Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Cloud digs around in his pocket, looking for the lighter he knows is somewhere in there. He was going to try and stop smoking, but now that he’s got a job at Club Shinra, there doesn't seem to be a point–everyone smokes all night anyway. He'll try to quit again later. Maybe. For now, he needs something to take the edge off.

When he finally finds his lighter deep in his back pocket, he sighs and stops walking, pausing at a corner to light up. The first drag hits his lungs and he takes a deep breath, sucking in as much nicotine as he can. He holds it for a few moments and then lets it go, watching as the smoke dances in front of him for a moment before it disappears.

Today is the first day of Cloud's new job as a host. It's not like it’s a hard job to get; really, anyone who wants to try it can probably get a host job somewhere. Still, Cloud was genuinely surprised when he had gotten hired at Club Shinra. It’s the biggest host club in Midgar, and it’s rumored that Shinra hosts bring in millions of Gil every night.

Cloud never thought he would get a job working as a host, but times had been hard, and working as a bartender wasn't paying the bills anymore. He knows what people think of hosts, he knows that it isn’t as glamorous as some people make it out to be, but it isn’t like he has much of a reputation to keep anyway.

Both of his parents are dead, he had run out of money to study for his mechanic's license, and most of his friends had moved on to bigger and better things. He had started working as a bartender a few months ago, and after having a long conversation with one of his regulars, who was working as a host, he thought he would give it a try.

He had gone home that night and scrolled through pages and pages of the different host clubs in Wall Market, Midgar’s red light district, trying to decide which one looked appealing. On every page, there was an advertisement for Club Shinra. Cloud decided that he would start at the top and work his way down. He was sure he wouldn't get hired, but after going in for an interview, he was hired on the spot.

Admittedly, he doesn’t know a lot about being a host. Talk to women, drink a lot of alcohol, and make some money. Beyond that, he doesn’t know what he’s getting himself into. The thought of making millions of gil is appealing though, so why not give it a go?

He throws his cigarette on the ground, stepping on it to put it out, and then continues his walk towards the club and his new life as a Wall Market host.

~~

He calls the elevator on the ground floor. Club Shinra is on the 8th floor of a huge building covered in billboards and lights. There are buildings like this all over Wall Market, most of them housing a couple of different clubs, but this building is definitely one of the grandest.

The elevator doors open and Cloud is instantly blasted with a mix of scents that he will come to understand is so uniquely “Host Club”. It is the scent of women’s perfume, alcohol, and tobacco. There is no other way to explain it, but every single elevator in Wall Market smells the same and serves as a good reminder to Cloud about what he is about to get himself into.

~~

The elevator dings and Cloud takes a deep breath. It's now or never. The smell is even stronger when he approaches the doors, but it isn't as musty as in the elevator, and Cloud thinks it almost smells good.

He walks into the club expecting to hear music, but it is still pretty early, so it is almost dead silent but for some voices. He glances over at the poster on the wall right by the entrance that displays the current top players. He pauses for a moment to take a closer look.

Displayed at the top is the infamous Sephiroth. He’s the biggest earner in all of the eastern continent, not just Midgar. His long silver hair and striking green eyes are just so… alluring. It's easy to see why he's number 1.

Honestly speaking, it had been Sephiroth that really pulled Cloud's attention in the first place. Cloud knew he was bisexual from a very young age, but he's sure that even a straight guy would be able to understand why Sephiroth was the best of the best. He looks like he was made in a lab.

“Are you Cloud?”

Cloud jumps at the voice coming from behind him and swirls around to see none other than Sephiroth standing in front of him.

Cloud opens and closes his mouth a few times, trying to find words to answer this stunning man in front of him. He is so much taller than Cloud had realized, and the pictures didn't do his body justice at all. The way his suit hugs all his muscles shouldn't even be allowed. And his skin… He must be wearing makeup or something. Cloud can practically feel how soft and smooth it is just by looking at it. How is this guy even real?

“A host that can't talk? This shift might be your first and your last.”

The scoff in Sephiroth's voice is not lost on Cloud, bringing him back to reality. Shit. He’s blown it already.

Cloud mentally shakes himself and finds his voice, feeling like a complete idiot.

“Sorry. Just… trying to take it all in. Yes. I’m Cloud,” he finally manages to say.

Sephiroth looks at him with a raised eyebrow, clearly not convinced at all. Cloud shifts nervously on the spot, not sure what he is supposed to do now. After a few excruciating moments, Sephiroth sighs and turns his back.

“Follow me, Newbie.”

Cloud doesn't say anything but quickly follows behind him, silently kicking himself for being such a moron right in front of such an important person. Unable to help himself, Cloud notices that Sephiroth looks good even from the back, his suit moving with his shoulder blades, and a whiff of delectable cologne follows after him.

The hallway they walk down has a few doors along the way; washrooms, the kitchen, and a utility closet. Cloud tries to take it all in and make some mental notes as to where everything is. He knows that as a new host, he will likely be doing a lot of running around until he gets some of his own regular customers to tend to.

He also notes the variety of keep bottles decorating the walls. Locked behind big glass cabinets that line the hallway, customers often buy “keep bottles” to show off their wealth. Many of the bottles come in stylish shapes like shoes, stars, and diamonds. These bottles are kept at the table every time a customer comes to the club, and they signal to other customers, “I have money.” Cloud squints as they walk by and tries to read some of the tags hanging on the necks of the bottles. Most of the tags have Sephiroth’s name on them, and he isn’t surprised—he’s number one after all.

Suddenly Sephiroth speaks, making Cloud jump slightly.

“Your hair looks awful,” Sephiroth says, not looking behind him or breaking his stride.

What the fuck is this guy's issue? Isn't he supposed to be charming? Cloud knows that his hair doesn't look great, but starting as a host had cost way more money than he thought. He knows that most hosts get their hair done at a salon before work, but there is no way Cloud can afford that yet.

He had spent most of the money he had on two new suits and his business cards. The guy at the shop had shown him all the different business cards he could get made, but they were way more expensive than Cloud had ever predicted, so he just went the cheapest route and used the basic design for Club Shinra and got his name printed on it.

Hosts never use their real names, so Cloud decided that his Host name would be Sky—original right?

After the business cards and the suits, there was nothing left, so Cloud did what he could with his hair by himself. His spikey blonde hair is almost untameable, but he doesn’t think it looks awful.

Cloud huffs quietly but doesn't say more, not wanting to give Sephiroth any more excuses to point out how bad he is at this already.

Finally they make it to the backroom, the same room that Cloud had interviewed in. A handful of guys are hanging out there, getting ready for their night.

“Puppy,” Sephiroth calls from the doorway. A young guy with dark hair styled into spikes looks over at the doorway and smiles. Cloud recognizes him from the interview, he's one of the hosts that helps manage the club, and Cloud is pretty sure that he saw him on the wall of top players.

“Your new chew toy is here,” Sephiroth says with a coy smile before he gracefully turns on his heel and saunters off back down the hallway, one hand lazily in his pocket. Cloud scowls after him for a moment before returning his attention to the man now approaching him.

What was his name again? Zack but… in the club, he goes by something else. Something really cool, something that Cloud recalls thinking didn't match his friendly and outgoing personality—but hosts tend to have their personas while on the job.

“Hey!” The man says as he holds one arm out in greeting. Cloud awkwardly slips into his side hug, and he is soon being pulled further into the room. “How are you feeling? Ready to get started?”

Clouds eyes dart around the room trying to take in his surroundings. One might think that host clubs would be dark and grimy, but the fluorescent lights are bright, and the entire place looks clean and orderly.

On one wall there are a bunch of black lockers, some of them hanging open, and Cloud can see some bags, clothes, and umbrellas stowed inside. There are some tables to one side as well with mirrors on the wall.

“This is the staff area. Here, you can use this locker.” Zack’s voice brings him back to the present. He keeps getting lost in his own head. He really needs to stop doing that.

Cloud nods as Zack leads him to an empty locker. As Cloud is putting his bag inside, some guys walk up to him. Maybe Sephiroth was right about his hair… Everyone looks stylish. Like models.

“Hey Newbie! I’m Angeal, but around here I'm known as The Stallion.”

Cloud gazes at the man in front of him. He's tall and broad, his arm muscles as big as a small tree trunk. Cloud gulps as he takes the outstretched hand in front of him, doing his best to not seem as intimidated as he feels. He doesn't need to ask why he's called The Stallion. You know what they say about big hands.

“I’m the supervisor of this club, so I’m not working out on the floor too much, but I’m always around if you need anything,” The Stallion says warmly as he releases Cloud’s hand and walks back to where he had been sitting. Cloud didn't notice that there was a desk in the corner with a computer, which is now being used by Angeal.

Cloud’s attention is quickly diverted back to the men who had come over to introduce themselves. Cloud feels a little overwhelmed at that moment, but mentally reminds himself that he has signed up to do a job that is mostly just talking to people. This feels different though. He feels like he's a new menu item and everyone's gathering around to take a look. Do they all think his hair looks awful, too?

“I’m Rude, and this is Reno.”

Cloud looks between both of them and does his best to flash a smile. “Hey,” he manages to breathe out as he shakes both their hands.

Is everyone here ripped? Rude looks like he never misses the gym, either. Although his muscles aren't as huge as The Stallions, they’re nothing to laugh at either. He was a bit taller than Cloud, bald, and for some reason was wearing sunglasses even though they were inside.

Reno looks a bit slimmer but very clearly hits up the gym, too. He has vibrant firetruck red hair that Cloud first thinks is short until he realizes that a majority of it is in a ponytail falling down his back. He has two tattoos under his eyes, two black lines that Cloud thinks look pretty cool, actually.

He had been told that it is better not to have such unique features like dyed hair or tattoos when you become a host because it makes you polarizing to certain customers, but Reno may never have gotten that memo.

“You’re gonna be hanging out with us and Zack fer awhile, bud,” Reno says, clapping his hand on Cloud’s shoulder. “We’ll show you the ropes,” he adds with a wink.

“I look forward to it,” Cloud says, willing himself to relax and lean into everyone's warm welcome. He doesn't miss that neither of them gave him their real name, but he assumes that maybe some people want to keep it private even from the other hosts.

He next turns to the man standing next to them. He looks even bigger than Angeal somehow. Who was this? The Goliath? Cloud smirks despite himself.

“Somethin’ funny newbie?” The man says. His voice is deep and Cloud isn't sure if he's being playful or serious, so he quickly fixes his face and gives a more apologetic smile instead.

“No. Sorry, I just think I’m gonna have to get a gym membership to keep up with everyone around here. I’m Cloud–er—Sky, I guess.”

At that, the man lets out a barking laugh. “You definitely could use s’more meat on those skinny bones! The name’s Barret, but I go by Duke around here. Prolly best t’just remember our host names while you’re new. Don't wanna be slippin up in front of customers.”

Cloud nods. The only host that Cloud knows of who doesn't use a fake name is Sephiroth. It’s pretty common knowledge for anyone in the nightlife. Sephiroth has a very famous father who works for a big pharmaceutical company, and the word on the street is that Sephiroth uses his real name to spite his father, whom he doesn't have a good relationship with.

He makes some small talk with Zack and Duke for a few minutes before Duke says he needs to go finish getting ready and Cloud watches as he makes his way over to one of the tables. Cloud frowns and looks down at himself. He thought that he looked okay when he left his place earlier, but now he's thinking maybe Sephiroth was right—and it isn't just his hair.

Expensive suits aside, everyone is wearing designer watches, earrings, rings and necklaces. Their hair is perfectly in place, so they all probably pay for their hair to be done before work every day, Cloud thinks. He needs to start making more money before he can do that, so what he has will have to do for now. Surely they all started the same way he had.

“There are a few more people you need to meet, but they’re out with customers right now,” Zack says, leaning against the lockers next to Cloud’s, looking pensive before suddenly perking up. “Oh! That reminds me! My hostname is Fenrir! I can’t remember if I told ya!”

Ah. Yes, that's what it was.

Zack reaches his hand to nervously scratch at his hair. “Everyone calls me puppy, so I figured Fenrir would be a cool dog name, ya know?”

Cloud smiles. Zack really does give off puppy vibes, but Cloud is thankful for it. He can feel himself relaxing the longer he stays with Zack and hopes that he can stay away from Sephiroth for the rest of the night if possible.

“Sephiroth wanted me to name myself Hachiko, like ya know the dog?? But Fenrir is way cooler don't you think?”

Letting out a small laugh, Cloud shakes his head. “Fenrir is definitely a better choice.” He ponders for a moment before continuing, “Sephiroth is kind of…well.” He instantly regrets saying anything about Sephiroth because now he doesn't know how to explain that Sephiroth is kind of terrifying without looking like a total twat.

Thankfully, Zack has mercy on him and lets out a small laugh. “Sephiroth is Sephiroth. You’ll get used to him!”

Cloud gives him a weak smile and closes his locker door, quickly changing the subject. “So, what now?”

Zack taps his chin for a moment. “Well, like I said, you still have a few people to meet. There’s Rufus, who is the owner, but he probably won't be in today. He doesn’t come by often and mostly just leaves things to Stallion and I,” he explains.

That makes sense. Most owners don't have customers or hang out much. Their job is to mostly deal with the behind-the-scenes stuff.

“Then there is Roach,” Zack continues, “He’s a really colourful guy, super friendly!”

Cloud can't exactly imagine what he means but he doesn't interrupt. “And then Genesis, he’s a bit moody but he’s a nice guy, too!”

Cloud is beginning to think that anyone is a nice guy to Zack.

“Both of them had Douhan¹, so you won't meet them until the club opens.”

The amount of names he is trying to remember at that moment is getting to be a lot, so Cloud is secretly grateful for the break in introductions.

“Before I start showing you around, did you want to fix your hair or…” Zack says gesturing towards the tables with mirrors. Cloud can feel his cheeks flush slightly as one of his hands nervously finds itself in one of his spikes.

“Does it really look bad?” Cloud says barely above a whisper so only Zack can hear him.

Zack hesitates for a moment. “Here. Come sit down and I’ll help you.”

Okay so yes, it looks bad.

Cloud lets out a small sigh, following Zack over to the table and sitting down in front of the mirror. Silence falls between them as Zack starts busying himself with Cloud's hair. Cloud watches intently as he shapes his spikes into something more cool than unkempt, and he tries to make some mental notes so that he can do the same thing tomorrow. He is already embarrassed enough that Zack has to help him today, he never wants this to happen again.

