Yazoo agreed even as he gave him a small box wrapped in yellow paper. He was touched that Yazoo had thought of him even when they had never met before. This holiday was usually spent with his cousin by themselves and even with Sephiroth just a few feet away, it felt nice to spend it with more people. Angeal and Sephiroth surprised Zack and Cloud with an envelope with money inside.

"You told me that after next semester when you graduate you wanted to take a road trip with Cloud. Since Sephiroth was having a little trouble getting something for him, he decided to join me on this. Now you two can take your road trip without worrying about the money," Angeal explained and Cloud immediately felt a little stab of guilt. Zack went to tackle his brother in a hug as he thanked him and Cloud turned to Sephiroth.

"I appreciate this," he said but Sephiroth ignored him and the little stab of guilt disappeared.

Zack let go of Angeal for a moment and he beamed at Sephiroth, wishing he could give him a hug as well. "Thank you, we'll send you guys post cards." Zack went on to give his own gifts out and when he finally held the box covered with silver paper, he handed it to Sephiroth.

"This is for you…just don't open it now please," he said.

"But why not? I want to see," Yazoo said grinning from his place. Angeal also looked like he was curious but also worried about what Zack could be giving his friend.

Zack rolled his eyes and let out a nervous chuckle. "I'm not giving him naked pictures of me, so you two can relax. I just…I would just like it for him to open it some other time." Sephiroth finally nodded and placed his gift on the side. It was his turn to give out his presents and when he was done, Cloud noticed Zack's smile had disappeared a little. Sephiroth hadn't gotten him anything.

Zack watched as Sephiroth handed Yazoo and Angeal their presents, avoiding hugs from both. It wasn't that he wanted something; he didn't care about the present itself. But the fact that Sephiroth had purposely ignored him even in this hurt because it could only mean one thing; he was still angry over the kiss. He reached for one of his gifts to open it as Sephiroth stood up from his seat.

"I'll be back in a moment," he said and they watched him got out the door. They didn't have much time to wonder where he had gone for a few moments later the door opened again and a puppy came running inside, barking and climbing Cloud's and Yazoo's laps before running around the coffee table again. Zack laughed as he caught it and the black Labrador puppy pawed at his chest before jumping out of his lap to explore under the table.

"Who's this?" he asked as he reached to pet the puppy that in turn licked his fingers.

"It's yours, "Sephiroth said as he took his seat. Zack turned to him and then at the puppy, a smile growing on his face.

"Mine?" he let out a soft laugh, "You got me a puppy?"

"It took some time to convince your brother and I had to leave it at a neighbor's house but he's yours now. Merry Christmas Zack," Sephiroth said and Zack smiled at him and then at Angeal before reaching for the puppy again.

"Thank you, I love him," he said grinning, "Does he have a name?"

"No, I left that up to you."

Zack looked at the wiggling puppy in his lap and then his grin widened, "From now on your name will be Angeal."

Cloud watched as Angeal protested the name choice while Zack said he wasn't going to change it. He saw Sephiroth smile as he watched Zack play with the puppy; a smile of tenderness and everything the man tried so hard not to show. When Cloud looked away he realized Yazoo was looking at him, smirking. Yazoo's eyes went to his brother and then back to Cloud, the smirk still in place and Cloud understood. Yazoo knew about Sephiroth's feelings and it meant he wasn't wrong about him. Perhaps he could talk with Yazoo on another time before telling Zack about what he knew. The rest of the night was spent with all of them talking before Angeal announced it was time to go home. Sephiroth gave Zack a bag with the basic things for the puppy and Angeal told him he already had a kennel for him back at the house. Zack thanked Sephiroth again and Cloud saw him smile back at his friend, promising to visit them and see how the puppy was doing. He could only hope Sephiroth was being sincere and that it wasn't just the alcohol talking.

On the way home Angeal listened to his younger brother talk about the best dinner ever and one of the best presents he had ever gotten. He was glad Zack was happy but he had seen the longing stares toward Sephiroth. He considered him his best friend, a brother in everything but in blood, but if there was something he couldn't trust him with, it was with Zack's heart. He also thought about Yazoo and the way he had acted tonight and he was still wondering what had brought that on. But if he didn't want Zack with Sephiroth, he wanted him even less with Yazoo. Zack tried to hide it but it was obvious to anyone the way he looked at him, at the way his eyes followed Sephiroth every move and while dinner and the time spent had been great, Angeal couldn't help but worry Zack was still hoping for something that was never going to happen.

xoxo

It was the end of the year and it was his third night working at the club. It was a wild night; everyone waiting for the final hour to start and celebrate the New Year. The music was loud, the floor vibrating with the sound and the lights threatening him with a headache if he didn't get his break soon. Taking out a cigarette he brought it up to his lips as he leaned on the railing of the second floor. Lighting it and taking in the first drag he looked down at the people on the dance floor. Women, men, leather clad bodies twisting and rubbing against each other. The back room had become an interesting place the first night and he had relieved some stress with a stranger who had offered. But tonight he was supposed to be working and there was no time for fun.

Taking another drag on his cigarette, he watched for any trouble by the bar. A spiky head of dark hair caught his attention as the man danced in front of another trying to lead him into the dance floor. He couldn't see who he was dancing to for there was an older, much taller man blocking his view. He chuckled at the antics of the poor guy and he watched as the older man whispered something to him before making his way to the restrooms. It was then he was able to see and he expelled the smoke slowly as his eyes fixated on a pair of blue eyes and blond hair done in spikes. He had never seen such a flawless face, almost angelic in its appearance and he smirked. So working on New Year's Eve was going to pay off.

"Shouldn't you be working?"

He turned to see the man beside him as he flicked his wrist to get rid of the ash on the tip of his cigarette. It was Rude and it amused him that he wore his shades even inside the club.

"That's what I'm doing partner." He went back to staring at the blond by the bar and he wondered if he could convince him to go with him to the back room later on his break. "So you know who that is? The blond one by the bar?"

Rude turned his eyes toward the bar and there was only one blond there. "Are you serious?"

"What? He got inside the club so he must be legal. I know he looks like jailbait but what self-respecting pervert would I be to say no to that?" he asked, smirking.

"The kind that will lose his job," Rude answered.

"I can share if that's the problem. Oh yeah, I forgot you like tits. So who is he?"

"Don't you recognize him?" Rude asked.

He looked back the blond who was smiling at something his friend had said. "No. Should I? Did I fuck him? I don't think so…I'd remember tapping that." Those blue eyes and that blond hair did remind him of someone. Going through the people he knew in his mind it finally clicked into place.

"Shit."

"Indeed," he heard Rude say before another loud song started.

He had just eye-fucked his boss's cousin.

A/N: This chapter was supposed to be out by December of 2008 (because of its Christmas-y theme) but my computer went crazy and not only was this chapter lost but also some papers for school. I was stuck doing that and then I just became discouraged with the whole thing. Then life happened. School started again and my free time was devoted to writing my senior thesis and let me tell you, writing about cannibalism and serial killers didn't exactly inspire me to write happy stuff. So I had to wait until the semester was over but I was working and then I was just lazy. All these months and all those countless times I sat in front of the computer ended with me writing a totally different chapter from the original. So those are my excuses and I just want to tell those who still review and alert the story thank you and sorry for the super late update.

Random shiz: That stuff in the beginning about missing a grade? Happened to me and it's not very nice, especially when you're graduating and it all depends on that single grade. So thank you professor for not posting the grade on time and making me suffer for those few days! U_U