Final Fantasy - All Series Fan Fiction ❯ The Search is Over ❯ The Search is Over ( Chapter 9 )

Note: I do not own Final Fantasy VII.

A/N: The song "The Search is Over" is by Survivor. Also, there is some sexual content in this chapter. Be warned.

Chapter 9: The Search is Over

 

Tifa sat silently as she stared out the window. It was raining heavily outside as streaks of water ran down the windowpane. News had spread quickly about their battle at the Northern Crater and all of AVALANCHE had shared their joy over the defeat of Sephiroth.

 

Cloud and Vincent were afraid that the Jenova cells in their bodies could be somehow used to revive Sephiroth. Those fears were eliminated with Nanaki's study of the cells infused in their bodies. Apparently, the Jenova cells Cloud and Vincent harbored had reverted to a dormant state. Cloud questioned Nanaki about how he and Vincent's cells were dormant while the other Jenova spawns had suffered under her control. Nanaki had no concrete evidence to support his theory, but he hypothesized that it was Cloud and Vincent's strong wills that kept them sane and fought off Jenova's influence. Though it was not a clear answer, it suited the two warriors enough.

 

Despite all the reassurances, they had all agreed to burn Sephiroth's body and scatter his ashes around the world, preventing him from ever regenerating. There would be no more resurrections or revivals of the menacing foe and AVALANCHE wanted complete assurance of his death. It had been a few days since that incident and Cloud and Tifa were back at their home in Kalm recuperating from the fight.

 

Since the battle, Tifa had kept quiet about the memories Sephiroth gave her. She wanted to talk to Cloud about them, but was hesitant to bring the subject up. Aeris told her to trust Cloud, but deep down Tifa had a fear; a fear that one of the memories was true.

 

Despite her efforts to hide her anxiety, Cloud sensed the uncertainty in his childhood friend. He watched Tifa as she gazed absent-mindedly out the window. They hadn't talked about what compelled her to go to the Northern Crater and jump, but Cloud knew that they had to talk about it or the problem would only decay inside Tifa's conscious until it rotted away at her soul.

 

Tifa heard Cloud slowly making his way towards her. She turned her head and smiled warmly as she saw him offering a cup of hot tea.

 

"Thanks Cloud," she said as she accepted the cup.

 

"You're welcome. But are you ready to talk?" Cloud asked.

 

"About what?" Tifa said innocently, trying to curb the subject.

 

"About what Sephiroth did to you. I know you didn't go to the Northern Crater on your own free will. You said something back then before you jumped, that you thought everyone hated you and you were going to bring Aeris back to life to make me happy," Cloud said while staring directly at Tifa.

 

"Yes, I guess I did say all of those things. When you left to go traveling around the world, I had these strange dreams. Aeris was in them; at least I thought it was Aeris. Turns out that it was actually Sephiroth in disguise, but I didn't learn that until too late. Do you know what he did to me Cloud?" Tifa asked calmly.

 

"No, Tifa. I don't know."

 

"Neither do I. But I think he did something to my memories, to make me only remember things that made it seem like everyone hated me. Did I ever slap you Cloud?"

 

"No, you've never hit me, well . . . not when we weren't sparring," Cloud answered honestly.

 

"If I didn't, then why do I distinctly remember having a huge argument with you and hitting you in the face. I can still see the anger in your eyes as plain as day," Tifa said desperately.

 

"Those were all illusions Tifa. Sephiroth probably planted them in your head to convince you to go to the Northern Crater. Trust me, you and I have never argued to the point where fists were raised. We're too close for that," Cloud said while putting a hand on her shoulder.

 

"Then, how close are we Cloud? How am I supposed to forget all these other strange memories that aren't supposed to be real?"

 

"I don't know how to answer that Tifa. All I can say is that they aren't real and you'll have to try and forget them. Probably once you see everyone again, you'll be able to drown out those memories Sephiroth gave you with real ones, ones that start with us chatting idly on a rainy day with a nice hot cup of tea."

 

Tifa smiled as she listened to Cloud giving her advice. What he said sounded plausible and could work. "There's one more question I'd like to ask. It's not really about my memories, but something that's been bothering me for a while."

 

"What is it?"

 

"Would you have done anything to bring Aeris back?" Tifa asked, too frightened to look into Cloud's eyes.