Suddenly Zack speaks up. “Once you get some customers, you’ll make enough to get this done professionally every day. I’ll give you the address of where I go.”

Cloud shoots him a small grin. “Thanks. I really appreciate it.”

“No prob! We all support each other around here. Some clubs ya know they are so competitive, but we are really like a family. You’ll see!”

Zack's words make Cloud wonder why he was chosen for the job in the first place. Their staff wasn’t even that big compared to some of the other clubs in Midgar, so Cloud can only assume they are careful with whom they let on board.

Cloud doesn't think he is much of anything special. The more he thinks about it the more self-hatred and unease creep through his bones, threatening to take hold if he ponders this too much longer, so he stops.

“You alright?”

Cloud looks up to see Zack's face scrunched up in concern. Doing his best to fix his face of whatever depression he had just been wearing, Cloud smiles again.

“Yep. Just a little nervous.”

Zack looks relieved to hear that.

“It can definitely be a little nerve-wracking, but just stick with me tonight and everything should go fine!”

Cloud nods as he stands up, brushing his clothes off and trying to straighten up his suit, which he thought was high quality, but looking around now he feels like maybe it isn’t so fancy afterall. These guys really go all out. Everyone had left the room by now, their voices ringing through the halls as they set up for the night.

~~

Cloud is doing his best to focus on the woman sitting in front of him. She is pretty enough, with long brown hair and large round green eyes. When she had told him her name was Aerith, Cloud had clumsily pulled out his business card and handed it to her. She had taken pity on him and pretended not to notice how green he was, leading the conversation by asking him questions about himself.

Somewhere in the back of his mind, Cloud knows that he should be trying to lead the conversation. It is the perfect chance to practice and get used to talking with customers since he has nothing to lose. Aerith is Zack’s customer. One of his first, Zack had explained proudly when they first sat down, and once a customer chooses their shimei², there is no changing it.

So, there is no possibility of Aerith or any of the other customers here ever becoming his regular. Zack had explained all this at what felt like lightning speed while he showed Cloud around the main floor of the club.

For today, Cloud is just shadowing Zack and meeting some of the regulars. But starting tomorrow, Cloud would have the opportunity to try and get his own customers if anyone came for a shokai. ³

Cloud tries to focus again on what Aerith is saying. He needs to nail this because starting tomorrow he will be thrown overboard and he hopes to gods he will be able to swim.

“----day?”

Cloud realizes that she is asking him a question a moment too late and all he manages to get out is a pathetic “Hmm?”

Aerith and Zack must have noticed that he was panicking because they both chuckled softly. Cloud feels a warm flush creeping up his face. He doesn’t want to ask her to repeat the question and thankfully he doesn't have to because Aerith spares him yet again.

“Are you enjoying your first day?”

Cloud tries his best to keep his face straight, not wanting to show any of his nervousness. “It’s a little hectic but I’m getting the hang of it.”

They exchange some more idle chit-chat, and now Cloud makes sure to hang on her every word, offering small quips where he can, mentally making some notes about the topics she mentions so that he has some questions to ask her if a lull in the conversation happens.

“Excuse me, I need to use the washroom,” Aerith says after a short time, adjusting her outfit so that she can slip out of the sofa-styled booth.

Cloud looks over at Zack and gives a small nod. Zack had told him about what to do when customers went to the washroom and now was his opportunity to perform the ritual.

“Sky will take ya!” Zack says as they all stand up. Aerith gives him a knowing look and then smiles softly at Cloud. After returning the smile, Cloud sets off towards the washrooms, with Aerith walking behind him.

He does his best to open the washroom doors gracefully. The way Zack did it made it look like art.

“Here you are,” Cloud says as he ushers her inside. He smiles until she closes the door behind her.

As soon as the door closes, he's off. Speed-walking to the back room, Cloud finds the heating box where the oshiboris ⁴ are kept.

“I like to call them BROshiboris. Get it? Cause we’re all bros?” Zack had said when he showed Cloud where they were. Cloud had actually cracked a smile at that. He really likes Zack and is happy that someone so friendly and outgoing is training him. Today anyway.

Cloud rushes back to the washroom area. All customers get an oshibori when they come from the bathroom, and it was the hosts’ duty to make sure they get it as soon as possible.

He tries to look casual, standing outside of the washrooms with the warm towel in his hand. He feels a presence behind him and slowly looks to the side. He has to tilt his chin slightly to meet the eyes of the person standing next to him.

“Why are you standing here like a moron?” Sephiroth asks blankly.

Before Cloud can answer, the doors open nearby and the sound of shouting fills the halls of the club. At the same time, the door to the washroom opens, so Cloud quickly escapes the conversation, though not without shooting Sephiroth a glare.

“Here you are,” Cloud says as he falls into stride next to Aerith, handing her the oshibori while they walk back to the table, and away from the shouting.

Cloud darts his eyes around the club and sees that Stallion is heading towards the voices with a frustrated look on his face. A few customers look concerned, but a few of them look unbothered, as if they are used to it.

Aerith sighs as she sits down at the table again. “They’re always fighting.”

Cloud’s eyebrows raise in curiosity. “Who is, they, exactly?” he asks, looking around for Zack. He finds him quickly, sitting with another customer, but their eyes meet for a moment and Zack mouths “One sec”.

“Genesis and his customer. I don’t know her name but they always fight like that. Don’t worry, they’ll surely head to the VIP room.”

Cloud nods and turns his head in the direction of the entryway. The shouting is starting to die down, and Cloud can’t hear them talking over the music. Maybe it’s his imagination, but he’s pretty sure someone turned the music up.

A few moments later, a host Cloud has not met, who he assumes is Genesis, walks by. He looks furious and irritated, but not nearly as much as the woman stomping along behind him.

Another host that Cloud hasn’t met is following both of them, holding what Cloud recognizes as a particularly expensive keep bottle in the shape of a glass slipper and a bucket of ice.

Cloud and Aerith both try to engage in small talk while they walk through the club but Cloud notices that her eyes also keep flickering to the parade making their way to the back where the VIP rooms are.

It feels like ages before the VIP doors open, the second host making his departure soon after setting the drink and ice bucket on the table, quickly shutting the door behind him. The VIP rooms have glass walls covered in black decals with the club's logo on them, all save for about a metre at the bottom, where Cloud can see nothing except for two sets of feet.

Cloud forces himself to look away from the VIP room, and is quickly saved by Zack returning to the table with the host who had been holding the ice bucket.

“Hey, Sky, this is Roach. He had just gotten back from his own douhan when those two arrived. They always have to make a scene, that's for sure,” he said, shaking his head as he chuckled.

“Indeed! Two furious flames of passion, they are. It’s a pleasure to meet you Sky. I am sure we will become great friends,” Roach says with a wide grin as he sits down. “But for now, I need to catch up with Shinra’s most beautiful customer. How are you doing, Miss Aerith?”

Cloud notices Zack gesturing at him to follow so he scrambles out of his seat and leaves Roach to talk with Aerith.

“Sorry about that, you’ll get used to it though. Scarlet is a handful but she's one of our biggest spenders so you know how it is,” Zack says nonchalantly as they make their way to another one of his tables.

Cloud does not know how it is, but he supposes that he will learn sooner than later.

He spends a few hours with Zack, shadowing him around the club. He finds it gets a little easier as the night goes on to talk to customers, although he is sure that the alcohol is probably helping.

Customers always buy the host's drinks. Cloud notices that even when the customers themselves aren't drinking, they will still buy drinks for the hosts. A few times throughout the evening, Zack had Cloud go with Reno or Rude to make drinks in the back. Cloud wasn't surprised to learn that most of the drinks are watered down, and the prices are insanely inflated.

One of the most fascinating things he sees is the famous Champagne call. Whenever someone in the club buys champagne–at an extremely hiked up price–all the lights in the club go dark, and all hosts on the floor head to the table of whoever buys it.

One host brings a mic and starts chanting, almost like a ritual, and his voice blares through the speakers to call all of the hosts to the table.

“All hosts gather, gather, gather. Come come come.”

Once everyone arrives, the chanting changes.

“Everyone’s here, everyone’s here, everyone’s here, it’s time to start our toast. Thank you to our dear customer. 3 2 1………… ”

The chanting stops, and the MC holds the microphone up to the champagne bottle, while another host opens the bottle with a loud POP.

The club bursts into applause as the hosts all start passing the champagne around, taking sips straight from the bottle while the MC resumes his chant.

“Drink! Drink! Drink! Chug! Chug! Chug!”

As the bottle is passed around, Rude has a towel to put under the lip of the bottle, to ensure that nothing spills onto anyone's clothes. Cloud can't help but think it's a little funny to see what a grand spectacle it is to drink champagne that you could buy for a couple of thousand gil at the supermarket.

Finally, the last drop is gone and the lights come back on, the familiar top hits radio resumes playing over the speakers. It is over before Cloud can even really register what just happened.

He is glad that he didn't have to drink any of it, as a newbie he just has to watch and learn.

~~

A few hours into the night, Cloud is feeling a little tipsy. A few of Zack’s customers buy him drinks while they talk, and everyone seems to be excited to meet the new host, so Cloud is feeling pretty good.

Every time a customer enters, their shimei goes to the entryway to get them and bring them into the club, announcing loudly that a customer has arrived, while the rest of the club echoes a welcome. Cloud is so amazed with how interactive things are, and yet at the same time, customers don't mingle. It is a delicate balance of making sure every customer feels special and taken care of, while also avoiding jealousy.

It’s all a little overwhelming, but at least the alcohol helps.

Cloud hears a familiar voice, calling that a customer has arrived, just as Cloud is returning from the back room. He almost runs right into said customer as he rounds a corner to enter the club again.

“I’m so sorry!” Cloud blurts out instantly. He lets out an internal groan when he sees that the customer belongs to Sephiroth.

“I’m totally fine! But you should really watch where you’re going!” The customer says playfully, brushing her clothing off. She is short and slender, with a cute bob haircut. She wears a crop top and very short shorts. Cloud is surprised that Sephiroth has such a spunky-looking customer.

Despite the playful tone in her voice, Cloud winces. He peeks at Sephiroth and internally groans at the sight of him glaring. How many times was Cloud going to make an ass of himself in front of this man?

“Wait, are you a newbie? He’s so cute, isn’t he Seph?” the girl says, grabbing Sephiroth’s arm to stop him from turning away.

Cloud tries to keep his composure as Sephiroth’s eyes meet his. Those stunning green eyes piercing into his own.

“If you find a baby horse struggling to stand on their own cute, sure,” Sephiroth says with a shrug, breaking eye contact with Cloud and turning to take his customer away again, but she stops him.

“I do! Look at him, he's more like a baby chocobo than a baby horse!”

Cloud scowls at her. He is sure he will never escape the chocobo jokes. Just because he has spikey blond hair!

“Enough playing with the chocobo, let’s go Yuffie,” Sephiroth says with a smirk.

“You’re so boring Seph! Come on, come to VIP with us!” the girl named Yuffie says with a grab of Cloud’s hand and drags him through the club. Cloud does everything he can not to look at Sephiroth. He could barely even keep up with what was going on.

One minute he’s helping clean up some tables, and the next he’s being dragged to VIP.

Zack had shown Cloud the VIP rooms when he gave him the tour of the club, but it looks even cooler when all the lights are off. There is a big TV with a karaoke set up, extra blankets and pillows, and tons of glowing lights that make it look like a gaming room or something.

Yuffie happily sits down in the corner seat of the big sofa and drags Cloud to sit next to her. Sephiroth enters shortly after them, followed by Reno with some oshibori and an ice bucket, as well as a few keep bottles that looked unopened. Many customers buy things just to support their shimei, but sometimes don't even bother opening them. A sign of true wealth.

“Wow, VIP on your first day!” Reno says with a wink.

“You guys always get the cutest boys, I swear! Wait, what’s your name again?” Yuffie says so quickly that Cloud can barely catch her question.

“Sky.”

“Ha! Sky… even your name is cute!”

Cloud is starting to resent being called cute so much. But, he knows he can’t make a bad impression on his first day, and certainly not on one of Sephiroth’s customers.

Reno takes her drink order–some plum wine for the table. Cloud really doesn't want to drink anymore, but of course, he cannot refuse, so when the plum wine arrives, he takes his glass with a smile.

Every time Sephiroth suggests that Cloud leave to do something, Yuffie stops him and insists he stays in the VIP room with them. That is the power of a VIP customer, she really can have whatever she wants.

Cloud tries not to show how nervous he is, and responds to her small talk as best he can, but really, she mostly seems happy to talk about her life and does not need much input from either of them. She is either ignoring or completely unaware of the awkward tension between Sephiroth and Cloud, but Cloud is so aware of it that he feels himself sweating a little bit.

He does everything that Zack has been showing him. He wipes condensation off of the glasses from time to time, nods along to what Yuffie is saying, keeps eye contact with her–which is easy since no part of him wants to meet eyes with Sephiroth right now.

His mind wanders slightly as Yuffie tells them a story about an annoying person on the train earlier that week. Sephiroth seems like the type of host who would have sexy or elegant types of customers, their clothes, make-up, and even perfume screaming “I am rich”. But Yuffie is different. She is silly and brash, some might even say a little childish. She definitely has a youthful charm about her. He is amazed to see the type of banter she has with Sephiroth, too. She talks to him like he is her big brother or a really close friend. Cloud knows that not all relationships between hosts and their customers are pseudo-romantic, and a lot of customers are just looking for someone to talk to, but these two seem genuinely close.

When it is time for her to leave, she throws a pile of cash on the table as if it is nothing to her.

“I want both of you to walk me out!” She says with a big grin as she heads towards the door of the VIP room.

Cloud catches Sephiroth rolling his eyes as he takes two long strides to beat her to the door and open it for her. Just like when a customer comes, the hosts call out when a customer is leaving as well.

“Customer leaving,” Sephiroth calls out, his voice loud but smooth and Cloud can't help but wonder how he does everything so perfectly.

They all head towards the door. Yuffie gives a quick wave to both of them and slips into the elevators saying, “See you next time, Chocobo!”

Cloud chuckles in spite of himself, before remembering that Sephiroth is still standing next to him and does his best to disguise it as clearing his throat. A few seconds pass and all that Cloud can hear is the booming of the bass coming from the club.

