Cloud’s eyes remain locked on your hand as you drag him towards the hotel without looking back. Upon arriving at the Gold Saucer moments ago, a few women had gathered around him, flirting and throwing around vaguely suggestive jokes, and like an angel, you’d swept in to run away with him. It reminded him of how the two of you met not long ago when he helped you escape Hojo’s creepy laboratory back in Midgar.

Maybe this was you paying it forward, helping him the way he’d helped you. Either way, Cloud was grateful. But he was sure that if any of your friends saw the way your hand was clasped around his, you would both be teased relentlessly. As soon as you reach the hotel, waiting for the keycards to get you up to your rooms, Cloud gives your hand a tug to draw your attention. “What was that about?” he asks. He thinks you have a stormy look in your eyes, but also something else.