 

"Tifa, I would have done anything, but I wouldn't have relinquished your life for her return. Aeris was a good friend who sacrificed her life for us, for the whole planet. She deserved another chance, but I know now that she's in a better place. All I ever wanted was to atone for not being able to protect her like I promised. Did you know that she forgave me?"

 

"She spoke to you then? I'm glad that she forgave you. I never knew that you still felt guilty over her death," Tifa said relieved that the uncertainty of whether or not Cloud loved Aeris had been resolved.

 

"Yeah, I was. But she told me that she had to die to save the planet. It sounded crazy, but in the end made sense. She knew what she was doing and told me not to blame myself. I don't know how she does it, but she somehow has this gift of sensing what other people are feeling," Cloud said thoughtfully.

 

"Yes, I know exactly what you mean. Aeris said that you had something to tell me," Tifa said remembering her conversation with the flower-girl. "What is it?"

 

"She did?" Cloud asked with a nervous laugh.

 

"Uh-huh," Tifa nodded. "What do you need to tell me?"

 

"Well, er . . . I . . .," Cloud stuttered before breathing out heavily. "You know I've never been good with expressing myself, but if it'll help give you a memory to block out all the negative ones, I guess now is a better time than never. I've always felt like I've had to fight the whole world to get anything I want, even when you and I were kids back at Nibelheim. I'm not sure if you ever knew Tifa, but all my fights were to find a part of me that everyone could notice. I wanted to be the Cloud Strife that people respected and, well . . . loved," Cloud said the last word while stealing a cautious glance at Tifa.

 

Tifa merely sat and listened intently, trying to understand what Cloud was trying to say to her. She caught his eye as he glanced at her and her whole body shuddered as she felt her heart leap up in her chest. Why does he have that power over me?

 

"I guess you could say I was searching. Searching for a way to let people notice me, to respect me . . . especially someone very special. I was doing it so I could someday make this girl I know open her eyes to me one day and think, 'you know, I kinda like that Cloud Strife guy, he's really something,'" Cloud said nervously.

 

Tifa's heart felt like it was soaring as she hoped that the girl he was referring to was her. She had never thought that those childhood emotions he had for her were still alive today. Then, she suddenly remembered the song he wrote. The Search is Over. So he wasn't writing it for Aeris. He was writing it for me . . . but why does he need to search, I'm right here! Oh, please tell me that you're trying to say how much you love me. Please.

 

"I've felt like I've traveled for miles and fought countless battles trying to find the right time and the right place to show her how much I want her to care. I'm hoping that I can finally stop dreaming of my goal and reach out to hold it in my hands. I know I'm very close, in fact, I'm just a breath away that all I need to do is say the right words. Tifa . . . I don't know how to say it, but," Cloud said while taking one of her hands in his.

 

Cloud didn't get a chance to speak as he felt Tifa's finger softly silencing him. His face fell as he thought she was going to reject him before he even got to confess his feelings. But when he looked into her eyes, he saw them sparkling with joy and compassion.

 

"Cloud, your search is over. Because before your eyes is a girl who has always noticed you and who thinks you are the sweetest man she has ever met. If you're trying to tell me that you love me, then know that I've always loved you," Tifa said as she held Cloud's hand tightly to her heart and let her tears of joy fall freely from her face.

 

"God, Tifa. I'm so blind. I should have known that you loved me. It was right before my eyes," Cloud said while wiping away her tears.

 

Cloud held her tightly as he planted his lips on her forehead, caressing her soft skin. Tifa smiled brightly as she watched Cloud's lips quiver in anticipation and hunger. She closed her eyes and tilted her head up to receive her first kiss from the man who she would love for the rest of her life.

 

The couple broke from their kiss and hugged each other tightly. A gentle smiled tugged at Cloud's lips as he finally thought of the last lyrics that would go into his song. The song he was writing for Tifa.

 

"You know, I was going to tell you at Cid's wedding, but I'm glad I didn't wait," Cloud said while stroking her hair.

 

"I'm glad you didn't wait either," Tifa said while punching him lightly in the side.

 

She had always been waiting for this day since she realized her feelings for him as a young girl growing up in Nibelheim. His confession couldn't have come any sooner when her mind was in the deepest of doubts. This newfound love was something for her to build on; a true emotion she could say without a doubt is her and Cloud's. Tifa felt as if she had won a major battle in sorting out her memories with the new memories she was going to make. Aeris was right: she could trust Cloud.

 

"How long did you know?" Tifa asked.

 

"For as long as I can remember. You've always been on my mind, even when I wasn't sure who I was. How about you?"