Finally, Sephiroth speaks.

“Don’t get used to it. The VIP room, or my customers. Being cute will only get you so far.”

Cloud opens his mouth to protest but Sephiroth turns on his heel and glides back into the club.

Did he just call Cloud cute?

Chapter Text

Cloud can’t sleep.

It’s not like he’s new to this lifestyle, per se. While the inner workings of being a host are still an intricate puzzle he’s trying to solve, the nightlife itself is something he knows all too well.

He was a bartender for years, working from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. some days. Always listening to customers, drinking with them, sometimes even going out for food or to another bar after his shift ended.

Which is one of the reasons he decided to try being a host. He knows how to navigate nightlife. He knows how to talk to people. But it’s all a bit more overwhelming than he expected.

He got home around 3 a.m. The club closes around 1 a.m. and is open Wednesday through Monday. Club Shinra is an ichibu¹ club only, but some places run nibu² and even sanbu³. Those clubs are massive, with tons of staff. That might sound appealing—more shifts, more flexibility, but Cloud assumes they must be extremely competitive.

By the time they got all the customers out, cleaned up, and shut everything down, it was nearly 2:30.

He rolls from his side onto his back, staring at the ceiling.

Why did Sephiroth call him cute? What the fuck did that even mean?

If there’s one thing Cloud knows about hosts, it’s that you can never trust what they say. A host’s entire job is to sell a fantasy—with emphasis on sell.

But Sephiroth has nothing to gain from toying with him. So why say that?

Cloud groans and rolls over again, burying his face in the pillow. He feels stupid. It’s hard not to care about someone so well-known and respected in the industry.

Taking a deep breath, he decides to forget about it. His first day actually went pretty well, all things considered. He doesn’t want Sephiroth’s strange behavior to ruin that.

Why would he call me cute after insulting me all day?

He sighs in frustration, thoughts refusing to leave his head. Giving up on sleep for the time being, he feels around for his phone and checks the time; 5:30 a.m.

He does the math. He can afford about 30 more minutes on his phone. If he tries to sleep again around six, he can still get six solid hours in.

It’ll be fine, he tells himself, unlocking his phone. There are a few messages from Zack, just telling him he did a good job and to sleep well.

He smiles at that. He really likes Zack.

He remembers their earlier conversation about filling out his host profile for the shop’s page on Starhosts a popular website used by host clubs all across Gaia. Clubs can advertise their services, post event photos, and list all their hosts, complete with rankings.

Curious, Cloud types in “Club Shinra” and scrolls through the page. There are event photos, opening hours, pricing details, and of course, the host profiles and rankings.

He scrolls quickly past Sephiroth’s photo at first, but who is he kidding. It’s not like anyone is gonna see. He scrolls back up and clicks on his profile.

Name: Sephiroth
Age: ??
Birthday: ??
Star Sign: ??
Blood Type: A
Host Style: Cool, Good Listener, Good Drinker
Monthly Ranking: First

“10 Million Gil Player”⁴

Cloud’s jaw drops.

Ten million gil?

Sure, he’s super hot, but can someone really make that much in just one month?

Suddenly, Cloud doesn’t feel so well. He closes his phone and sinks back into the pillow. Sleep finally begins to tug at him again, and as he drifts off, one thought lingers:

What kind of world have I gotten myself into?

~~

Cloud wakes up around noon. Thankfully he doesn't have too much of a hangover and is able to pull himself out of bed relatively early. He thinks about how he might have to wake up even earlier if he starts getting customers.

When, he corrects himself. When he starts getting customers.

He remembers Zack telling him about how much work it is to message all your customers every day, but he's not sure he will ever be able to get as many customers as Zack seems to have.

Sleep helped him recover from his sudden panic at the amount of money being made in these clubs, and while he brushed his teeth he took his phone out and resumed scrolling.

I guess I really shouldn't be so surprised, he thinks as he clicks on Zack’s profile. He has been in the nightlife long enough to know that host clubs are somewhat connected to organized crime. Some clubs are connected more than others, with some being outright owned by the Zakuya, while others are simply at the mercy of them.

Even the bar he used to work at had to pay safety money every so often. Most places in the area did. If they didn't, mobsters would come and completely destroy your shop.

On top of that, Cloud has heard stories of what happens when some girls can't pay their debts at host clubs. Oftentimes they are forced into sex work to pay off what they owe. Sometimes they never end up breaking even.

That's just what he has heard, though. He also heard that Club Shrina was one of the better clubs in Midgar and that the owner was strict. It's probably why they have such a small number of hosts and don't get new ones often, and it's what made Cloud initially apply for Club Shrina specifically.

He was curious to see how many rumours are actually true about hosts. In a world where so much money is being passed around, it's hard to know what's true and what’s not.

He shakes the thoughts from his head as best he can and finishes brushing his teeth, finding his way over to the couch and flopping down.

His flat is small. Just one room, a living room, and a kitchen, but it's more than enough space for him. He doesn't spend much time here anyway, except to sleep. He can't help but think, however, how big of a place Sephiroth must live in if he's making all that money.

Surely he could afford a mansion, all the best cars. Whatever he wanted, really. Cloud blinks and realizes that he was so lost in thought he had scrolled up and down Zack's profile a number of times but hasn't actually absorbed anything.

He takes a closer look. Zack's host style is listed as cool, funny, and romantic. Cloud smiles at that. Zack really does seem like all those things. He notices that Zack is the 5th highest-ranking host at Club Shrina.

He hits the back button and looks closer at the listings. Of course, Sephiroth is number one. Genesis is number two. Stallion is number three. Duke, or Barret is, to Cloud’s surprise, number four. He isn't what Cloud would think of when he thinks of a host, but he feels like he's constantly having his expectations shattered, so who is he to question things?

Zack sits at number five, followed by Roach, and then Reno and Rude. Cloud doesn't have a profile yet, and he wonders how long until he gets one. Zack mentioned that he needs to wait a few weeks to see how things go. Some people join a host club and then only work for a few days before quitting, so for both Cloud and the club’s sake, they want to wait a little while. However, Zack did tell him to start thinking about what he wants to write on his profile.

It seems like a lot of work. Cloud puts his phone down and closes his eyes. If he wants to be a high-ranking host, he's going to have to put in a lot of work. The club pays him a base salary, but it's not much; everything else is based on the commission from the customers.

This week, I will get a customer.

He gets up with a new sense of determination and sets off to get ready for work. Before the club opens, they have a meeting every day. It’s the first meeting he will attend, so he isn't sure what to expect, but he feels motivated to show up looking at least slightly better than yesterday.

He steps onto his balcony for a quick smoke before he puts on his suit that he had left carefully hanging in the living room, and then slips on his shoes and heads off to work.

~~

When Cloud arrives in the staff area, he’s happy to see that he isn’t the last person there. Barret and Zack are sitting at the table, while Reno and Rude are by the lockers, talking in low　voices.

“Hey! Cloud! Come here,” Zack calls as he sees Cloud enter the room. Cloud feels relieved and heads over to sit with him and Barret.

“How’d your first day go, kiddo?” Barret asks.

“Well, it wasn’t exactly what I expected,” Cloud starts as he ponders the question, “but I think I had fun, too.”

Barret and Zack laugh. “Well, I’m glad to see you in good spirits!” Zack says cheerfully.

Cloud nearly jumps out of his skin when he suddenly hears Sephiroth’s deep voice carry from across the room.

“Now let’s see if he lasts the week.”

He hadn’t even noticed him sitting in the corner. Unsurprisingly, he looks like sheer perfection. How he keeps such long hair smooth, untangled, and neatly in place is a mystery to Cloud. His suit is different from last night’s—unlike Cloud’s, which makes sense. They all probably have suits for each day of the week and then some. Cloud had bought two. He kicks himself mentally, realizing he should have cycled between them.. Too late now, though. It’s just so hard not to compare yourself to Sephiroth when he’s in front of you.

“Don’t be an asshole, Seph! He’s doing great!” Zack says playfully to Sephiroth, while Barret laughs. Apparently, this kind of behaviour isn’t anything new for Sephiroth.

Sephiroth just rolls his eyes and crosses his legs, not looking up from his phone, but Cloud can’t help but notice a small smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth.

“Ignore him. He’s what happens when you have so many customers you don’t even have a spare moment to yourself. Plus, he should be careful—it seems like his customers like you!” Zack says.

Cloud chuckles a bit while Sephiroth shoots daggers at Zack. “Keeping up good communication with your customers is how you keep them. You would do well to remember that yourself, puppy,” Sephiroth quips.

Zack and Barret laugh again. Cloud just looks between them curiously. Despite Sephiroth seemingly being so distant and cold, they all seem to have a good and playful relationship with each other. Cloud hopes that he will be able to get close with everyone, too.

Before Zack can answer Sephiroth, Stallion and someone that Cloud hasn't met come out of a door in the back of the room, which Cloud remembers is the office.

“Hello, everyone, and hello, Cloud!” the new face says. “I’m Rufus, the owner of this club. It’s very nice to meet you.”

Everyone murmurs a hello.

“Hello, sir. I’m happy to be working here.”

“No need for sirs around here. You can save that for later,” Rufus says with a wink. Cloud feels his face burn red as everyone roars with laughter. Cloud even notices Sephiroth chuckling, which makes him want to crawl into a hole of shame and hide there.

“Oh come on, Rufus, give the newbie a break,” Stallion says, still chuckling a bit.

“They’re so fun when they’re new and fresh,” Rufus says. “I’m so sorry, Cloud, just a bit of fun,” he adds with a wink.

Cloud doesn't respond, just gives a weak smile as he nods his head.

Roach enters the room, and a few minutes later they start the meeting. A lot of it goes over Cloud’s head. Rufus is talking about earnings and numbers, but they are doing well and everything is going smoothly at the club. Some important customers are coming in tonight, so Stallion goes over a game plan that includes who will sit with them when their shimei sees to other customers, and they go over a schedule so that the VIP rooms don't overlap.

Cloud is impressed and even a little intimidated by how much planning has to go into this. He makes a mental note that if he ever were to get a customer who wants VIP regularly, he’ll need to work it out with the others.

“We will have a photoshoot next week, which is perfect timing for you, Cloud. You'll need a picture for the websites and whatnot,” Stallion explains. “I also suggest you use it as your profile picture or whatever else on social media. Helps create a brand, of sorts.”

Cloud nods in understanding. He tries to ignore the churn in his stomach at the thought of getting his picture taken. Maybe Zack can help him with his hair again.

“You can use it for business cards, if you so choose. Otherwise, you can keep using the ones you already prepared. I trust you've made a new Mogtalk account to connect with any future customers?”

Cloud nods again. That he had done, thankfully. He had been told during the interview what to prepare, and that was one of them.

“We'll also have call practice tomorrow, so make sure you show up an hour earlier.”

Cloud racks his brain. “Sorry, call practice?”

Stallion smiles. “Yes. You need to learn all the chants for the champagne calls. We also practice the order in which we pass the bottle.”

Cloud feels the churn in his stomach again. He feels like a pop idol or something. Which maybe isn't too far off from a host, actually.

“Sounds good,” he says with his best smile.

“You'll need to get better at fake smiling if you're going to be a host, Cloud.”

Cloud doesn’t even need to look to know that comment came from Sephiroth. He grits his teeth but doesn't break his smile, while the others laugh softly at his attempt.

“With a face like that, he might not have to worry too much,” Rufus quips, which makes Cloud warm in the face again. Was his boss seriously hitting on him? Twice? In front of everyone?

Stallion gets them to settle down so they can continue making plans, very clearly getting annoyed with Rufus. Cloud is getting the vibe that Rufus is mostly just the owner in name, but Stallion is the one who runs everything.

Halfway through the meeting, Genesis shows up. Everyone says hello as he takes a seat.

“Perfect timing. Maybe we should talk about what happened yesterday with Scarlet.”

Genesis groans and rolls his eyes as everyone else snickers.

“Hey. Guys. It’s really not funny. That cannot be happening. It isn’t the first time, or even the second time, and you need to get it under control.”

Everyone goes quiet at the sudden change in tone from Stallion. Genesis sucks his teeth and crosses his knee over the other.

“Would you like to try and control her? She’s nuts.”

Stallion presses a finger to his temple. “Genesis. Please don’t call the customers ‘nuts.’”

“Well, she is.” Cloud heard Genesis mutter under his breath.

“What was she pissy about this time?” Reno asks.

“She wanted me to pay for dinner. I told her that’s not how douhan⁵ works,” Genesis says.

Cloud was surprised when everyone groaned.

“Just buy her the damn meal, Gen. God knows you can afford it. Was it worth having her make such a fuss in front of everyone? Buy her the meal and she’ll buy you champagne. Don’t be so stubborn.” Stallion’s voice was almost scary. He sounds genuinely fed up.

So this isn’t something new. Cloud feels his head spinning with all the new information he’s hearing.

“She always wants me to pay for everything!” Genesis protests.

“Then pay! Or stop taking her out. I don’t want this happening again,” Stallion says with a sense of finality. The conversation is over. Cloud sneaks a peek at Genesis. He’s sulking, which almost makes Cloud laugh, but he holds it in. Stallion really is the best choice for running things.

Cloud turns back to Stallion and Rufus. It seems like Rufus and Cloud are on the same wavelength, except Rufus isn’t holding back his amusement at the situation, a big smile plastered on his face.

“Now that we have settled that, let’s move onto more important things… like Sephiroth’s birthday event!”

Everyone gives a bit of a cheer. Cloud feels confused. When he looked at Sephiroth’s profile before, it said that his birthday is a secret–not that he is going to let anyone know he was looking at his profile.

“Yuffie has decided to have Sephiroth’s birthday at the end of this month, so everyone please start letting your customers know. We will stay open an extra two hours that night.”

Cloud feels even more perplexed. Thankfully, Zack catches his confusion.

“Sephiroth won’t tell anyone his birthday, so every year around this time, Yuffie just chooses a random day to celebrate.”

Ah. That makes more sense. Cloud hums in understanding. Sephiroth and Yuffie are really close after all.

“Sephiroth, please make sure your customers let us know if they are going to buy champagne towers beforehand,” Stallion says.

“I know how birthday events work,” Sephiroth said dryly. “Are we done now?”

“He just doesn’t want to lose to me this year,” Genesis says, clearly done sulking now.

