fromthe7thsidelines

[fromthe7thsidelines]

This time, Biggs noticed the words way more than another affectionate squeeze of their hands, despite enjoying the latter nonetheless. He just couldn't get 'you should undress me' out of his head, nor all the ideas those four words sparked.

He'd probably look like an idiot if he just ran to his front door with Zack in tow, right?

Probably.

So instead, Biggs let the anticipation buzz through his veins, tingling over his scalp and down to his toes. He preoccupied himself with his kiss to Zack's cheek, and then with fishing his house keys out of his bag, so he wouldn't get too impatient. Better to be at the ready to open the door, rather than fumble and waste time trying to hurry.

"Yup, all mine." Biggs's flash of a grin was proud yet not bragging; he'd only moved in a couple years ago, after finally saving up enough to avoid a mortgage. The celebration of it in the backyard with his friends had gotten them a noise warning from one of his neighbors back then. And while he didn't plan on being quiet with Zack, he knew they wouldn't get noisy enough indoors to have a second warning.

As he unlocked the front door, Biggs laughed low with a sidelong glance at Zack. "You too, huh? C'mon then, let's treat ourselves for bein' so patient."

Leading the younger man inside, he crowded Zack against the door as soon as it shut. Biggs hung up his keyring by feel, other palm braced against wood as he leaned in close enough with an upward tip of his head for their breaths to mingle. Even so, Biggs paused a moment to whisper, curled fingers brushing over Zack's cheek: "Can I kiss you?"

"Both," Biggs replied with a slanted grin. "Only needed a few looks for that to get stuck in my head. And sometimes I'd reread somethin' half a dozen times 'cause I couldn't stop imagining you in a lot less."

He could explain further, go into specific daydream scenarios he'd replayed in his head when alone. But, that might be a little much to admit on a public sidewalk, especially unprompted. Biggs didn't doubt that the real sight of Zack without a stitch on would be way more amazing, anyway.

As if reading his mind, the younger man then echoed his thoughts with a squeeze of their clasped hands. Biggs met that lean despite the flustered hint in his grin. A glance for their eyes to meet again as well, and his expression softened once more.

"More than alright," Biggs assured, in a quiet but clear murmur. "I want you to see me, just like I wanna see all of you." An answering squeeze to Zack's palm and he dared to lean in for a light kiss to the other's cheek, while they turned onto the street leading to Biggs' house. His face felt warm, but he couldn't get rid of his smile.

[fromthe7thsidelines]

A reflex slightly twitched in his chest at the sunscreen's cooler temperature, though it wasn't nearly enough to have Cid tense. No, he was way more concerned about the hand spreading that lotion further down his front. When it swept over one side of his chest, grazing over a nipple, Cid's lips subtly parted with a faint hitched inhale. He caught himself a beat later, swallowing hard and resisting the urges to look away and clear his throat. Might just draw too much attention to his reaction, knowing his luck.

Besides, it'd mean looking away from that hint of pink on Vincent's face that might not just be the start of sunburn.

Though Cid's thoughts were distracted by the question, his gaze wasn't. "First time? Well, my very first, I was too little t' see proper over the controls," he chuckled. "Went up in a neighbor's delivery plane with my mamas, 'n I talked his damn ear off askin' questions. He let me turn some switches, hold the controls while he steered, plenty enough t' feel all the possibilities. Even with him 'n my mamas there, felt like it was just me an' the sky."

While he'd explained, Cid had noticed that pink growing more apparent on Vincent's face. Shoot, was that just sunburn? They hadn't gotten to their faces yet. But, no, he didn't think it could spread that fast... But the idea of it being a blush, over touching or looking at him, warmed Cid's cheeks as well. Especially when Vincent was so quick to look away, after glancing pretty low down Cid's front. Maybe even low enough to be —

No, nope, cut that thought off at the goddamn pass. If he started mulling on those kinda what-ifs and maybes, he'd get caught for sure and he had a lousy Queen's Blood face.

Cid hadn't expected Vincent to stand, though. Sitting up and fumbling a bit in snatching up the sunscreen bottle, he hurried after. "Hey now, throttle back, V! Need t' get yer face first." Rather than spend time arguing over it and letting the gunslinger's face bake, Cid seized his nerve and started spreading a small dollop of sunscreen over Vincent's nose with two fingers. "The sun don't care how much pretty hair ya got, it'll burn ya just th' same. Won't take me long, promise."

| for @phantomyre-vincent-valentine |

Cid couldn't proper recall the last time he'd had a stopover long enough for relaxation, especially not since meeting Aerith and the whole merry band of misfits. But now here they were in Costa del Sol, probably the world's hottest vacation destination, with free time on their hands. The others were just as eager to take advantage, splitting off in pairs or trios until Cid was left standing near the docks with only Vincent. Not company he much minded, truth be told, though a place like this didn't seem the other man's speed.

