Sephiroth doesn’t remember feeling this at peace for such a long time. His chest tightens subtly when he sees you, and this man is oblivious enough to not understand what it means.

You smile at him. And he likes it. You bring him stolen snacks from Shinra’s kitchen, or sometimes you make him a nice meal—something different from the monotonous whole-grain sandwiches they serve. Sephiroth sees you in the training areas now and then. Accidentally, of course. He would never go there on purpose just to see you.

No, never. And if anything, it’s just a coincidence.

There’s no need to lie—Sephiroth finds you a bit of a mild headache sometimes. Following him around persistently, murmuring in his ear. He mentioned you to Angeal. Barely, of course.

“Loud.” Sephiroth remarks, regarding your constant ramblings. Still, he doesn’t complain when the subtle flower crown is placed upon his head. Too colorful, he thinks. Too many roselilies, especially.

He heard from your own mouth that you grow flowers, despite Shinra’s harsh climate. They smell nice. Sephiroth looks at you for a moment longer. Longer than he should, actually.

The man doesn’t know if it bothers you. Some people find his green gaze intimidating. Do you? That’s not his intention. His pupils aren’t thin by choice. He hopes you don’t notice.

“You’re too close.” But even so, he doesn’t push you away.