“Yes. Exactly. I am terrified that I will make less than Genesis did at his birthday party. Please cancel my event,” Sephiroth says innocently.

Stallion brushes them both off. “No can do,” he says and then finishes up the meeting, dismissing everyone to finish getting ready.

“Genesis is mad jealous of Sephiroth. He even chose to use his real name because he didn’t want Sephiroth to think he’s special or something. Anyway, Sephiroth doesn’t give a shit, which drives Gen even crazier,” Zack tells him in a whisper while the others get up and start moving away.

Cloud gives Zack a weak smile at this information, trying to think of how to respond but decides to go with, “Really?”

Zack smirks. “Yeah. It's hilarious. You'll see.” Then he walks off toward his own locker.

Cloud’s head is reeling from everything new he has learned today and everything he needs to remember. He takes his phone out of his pocket and starts to make a list.

• Prepare host profile for whenever I'm off probation
• Look at custom business cards again
• Prepare for photoshoot
• After photoshoot, make everything that picture
• Make sure customers know about Sephiroth's birthday event

Then he opens his calendar and adds Sephiroth's event and the photoshoot day. Feeling slightly more organized, he pockets his phone and starts getting ready for the night.

~~

The night goes well, even better than the night before in Cloud’s opinion. He is feeling confident as he follows Barret around today. He notices that some of the customers are the same as the day before, which means they are the ones he needs to take note of because they are regulars. Even if they aren’t his customers, it’s important for all hosts to maintain a relationship with regulars. At least, that’s what Barret told him.

“Most of my customers are gentle souls. They like to talk to me about their daily lives, and they like it when I make ‘em laugh,” Barret explains as they move from one customer to the next.

Cloud remembers that Barret is a very high-ranking host, so his customers must have a lot of money.

Halfway through the night, a shokai⁶ comes in.

“Now’s your chance, newbie!” Barret says happily, giving Cloud a pat on the back that hits harder than Cloud is ready for. Barret is so jacked it almost knocks Cloud over.

Cloud smiles weakly. “I’ll do my best.”

“Just ‘member,” Barret says in a low voice, “all the hosts’r gonna get about 5–10 minutes with this girl. Get your head into your host persona an’ give it your best shot.”

Cloud blinks at him. “Host… persona?”

Barret barks out a laugh. “We still gotta lot to teach ya! Just be charmin’.”

Cloud tries to brush off the nerves and remember the determination that he had in the morning. He risks a glance over at the new customer and sees Sephiroth sitting with her, his long hair resting perfectly over his shoulders as he leans in and lights her cigarette for her.

How could Cloud ever win someone over when they have already met Sephiroth?

“Don’t be gettin’ in your head. Stop lookin’ at Sephiroth. He gonna do his thing, and you’re gonna do yours,” Barret says.

Cloud grimaces.

Before he knows it, it’s his turn.

He takes a deep breath and makes his way over to the table. He passes Sephiroth as he’s leaving.

Leaning down as they are near, Sephiroth whispers, “Good luck, Chocobo,” right into Cloud’s ear.

Cloud shudders slightly at the feeling of Sephiroth’s breath on his skin but manages to shoot a quick glare at his back despite the tingles in his body. He tries to ignore the fact that, even if sarcastic, it’s the first positive thing Sephiroth has said to him thus far.

He puts a smile on his face and sits down next to the girl.

“Hello. I’m Sky!” he says, handing her his business card with both hands, giving her a slight smile. He can’t stop thinking about what his host persona is and how he wants to present himself to customers, so things go a little awkwardly.

Cloud is sure that she can tell he is new and doesn’t seem to be interested in talking to him. Five minutes ends up feeling like 30 minutes, and Cloud can’t help but be relieved when Zack comes to change places with him.

He thanks the girl for her time and leaves, making a beeline to the back room to mentally scold himself.

After a few minutes, Genesis comes in. Cloud quickly gets up from where he had been sitting on the ground by his locker. He feels like a child who’s been caught doing something wrong. He and Genesis have never had a real conversation, so he isn’t too sure what to say.

“Sky, is it?” Genesis says plainly.

“Err… Yes,” Cloud says. “Or, Cloud… whichever.”

Genesis smiles at him. “You know you cannot simply come and hide every time we have a shokai. It’s quite possibly the worst way to get customers.”

Cloud swallows, and then sighs. “Just a little lost.”

Genesis gestures at an open chair. “You may have one more minute to sulk, and then you go back out there.”

Cloud looks at him surprised. He had no idea Genesis would be so kind.

“Don’t look at me like that,” Genesis laughs. “I don’t bite. Now, tell Genesis what has made you feel lost.”

Cloud ponders for a moment but decides that it’s better to ask someone for advice than to wallow in his stress.

“I don’t know what kind of host I want to be. I didn’t realize it was any different than talking to customers at the bar. Just listen and smile and make sure everyone’s happy… you know. But it seems… a lot more complicated than that.”

“In general, yes, that is what you want. But in this industry, things can get intense. Women will want more of you, they want your time, some will even want your love,” Genesis explains, and then sighs deeply before continuing. “If you want to keep your sanity, you need to keep Cloud and Sky separate. That’s all we mean by host persona.”

“But how do you know what kind of persona to choose?” Cloud asks, feeling like a child talking to their dad. “When I looked online there were so many styles written…”

“That will come later. Do you think you are particularly funny? A good listener?”

“Well… I’m not very funny. But I am good at listening, that’s all I ever did at the bar.”

“You have a leg up, then. Channel some of who you are when you are bartending, and then add some flirting, and voila! You have a host,” Genesis says, making hand gestures like he just did a magic trick.

Cloud considers it.

“So… Sky the host should be a more flirty, confident version of Cloud the bartender?”

Genesis gives him a wide grin. “Sounds like a good start, little fledgling.”

Cloud fights the urge to roll his eyes. What is with all the bird nicknames?

“Thank you,” he manages to say instead.

“No problem. You have the looks. Let’s see if you can pull off the rest, shall we?” Genesis says with a wink.

Cloud blushes. He needs to work on his flirting; these guys are all way too good at it.

~~

In the end, Cloud doesn’t get the shokai, but after his talk with Genesis he feels okay about it. The girl ends up choosing Reno, which everyone celebrates because Reno doesn't have a lot of customers.

Reno seems unenthusiastic about it. “I hate having to keep up with customers,” he explains to Cloud as they clean up at the end of the night.

“Isn’t your bank account happy about it?” Cloud asks.

Reno waves a hand dismissively. “I don’t care too much about the money. I like workin’ here. I like the guys, the money is whatever.”

Cloud stares at him for a moment. He'd never heard of a host who didn’t care about the money.

“Plus,” Reno adds, “every club needs guys who aren't too busy to help with drinks or whatever.”

There really are all types of hosts, Cloud thinks as he helps Reno with the last of the dishes before they head home.

~~

The next few days go by much the same as the first two. Cloud spends a lot of time with the regulars who have gotten to know him a little. His favourite is Aerith. In fact, a lot of Zack’s customers are really nice and easy to talk to.

His least favourite is Yuffie; not because of her as a person, but because she insists that he join her in VIP, which means he has to spend time with Sephiroth. Who now, instead of being cold toward Cloud all the time, just teases him… relentlessly.

Everywhere he goes, it seems like Sephiroth is there, whispering something in his ear or offering him unsolicited advice.

“He’s been working here for a week and he still can’t fold an oshibori⁷ properly,” Sephiroth tells Yuffie one evening while Cloud fumbles with the wet cloth, trying to get it into a nice triangle shape so it stands up on its own.

“It’s only a week! That’s nothing. Not all of us are cold robots!” Yuffie says, taking a sip of her drink.

Cloud snorts at that, and Sephiroth cocks an eyebrow at both of them. “Yes, some of us are awkward little chocobos, was it?”

Cloud wants to kick him, but settles for rolling his eyes instead.

“Cute chocobo!” Yuffie corrects him, which makes Cloud blush.

“Hmm. Looks aren’t everything though, wouldn’t you agree?” Sephiroth says with a shrug.

Yuffie’s face breaks into a devilish grin. “So you agree you think he’s cute?”

Sephiroth says nothing, just takes a drag from his cigarette and leans back on the couch.

“If you guys are done talking about me like I’m not even here, I have to go help Reno,” Cloud says sourly as he gets up from his place next to Yuffie.

Things continue like that over the next few days as well. Sephiroth even helps him fix his hair for the photoshoot.

“I can’t have you embarrassing us if you’re really going to stick around,” Sephiroth says playfully as his hands move through Cloud’s hair, making sure all the strands are perfectly in place.

Cloud is starting to get frustrated. He doesn't understand what kind of game Sephiroth is playing. He tries to focus on his relationship with the others and finds that he’s feeling more comfortable each day—but Sephiroth remains a problem.

There are a few more shokais, none of whom choose Cloud, but he’s feeling okay about it. He gets a little better each time, and all his practice talking to other people’s customers has done wonders for his confidence. He is also thankful for the chance to spend so much time seeing the others interacting with their customers, because he can get an idea of what kind of host he wants to be.

Most of Genesis’s customers are princess types. They have a lot of money and want to be spoiled. They are loud and sometimes very sharp with their words. Genesis himself is very flirty—to the point that you would think he was sleeping with all of them. Maybe he was; Cloud had no idea.

Roach has similar customers to Genesis, but he is also very funny, so he has a lot of young and outgoing customers as well.

Zack’s customers are gentle and kind. Zack is very flirty but also very funny, and his customers seem really comfortable with him. They talk to him about many things and seem like they feel safe with him.

Barret's customers are very kind as well—and loaded. Cloud notices that Barret doesn't have a lot of customers, but the ones he does have are regulars and spend a lot. They often trigger champagne calls and have many expensive keep bottles. They love him, and he loves them.

Reno and Rude both have a lot of casual customers who come and visit the club every so often. Funnily enough, Rude and Reno seem to have customers who come in together, almost as if they are a set.

Sephiroth has all kinds of customers. He is always busy running around to different tables, and Cloud thinks it must be exhausting to have to stretch yourself between everyone like that. Contacting his customers every day must be a nightmare. But Sephiroth does it all with ease, or so it seems to Cloud, anyway. He never looks tired, stressed, or uncomfortable. He is gentle, kind, flirty, and seems to really care about his customers.

Who knows what he is really thinking, though.

~~

On the last night of his probationary period, all the hosts go to the bar on the 2nd floor of the building to officially welcome Cloud to the team.

He finished his profile earlier that night with Zack and got his photoshoot pictures back, which came out really well. He doesn't think he looks like himself, but it’s probably for the best. He refuses to let Sephiroth know that he thinks his hair looks really good.

The bar downstairs is called Seventh Heaven. It’s not owned by Rufus, but the owners are on really good terms with the club, and hosts from the club often come to this bar with customers who want to hang out after closing hours.

The bartender, Tifa, is a young girl probably around Cloud’s age, with long black hair. She seems really lovely, but the muscles on her arms tell Cloud she is not to be messed with.

They enjoy chatting and eating while they talk about the last two weeks of Cloud’s host career. Roach and Genesis aren’t there because they have dates with their customers. Stallion and Rufus are still counting money so they will join later.

“Are they like… well… I don’t really know how to say it,” Cloud tries to bring up the topic of sleeping with customers.

Zack nervously laughs a little. “Well. Probably not.”

“It’s not actually that common,” Barret adds, taking a bite of food.

Cloud looks between them and feels his cheeks getting hot. Maybe he shouldn’t have asked.

“Oh come on, don’t act like you haven't!” Reno pipes up. Rude gives him a long side eye but says nothing.

Sephiroth, who has been pretty quiet, other than some teasing about Cloud’s alcohol tolerance earlier—or lack thereof—suddenly speaks.

“A good host doesn’t fuck his customers.”

There isn’t a single trace of a joke in his voice. He is serious.

“You break the fantasy when you do that. You cross a line and give them what they want. Not only will they likely never come back afterward, you disrespect the job, yourself, and your customer.”

His words make everyone go quiet. Cloud looks down at his plate. He didn’t know it was such a touchy subject, and clearly Sephiroth has ruffled some feathers with his comment.

“Aaaaanyway! Now you know. So, let’s get back to more important things! Like drinking,” Zack says, changing the subject.

Cloud perks up. “Speaking of drinking. I’m surprised that you guys aren't drunk more often. We drink so much, I assume you drink even more when you have customers…”

Everyone laughs. “That’s hilarious,” Barret says, “We do get drunk. We’re just good at hiding it!”

“Well, we haven’t had too many itakyaku⁸ lately, either. And you haven’t seen a birthday event yet!” Zack points out.

“What’s an itakyaku?” Cloud feels like he’s going to need a dictionary to keep track of all these terms.

“It’s the most annoying customer ever. Someone who has money and wants to bully us into drinking until we pass out.”

That sounds horrible, but honestly more like the kind of people Cloud is used to at the bar.

“Do you remember that one girl a few years ago, Seph? She was always determined to make you drunk so you’d kiss her,” Zack says, roaring out a laugh as his drink sloshes in his hand.

Sephiroth groans and rolls his eyes. “She was definitely a handful.” Always so graceful with his answers.

The rest of the night passes with good conversation, and Cloud can’t believe how well he’s getting along with everyone, even Sephiroth. Maybe there is some hope after all.

~~

Once they all finish their last round of drinks, everyone says their goodbyes and heads home.

Cloud feels nervous because he and Sephiroth end up walking in the same direction. Neither of them says anything, just quietly smoking their cigarettes as the cool morning air wraps around them.

Cloud decides to be brave. “Are you done being an asshole?”

Sephiroth stops walking, feigning disbelief. “When was I an asshole?”

“Like, every day! You never leave me alone!”

Sephiroth shrugs. “I’m just trying to be helpful,” he says innocently.

“I wish you’d just treat me like… I dunno…” Cloud trails off, suddenly at a loss. The alcohol is affecting him more than he realized.

“Treat you like what, Cloud?”

Suddenly, Sephiroth is way too close. Like, way too close. Cloud takes a step back and finds a wall behind him. Sephiroth smirks and puts one hand on the wall next to Cloud’s head.

“Like… a host?” Sephiroth asks, leaning in slightly.

“Uh… well… yeah.” Cloud feels his face heat up. What is Sephiroth doing? He feels lightheaded. With Sephiroth this close, he can smell his cologne, a musky scent with just the right amount of strength.