Still, Cid wanted to enjoy as much as possible while they were here. And besides, from what he'd seen, Vincent could use some loosening up.

"Looks like it's you 'n me." He patted the other's shoulder, then dropped his hand to Vincent's elbow for a coaxing tug, his grin broad and a little lopsided. "C'mon! If we're gonna be out in the sun, might as well be seein' some sights."

[fromthe7thsidelines]

That hesitation from Vincent around the armored gauntlet further proved Andrea's guess it was there to hide something. Upon seeing what the 'something' being hidden was, his first thought was wondering how in the world such a thing happened. Andrea kept that to himself, but did voice his next thought.

"Simple; we find gloves. An opera length should go well with the shawl sleeves. And the easiest feminine posture would be hands folded in front of your hips, so you can hide that one if you need to."

Handing over the dress, Andrea did turn away so he could look for gloves. Handsome as Vincent was, now wasn't the time to stare. Still, Andrea wished - just as he had with Cloud - that the circumstances of this scenario were different. Though he had a feeling it wouldn't be happening at all without Vincent's friends in serious danger.

Andrea unrolled a pair of black silk gloves to judge their length by eye, then paused and glanced up at the other's nervous question. Well, he was certainly right about the colors and style of the dress suiting Vincent, though the man himself looked unsure about something else. "It is, though the laces still need tightening. Here." Draping the long gloves over his shoulder, Andrea approached to help readjust the top half of the dress a little so it'd sit right.

He circled around behind Vincent, smoothing out the skirt with a couple brisk sweeps of his palms, then started cinching up the bodice. Years of practice on himself and others made the task easy, drawing the fabric tighter without restricting Vincent's breaths. The other man's narrow waist also helped form an hourglass silhouette with less effort. While working his way up the lacing, Andrea added, "I understand if this is more revealing than you'd like. But catering to Corneo, and any lackeys guarding his room, without letting on that I'm escorting another handsome gentleman to give the Don his just desserts? We have to sell the illusion a little harder."

Once the bodice was properly secured, Andrea stepped to one side and offered the gloves he'd found. "May I, or would you prefer to handle these yourself?"

Masquerade at Midnight

[Roleplay Starter] Andrea Rhodea + Vincent Valentine

RP Partner: @fromthe7thsidelines

The Gold Saucer-- a monolith of grandiosity, hedonism and escapism. It was exactly what Dio had envisioned twenty some years ago. Vincent could recall the brawny eccentric, then much younger, begging President Shinra for a chance to create a massive entertainment business. Now, the place was clamoring with customers, all eager to dish every gil they had in the name of temporary amusement. And then there were those who were earning said gil; employees of Shinra who worked to dazzle every customer-- all except a certain apathetic Ex-Turk. Vincent had never met Don Corneo in person, but he knew a bastard when he saw one. Judging by what Tifa, Aerith, and Cloud had told him, he was not to be under-estimated, no matter how much of an idiot he seemed to be. Street-wise gangster leaders weren't leaders from being fools. They had earned their place through unlawful and cruel means. Cunning was at their core. For a man who was still a Turk at heart and who harbored four demons, tracking the Don and gathering intel wouldn't prove to be too challenging. Word had it that the Don was plotting against AVALANCHE, and Vincent was tasked to do some spy-work. Evening had arrived, and the nightlife had begun. Most of the group chose to wander off and enjoy themselves while others chose to turn in for the evening. Sleep wasn't necessary for an immortal, and his demons were making him restless. There was a task to do, and he needed to make use of the opportunity. He first had to find someone who might have some knowledge of Corneo's where-abouts. His gold-colored sabatons clinked as he walked across the granite flooring, scanning the vast area for any Shinra Employee who fit the description of 'entertainer'. Though dressed in a very misplaced Medieval outfit of sorts, no one seemed to even blink when they saw the oddly dressed gunslinger. For all they knew, he was just a worker in a costume. Vincent decided to ask around to see if he could get any leads. "Pardon," Vincent asked as he walked up to a pair of girls dressed in honey-bee outfits. "I'm told there is a man in Midgar who owns a famous arena in one of the Sector slums," the gunslinger began surreptitiously. "Heard he's looking for recruits. Might you know who this man is?" Vincent knew exactly who he was. However, he had to first see if these women had any knowledge of the Don without creating any suspicions, should they be in collusion with the criminal. Little did Vincent realize there was someone close by who not only knew Corneo, but was also well versed in Cloud's situation.