 

"Same. But I don't think it really hit me until you left to join Solider. It was then that I knew for sure that I had it bad for a certain Cloud Strife," Tifa chuckled.

 

"You had it bad for me?" Cloud said shocked.

 

"Yes, couldn't you tell?" Tifa said blushing.

 

"Well . . . sort of, but I didn't think it was possible for you to fall in love with me. I've always hoped and dreamed, but now that it's real, I'm shocked," Cloud said laughing.

 

"This is not funny Cloud! Do you know how much I've agonized over you? You can be so dense sometimes," Tifa said happily.

 

"I'm dense! I'm not sure if you can remember this or if that was also one of the memories Sephiroth distorted, but it was the last night we had together before we fought Sephiroth. I was trying to tell you how much I loved you then and there, but I couldn't find the right words. Then you said that words weren't the only way to express someone's feelings. So I just came up and held you the rest of the night. I thought that was enough to let you know how much I cared. Looking back, I probably should have kissed you instead," Cloud said stealing another kiss from Tifa.

 

"I guess I'm dense as well. You're right: you should have kissed me. I would have definitely known then," Tifa said with a smile. "But that still doesn't explain how you couldn't tell that I liked you."

 

"Well, er, you see . . . Look! It's the flying pig!" Cloud shouted as he pointed out the window.

 

"The flying what?" Tifa said following his gaze.

 

Before the martial artist could look out the window, she felt herself being hoisted up upon Cloud's shoulders and carried triumphantly like a prize.

 

"Cloud Strife! You put me down this instant!" Tifa squealed.

 

"Hey, look what I got here. I caught me a Tifa," Cloud said in a goofy voice.

 

Tifa tried to kick and wiggle her way out of Cloud's firm grip, but her childhood friend was much stronger than she anticipated. Without warning, Cloud started to tickle her sides causing Tifa to burst out into laughter.

 

"Cloud . . . don't . . . you . . . dare! Put me down now!" Tifa said between fits of laughter.

 

"What, I didn't hear the magic word, Miss Lockheart," Cloud said, not yielding on his attacks.

 

"Please!" Tifa practically gasped out as tears started to form at the corner of her eyes.

 

Suddenly, Tifa felt herself being thrown onto a soft bed. Her sides still hurt with laughter and she slowly let her breathing return back to normal before she decided to retaliate. Once her breathing finally slowed, she noticed that she was in Cloud's room on Cloud's bed. She looked up to see Cloud kneeling by her side smiling sweetly down at her beautiful face.

 

"Are you trying to hint at something Mr. Strife?" Tifa asked while raising one of her eyebrows.

 

"Well, words aren't the only way to express one's feelings," Cloud said feigning ignorance.

 

"I'm not that dense," Tifa said while wrapping her arms around his neck and pulling him in for a kiss. "Though I have to say, you probably don't deserve it for tricking me and tickling me."

 

"Oh, I think I can convince you otherwise," Cloud said while climbing onto the bed ontop of Tifa.

 

There the couple lay in bliss, letting her emotions pour out through their kisses. Cloud's hands made their way under Tifa's shirt as his lips sneaked down to her neck. Tifa could feel her heart race as the reality of what was about to happen sunk into her mind. She knew that this was what she had always wanted.

 

Cloud's kisses grew more passionate and hungry as he reached around to Tifa's back to fiddle with the hook on her bra. Tifa let Cloud's feelings of love wash over her until a certain memory surfaced to her mind.

 

As Cloud unsnapped her bra, Tifa recalled lying on the cliffs of Midgar by Aeris's memorial. She remembered someone catching her before falling after having someone cast a sleep spell on her. It was Aeris who cast it, but then the person who she thought was Aeris was actually Sephiroth.

 

Then she recalled a faint memory of silver hair and green eyes glaring mockingly over her. The feeling of being violated surfaced to her consciousness and hit her hard like a freight train. All the places Cloud was touching had all been fondled by Sephiroth. Tifa tried to look into Cloud's loving blue eyes, but all she could see was the slanted eyes of Sephiroth's emerald green. She tried block out the horrid memory, but the pain of an innocence she could never reclaim was too deep of a scar to forget.

 

Tifa pushed Cloud back violently and gasped for air: panic written all over her face. Cloud looked confused as he felt himself jostled back from his newly acquired girlfriend.

 

"Tifa, what's wrong? Am I going too fast?" Cloud asked wide-eyed.

