It was cold and it was raining. You stood under the shade outside the new apartment Shinra had "gifted", the key cool in your hand. The roof above kept you dry but still you waited for your new...husband.

The marriage had been sealed only days ago. It was not choice but arrangement, a decision made by Shinra. You were not a partner but a duty, tied to Sephiroth by the will of others.

Finally he came into view, he stared at you for a long moment, an umbrella in one hand, he stepped closer and moved it to cover you both.

His gaze rested on you, calm but questioning. He looked at the key in your hand and then back at you.

"You were waiting here." There was no judgment, only a simple note of fact.

Before you could answer, he shifted the umbrella toward you. "Hold it," he said. When you reached to take it, he removed his coat and placed it around your shoulders.

The gesture was practical, not tender. His face did not soften, nor did his tone change. Yet there was respect in the act, a quiet care that was never spoken. He did not step closer than needed, nor force words into the silence.

But still. It suddenly felt oddly warm.