[fromthe7thsidelines]

Man, 'if only' was right. Biggs wanted Zack's hands on his ass instead, spreading cheeks apart just a little bit more while that tempting length bottomed out inside him. Soon. It didn't feel soon enough, at the moment, but it'd come.

Biggs hummed again, though there was more affection and want in it than humor this time. Zack's needy frankness painted quite the vivid mental image. Free hand starting up slow strokes of his cock again, Biggs tried not to let his eyes flutter closed, fixing them instead on his partner's leaking arousal, now fully exposed. He had to swallow a fresh welling of saliva.

Biting his lower lip after his own coaxing questions, Biggs thrust his finger in and out at an easy, measured pace. A second one joined it in the midst of Zack's description, while Biggs' cock twitched in his grasp and he had to muffle a low moan. His two slicked fingers began spreading apart, as deep as he could reach, while his stroking hand lingered around the flushed head of his arousal for a gentle squeeze.

He couldn't help another breathy quiet laugh as he let go of his lip, grin adoring and eyes half-lidded. "Oh, would I? Well, lucky for both of us, I got a few toys in the drawer I can use later." Biggs tipped his chin toward the dresser across from the bed, behind where his phone was set up. "Nothin' too big; filling me up like that's still your job. Just enough to get things started." A huffed moan, as his curling fingers found that sensitive spot and his hips rolled for a bit more pressure on it. "Yeah, I'd need three fingers to take you, gorgeous. You're gonna fit so well, I might never want you out. Might just sit on your cock for hours while we watch TV, get another round going whenever we want."

Damn right, he missed it. Biggs wanted to press it right up against his own cock to stroke them together, just for starters. He couldn't even muster embarrassment at having to swallow welled saliva at the view Zack gave him. The way he wanted to jump through the screen and take that whole length, any way he'd be allowed...

Dark lashes fluttered, and Biggs couldn't help wrapping his hand round himself for a few slow strokes as he sighed out, "Shit... you have the best ideas." He could already imagine it, so clearly that it tempted him to break his own rules and demand Zack come over right now. Tempted, but didn't succeed. The idea of them both being even more desperate for each other by the time the exam was over prevailed.

The winking implication reddened Biggs' ears a bit darker, though his own laugh came easily. "Oh, I will. Gonna spoil you rotten - havin' me any way you like, gettin' takeout, sleeping in." Another stroke or two, intentionally and indulgently slow this time; a groan slipped out while his thumb rubbed over his tip. "All for you if you keep up the good work."

Biggs reached into the nightstand drawer with his free hand, fishing out a newly-opened bottle of lube. He let go of his cock, despite its slight twitch afterward, to slick up three fingers; in the meantime, Biggs bent his knees up and spread his legs wider, enough for Zack to have a better view of his ass.

As one digit carefully pushed inside, Biggs let out another pleased sigh, keeping his eyes on Zack with a soft smile. "You gonna open me up slowly too? Make me squirm on just your fingers?"

[fromthe7thsidelines]

Hardly what Andrea would call 'minor', but perhaps the dry tone was Vincent's attempt at humor. Or, perhaps a boast of skill? He let it pass unremarked upon, regardless.

Instead, Andrea waited patiently for the other's answer. He couldn't even begin making recommendations until he'd some idea of what Vincent would be comfortable with. Sadly, this wasn't a voluntary situation, or he'd be happy to accommodate the other's apparent modest preferences.

He couldn't quite hold back a sigh when all he was given was flustered vagueness. Still, on longer look Vincent's posture held taut, for all its casual show. Stage fright, or something near enough. Andrea's expression gentled a little, and he flicked through the array of outfits with more intent.

Ah, here was something. Taking the dress from the rack, Andrea approached Vincent and held it up between them. "This might suit you."

It was no doubt meant to blend in with the park hotel's 'haunted' aesthetic. Coincidentally, it also matched the color scheme of Vincent's clothes. A collar of black lace was bound with a ribbon of red velvet, a white gold-framed brooch at the throat. That lace continued into draping shawl sleeves, affixed to a red bodice - decorated with darker crimson embroidery - to form a chest window. Below the bodice was a long full skirt, black paneled with long triangles of red at the sides and overlaid with more dark lace.

"Dear Dio does nothing by halves," Andrea chuckled. "But you'll need help with the back lacing," a flick of grey eyes to that golden gauntlet, "if not more, so I'm afraid I can't just turn around and wait." His gaze was frank and expectant. While Vincent would certainly be quite a sight stripped down, this wasn't the sort of occasion to linger on that fact.