 

"No, it's not that. I just . . . ," Tifa paused as her lips quivered in fear. She immediately lunged forward and embraced Cloud in a deep hug letting her tears fall freely. "Oh, god Cloud! I remember. I remember what Sephiroth did to me."

 

"What did he do Tifa?" Cloud asked concerned, gently stroking her soft hair.

 

"He . . . he raped me Cloud," Tifa said in almost a whisper.

 

Cloud's body froze in shock at what he heard. He couldn't think or even breathe as Tifa's words slowly sank into his mind. It was a heavy weight that dragged his emotions from love to despair. Cloud's body shook in rage and he tried to subdue his anger by holding Tifa tightly. He knew that Tifa was the one in need right now and unfortunately he could not fight her fears for her nor did he have the power to make her forget.

 

"I'm so sorry Tifa. I should have been there for you. I should never have left you alone. None of this would have ever happened to you if I didn't leave," Cloud said holding the girl protectively.

 

"It's not your fault Cloud. It's not your fault. Just hold me right now, that's all I want," Tifa whispered into his ear.

 

Cloud did as Tifa wished, but still felt a pang of guilt over his best-friend and love's tragedy. He remembered what Sephiroth told him while taunting him in the Northern Crater and cursed himself for not killing the bastard then and there. But he didn't know what he had done or that it was this bad. Right now he wished that Sephiroth were alive so he could kill him again.

 

Tifa's crying had started to subside and she rested her head against Cloud's chest. This movement reminded Cloud about the raven-haired beauty he needed to comfort. He had already been the hero to the world and even to his one true love, but his work was still not done even with the death of Sephiroth. He needed to be the hero again and save the girl of his dreams from the mental anguish of Sephiroth's deeds.

 

"Everything's going to be alright Tifa. We don't have to do anything you're not ready for and if you ever need to cry on my shoulder; well . . . you already know where it is. But at least you killed the bastard," Cloud said softly.

 

Tifa laughed while sniffing away more of her tears. Yes, killing Sephiroth did feel good, and it felt even better knowing that Cloud was going to be there for her if she ever needed it. She wasn't sure how Cloud could always find the right words to cheer her up.

 

"Yes, I guess I did kill the bastard. Thank you. Thank you for considering my feelings."

 

"I'd do anything to make you happy and help you get through this. I don't want to do anything that would make you uncomfortable. Though, is it alright if I still kiss you?" Cloud asked cautiously.

 

"I think I can deal with kissing . . . and hugs. I always love your hugs. Thank you Cloud," Tifa said before planting a soft kiss on Cloud's lips.

 

"That's good. Cause I don't care how long we wait, as long as you're safe and happy," Cloud said lovingly.

 

"I know I will be. You're making me doubt those false memories enough to forget them, though I don't know if more images of what Sephiroth did to me will pop up. I hope you don't mind putting up with me," Tifa said tilting her head to the side.

 

"I don't consider this putting up with you . . . more like finding more ways and reasons why I should love you and hold you in my arms," Cloud said stealing another kiss from his love.

 

"Cloud, you always find a way to say the sweetest things," Tifa smiled.

 

"Cause you bring that out of me. But don't worry Tifa, I'm here for you. I promised to protect you and I always will," Cloud whispered to her before engaging in another passionate kiss.

 

The couple spent the rest of the day in each other's arms while talking about all their fears, hopes and dreams. They both spoke of their unrequited love for each other and laughed at themselves for not confessing it earlier. Peace seemed to settle over Kalm like a warm blanket as the night sky brought along sleep and dreams. Cloud and Tifa never left the bed that night as they both held each other and dreamt of the blissful future to come.

 

* * *

 

"I can't believe it's already time for the wedding," Tifa said while rushing to put on her earrings.

 

"I know, time certainly flies when you're having fun . . . or just hopelessly in love," Cloud smiled as he buttoned up his dinner jacket.

 

"You are so incorrigible," Tifa smiled while kicking him lightly in the butt.

 

"Come on, let's hurry before Cid bitches at us for not being there on time. After all, they are missing the Maid-of Honor and the Best-Man," Cloud said wrapping his arms around Tifa's waist and kissing the back of her head.

 

The pair held hands while they made the short trek from the Rocket Town Inn to the small church where the wedding was being held. They had decorated the small church with beautiful flowers that Elmyra grew from her own garden. Every member of AVALANCHE had come to witness the first marriage of one of their comrades. They were even able to convince Vincent to dress in a tuxedo for the occasion.