“Or… like one of my customers?” Sephiroth whispers in his ear. Cloud shivers despite himself.

“I… what… what are you doing?” he gasps, as Sephiroth pulls back just enough to look at him. Cloud can’t look away from those green eyes piercing straight into his soul.

“Perhaps… you’d like me to treat you like a man?” Sephiroth says in a low voice.

Cloud opens his mouth to ask what that even means, but he doesn’t get the chance.

Before he knows what’s happening, Sephiroth’s lips are on his.

Chapter Text

Cloud feels the cigarette that he’s holding slip through his fingers as his brain registers what is happening.

Sephiroth's lips are on his lips. Kissing him. In his shock he starts kissing back but suddenly he comes to his senses and pushes Sephiroth off of him.

“What the fuck?!”

Sephiroth smirks at him, and Cloud swears he sees Sephiroth's chest move in silent laughter. He wants to punch him.

“You really are a pretty thing.” Sephiroth says, tossing his now extinguished cigarette onto the side of the road.

“Fuck you!” Cloud huffs before storming off down the road, not daring to look back at Sephiroth and his smug face.

He power walks all the way home. After throwing his bag on the floor he barely misses a stride as he strips his suit and underwear and all but collapses into the shower.

He lets the water pour over him as he sits on the floor. Still feeling dizzy and intoxicated he hopes that the water will somehow wash away the alcohol in his veins.

He groans quietly and runs his hands over his face. It had been such a nice day. He can't understand why Sephiroth would do that. Does he actually find Cloud attractive?

Sephiroth is surrounded by beautiful women and men everyday, Cloud can't understand why he'd choose to mess around with him. Could it really be that he wants to start something with Cloud? Is Sephiroth really so childish that he picks on those he's attracted to like a boy on a playground? Cloud has a hard time thinking that could be the case.

But deep down, some part of Cloud hopes it could be true. Sephiroth is the hottest guy he has ever laid eyes on. But that can't be it. There's no way. Cloud is a nobody. A chocobo learning how to stand on his own legs, as Sephiroth had said.

No, surely Sephiroth was just messing with him.

Probably.

Maybe.

“Fucking hosts,” Cloud mumbles as he grabs a bar of soap and starts lazily washing his body. He could fall asleep here if he wanted to, the water feels so nice.

But he thinks of his water bill and begrudgingly turns off the shower and starts drying off.

He looks at the mirror and sees his disheveled appearance. He looks like shit. He sighs and stares at his own lips for a moment, the memory of Sephiroth's warmth against them. He rolls his eyes at himself for acting like a cliche lovestruck puppy and quickly leaves the bathroom. He finds a shirt and some boxers and collapses onto his bed. He doesn't even bother looking at his phone, he just wants to sleep.

~~

His alarm wakes him up with a jolt. He panics for a moment, trying to remember where he is and what day it is. He grabs his phone and sees that it's 11 a.m. Letting out a sigh of relief, he lays back down on his bed with a thud.

He groans at the memory of Sephiroth kissing him. Of course his brain won't let him forget that for longer than a few minutes. He wishes that he could have been drunk enough to forget.

The alcohol. That had to be it. Sephiroth was drunk and being an idiot, just another one of his ways to tease Cloud.

He takes a few more minutes to give himself a pep talk before he gets up and starts picking up his mess from the night before. He collects his suit and puts it in a bag to take to the dry cleaners on his way to work, making a mental note that now that he's been taken off of probation he should probably buy another suit with his first paycheque.

He finally checks his phone and sees he just has one message from Zack asking if he got home okay. He sends off a quick reply, stating that he had gotten home and crashed right away.

With that he puts his phone into his back pocket and grabs his bag, heading off to get some errands done before work. He is far too busy to be worrying about Sephiroth.

Just keep your head down and focus on getting customers.

~~

Avoiding Sephiroth, however, proves to be an almost impossible task.

The moment he walks into work, Sephiroth is standing at the front desk.

You have got to be kidding me.

His eyes meet Cloud’s and Cloud wants to punch him as he watches Sephiroth's face break out into a shit-eating grin.

“Hello, Cloud.”

Cloud feels his face getting hot. There's a lump in his throat, leaving him feeling like a complete idiot.

“Don't talk to me.” He finally manages to mumble.

Sephiroth cocks an eyebrow.

“Don’t be such a child, Cloud. You want me to treat you like a man, don't you?”

Cloud opens his mouth and closes it again, but before he can think of an intelligent response, Sephiroth is already walking away.

Cloud huffs and turns in the opposite direction, making a sharp turn for the bathroom. Gods, he feels like a child, hiding in the bathroom like this. But he just needs a minute. He still can't decide if he wants to hit Sephiroth or just give in and kiss him again. He is really fucking hot. And maybe he wants to kiss Cloud.

The second option sends a rush of heat through his body at the thought of it. He shakes his head as he imagines how the scenario would play out for what feels like the hundredth time. Feeling frustrated, he decides that the best course of action is to just ignore it for now. He takes one last look at himself in the mirror and heads to the staff room.

Everyone except for Rufus is there today, getting ready for their daily meeting. Something feels off though. Instead of the usual chorus of greetings, it's more like a quiet murmur. Something must have happened, Cloud thinks.

So, he follows suit and quietly gets ready with everyone else.

After he gets ready he sits down next to Zack who leans over to murmur in his ear.

“Roach fucked up so bad last night.”

Cloud peers over at Zack curiously. “What do you mean?” he asks, his voice barely above a whisper.

“You’ll see,” Zack replies sourly.

Cloud attempts to sneak a peek over at Roach. He looks annoyed, his arms crossed in front of him. Before Cloud can wonder too much about what he had done, Stallion starts the meeting.

“I want to start with a conversation about what happened yesterday,” he says, his voice steady and controlled. Cloud is always impressed with how one person can exude so much authority with such little effort.

It is so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

“Last night, Roach had a customer who didn’t have enough cash on her,” he explains. “I don’t know what you were thinking Roach,” he says looking directly at him now, ”but we do not accompany our customers to the ATM in this club.”

Cloud creases his eyebrows, and looks at Stallion in confusion. To his relief, Stallion shoots him a small smile.

“Maybe you haven’t heard about it, Cloud. It is no longer legal in the city of Midgar for hosts, or anyone, to accompany a customer to the ATM with the purpose of being paid. Of course, hosts weren’t named in this new law but we all know who they are targeting with it.”

Cloud nods. He actually does vaguely remember this law being passed but didn't think that anyone actually followed it.

Roach sucks his teeth and speaks up. “Everyone does it. I made sure to keep my distance,” he says, not making eye contact with anyone, instead looking somewhere at the wall.

To Cloud’s surprise it's not Stallion, but Genesis who speaks next.

“Isn't it better that we ensure they can pay, rather than letting them go?” He shrugged. “I understand we should avoid it but I see merit in it.”

Stallion lets out a frustrated sigh.

“It makes us look bad. We do not want to establish ourselves as the type of club who does that kind of thing,” he explains. “Also, if you accompany them to the ATM, and by some chance they do consult a lawyer about any debts they may have with us, they could claim they were being coerced into paying.”

Cloud looks over at Genesis, expecting a rebuttal, but all he does is roll his eyes.

“You're responsible if your customer can't pay. It's up to you to make sure they come back and pay their debts.” Stallion says sternly.

“Not all of us have Futokyaku visiting us every night!” Roach says passionately.

“Futokyaku?” Cloud whispers to Zack while Roach, Genesis and Stallion continue bickering.

“It means they have a fat wallet. Big spender,” Zack explains quietly.

Cloud nods in understanding and tries to follow the conversation. Now they are talking about how all customers are important or something, from what Cloud understands.

In typical Sephiroth fashion, he suddenly decides to speak up, after sitting there looking bored for the last 10 minutes.

“Instead of pushing your casual customers into debt, maybe it's better to know their limits.”

That really does it. Now they're all yelling at Sephiroth.

“Fuck you, Sephiroth!” Roach booms. “Get off your high horse!”

Sephiroth merely smirks and gives a small shrug. Cloud can't help his eyes finding Sephiroth's mouth, that little smirk sparking something in him.

He looks back up to his eyes, the fighting and voices around him completely tuned out as he realizes Sephiroth is looking right back at him.

Smirk growing wider, Sephiroth shoots him a wink. Cloud answers it with a scowl and turns his attention back to Stallion, who is now raising his arms to shush everyone.

“You're welcome to go somewhere else if you have a problem with the rules.”

Everyone goes quiet. Cloud is shocked that Stallion threatened them with that kind of ultimatum, but at the same time it does seem like the argument isn't going anywhere.

“Shit, Angeal, you didn't have to go there,” Genesis grumbles. Cloud doesn't hear people use Stallion’s real name very often, and he wonders if Stallion has crossed some line. He shifts a bit in his seat and looks at Zack. Zack’s expression looks weary, but he gives a small smile when he catches Cloud watching.

“Let’s continue this between the three of us,” Stallion says with a sigh. “Sephiroth, please just stay out of it. Everyone go get the club ready for tonight, please.”

Sephiroth gets up with a shrug and glides out of the room. Cloud notices that Roach flips Sephiroth off once he is out of sight.

“Roach really doesn't like Sephiroth,” Zack says once they've left the staff room.

“I thought the rivalry was between Genesis and Sephiroth,” Cloud says curiously.

Zack gestures to the VIP room and they both enter under the guise of getting it ready.

“Genesis and Sephiroth are actually pretty good friends. I think the rivalry is more of a one-sided thing from Genesis, anyway.” Zack explains as he sits down on the sofa making himself comfortable and taking a deep breath.

“Roach, well…” Zack ponders a moment before continuing, and Cloud takes a seat next to him. “He came from another club and has his way of doing things.”

“Like taking customers to the ATM.”

Zack nods. “Exactly. Some of those things Genesis agrees with. None of us wanna miss out on gil, and doing your best to rank in the top 3 is a fun challenge but…”

“But?" Cloud presses.

“It's easy to forget the customers are humans. Stallion wants us to be different, I guess.” Zack smiles. “I think Genesis sees both sides. Most of us do, I guess. It's a job. But Sephiroth… he loves stirring the pot. I couldn't even tell you what he really thinks, but it drives Roach insane.”

“Tell me about it.” Cloud mumbles.

Zack looks over at him, eyebrows raised. “Did Sephiroth do something?”

Cloud wants to smack himself as he feels his cheeks warming. “No,” he replies, way too quickly.

Zack isn't buying it and raises his eyebrows even more.

Cloud sighs. “He just teases me all the time. Won't leave me alone.”

Zack barks out a laugh that makes Cloud jump.

“He likes to mess with people, but I think he genuinely doesn't like Roach,” Zack says, his expression looking a bit brighter.

“But why? Just because Roach doesn't do things the same way Sephiroth does?”

Zack shrugs. “Yeah. It's probably mostly ‘cause Roach is jealous of him, and so anytime Sephiroth says anything Roach takes it personally and blah blah blah.”

Jealousy in a job when there is so much money involved is sure to cause some problems, Cloud supposes.

Before they can continue their conversation, the door to the VIP room opens and Sephiroth appears in the doorway.

“Are you two cleaning or gossiping?” he asks blankly.

Zack quickly stands up and laughs. “Can't we do both?”

Sephiroth cocks an eyebrow at him but says nothing and then looks at Cloud. “Why don't you help me with the other VIP room, Cloud? Yuffie is coming today, so I'm sure you will be spending time with her there.”

He doesn't wait for a reply and turns to leave. Cloud lets out a frustrated huff.

“Ya know, I think he likes you!” Zack says, patting him on the back. “He's really cool. You should get to know him!”

Cloud likes Zack, but in that moment he could kill him. But he doesn’t want to reveal to Zack what exactly happened, so Cloud gives him a half smile and follows after Sephiroth.

They start wiping down the sofas in the second VIP room in silence. Cloud feels so uncomfortable he keeps looking at the door, hoping someone will open it and save him.

He peeks over at Sephiroth. Of course, he looks completely unbothered. Cloud stops what he's doing and turns to face him, unable to hold it in any longer.

“What's your game?” he asks bluntly.

Sephiroth turns to look at him, his expression slightly amused.

“My game?”

Cloud huffs. “Yes. You keep messing around with me. What do you want?”

Sephiroth chuckles. “I don't play games, Cloud.”

Cloud snorts in disbelief. “You're a host. All you guys do is play games.”

Rolling his eyes, Sephiroth says, “You speak as if you are not a host yourself.”

He has a point there, Cloud has to admit. But he doesn't want to admit that to Sephiroth.

Instead he rolls his eyes right back. “Not a very good one, probably because I don't play games. And because I have shitty hair, according to you.”

Sephiroth’s face breaks out into a wide grin. “Dear Cloud, have my words had such an effect on you?”

Cloud doesn't say anything and just glares at him.

“I may be a host, Cloud. But you are not my customer, so I have no reason to play games with you.” Then he adds with a shrug, “And your hair does look like shit.”

Something comes over Cloud that he can't understand and before he knows what he's doing, the cloth he had been holding is now flying across the small room, right for Sephiroth's face.

Laughing, Sephiroth grabs it before it can actually touch him.

“Seriously, Cloud? Throwing things at me? Have I really upset you so much?”

Cloud doesn't apologize. “Why were you such a dick to me the first day?”

Sephiroth feigns a look of innocence. “Was I?”

“You told me I probably wouldn't last a day and that I shouldn't get used to the VIP room.”

Sephiroth chuckles. “Well, you proved me wrong, did you not? Although you can thank Yuffie for your VIP room experience.”

“So what, now you wanna be my friend or something?”

“Not exactly.”

“Why did you kiss me?”

Sephiroth drops the cloth that Cloud had thrown at him onto the table and takes a step towards Cloud.

“Because I wanted to,” he says, leaning forward slightly.

Cloud takes a small step back. “You said you don't play games, but this feels like a game to me.”

“It certainly is fun, I won't deny that.”

Cloud wants to scream. “Can you just tell me what you want from me? Or can I go now?”

Sephiroth stares at him for a few moments. “You should get better at acting.”

“What?”

“Most of the best hosts are gay. Sexual attraction to your customers is often the downfall of the best. So, you have potential to be great. You just need to hide it better.”

Cloud blinks at him. “What…?”