Masquerade at Midnight

[Roleplay Starter] Andrea Rhodea + Vincent Valentine

RP Partner: @fromthe7thsidelines

The Gold Saucer-- a monolith of grandiosity, hedonism and escapism. It was exactly what Dio had envisioned twenty some years ago. Vincent could recall the brawny eccentric, then much younger, begging President Shinra for a chance to create a massive entertainment business. Now, the place was clamoring with customers, all eager to dish every gil they had in the name of temporary amusement. And then there were those who were earning said gil; employees of Shinra who worked to dazzle every customer-- all except a certain apathetic Ex-Turk. Vincent had never met Don Corneo in person, but he knew a bastard when he saw one. Judging by what Tifa, Aerith, and Cloud had told him, he was not to be under-estimated, no matter how much of an idiot he seemed to be. Street-wise gangster leaders weren't leaders from being fools. They had earned their place through unlawful and cruel means. Cunning was at their core. For a man who was still a Turk at heart and who harbored four demons, tracking the Don and gathering intel wouldn't prove to be too challenging. Word had it that the Don was plotting against AVALANCHE, and Vincent was tasked to do some spy-work. Evening had arrived, and the nightlife had begun. Most of the group chose to wander off and enjoy themselves while others chose to turn in for the evening. Sleep wasn't necessary for an immortal, and his demons were making him restless. There was a task to do, and he needed to make use of the opportunity. He first had to find someone who might have some knowledge of Corneo's where-abouts. His gold-colored sabatons clinked as he walked across the granite flooring, scanning the vast area for any Shinra Employee who fit the description of 'entertainer'. Though dressed in a very misplaced Medieval outfit of sorts, no one seemed to even blink when they saw the oddly dressed gunslinger. For all they knew, he was just a worker in a costume. Vincent decided to ask around to see if he could get any leads. "Pardon," Vincent asked as he walked up to a pair of girls dressed in honey-bee outfits. "I'm told there is a man in Midgar who owns a famous arena in one of the Sector slums," the gunslinger began surreptitiously. "Heard he's looking for recruits. Might you know who this man is?" Vincent knew exactly who he was. However, he had to first see if these women had any knowledge of the Don without creating any suspicions, should they be in collusion with the criminal. Little did Vincent realize there was someone close by who not only knew Corneo, but was also well versed in Cloud's situation.

[fromthe7thsidelines]

"Exactly," Cid agreed to the remark about Shinra's limitations. Oh, he knew they might well try, if Space & Aeronautics hadn't been totally gutted by now after... well. There were better things to think about. "An' if they try, I'll show 'em to think twice."

When he glanced over upon feeling the other's hands pause, he saw Vincent's gaze turned skyward instead. His bravado didn't ebb so much as shift into encouragement. "Damn right. Ya fix 'em up, since they can't heal like birds do. Hell, even birds mend better with some help." Maybe an unnecessary addition, but something about the melancholic look to Vincent's smile spurred it from Cid. A guy cooped up for so long was bound to fall back on stewing, even at times when it did no good.

The drag of Vincent's palm spreading more sunscreen was enough to shift the topic. Cid adjusted where needed, though as the gunslinger finished up with his legs it was growing more noticeable that Cid's front had yet to be covered. The idea sure did give off a different air, especially since Vincent's shirt meant it couldn't be excused as simply returning a favor. Still, was it an idea he minded?

To be frank, no.

But he wasn't the only one deciding here.

...Well now. With Vincent making such a clear offer in spite of that pretty blush - 'cause it was pretty, and probably looked a whole heap nicer than the warmth returning to the pilot's cheeks - who was Cid to refuse? "Alright then." Cid braced his hands first as he laid back, taking a moment to nudge the complementary lei aside from his chest, then tucked them behind his head to keep them out of the way.

He knew he probably shouldn't be staring, but found his gaze drawn to Vincent nonetheless. Cid at least managed to keep his posture relaxed. It was just sunscreen, he reminded himself; better to assume the other man was being considerate and nothing more. Less chance to be disappointed that way.

| for @phantomyre-vincent-valentine |

Cid couldn't proper recall the last time he'd had a stopover long enough for relaxation, especially not since meeting Aerith and the whole merry band of misfits. But now here they were in Costa del Sol, probably the world's hottest vacation destination, with free time on their hands. The others were just as eager to take advantage, splitting off in pairs or trios until Cid was left standing near the docks with only Vincent. Not company he much minded, truth be told, though a place like this didn't seem the other man's speed.

Still, Cid wanted to enjoy as much as possible while they were here. And besides, from what he'd seen, Vincent could use some loosening up.

"Looks like it's you 'n me." He patted the other's shoulder, then dropped his hand to Vincent's elbow for a coaxing tug, his grin broad and a little lopsided. "C'mon! If we're gonna be out in the sun, might as well be seein' some sights."