 

Probably the most shocking occurrence that took place during the wedding was Cid's appearance. Shera had somehow convinced him to get a haircut and shave. Most of his friends didn't recognize him without his signature pilot goggles and cigarettes strapped to his head. For the first and probably last time in his life, Cid Highwind looked distinguished.

 

"Wow, Cid! I've got to hand it to ya, you really do look good in a tux," Cloud said while all the men waited in a room behind the altar for the ceremony to start.

 

"Yeah, I look like a big ape wit dis' suit, but you looks good," Barret added.

 

"Oh shut-up you two! And don't you two think about saying a god-damned word about my appearance either," Cid said as he pointed an accusing finger at Vincent and Reeve.

 

"I wasn't going to," the man said stoically.

 

"Don't look at me, I was keeping my mouth shut. But seriously, you do look good," Reeve responded.

 

"Yeah, don't get too cozy with this look. I'm tearing out of this get-up once the wedding's over," Cid said while tugging at his collar. "Why do they have to make these things so fucking tight?"

 

"Ease up, it's just your wedding day," Cloud teased.

 

"Shut-up cocksucker! You know, you're a lousy Best-Man. I should have asked vampy to do the honor, at least he wouldn't be pissing out stupid shit from his mouth," Cid cursed.

 

"Mr. Highwind, if I hear you curse or make another vulgar comment today, I will have to take drastic measures. Today is a special day for both you and Shera and you are going to abide by the rules to do everything in your power to make her happy, including keeping your mouth clean, is that understood," Vincent said raising his voice.

 

"Whatcha gonna do, shoot me?" Cid replied angrily.

 

Vincent responded by swiftly pulling out a gun from under his dinner jacket and pointing it right between Cid's eyes. Barret, Reeve and Cloud were all speechless as they watched the former Turk use his 'negotiation' skills. None of them had ever seen Vincent joke around and Cid knew that the man was not one for humor. Raising his hands up defensively, Cid stared helplessly down the barrel of Vincent's gun and merely nodded his head in reply.

 

"Good, now that we're clear on that, it's time we head out for the wedding," Vincent said calmly while replacing the gun in its holster.

 

The five men made they way in front of the altar, each eyeing Vincent nervously. They stood and watched as each bridesmaid walked up the aisle. First came Yuffie who took the time to actually appear feminine, followed by Elmyra and Cait Sith dressed in a bridesmaid dress.

 

"What happened to Shera's friend? I thought she was the other bridesmaid?" Cloud whispered to Reeve.

 

"She twisted her ankle so I put in Cait Sith as a replacement. Don't worry. Shera's friend is actually operating him. You can see her with the control device sitting on the bride's side. Turns out that she loves gadgets," Reeve answered with a blush.

 

Cloud merely responded with a quiet 'oh' as he turned his attention to Shera's Maid-of-Honor, Tifa Lockheart. She looked striking in the lavender dress clinging to her body. Tifa smiled as she saw Cloud staring at her. Oddly enough, the couple both though the same thing as Tifa took her careful steps toward the altar: this was practice.

 

Marlene and Nanaki finished the procession as Marlene threw flowers along the ground and Nanaki proudly carried the pillow with the two rings. Suddenly, the 'Wedding March' blared through the church as everyone stood to greet the blushing bride.

 

Cid's mouth nearly fell to the floor as he watched Shera being escorted in by her father. She had ditched her wide-rimmed glasses for contacts and wore a beautiful ball-gown dress that made her appear to float into the church. No one, not even her future husband, had ever seen her so gorgeous before.

 

The moment even made Vincent smile as the couple took their place in front of the altar and were married. Either through Vincent's threat or Shera's enchantment, Cid never cursed once during the vows. Yuffie was starting to get so emotional; she almost used her bouquet of roses to blow her nose. Perfect could hardly describe how the ceremony went and it was about to get even more enjoyable as the church emptied out to the nearest restaurant for the reception honoring Mr. and Mrs. Highwind.

 

The restaurant was filled to capacity with relatives and friends wishing the couple their best. Cid and Shera looked like the average newlywed couple as they held hands and kissed: actions that shocked friends who knew the pair. Miraculously, Cid listened to Vincent and did not utter a single vulgarity or curse. However, the pilot still kept his habit of smoking, something even Vincent's threats could not prevent.

