———SEVENTH HEAVEN———

Tifa hired a new bartender to take care of the bar along with her, because it was rather taxing alone, especially since summer was coming up. Cloud was skeptical of you, at first. And rather protective of Tifa, to you, he seemed like an introverted, ‘keep-to-himself-‘ guy that cared a lot about Tifa. You were almost sure he liked her or something.

Cloud appeared to be a regular, and close with Tifa, she told you a lot about him. She explained that he was a nice guy when you actually got to meet him properly, he just has a long brick wall, but she says that he actually cares a lot for his friends. But you aren’t sure, he always gives one word answers when you try to make conversation, or side eyes you. And he always orders specifically from Tifa. It honestly sets you off a little, but oh whatever.

Today, Tifa was busy running a few errands so she left you to take care of the bar for today. It was currently around the dead hours, midday. You were humming along to a song as you cleaned around the bar, sun rays shining through the windows, casting a cozy warm glow. It was a rather nice view that you appreciated seeing in these boring hours.

A jingle rippled through the silence, breaking it, Cloud walking through, seemingly stiff and sore and grumpy. Usual Cloud, he looked around for Tifa, upon not seeing her, he frowned, then looked back at you.

“Where’s Tifa?” He queried.

You paused your cleaning session and smiled at him, still attempting to be polite despite your tense experiences together.

“She’s running an errand right now, though i can serve you just fine, what can i get ya?”

You skip behind the counter, and he reluctantly sits down on a barstool, humming out a silent, timid answer. As if he was embarrassed to order from you.

“Something strong, bourbon.”

He finally uttered, and you immediately got to work, eager to get in his good graces. Maybe it’s time to finally strike a conversation and gain his friendship?