“I saw how you looked at my picture on the wall the first day you started. I see how you look at me now. I am an observant man, Cloud.”

Cloud just gawks at him. His mind feels blank. He's not wrong. Sephiroth is probably the most beautiful person Cloud has ever set eyes on, but was it that obvious?

“So…” Cloud starts, “Are you trying to help me?”

Sephiroth ponders this. “I do think you have potential.” Cloud nods slowly as Sephiroth continues. “But as for what I want, well, I think it's safe to assume we both want the same thing.”

Cloud rolls his eyes. “You want to fuck me?” He tries to look unimpressed, uninterested, but he’s not sure that he's being successful. The thought of Sephiroth fucking him, touching him, kissing him… it makes his whole body stir.

“Is that what you want, Cloud?” He is getting closer now. The VIP rooms aren't very big but now they feel even smaller as Sephiroth looms over him.

Cloud feels dizzy. How have things gone from Sephiroth being an asshole to Sephiroth standing propositioning him for sex.

“I don't understand.”

Sephiroth takes another step closer to him and takes Cloud’s chin between his long fingers.

“You need to stop overthinking things,” he says softly.

“Why? I don't… why?” The words almost sound like a whimper. He feels so exhausted and confused.

Sephiroth grins. “Why not?”

And then he’s kissing him again.

Cloud stands frozen for a moment. Two voices in his head are at odds. One is screaming at him to not be such a stupid pleb and kiss the god back. The other is telling him not to be such a loser, not to give in to this man who is clearly just toying with him, despite what he might say.

Sephiroth moves his hand to cup Cloud's cheek, his thumb brushing him gently.

Cloud gives a frustrated growl and grabs the lapels of Sephiroth's suit jacket, standing on his toes to crush Sephiroth’s lips harder against his. The voice of warning in his head is drowned out by the cheers of his desire.

He feels Sephiroth’s breathy laugh against his mouth as he moves his hand to the small of Cloud’s back, pressing him against his body.

Cloud feels high. Literally like he is high in the sky floating, any morsel of logical thinking left on the ground below him.

Sephiroth flicks his tongue against Cloud, and Cloud opens his mouth without hesitation, his own tongue moving to press against Sephiroth's.

Cloud can't hold back the moan that escapes him as their kiss deepens, their lips and tongues moving against each other in an odd sense of desperation.

Cloud’s hands have long since gone slack against Sephiroth, and instead of grabbing him, he feels like a woman from the cover of a romance novel, clinging to his lover for dear life.

Suddenly, he feels Sephiroth pulling back. Cloud tries not to chase after his lips, but it's hard to stop.

“The club will open soon,” Sephiroth murmurs, his lips still close enough to brush against Cloud's.

Oh shit. Right. They're at work.

Cloud quickly lets go of Sephiroth and takes a step back, his face feeling hot. He is sure that he is the colour of a tomato.

“Unless you'd like to give everyone a show? I know some girls are into that,” Sephiroth says nonchalantly.

Cloud tries to form words, but it is a struggle while he is still trying to come to terms with what just happened. So he says nothing and attempts to make himself busy, grabbing a cloth to wipe down the doors.

“You're not going to pretend to be shy now are you, Cloud?”

The way he says Cloud’s name blooms heat throughout his body.

“I don't want people at work knowing if we're going to do … that.”

Sephiroth laughs. “Of course. To be continued.”

And with that he opens the door to the VIP room and leaves, not without grazing his hand against Cloud’s ass, which does nothing to help the blush on Cloud's face.

Cloud waits until the door is completely shut behind Sephiroth and then collapses onto one of the sofas.

This doesn't feel real to Cloud at all. He sits there going over the conversation in his head and trying to pick it apart for some kind of hidden meaning, but Sephiroth does seem to be a man who says what he thinks and does what he wants, so why would he lie about this?

Cloud hasn't really had a lot of sex lately, and the idea of fucking around with Sephiroth gets more appealing by the second. Plus, it seems like Sephiroth might even be willing to help him out on the host aspect of things.

There is a small chance he has misjudged Sephiroth. However there is also a chance that Sephiroth is going to screw him over. Although, the more Cloud thanks about it, he doesn't really have anything to lose. He has no customers that Sephiroth could sabotage—and really why would he need to—and it's not like he would ruin his own reputation.

Also, it's not like Sephiroth was asking for a relationship. Something in Cloud's stomach flutters at the thought of that and he has to physically stand up to stop from cringing at himself.

Why not? He had said. The words playing over and over in Cloud’s mind. Was it really that simple?

Cloud just has a really hard time accepting that Sephiroth could simply be attracted to him. Despite all the flirting he'd received the last few weeks, he didn't want to let it go to his head.

He looks at his reflection in the VIP door, and although he can only see himself faintly, he reaches up to try and fix his hair. After realizing that no amount of playing with it was going to help at all, Cloud lets his hands fall to his sides.

Fuck it. I guess this is happening.

~~

The night starts off as it usually does. It's pretty quiet at first but soon enough customers start showing up.

Everyone seems to just be ignoring everything that happened with Roach and Genesis earlier, and even Roach seems to be in good spirits. Cloud can't help but notice he is going nowhere near Sephiroth, though.

Genesis on the other hand, had been in the corner whispering to Sephiroth about things before the club had opened, something that intrigued Cloud greatly. He’s curious about what kind of relationship the two actually have and wonders if Sephiroth will tell him what's going on later.

Cloud stops himself. Why would Sephiroth suddenly start telling him everything just because they made out in the VIP room? Cloud is getting way too ahead of himself, but at the same time it’s exciting, to have a sort of familiarity with Sephiroth. It feels like having an invitation to a party no one else is invited to, and Cloud can't help but feel empowered.

He has a new skip in his step as he does his best to float around the club, sitting at tables while others are busy, while also running to the back and helping Reno with making drinks.

“You seem happy today,” Reno says as they prepare a few pitchers of ice tea for the VIP rooms. Many of the customers like to just have tea, and then they buy alcohol for their shimei.

“Uh… just getting the hang of things I guess,” Cloud says with a shrug.

“Kind of an intense meeting today, eh?”

“Yeah. Honestly, is that kind of thing normal?”

Reno waves a hand dismissively. “Nah. Every so often. It's just a coincidence both Genesis and Roach fucked up since you got here.”

Cloud hums in understanding. He's relieved to know it's not something that happens very often, mostly just cause it was incredibly awkward. He doesn't really care what everyone does, and hasn't been a host long enough to have any real convictions to stand behind, but it would be a pain to know everyone's always fighting.

“I think it's fine now. Seph just needs to know when to not talk. Though I doubt that’ll ever happen,” Reno says with a small laugh.

Cloud smirks. “He really can just do whatever he wants, I guess.”

“He's the king ‘round here,” Reno agrees as he picks up the serving dish with the pitchers on it and heads back into the main room of the club.

Cloud quickly puts everything that they had been using back into their rightful locations and then heads back into the club himself.

Before he can even find a table to sit at, he feels someone grab his arm and pull him out of ear shot of anyone. Cloud relaxes when he realizes it's just Zack.

“Hey, what's going on?” Cloud is slightly out of breath after being surprised by Zack.

“There's a shokai! She seems really nice and cute, honestly I think you might be her type!”

Cloud blinks at him. Most of the customers were nice and cute so Cloud wasn't sure what gave Zack this idea but he doesn't want to argue.

“Okay. Is it my turn or something?” Cloud says, craning his neck to see over Zack's shoulder which table he’s talking about.

Sure enough there's a young girl sitting awkwardly at a table across the room. She looks nervous, holding her glass with two hands as Barret talks to her.

“She looks really young,” Cloud says quietly.

“Yeah. I just finished talking to her. It's her first time to come to a host club. Oh! Barret is leaving,” Zack says as he starts pushing Cloud in the direction of the customer. “Good luck!”

Cloud isn't sure what Zack thinks is going to be different about this customer than the others but he feels confident thanks to Zack's encouragement and sits down at the table with a smile.

“Hi, I'm Sky,” he says with a slight bow of his head, holding his business card out towards her.

“Hi. I'm Miya. I uhm… I've never really done this before,” she says shyly as she takes his business card. Cloud sees that she has everyone's business cards in a pile next to her drink, and watches as she places him on top of the pile.

“Really? Well, if it makes you feel better, I'm pretty new here myself!” Cloud says warmly.

She perks up at that a little. “Really?”

“Yeah,” he starts, deciding to play it up a little. “I still feel so nervous everyday, like I have no idea what I'm doing!”

Thankfully, it pays off and she giggles.

“You really look like a host, though!”

Cloud pretends to be shocked. “Hey! I am a host!” He teases.

This ignited more laughter from Miya. “No! You know what I mean!”

Cloud feels amazing. Her body language has completely changed and she seems so much more relaxed.

Once the laughter dies down, Cloud decides to try and ask her the question that's genuinely on his mind.

“What made you want to try a host club?”

In all honesty, he never really saw the appeal of host or hostess clubs. A lot of his friends from when he bartended would visit hostess clubs together but Cloud always declined.

From what he can see working at Club Shrina, so many of the girls are friendly and clever, and he is always curious about why they would willingly come and spend so much money on it.

“Well…” She starts looking a little nervous again. “I've been really busy at work and I don't have many friends… I thought this would be something interesting to try. I don't have many people to talk to.”

Cloud nods in understanding. It definitely is something different. Looks wise, she is very cute, so Cloud is surprised to hear she doesn't have many friends. A part of him almost feels like telling her she shouldn't come here and spend her money on hosts, but he wants a customer, and that kind of thinking won't do him any good.

They talk a bit more and Cloud leaves the table after his 15 minutes feeling like maybe he has a fighting chance.

The anticipation is killing him but after everyone else has their turn, he sees Reno walking up to him with a massive smile on his face. Before Reno can even tell him Cloud feels his heart beating in his chest.

“Me? She picked me?”

“Yeah! You got one!” Reno says, raising his hand to give Cloud a high five, which Cloud quickly returns before heading back to the table. He peeks around the room once to see if Sephiroth is nearby, but he can't see him.

He really can't believe it. His head is reeling trying to remember everything that he is supposed to do now.

“Miya! Thank you so much!” He says as he sits next to her again.

She looks nervous but more in an embarrassed way than she did before. “Yeah. Sure,” she says smiling weakly.

They have about 20 minutes before her time is up. It's really rare for a shokai to stay for another hour, so Cloud doesn't think he will try pushing it. He does however, decide to try and make his first sale.

“Do you mind if I have a drink as well?”

She nods. “Of course, please,” she replies, gesturing to the menu.

Cloud thanks her and calls Rude over to bring him a drink.

After that they talk a bit more, but before long Rude comes to whisper in Cloud's ear that the time is up. When he asks her if she would like to stay another hour, she declines, to no one's surprise. Shokai is very cheap. At their club it was only 500 gil for all you can drink. After that any other visits to the club are at full price, and each drink is paid for individually. For Club Shrina that meant 5000 gil per hour, with VIP costing 8000 gil an hour. On top of those charges, there is also a shimei charge of 3000gil. To finish things off, there is a hefty 37% tax on everything.

Cloud nods and is proud of himself for remembering to ask for her Mogtalk account so that he can contact her. He feels excited and nervous to have a customer he will need to message regularly.

Finally, Cloud walks her to the door, enthusiastically shouting “Customer leaving!” For the very first time.

He waves to her as she disappears behind the elevator doors, waits a minute and then punches the air.

“I did it,” he says under his breath.

“So you did.”

Cloud swirls around to see Sephiroth standing behind him.

“Why are you always around me!” Cloud exclaims, trying to recover from this sneak attack.

Sephiroth pouts. “Would you rather I stay away?”

Cloud rolls his eyes and says nothing. Obviously no.

“I got a customer,” Cloud says.

Sephiroth smiles. “We have established that.”

“Yeah.”

“Let's see if she ever comes back.”

Cloud looks at him coolly. He had his tongue down Cloud’s throat a few hours ago, and still can't say something nice.

“I don't mean to diminish your accomplishments,” Sephiroth says with a shrug, “let me make it up to you.”

Cloud looks at him suspiciously. “How?”

Sephiroth raises his eyebrows. “Have you already forgotten our conversation from earlier?”

Cloud feels himself going red again. “Oh.”

Sephiroth smirks. “Let's celebrate, Cloud.”

Chapter Text

Cloud isn't sure why he feels so nervous. He's not a stranger to hook ups or even friends with benefits.

Sephiroth feels different, though.

Even outside of the host world, people know who Sephiroth is due to his famous father. He's the kind of guy who comes up in documentaries or ChocoTok videos about hosts. Cloud is sure a lot of the people that come to Club Shinra for Shokai come just for Sephiroth.

And now here he is, sitting in the back of a taxi, on his way to what is probably Sephiroth's very expensive house.

After he had gotten his first customer, everyone wanted to go to Seventh Heaven to celebrate. But feeling riled up from his “meeting” with Sephiroth in the VIP rooms, and riding the high of getting a customer, he made up an excuse to get out of it. Since tomorrow the club is closed, Cloud told everyone he had to get up early to go back to his hometown.

He's not sure why he thought of this lie considering both of his parents are dead, but it's something he always hears others saying when he asks what their plans are, and no one wants to say no to someone going home to see their folks.

“Maybe you will make a good liar after all,” Sephiroth says as they drive down the road.

“I might be new to being a host but I'm not a child,” Cloud says with a shrug. “Plus, you were wrong about me.”

Sephiroth looks over at him. “About?”

“I like girls, too.”

Cloud watches as Sephiroth’s eyebrow raises. He's really starting to hate that look.

“Do you?” Sephiroth asks.

“Yeah. I prefer guys but I find some girls cute.” Cloud ponders before adding, “I guess I just like to… well… you know.”

“Get fucked?”

Cloud’s eyes dart to the taxi driver, praying he didn't hear that. To his relief, the driver doesn't seem to be paying attention.

Sephiroth chuckles softly. “Am I wrong?”

“No,” grumbles Cloud. “Despite doing this job, you don't have any attraction to girls?” he asks, changing the topic.

“Absolutely none.”

He had said that all the best hosts were gay, so Cloud supposes it makes sense.

Cloud doesn't think that Sephiroth realizes how handsome he is. Sephiroth is the kind of guy who turns heads no matter what someone's preference is. He's truly beautiful.

Cloud is pulled out of his thoughts as the taxi comes to a stop.