 

Though the room was crowded with people, Vincent managed to find a quiet corner where he observed the festivities. The stoic man silently nursed his glass of red wine and watched how everyone was laughing and drinking. It had been a long time since he had seen so many people enjoying themselves; so long ago that Vincent forgot what to do in these situations. The sound of footsteps alerted his attention to another presence in his vicinity.

 

"You should be out there having fun," Cloud motioned to the crowd.

 

"Perhaps after I've had enough to drink I will. But why aren't you out there Cloud?"

 

"Yuffie found out about Tifa and I. Right now she's talking Tifa's ear off asking questions about when it happened and how far we've gone with each other," Cloud rolled his eyes.

 

"Yes, the girl has no social skills. But Tifa does seem much happier now. You definitely are a good man."

 

"I'm only doing what my heart told me," Cloud sighed. "Do you think you'll ever fall in love again? I know how much it hurt losing Lucrecia."

 

"If I find the right girl, perhaps. But I don't think anyone would want to be bound to me. No one would want to see their husband out live them," Vincent said sadly.

 

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have asked, I forgot about that," Cloud nervously scratched his head.

 

"No, don't be Cloud. My worries are not for you to carry. Besides, I'm sure love will creep its way into my heart somehow. I certainly wouldn't fight it if I were to fall in love again. Though loving Lucrecia brought me much misery, it also gave me the most memorable moments of my life."

 

"Yeah, I know. It certainly is a wonderful thing when you have it."

 

"And I know that you will cherish that love with Tifa as Cid will with Shera," Vincent said patting Cloud warmly on the back.

 

"Speaking of which, were you really going to shoot Cid?"

 

Vincent stared at Cloud for a second before removing the gun from his jacket. With a flick of his wrist he twisted it around so the butt of the gun faced Cloud and ejected the clip into Cloud's hands. Cloud looked inside the clip to find no bullets inside.

 

"It was empty!"

 

"I'm no fool to carry a loaded gun around when I intend to get intoxicated," Vincent replied while taking a sip from his wine. "Though the look on Cid's face was priceless."

 

Cloud roared with laughter and returned the clip to Vincent. The gunslinger quickly replaced the gun in its holster and finished his wine in one large gulp.

 

"Before I get some more wine and start making a fool out of myself, isn't it about time for your performance?" Vincent asked while walking towards the drink bar with Cloud in tow.

 

"Oh shit! I almost forgot it was that time," Cloud cursed while looking down at his watch.

 

Vincent watched Cloud bob and weave through the crowd until he got to the band. He merely shook his head and smiled, "Young love. What blissful naivete."

 

"So Tifa? How did he ask you? I mean, did he like kiss you first or something or did you ask him? How did it go?" Yuffie's violet eyes eagerly asked.

 

"Well, we both sort of said it at the same time. At least, that's what it felt like."

 

"Is he a good kisser?"

 

"Yes, he is," Tifa blushed.

 

"Oh, what else? Tell me all the juicy details," Yuffie asked while leaning her ear closer to her friend.

 

"Yuffie! I'm not going to tell you all that! That's for Cloud and I to know," Tifa said embarrassed.

 

"Aw, come on! You can tell me. It's not like I was gonna tell anyone," the young ninja pouted.

 

"That's personal," Tifa said while trying to find a way to curb the subject.

 

Yuffie still persisted in her pleas, leaving Tifa with little room to escape the barrage of questions. Her eyes suddenly caught sight of Reeve with Cait Sith talking to Shera's friend with the broken ankle.

 

"Oh Yuffie, look at Reeve over there! He looks like he's getting quite friendly with Shera's friend," Tifa quickly said while pointing.

 

Yuffie momentarily let up on her onslaught of questions and looked over to where Reeve was. Her eyes sparkled with a mischievous fire as she saw Reeve pick up Shera's friend in his arms and carry her out to the dance floor.

 

"Oh, I think Reeve is in looove!" Yuffie said childishly.

 

"Yes, I think he might be," Tifa replied, relieved to have finally distracted the girl.

 

She scanned the room again hoping to find Cloud. She wanted to get back at him for leaving her with Yuffie's constant badgering. Her eyes finally fell on the band and she watched curiously as Cloud took a seat at the piano and started adjusting the microphone.

 

"What is he up to?" she muttered under her breath.

 

Cloud tapped on the microphone twice to make sure it was on and smiled as the sound of a shrill whine reverberated through the restaurant. Everyone in the restaurant started to turn their heads toward the band, wondering in anticipation at what event was going to take place.