[fromthe7thsidelines]

When he saw Zack leaning in closer, Biggs bent to meet the kiss partway, with a quiet low hum. Once the contact broke, that hum became a breathed groan at the other man's teasing strokes along his length. His initial answer was another warm and wanting smile, one which broadened a bit as he could see and feel Zack relax.

Biggs watched the other, even when those pretty eyes fell shut - half for caution, and half because he wanted to memorize this moment, this whole night if he could. After so much shit luck in his life, maybe it could be a little bright spot, even if Zack's curiosity was sated come morning. But that was a thought for the future. Right now, Zack was pleading for more - and who was Biggs to refuse?

Following that glance down before watching the other man stare, he couldn't help leaning in again, for a kiss to one cheek this time. "Yeah? Good. I'll give you a second one soon, just stay relaxed for me, alright?" In the meantime, Biggs started careful thrusts with his first finger, curling it with every press inward to the knuckle. Better to get Zack used to the feeling of movement before any more stretching happened.

"About what you said earlier," Biggs added softly in the meantime. "I like hearin' what's on your mind. Might get some ideas we can try, or just imagine." His splayed palm dragged up to Zack's chest, teasing one nipple. "Like back at the reactor, it was gettin' bent over a motorbike, right?" A few more kisses trailed closer to Zack's ear. "Whose turn would it be first, mine or yours?"

For his part, Biggs would've welcomed any position with Zack, whether he was on the receiving end or not. It was Zack, hot as hell and sweet as cake; he'd have considered himself lucky if he did nothing more than make out with the guy. Being wanted just as much, and being welcomed on top, kept Biggs' desire simmering away in his veins.

Even more so when Zack's answering question came, in a tone that sounded at once bashful and teasing. Though Biggs could have guessed he'd know if the other's trust wasn't given, he deeply appreciated hearing it for certain. Below the lightness that brought, fresh heat curled in his groin; Biggs would be plagued, in the best way possible, by all these frank wants from Zack.

He'd just been tugged forward by a similar whim when the other man leaned up to meet him halfway in a kiss. It parted too soon for his liking, but Biggs knew he shouldn't get distracted for this part.

Swallowing past a groan at the touch along his length, he breathed, "Shit, do you..." Catching himself, he amended with a soft, flustered yet affectionate laugh, "You probably know exactly what you do to me, talkin' like that." Slicked fingers reached down, to find Zack's hole by feel and spread some lube over the tempting pucker. They lingered there, just to massage in place for now. "I'll give you as much as you want. Just gotta get you loosened up a little first; slow breaths, remember."

Biggs started with just one finger, easing it carefully past the ring of muscle. His work was slow and methodical, practiced on both himself and others before. He kept an eye on Zack's face, watching for pain but hoping not to see it. His other hand, in the meantime, had set the closed lube bottle aside to splay just above Zack's waist, more to be a steadying presence than to take any weight.

[fromthe7thsidelines]

Andrea watched Vincent, curious if he could find any tells to the other's mood or opinion. There wasn't much, which said something in itself: how reserved the man could be, though perhaps cautious or self-controlled were better words. Intriguing on its own, it could also prove useful in the ruse he had planned. Easier to play on what Corneo's brutes likely expected of a woman.

Fortunately, that scoff from Vincent carried no clear disgust. Andrea caught that murmur too; ah, so this fine gentleman had heard enough about dear Cloud's escapade in Wall Market to know of his part in it. A sliver of coolness slipped into his smile, however, at the remark about whether this was for his own entertainment. He shook his head. Were it not required, he would've taken his time with more suggestions, questions, and encouragements to guide Vincent to whatever was the most truthful conclusion for the man. Even if it'd mean nothing would change. This situation couldn't afford that time.

Standing from his stool as well, Andrea met that stare, noting how glimmers of emotions mingled in intriguing eyes. "Follow me." As he led the way toward the dressing rooms of the nearby stage, Andrea glanced back at Vincent over one shoulder. "And there might be other ways, but this is the only one that ensures his captives are unharmed, and has the least chance of them being used for shields."

He gave the gunslinger a once-over before turning to push through the backstage's door. Andrea could already think of a couple options on the racks that might suit Vincent's build well.

Fortunately, the dressing room had plenty of options in general. Despite his ideas, Andrea first sifted carefully through each outfit on the nearest rack, just in case he'd forgotten one that might be perfect. In the meantime, he glanced over his shoulder at Vincent. "Any exposure preferences? Showing a little chest will help sell the illusion, remember, but we can work around anything else." More choice than he'd given their mutual friend, perhaps, but Andrea got the sense there was some sort of meaningful reason the other man was entirely covered from the neck down.