Sephiroth's house isn't as large as Cloud had expected, but it does have a small gate out front and a small garden, which is rare in the city. Cloud also can’t help but notice the expensive car parked in the garage.

“Do you like cars, Cloud?” Sephiroth asks. He must have noticed Cloud looking.

“Uh. Yeah. Used to wanna be a mechanic.”

Sephiroth looks at him with a hint of surprise across his face. “You are very interesting, Cloud.”

Feeling his face getting red, Cloud waves him off. “The dreams of a younger man.”

“I'll take you for a ride in it sometime. For now, there's something else I'd like you to take for a spin.” He puts his arm around Cloud’s shoulders and guides him to the door.

“That was a horrible line,” Cloud says, rolling his eyes.

Sephiroth doesn't say anything, but Cloud doesn't need to look at his face to know that Sephiroth does not care if what he said was lame or not.

Sephiroth opens the door and gestures for Cloud to walk in. He hears the door shut behind him as he toes off his shoes and awkwardly steps into the hallway.

He still can't believe he feels as nervous as he does. He had a lot to drink earlier at the club, but he is feeling completely sober now. Sephiroth has so many customers and often gets champagne bought for him. Cloud is seriously impressed that he almost never seems drunk.

“Come this way,” Sephiroth says, putting a hand on the small of Cloud's back and leading him down the hallway.

The inside of Sephiroth's house is more or less what Cloud expected. It’s modern, with black accents and expensive looking art on the walls. He notices a few rooms as they walk down the hall. A bedroom, an office, both so tidy that it almost feels like no one actually lives here.

He is relieved when they reach the kitchen and things are slightly less perfect. There are dishes in the sink and mail tossed onto the table.

“Do you want a drink?” Sephiroth asks.

“Uh… no, I've had enough to drink.”

Sephiroth hums in understanding. “It's better not to drink in your free time.”

Cloud looks at him curiously. “Oh?”

“You would be surprised at the amount of hosts who end up with severe stomach issues.” Sephiroth explains while he grabs two cups and fills them with water. “Longevity is important.”

Cloud shrugs. “I drank a lot when I was a bartender, never had many problems.”

Sephiroth looks at him for a moment. And Cloud can't help but feel Sephiroth is looking at him like he would look at a child. “Did you frequently chug champagne?”

“Well, no.”

“Well, that's rather different, don't you agree?” Sephiroth hands Cloud a glass of water.

Cloud shrugs and takes the glass that Sephiroth offers him. Without saying anything Sephiroth heads to what seems to be the living room and then opens the door to the veranda and steps outside.

Cloud quickly follows after him and steps out into the cool air of the morning. The sun isn't up yet, but it's nearing 5am at this point. He was sure that Sephiroth was going to start things the moment they stepped inside the house but it seems that Sephiroth wants to take his time and relax.

There are two chairs and a table with an ashtray between them. Sephiroth gestures at him to sit down and they both make themselves comfortable on the chairs.

Sephiroth offers him a cigarette and they sit in silence for a few moments. Cloud peeks at Sephiroth who is staring at the sky, a far off look in his eyes. He's never seen him looking so soft before. A familiar wave of pride rolls through him at the thought that he's seeing a side of Sephiroth other's don't get to.

“So, how do you stay so…not drunk, when you have so many customers?”

Sephiroth takes a drag of his cigarette before responding. “You have to see things as an investment. Instead of trying to get a customer to buy a lot in one sitting, it's better to create a good relationship with them, so they return.”

Cloud nods. That makes sense. “So, it's not about getting the most champagne calls, it's about getting regular customers.”

“Sort of. It's a job, it takes practice. You will hopefully find a way that works for you.” Sephiroth says, putting his cigarette out and standing up.

Cloud had momentarily forgotten why they were here. He really enjoys speaking to Sephiroth, more than he ever thought he would. But tonight, Sephiroth isn't interested in sitting here mentoring him. He had made that very clear.

“Come.” he says with that smirk of his. Cloud nods and puts his cigarette out, standing up to follow Sephiroth back into the house.

Sephiroth leads him into what seems to be Sephiroth's bedroom. Although Cloud isn't sure; with how neat and tidy it is, it could be a guest room.

Cloud stands frozen, completely unsure of what he's supposed to do now.

Sephiroth smiles slyly at him. “Are you going to keep your clothes on for this part of the evening?”

Cloud feels himself turning red. “Uh. No. I just…” he feels completely unable to form words. The only thing on his mind is the question that's been gnawing at him since the first day he walked into the club: Why? Why him? What does Sephiroth want from him? But he's sure if he asks this Sephiroth will be annoyed, so he refrains.

“Do you need help?” Sephiroth asks, taking a step closer.

But before Cloud can answer Sephiroth starts undoing his suit jacket, one button at a time. Cloud’s breath hitches as Sephiroth slowly slips his jacket down his shoulders, tossing it on the floor next to them.

“Your turn.”

That smirk again. This time, though, Cloud can't feel frustrated by that look on Sephiroth's face. He had agreed to this after all, and he can't pretend he isn't excited.

Cloud reaches towards Sephiroth and starts undoing the buttons on his jacket. Sephiroth chuckles and shrugs out of it, dropping it on the floor next to Cloud's.

“Now the shirt,” Sephiroth says.

“Isn't it your turn now?” Cloud asks, feeling a rush of confidence. He knows how to do this. Why is he acting like a blushing virgin?

Something flashes in Sephiroth's eyes and he lunges forward, grabbing the collar of Cloud’s shirt and ripping it off of him with one hand. He uses his other hand to grab him by the neck, crushing their lips together.

“Hey!” Cloud protests at the treatment of his shirt, but his words are completely drowned out by Sephiroth's tongue invading his mouth.

“I'll buy you a new one,” Sephiroth growls against his mouth, his hand moving to Cloud's backside.

Cloud is gone again. There's something magical about Sephiroth's mouth that makes him stop caring about anything else.

Cloud grabs at Sephiroth's shirt and frantically tries to undo the buttons. He slides his hands against Sephiroth's abs once his shirt is open, feeling each ridge. Sephiroth’s lips move to his jaw, and Cloud struggles to focus.

With Sephiroth leaning down to kiss him like this, it’s too hard to reach what Cloud really wants. He jumps and hopes Sephiroth catches him.

Luckily Sephiroth seems to be on the same wavelength, sliding his hand under Cloud’s ass to hold him up as Cloud wraps his legs around his hips.

Cloud gasps as Sephiroth moves to kiss his neck, just below his ear, sending shocks of pleasure through his body. His legs tighten around Sephiroth, attempting to get some friction to sate the throbbing that's now growing between his legs.

He pulls Sephiroth's head against his neck in encouragement and manages to whisper, “Bed.”

“Bossy.” Sephiroth murmurs against his skin. Cloud shudders slightly at the feeling of Sephiroth's breath, his desire growing by the second.

But Sephiroth honours his request and moves them to the bed, still peppering kisses along Cloud's neck and shoulder as he lowers Cloud down.

Cloud doesn't let go, his hips bucking desperately against Sephiroth. He isn't sure when he grabbed Sephiroth's hair, but he loves the feeling of those soft strands between his fingers as Sephiroth continues to explore Cloud’s body with his mouth.

Sephiroth returns to Cloud’s lips, lightly kissing them while he reaches back to unlock Cloud's legs from around him. Cloud protests with a small whine.

“So needy,” Sephiroth says between kisses. “You continue to fascinate me, Cloud.”

Cloud huffs, because what the fuck does that even mean. Deciding not to respond, he nips at Sephiroth's bottom lip instead and reaches down to undo Sephiroth's belt.

“It's not your turn,” Sephiroth says as he grabs both of Cloud's hands in one of his and pins them over his head.

Cloud looks up at him and for a moment their eyes meet. A long forgotten feeling begins to stir in Cloud's gut. He blinks a few times then scowls, willing the feeling away.

“Hurry up,” he snaps.

Sephiroth giggles. Actually giggles. Cloud is unable to make any kind of retort however because suddenly Sephiroth has let go of his hands and is now making his way down Cloud’s torso. His kisses start light, but gradually turn to small bites as he reaches his goal.

Cloud moans as Sephiroth finally touches him. His large hands palming at Cloud's erection through his suit pants.

“Mmm. Already so eager,” Sephiroth says, replacing his hands with his mouth, kissing and nipping.

Cloud arches his back and bucks against Sephiroth's mouth. He isn't used to hook ups being so…affectionate. Usually they get the job done and then leave, but Sephiroth seems to want to make every moment last.

The thought goes straight to Cloud's already leaking cock, and he doesn't hold back the moan that had been bubbling at his lips when Sephiroth finally opens the button of his pants and lets Cloud’s cock free.

Cloud’s hands fly back to Sephiroth's hair as Sephiroth wastes no time taking Cloud's tip into his mouth. He hums in approval around Cloud's erection, and Cloud has no idea how he’s supposed to last.

Sephiroth licks and sucks a few times before leaning back for a moment. Puzzled by the sudden withdrawal, Cloud cranes his neck to see what he is doing, and he’s met with the sight of Sephiroth dropping a long, slow line of his spit on the head of his cock. Cloud watches, biting his lower lip as Sephiroth peers up at him, his gaze holding as he takes Cloud into his mouth. The slide is fucking divine.

He's never been so turned on, his hands gripping Sephiroth even tighter as he begins moving, taking a little bit more of Cloud’s length down his throat each time. His shameless moans and Sephiroth's lewd slurping fill the room.

No one has ever given him a blow job like this, and Cloud feels dizzy with it. He lets his head fall back onto the bed, trying not to thrust upwards into Sephiroth's mouth, trusting him to keep the rhythm. All the voices in his head are cheering their approval as his cock is consumed whole.

Cloud feels the familiar tension in his abdomen, heat spreading through him. “Seph,” he whimpers in an attempt to warn him.

Sephiroth quickly releases Cloud’s cock from between his lips, grabbing Cloud’s forearms to remove Cloud’s hands from his head so he can lean back. It's just in time, as Cloud comes all over himself.

Cloud’s stomach twitches as cum continues to ooze from his cock, his chest heaving.

Panting, he props himself up on his elbows and nearly lets out a moan at the sight of Sephiroth scooping a line of cum off of his stomach, then licking his fingers clean of Cloud’s release.

“You taste as delicious as you look, Cloud.”

Cloud cannot understand how this man is so perfect, how everything he does is so sexy. He squashes the feeling of doubt trying to creep from the back of his mind now that he’s having some post-nut clarity. He doesn't know what to say, but he knows that Sephiroth isn't finished. He still sees nothing but desire in the other man’s eyes.

Cloud pulled out of his reverie by Sephiroth yanking his pants and boxers the rest of the way off, adding them to the pile of clothes on the floor.

“One moment,” he murmurs as he gets up from where he was sitting on his knees and makes his way over to the small dresser beside the bed. He rummages around in it for a moment and then grabs something and heads back to where Cloud is sitting on the bed, still feeling a little light-headed.

Sephiroth tosses Cloud the small bottle from the dresser. Cloud catches it and realizes he shouldn't be surprised to see that it's lube.

“Stretch yourself. I will watch,” Sephiroth says in a low tone, unbuckling his belt.

Cloud opens and closes his mouth a few times.

“You want me… to do… it?” he asks, feeling like an idiot.

“I do,” Sephiroth purrs. “I trust you know how,” he adds.

Cloud scowls at him. “Seriously you're such a—” but he honestly isn’t even sure what he was going to say, because Sephiroth chooses that moment to drop his pants, and all Cloud can focus on is the massive cock now standing proudly in front of him.

Cloud isn’t sure he’ll ever have another thought so long as he lives.

Sephiroth chuckles and leans down to capture Cloud’s lips again, perhaps an attempt to bring him back from his brain malfunction. Cloud whimpers when Sephiroth brushes his tongue against his bottom lip. He can taste himself on Sephiroth, and he already feels the flames of desire rekindling in his gut.

He kisses Sephiroth back for a moment before pulling back to look at the bottle of lube. He’s going to need a lot if that is going to fit inside him.

“How do you just walk around with that?” Cloud grumbles.

Sephiroth chuckles again. “I'm a grower, not a shower.”

He puts one knee on the bed and nods toward the headboard. Cloud gets the hint and scuttles backwards until he's resting against the pillows.

Sephiroth follows after him, his erection hanging between his legs, long and hard. Cloud swallows. It's fine. It will fit.

Probably.

“I'll be gentle.” Sephiroth grins, clearly noticing where Cloud's eyes keep going.

Sephiroth grabs Cloud behind the knees and pushes his legs back, taking in the sight of his hole, licking his lips. Cloud blushes but doesn't try to hide. They've come this far, after all.

Cloud pops the cap of the lube and pours some into his hand. He takes a deep breath and then moves his fingers to his hole, playing with it for a moment, spreading the lube around the sensitive skin.

He stares at Sephiroth who isn't looking at his face, but watching Cloud’s hand, stroking his own cock gently.

Oh fuck, he's touching himself while watching me

The sight makes Cloud's spent cock twitch in interest, and he slowly sinks two fingers inside himself.

He winces at first. It's been awhile since he's been with anyone. Sephiroth continues to watch as Cloud slowly pumps the two fingers in and out, twisting them as he moves.

He shuts his eyes and takes another deep breath as he adds another finger. His fingers squelch inside of him as he opens himself up

Cloud feels a hand on the back of one of his thighs, and Sephiroth murmurs, “You’re doing so well.”

Cloud resists the urge to snap at him that he doesn't need to be praised like a child and just rolls his eyes instead. He isn't ready to admit he might like it.

Sephiroth moves his hand down Cloud’s leg slowly until he’s close enough to touch Cloud’s hand and pull his fingers out.

Cloud raises an eyebrow. “I thought you wanted me to do it.”

Sephiroth grins and ducks his head. “You look too delicious,” is all he says before Cloud feels both his strong hands on his thighs, pushing them back again, and that devilish tongue laps at his hole.

Cloud let out a noise of surprise, losing his balance slightly, dropping his arms to grab the bed sheets.

“Nghh, Seph!”

Sephiroth lets out a breathy laugh against Cloud’s hole, which makes Cloud gasp. It feels too good to have Sephiroth touching him in this way. Cloud can't hold back his moans as he’s eaten out. Sephiroth’s tongue enters him, and Cloud can feel his dick coming back to life.