 

"Good evening ladies and gentlemen. It is my honor to be here as Cid and Shera's Best-Man and tonight I'd like to play a song for them. If the lovely couple would please make their way up to the stage please."

 

Cid and Shera rose from the table where they sat and walked hand in hand to the dance floor. Shera was still glowing from the ceremony and Cid forced himself not to scowl at Cloud for bringing him in front of all his wedding guests.

 

"Now, normally the Best-Man is supposed to give a speech about the couple and all this other stuff, but I decided to write them a song. Actually, to be honest with you, the song isn't just for them. I also wrote this song for a very special person in my life who is with us here tonight. Tifa? Could you come up to the front please?"

 

Tifa's face flustered with embarrassment as everyone parted to give her room to walk to the dance floor. She gave Cloud a questioning look, but he merely scooted over on the piano bench and motioned for her to sit next to him. Partly covering her beet-red face, Tifa quickly walked over to Cloud.

 

"What are you doing?" she whispered, refusing to sit down.

 

"Ladies and Gentlemen. This is Tifa Lockheart. Let me tell you a little something about this girl. She's absolutely amazing. She's so amazing, that I had to write a song for her, about how much I love her," Cloud said, addressing the crowd.

 

Tifa smiled and looked down at the ground flustered as she watched him say those last lines while looking straight at her. Cloud motioned for her to sit once more and she obeyed, knowing full well that he would never stop talking to the audience until she did.

 

"Tifa, I wrote this song as Cid and Shera's wedding song, but I'd like to dedicate it to you," Cloud spoke into the microphone as he slowly placed his hands on the keys.

 

The soft melody resonated out of the piano and Tifa instantly recognized it as the piece she played when Cloud left on his trip. It sounded even more beautiful than she remembered. She had wondered what the lyrics were to the song, but her questions were shortly answered as Cloud began to sing to the harmonious music.

 

How can I convince you what you see is real

Who am I to blame you for doubting what you feel

I was always reachin', you were just a girl I knew

I took for granted the friend I have in you

I was living for a dream, loving for a moment

Taking on the world, that was just my style

Now I look into your eyes

I can see forever, the search is over

You were with me all the while

Can we last forever, will we fall apart

At times it's so confusing, these questions of the heart

You followed me through changes and patiently you'd wait

Till I came to my sense through some miracle of fate

I was living for a dream, loving for a moment

Taking on the world, that was just my style

Now I look into your eyes

I can see forever, the search is over

You were with me all the while

Now the miles stretch out behind me

Loves that I have lost

Broken hearts lie victims of the game

Then good luck it finally struck

Like lighting from the blue

Every highway leading me back to you

Now at last I hold you, now all is said and done

The search has come full circle

Our destinies are one

So if you ever loved me

Show me that you give a damn

You'll know for certain

The man I really am

I was living for a dream, loving for a moment

Taking on the world, that was just my style

Then I touched your hand, I could hear you whisper

The search is over, love was right before my eyes.

 

Cloud finished the last chord on the piano never once breaking his gaze with Tifa's eyes. He could see them water with tears. He was about to ask if she liked it when he felt two arms wrap around his neck and her soft lips planted firmly on his. Cloud returned the kiss and tried to ignore the applause from the crowd now filling his ears.

 

Tonight was certainly a night for love. Cid and Shera both treasured the song, but not as much as Tifa did. Eventually as the night wore on, couples and friends alike all lived in the enchantment of the wedding's loving bliss.

 

"That was such a beautiful wedding," Tifa sighed as she kicked her heels off.

 

"Yeah, everything was perfect, the food, the wine . . . the company," Cloud smiled.

 

"Yes, everything was perfect, even the music. Thank you for the song," Tifa said before kissing him.

 

"It was the least I could do."

 

"Perhaps I should find some sort of reward for you?" Tifa said raising her eyebrow.

 

"Like what? A medal? I don't need that. I have you right here in my arms and that's all I ask for."

 

"Good, cause I'm not leaving your side anytime soon. In fact, I think I'll just stay here forever. It's quite comfortable."

 

"Yeah, well you'll have to leave it eventually if you want to change out of those clothes. I need to get this tux off; I'm about to suffocate. So do you want the bathroom or should I take it?" Cloud asked while untangling his bow tie.

 

"We don't need to change in the bathroom tonight," Tifa said softly while staring up at Cloud's eyes.