Masquerade at Midnight

[Roleplay Starter] Andrea Rhodea + Vincent Valentine

RP Partner: @fromthe7thsidelines

The Gold Saucer-- a monolith of grandiosity, hedonism and escapism. It was exactly what Dio had envisioned twenty some years ago. Vincent could recall the brawny eccentric, then much younger, begging President Shinra for a chance to create a massive entertainment business. Now, the place was clamoring with customers, all eager to dish every gil they had in the name of temporary amusement. And then there were those who were earning said gil; employees of Shinra who worked to dazzle every customer-- all except a certain apathetic Ex-Turk. Vincent had never met Don Corneo in person, but he knew a bastard when he saw one. Judging by what Tifa, Aerith, and Cloud had told him, he was not to be under-estimated, no matter how much of an idiot he seemed to be. Street-wise gangster leaders weren't leaders from being fools. They had earned their place through unlawful and cruel means. Cunning was at their core. For a man who was still a Turk at heart and who harbored four demons, tracking the Don and gathering intel wouldn't prove to be too challenging. Word had it that the Don was plotting against AVALANCHE, and Vincent was tasked to do some spy-work. Evening had arrived, and the nightlife had begun. Most of the group chose to wander off and enjoy themselves while others chose to turn in for the evening. Sleep wasn't necessary for an immortal, and his demons were making him restless. There was a task to do, and he needed to make use of the opportunity. He first had to find someone who might have some knowledge of Corneo's where-abouts. His gold-colored sabatons clinked as he walked across the granite flooring, scanning the vast area for any Shinra Employee who fit the description of 'entertainer'. Though dressed in a very misplaced Medieval outfit of sorts, no one seemed to even blink when they saw the oddly dressed gunslinger. For all they knew, he was just a worker in a costume. Vincent decided to ask around to see if he could get any leads. "Pardon," Vincent asked as he walked up to a pair of girls dressed in honey-bee outfits. "I'm told there is a man in Midgar who owns a famous arena in one of the Sector slums," the gunslinger began surreptitiously. "Heard he's looking for recruits. Might you know who this man is?" Vincent knew exactly who he was. However, he had to first see if these women had any knowledge of the Don without creating any suspicions, should they be in collusion with the criminal. Little did Vincent realize there was someone close by who not only knew Corneo, but was also well versed in Cloud's situation.

[fromthe7thsidelines]

Even before Vincent got to work, Cid felt those vivid eyes fixed on his back as keenly as a press of hands. He knew he was no slouch, but having someone so pretty staring at him still made Cid wonder what the other man thought. There was a healthy softness around his midriff, waist, and hips, made apparent by his swimsuit and his seated posture. He couldn't help but compare it to Vincent's svelte figure, and figured some folk probably wondered why a guy like that would give him the time of day. They could wonder all they wanted. So would he.

Cid's muscles twitched on momentary reflex under Vincent's palm, at the subtle chill of the sunscreen. As he relaxed into the slow rhythm of those sweeping spreads, he lifted his gaze to the rest of the beach and the sea beyond. Cid noticed as much about the gunslinger's hand as he did about the view before them, if not more. Noticed, and tried very hard not to imagine. It helped when Vincent answered him with a light tease, drawing out a laugh.

Yet the urge to let his mind wander returned as the comfortable silence stretched on. The scenery didn't quite blur but he did stop noticing details, too focused on slim fingers trailing from shoulders to waist and back up. Was Vincent's expression behind him any different than its usual handsome stoicism? As that touch moved on to spread more sunscreen over one arm, Cid moved it away from his knee to make things a little easier. He also couldn't help but sneak a look at Vincent's face - stoic again, it turned out, but also with a slight flush. Would it be too far to imagine that bloom of pink had nothing to do with the heat?

A question from Vincent interrupted Cid's meandering thoughts. Stare tipping up toward the sky, a little of his smile returned. "It's the freest place there is. No bullshit ranks, no borders. The real top o' the world, nevermind what all them Shinra bureaucrats say. Ever since I was a kid I'd look up, day or night, 'n just think... 'I wanna go there'. Build my own wings 'n fly forever." He chuckled quietly, glancing to Vincent again. "Got a few more grownup worries these days, but I never quite lost that idea."

| for @phantomyre-vincent-valentine |

Cid couldn't proper recall the last time he'd had a stopover long enough for relaxation, especially not since meeting Aerith and the whole merry band of misfits. But now here they were in Costa del Sol, probably the world's hottest vacation destination, with free time on their hands. The others were just as eager to take advantage, splitting off in pairs or trios until Cid was left standing near the docks with only Vincent. Not company he much minded, truth be told, though a place like this didn't seem the other man's speed.

Still, Cid wanted to enjoy as much as possible while they were here. And besides, from what he'd seen, Vincent could use some loosening up.

"Looks like it's you 'n me." He patted the other's shoulder, then dropped his hand to Vincent's elbow for a coaxing tug, his grin broad and a little lopsided. "C'mon! If we're gonna be out in the sun, might as well be seein' some sights."

[fromthe7thsidelines]

every time cloud & co are minigaming somewhere

[fromthe7thsidelines]

Loz had to stop short so he wouldn't walk past or run into the other, then met the eyes so similar to his in open honesty. 'Jenova'. The name did sound kind of like the shape of his mother in his fogged and fractured memory. That good-bad feeling came back, and one hand curled against his stomach; he wished he could grab that feeling and look at it, know what it was. "I think so..."

He saw the little shift on the other's face, like that same feeling was in both their stomachs now. Maybe this not-Sephiroth almost-stranger was still a sibling? Loz vaguely remembered having another brother who didn't look the same, who'd always been mad at them. It'd be nice if things were different this time.

They lied? Who lied? Jenova wasn't Sephiroth's mother? Did that mean she wasn't Loz's mother either? But then, who was? And why did the other look worried, or scared, or sad, when telling him not to find Sephiroth?

"Why not? You probably have family, right? A lot of people in the city do. ...I-I don't." Broad shoulders hunched a bit, stare flicking down again while they walked. "I had brothers, but they're gone and I can't remember them like other people. I had a mother, but now you're saying she wasn't mine. I just..." Welling tears spilled over, and Loz sniffed quietly. "I just want someone. I know I did a really bad thing, but I don't wanna do it again. It took my family away. Even Sephiroth's gone, so it doesn't matter if I tried to find him."

One hand still holding the tarp shut, his opposite lifted to scrub at his tears, though he wasn't able to stop them.

He did shiver at the cold wind fluttering past, but Loz still watched the person who seemed like Sephiroth. If the other wasn't Sephiroth, maybe he was like Loz? Not one of the siblings mentioned, but maybe something similar.

Loz found it surprising that the other didn't know him or anything about what he and his brothers had done. Everyone he'd met since waking up seemed to know at once, and never believed his confusion or his apologies. They probably had good reason, but it still hurt.

So when he was beckoned to follow, Loz's expression brightened noticeably. "Okay." His answer to that question, though, took more thinking while he followed after the other, still gripping his tarp against the persistent breeze. "He was really important for something. Something about our mother. But when I try to think about what it was..." Loz glanced down toward his own feet. "I get this feeling in my stomach that's not being hungry. It's... good but bad. Like I wanted that something to happen, but it wasn't a nice thing to want."

[fromthe7thsidelines]

Got it, friends! :D

(Thanks for all the little notes that was so funny to read!)

[fromthe7thsidelines]

He did shiver at the cold wind fluttering past, but Loz still watched the person who seemed like Sephiroth. If the other wasn't Sephiroth, maybe he was like Loz? Not one of the siblings mentioned, but maybe something similar.

Loz found it surprising that the other didn't know him or anything about what he and his brothers had done. Everyone he'd met since waking up seemed to know at once, and never believed his confusion or his apologies. They probably had good reason, but it still hurt.

So when he was beckoned to follow, Loz's expression brightened noticeably. "Okay." His answer to that question, though, took more thinking while he followed after the other, still gripping his tarp against the persistent breeze. "He was really important for something. Something about our mother. But when I try to think about what it was..." Loz glanced down toward his own feet. "I get this feeling in my stomach that's not being hungry. It's... good but bad. Like I wanted that something to happen, but it wasn't a nice thing to want."

Loz adjusted the tarp wrapped around himself, taken from the building he'd first awoken next to. Days of running and fighting had left the canvas with ragged edges and mostly weather stains. A bruise stood out near his hairline, stark on his pale forehead. He'd learned fast not to approach people, to try and hide - but this was Sephiroth, the only clear name in Loz's mind besides his own.

Or, it wasn't? Sephiroth was dead? But...

Still, Loz didn't back away. He did remember having more siblings, maybe the other was one of them! "Uh... talking, I guess. I did something really bad before." A hand rubbed over his forearm, tracing one of the patches of his broad wing-like 'birthmark'. "So everyone hates me. But I think I used to talk with my brothers; I miss it. And you didn't run away, or throw stuff at me."