 

"What? What do you mean by that?"

 

"Cloud . . . look at me," Tifa said before reaching around her back and slowly unzipping her lavender dress.

 

"Tifa! Are you sure . . . I mean, are you ready?" Cloud asked with a look of shock.

 

"Yes. I know what I want. I'm a big girl and I think I'm ready for this. I'm also strong and know I can get over what Sephiroth did to me. Plus, after the performance you did tonight, how could I not want to? Now are you just going to stand there and gawk or do you want to do the honors?" Tifa asked holding her dress straps to make sure they didn't fall off yet.

 

Cloud merely nodded before he put his hands on Tifa's, tugging on her dress straps until they fell down effortlessly to the ground. He swallowed hard as he gazed upon her body for the first time. She was breath taking. They kissed and made short work of Cloud's clothing and the rest of Tifa's, spurned on by their own love and desire.

 

"Are you sure you want to go through with this?" Cloud asked while hovering over Tifa's quivering form.

 

"Yes, I'm sure. Just, be gentle," Tifa said with a hint of nervousness.

 

"Stop me if you don't want to go through with it."

 

Tifa merely nodded in reply as she closed her eyes and let Cloud take her over. She gasped as she felt him sink deeper and let her arms encircle his muscular back. She could feel his hot breath on her neck as one of her hands found its way to his spiky hair. Tifa tried to open her eyes, but only closed them again with the mounting ecstasy.

 

Suddenly, her body began to shake with fear as her mind wandered to a painful memory. She could see the eyes of Sephiroth staring down at her. Tifa squeezed her eyes shut, but the image was still clear in her mind. Gasping for breath, she almost screamed out in terror and pushed Cloud off of her body, but she didn't want to lose to Sephiroth again.

 

Those aren't green eyes; this body isn't menacing and hurtful. These kisses are loving, not forced. I'm with Cloud; I will overcome my fears and love him. We will make love to each other. We will have children with each other. We will grow old together.

 

The memory eventually vanished as Tifa fought her mental battle. She felt her body tense with joy and elation as the enjoyment of their lovemaking resurfaced. She hardly noticed the tears streaming down her face. Tears over the flashback of being raped, but also tears for overcoming her tragedy.

 

However, Cloud did notice the tears and stopped what he was doing.

 

"Tifa, are you alright?" he asked, worry etched on his face.

 

"Yes, I'm fine. I'm strong, I overcame," Tifa sniffed back a few tears.

 

"We can stop if this is too much."

 

"No, it's not. I'm over it now Cloud. I fought my fears and won. I don't want to live in fear of not being able to fully love you. Just, don't stop," Tifa said while tenderly kissing his earlobe.

 

Cloud breathed out short breaths, unable to resist Tifa's petting. He was still concerned for her, but she was insistent on going through with this. Cloud had never said 'no' to her before and he wasn't about to stop tonight.

 

"You certainly have a way to convince me. But if you're starting to remember again, please let me know. I don't want to hurt you," Cloud said gently while kissing her lips.

 

"You won't hurt me. I trust you," Tifa said while pulling him closer to her body.

 

Cloud was still hesitant to continue, but Tifa convinced him otherwise as she pushed him onto his back and let herself take control. He didn't complain as he let the pleasure surge through his body. Tifa banished her painful memories and created new passionate ones as she moaned softly into Cloud's ear. She felt herself melding with Cloud's as their bodies locked in a tango of passion. This was how love was meant to be.

 

Nothing could unbind the fervent love that these two possessed. Seconds felt like minutes as throes of passion rushed through their bodies like a stampede. The couple lay with their fingers intertwined, as the only sounds were their pacing hearts and heavy breathing. They had consummated their relationship and delved down into the very depths of each other's souls.

 

Cloud gently kissed the top of Tifa's head as she lay peacefully on his chest. "You're so beautiful."

 

"Flatterer," Tifa said before arching her head up to give him a kiss.

 

"It's the truth. I must be the luckiest guy on the planet to have a girl like you."

 

"I feel even luckier to have such a compassionate boyfriend. I love you Cloud," Tifa said while staring deeply into his eyes.

 

"I love you too Tifa. I always will," Cloud said before kissing her.

 

The night sky had never shone more brightly than tonight. There was only one day where it may have shone brighter when over five years ago, two young teenagers from Nibelheim made a promise under the stars. Today, those same stars smiled blissfully for those same two people as they slept together in a loving embrace.

 

(continued…)