[fromthe7thsidelines]

Zack Fair is one of the video game guys ever made. He's a sweetheart. He believes government propaganda. He commits multiple war crimes and says "Oh yeah!" afterwards. He joins newsletter fanclubs for people he knows in real life. His coworkers call him puppy dog to his face. He's the beating heart trapped under the floorboards of the narrative. One time he pretended to let a nine year old beat him up. He's a country hick and proud of it. He loved one unimportant loner man so hard that the entire story of final fantasy vii exists. He's a government experiment. He's in a book club.

[fromthe7thsidelines]

This joke could be told 500 times and it would never be enough for me

[fromthe7thsidelines]

The only other way he'd eat would be if one of the others in their merry group could be convinced to bring something into the room. But Roche had a feeling his dear Cloud wouldn't approve, for a few reasons, not least of which might be personal embarrassment. Endearing, yet to be indulged sometime later.

Roche's only answer to the muttered acquiescence was a quiet chuckle, as Cloud lingering on his lap didn't surprise him. In truth, it would've been more surprising if she hadn't. For all the bouts of standoffish bluster, his darling really was quite sweet.

Touch trailing away while Cloud arose, Roche stood as he took their hand. He lifted it to softly smiling lips for a kiss, then adjusted his hold for fingers to interlace once more. "I'm happy to remain in your sight for as long as you wish. And the only way to make good food better is good company." Another kiss, to Cloud's cheek again, and Roche led the way to the door. "Come, my darling. Let's see what this quaint town has to offer."

Time melted away into the rhythms of their breaths and hearts. They sat wrapped together in the tender dark of closed eyes, Roche's fingers idly combing back and forth through soft strands. On occasion, he still marveled at being allowed this close, wanted this close, for so much more than quick stress relief through sex or sparring. He wondered if Cloud knew how Roche would willingly rev high enough to shake apart, chassis to engine, for his sake. Maybe best if he didn't - though that determination remained tucked away just in case.

A low-lidded smile came easy when their foreheads met. Roche slipped his hand forward from Cloud's hair to cradle her cheek; he adored that sigh as much as the gentle shared warmth.

"I wouldn't say no to some food and drink," he admitted. "Though I'm loath to get up from this bed, unless you came with me."

[fromthe7thsidelines]

Cigarettes had done a bit of a number on his sense of smell, but Cid was pretty sure he still caught both the scent of the flowers and a lingering hint of leather from Vincent, half-masked by sunscreen. What he knew he caught for sure were those crimson eyes, one shot through with so much fiery gold it seemed to glow, even in the middle of the day. And damn, those long lashes...

Cid's smile didn't falter, despite the thudding of his heart. It helped to see a faint pink rising on Vincent's cheeks as well. Still, he sat back on his heels. The other man didn't seem to like folk crowding into his space, at least not for too long. Just because Cid itched to feel more of that soft skin under his palms, didn't mean he'd ignore boundaries to do it.

Besides, it was worth the retreat to watch that gentle touch to the flower and that pretty grin, with those interesting eyes still locked on him. Well shoot, a look like that made him want to spoil Vincent with anything soft and beautiful he could find, even when reason knew they were both too practical for so much excess. "Maybe," Cid chuckled, a tad flustered and sheepish. Guy like you's made for flowers; can't say the same for me.

He didn't break from their shared gaze until Vincent did so first.

His own blush deepening a bit, Cid took a habitual quick recount to make sure he'd gotten most of Vincent's exposed skin. A satisfied nod, then he handed over the sunscreen bottle. Turning, he settled in front of Vincent, knees bent up and elbows draped atop them.

"Thanks for this, by the by," Cid remarked over his shoulder after a quiet moment or two. He continued as his stare returned to his own idly fidgeting hands, "The sunscreen, yeah, but... the rest, too. I know I can get stubborn as an ogre when I got the bit in my beak."

He didn't regret any of it, not really. Even if he didn't know details, it was pretty clear Vincent had been alone for quite a while. If Cid could do even a little to welcome the man back to the world, he'd do it. He just also recognized on reflection that he'd been a mite pushy in getting them here.

| for @phantomyre-vincent-valentine |

Cid couldn't proper recall the last time he'd had a stopover long enough for relaxation, especially not since meeting Aerith and the whole merry band of misfits. But now here they were in Costa del Sol, probably the world's hottest vacation destination, with free time on their hands. The others were just as eager to take advantage, splitting off in pairs or trios until Cid was left standing near the docks with only Vincent. Not company he much minded, truth be told, though a place like this didn't seem the other man's speed.

Still, Cid wanted to enjoy as much as possible while they were here. And besides, from what he'd seen, Vincent could use some loosening up.

"Looks like it's you 'n me." He patted the other's shoulder, then dropped his hand to Vincent's elbow for a coaxing tug, his grin broad and a little lopsided. "C'mon! If we're gonna be out in the sun, might as well be seein' some sights."