It feels so good. So right. So filthy.

Once Sephiroth is satisfied, he moves back and sits on his heels, but not before grabbing the lube. He pours a generous amount directly onto his dick, and Cloud is sure he is purposely making a show of it. Cloud can't be mad though, watching Sephiroth lube up his own cock is probably the hottest thing he's ever seen.

“Ready?” Sephiroth says, grabbing Cloud before he can even answer, pulling him by the hips towards himself until his cock is lined up with Cloud's hole.

“Just do it already,” Cloud says, but his voice lacks the sharp tone he was going for, and it comes out more like a breathless plea.

Sephiroth chuckles and grabs his cock and slowly presses the tip to Cloud’s hole. Cloud grits his teeth. He can already feel a burn as Sephiroth presses into him.

Cloud can't help but let out a small sob, both of his hands clutching onto the sheets for dear life as Sephiroth's cock practically splits him in half.

“Deep breath Cloud, let me in,” Sephiroth coos, his hands resting on the top of Cloud's knees, stroking them softly.

Despite his gentle tone, Sephiroth does not stop. He makes small thrusts into Cloud, coaxing him open little by little.

Cloud takes a deep breath and relaxes his jaw. He wiggles his hips a bit to adjust the position and sighs in relief as Sephiroth slides in easier.

Sephiroth pushes Cloud's knees against his chest and dips down to press a kiss to his lips. “Good boy.”

Cloud furrows his brows, but feels his stomach do a small flip at the praise.

Sephiroth gives him a knowing look before he straightens up again, planting his knees firmly on the bed. He slowly pulls his cock out of Cloud’s tight hole. Cloud feels himself clenching against him. But he isn't empty for long as Sephiroth thrusts back into Cloud in one swift movement.

Cloud screams.

He's sure stars appear before his eyes. His eyes are rolling back in his head as Sephiroth does it again. Slowly, so so slowly pulling out and then slamming back into him.

Cloud’s mind goes blank as he screams again. Then, Sephiroth is grinding into him, setting a steady rhythm as he rocks into Cloud. The stretch burns but feels so good, Sephiroth’s cock sliding against his walls, the tip brushing against his most sensitive part. It's too much.

Cloud completely gives control to Sephiroth and hangs on for dear life as his hole is slammed over and over. It feels so good. So good.

Don't stop.

So good.

Please.

“Tell me how good it is, Cloud.” Sephiroth’s silky voice penetrates the haze in his mind and he realizes he has been saying everything out loud.

He doesn't care enough to be embarrassed and gasps out a throaty moan instead.

“Please. Fuck me.”

“Fuck Cloud… you're so tight. Practically swallowing my cock.” Sephiroth says. He's also out of breath, and Cloud keens knowing he's bringing Sephiroth so much pleasure.

Cloud feels his toes curling and reaches down to stroke his cock. It's hard again and leaking precum all over his stomach.

“Gonna cum with me inside you, Cloud?”

The way Sephiroth says his name should be criminal. It tickles his brain in all the right ways. He bites his lip and groans, nodding in reply.

“Do it.” Sephiroth growls and Cloud cums with a whimper. His release splashes over his torso as he bucks his hips uncontrollably.

He feels completely fucked out, his body going limp as Sephiroth continues to fuck into him at what is now a brutal pace. He thinks Sephiroth might be getting close, too.

“Come inside.”

Now it's Sephiroth’s turn to grit his teeth as he looks down at Cloud, searching his face for a moment.

“Please.” Cloud whispers.

Sephiroth growls and slams hard into his hole as deep as he can. Cloud feels his cum pour into him, the warm liquid coating his insides. A small sigh of bliss passes through Cloud’s lips as he feels himself getting filled. Sephiroth stays there for a moment, his hips grinding against Cloud until he gets out every drop.

“Shit…,” he whispers as he slowly pulls out and relaxes Cloud’s legs, letting them fall onto the bed. Cloud winces slightly at the sudden change, his legs aching and his hole suddenly very empty.

Sephiroth looks down at him, still panting heavily. Cloud isn't sure he will be able to move for a while, and he hopes that Sephiroth doesn't expect him to leave right away.

To his surprise, however, Sephiroth leans down to kiss him. It's slow and languid, lacking the passion that had been present in previous make out sessions, but it still feels nice. Like a good ending to an amazing story.

Cloud hums happily against his lips and wraps his arms around Sephiroth's shoulders. Why does this feel so right? Like they do this all the time. Cloud is too tired to try and sort through his feelings, though.

He can feel Sephiroth's cum trickling out of him and is sure both of them have Cloud’s cum on them.

“Shower,” Cloud suggests, breaking their kiss.

Sephiroth groans. “Too much work. It's nearly 7am. We can shower in the morning.”

Cloud makes a face. “Your bed is going to be disgusting. Probably already is. Plus I should go…”

Sephiroth rolls off of him and lands on his side next to Cloud. “This is a spare bed. I can just wash the sheets later. Or buy a new bed.”

Cloud rolls his eyes. Rich people. He ignores the lurch in his stomach at learning this isn't even Sephiroth's bed.

“Fine,” he says, “as long as you've washed the sheets since the last guy you brought home was in them.”

He instantly regrets saying this, because when he looks over at Sephiroth, he sees his mouth curled into a sly grin.

“Feeling possessive, Cloud?”

Cloud pushes him away slightly. “That's not what I said.”

Sephiroth laughs, “Okay, Cloud.” He turns towards the bedside dresser and turns off the light. Rolling back over to where Cloud is laying, he grabs Cloud around the waist and pulls him against his chest.

“As for having to go… I don't think I'm done with you yet.” Sephiroth whispers against his ear.

Cloud shudders. He feels exhausted. Too exhausted to argue or to try and explain to himself why this is all happening, so instead he closes his eyes and lets sleep take him.

~~

Cloud wakes up a few hours later. When he first opens his eyes, he panics. He can't remember where he is or what day it is. But the arm that's wrapped around him and the aching in his ass brings him back to reality quickly.

He closes his eyes for a moment again and then takes a deep breath. He fucked Sephiroth. Well, Sephiroth fucked him. He is in his bed. Or rather, a bed in Sephiroth's house.

He takes another deep breath. What is his life right now?

He turns to look behind him, and sees Sephiroth slowly opening an eye. His movement must've woken him.

“Mornin’.” Sephiroth mumbles, sliding his hands out from around Cloud to rub at his eyes. Cloud can't help but think Sephiroth looks kind of cute in the morning.

As if he can read Cloud’s thoughts Sephiroth sleepily says, “You look cute in the morning.” Cloud’s cheeks heat slightly until Sephiroth adds with a small chuckle, “Your hair looks even worse than usual.”

Cloud huffs at him. “Can you stop with the hair comments? It's too early.”

Sephiroth snickers a bit more before moving to get out of bed.

“Shower?”

Cloud looks at him suspiciously. He's sure they aren't just going to shower, from the look in Sephiroth's eyes. He’s filthy though, so he nods and sits up.

His entire body aches. Sephiroth might've broken his ass. He isn't even sure he can walk, let alone let that massive cock back inside him anytime soon.

“I… I don't know if I can walk.”

Sephiroth looks amused. “Hmm.. I know I should feel sorry about that, but I can't say I do.”

“Of course you don't,” Cloud grumbles as he tries to stand.

“Would you like me to carry you, my princess?” Sephiroth asks playfully.

“Fuck off,” Cloud snaps as he takes a few steps. It's not nearly as bad as he thought, but his whole body is sore.

Sephiroth apparently finds the nice guy that existed last night and walks over to help Cloud. Both of them are still completely naked but Cloud feels too gross to be bothered by it and allows Sephiroth to guide him to the washroom.

Sephiroth pulls him into the shower room and closes the door behind them. Cloud is in awe at how huge his shower room is. There's shelves with tons of products, and even a large seat to sit on while you wash your body. Cloud’s shower room only has a flimsy stool.

And the bathtub is huge. It looks more like a hot tub, surely at least four people could fit inside easily. Cloud looks at it longingly. A bath would feel so amazing right now, but he also thinks he would just end up falling asleep in it, so he lazily sits down on the seat instead while Sephiroth turns on the water.

“We can have a bath afterwards if you wish,” Sephiroth says. He must've noticed Cloud staring.

Cloud waves his hand dismissively. “Nah. It's fine.”

“Next time, then.” Sephiroth says simply.

Cloud feels that lurch in his stomach again.

Next time…

Soon enough, hot water is washing over him.

“Use whatever you want,” Sephiroth says, gesturing towards the selection of soaps and shampoos.

Cloud nods and grabs whatever is closest and starts lathering up his body. It feels so good to be clean after sleeping in his filth.

He glances over at Sephiroth. He really only means to take a quick look, but he can't turn away. Sephiroth's body in the florescent lights of the bathroom literally looks like he's a god.

His muscles are so defined, his impossibly long hair clinging to his body as he uses a cloth to wash himself. His skin looks so smooth, likely thanks to all these products that he uses. And of course his cock. That beast. Sephiroth was right though, he is more of a grower than a shower, because it doesn’t seem nearly as intimidating as the night before.

Sephiroth catches Cloud watching him and stops moving.

“Like what you see?”

Cloud sighs. He has come too far to pretend he's not totally into this. “Yes. Actually.”

Sephiroth smiles. An evil smile.

“I think it was your turn…” Sephiroth says, tapping his finger against his chin.

Cloud laughs softly.

“Whatever. Just let me blow you.”

Sephiroth's eyebrows shoot up. “My my, so forward this morning.”

“Are you gonna let me or not?”

Sephiroth steps towards him and almost smacks Cloud in the face with his cock, which is now growing right before Cloud's eyes.

He takes Sephiroth cautiously into his hand, still sitting down and letting the hot water beat down on his back.

Cloud licks the tip slowly, swirling his tongue around a few times while his hand pumps. “This fits in my ass somehow, but I'm not putting it down my throat,” he says.

Sephiroth just chuckles, burying his hands into Cloud's hair, nudging him slightly in encouragement.

Cloud opens his mouth and slowly makes his way down Sephiroth’s cock. He only makes it halfway before he gags and comes back up for air.

Sephiroth nudges him once more, “Try again.”

Cloud looks up at him and furrows his brows but doesn't protest. Instead he does as he's told and tries again. He makes it a little further this time but comes up before he gags again. Sephiroth seems satisfied, and with his hands still in Cloud's hair, he guides him into a steady pace.

Cloud does his best to twist his tongue against Sephiroth's cock as he moves along it, or sometimes gives the tip a small slurp and a kiss before diving back in.

It doesn't take long for Sephiroth to pull Cloud off of him, grunting slightly as he comes onto the washroom floor.

Cloud smiles softly. He feels a little drunk. He's not sure what he's doing, but he's having fun. He wipes his mouth off with the back of his hand and stands up to finish rinsing off.

~~

Sephiroth lends Cloud some clothes that are way too big for him, but he doesn't really mind. They smell like Sephiroth, which makes Cloud feel all fuzzy inside.

Sephiroth offers to make them some breakfast (well, lunch, actually), and Cloud agrees. He's still not sure how long he should stay, but he figures Sephiroth won't have any problem kicking him out.

“Have you texted your new customer yet?” Sephiroth asks as he sets a bowl of fried noodles in front of Cloud, who has made himself at home, sitting with his legs criss-crossed at the kitchen table.

“Yeah. Barret told me to text her right away so I did.” Cloud says taking a bite. “Wow this is really good.”

“Thank you, Cloud. It's nothing really, though.”

Cloud smirks at him. He kind of took Sephiroth for a guy who knows his way around the kitchen. He just has that air about him.

“Did she say she'll come back?” Sephiroth asks, bringing the conversation back to Cloud's customer.

“Yeah. But we'll see. I'll message her again tomorrow.”

Sephiroth nods. “It's our day off. Don't get in the habit of texting customers on your day off. Boundaries.”

“Right.” Cloud says.

They finish eating and Sephiroth throws the bowls into the sink, then turns to look at Cloud

They look at each other for a few minutes before Sephiroth says, “Would you like to watch TV and fuck on the couch?”

Cloud blinks at him. “Uh. Ya. Okay.”

“Excellent.”

Chapter Text

Cloud wakes up the next morning to see that Sephiroth is not lying beside him.

They fucked so many times that Cloud lost count. First, on the couch while watching some weird reality TV show about blind dating in Midgar. After that, they had ordered food, and then Sephiroth took him to a different room, claiming he didn’t feel like cleaning up the other one, and fucked him again.

He feels sore, but thankfully after the last round, Sephiroth had agreed to shower before sleeping, so at least he doesn’t feel dirty like he did the last time he woke up in Sephiroth’s house.

He sighs and grabs his phone from the bedside table to check the time. It’s around 10 in the morning, so he slept a lot longer than he realized. He slowly gets out of bed and tiptoes out of the room. After spending a few minutes looking around the house, he comes to the conclusion that Sephiroth is gone.

Thankfully, he finds a note on the kitchen table.

Cloud,

I had to leave early for appointments. Here is the card of my hair salon. I took care of it for you. Get a haircut and ask them to do your hair for work tonight. You can thank me later.

Sephiroth

P.S. Here’s the key. Just put it through the mail slot when you leave.

Cloud realizes he doesn’t have Sephiroth’s number, so he will have to thank him later, although he isn’t sure that words are what Sephiroth has in mind as a thank you.

He considers the note for a moment, trying not to overanalyze Sephiroth’s kindness. There is still a nagging voice in his head telling him to be careful until he truly understands Sephiroth’s intentions.

But the other voice in his head tells him that it’s fine. He’s allowed to have fun and let off steam in whatever way he wants. He just has to be careful not to catch feelings. Sephiroth has shown him softer sides of himself, but it doesn’t mean anything.

Right?

He takes the card in his fingers and turns it over, thinking about what he should do. If Sephiroth really wants him to get his hair done so badly, and is going to pay for it, then why not?

He looks around. The temptation to snoop is so strong, but Cloud thinks he might have cameras. He’s rich, so he might be able to tell if Cloud pokes around where he shouldn’t, so he decides to leave it and get out of there before he starts overthinking things too much.

With that, he grabs his things and heads out, still in Sephiroth’s borrowed clothes.

~~

Cloud cannot stop touching his hair as he walks to work that night. It looks almost too good. His spikes are styled neatly, and the parts that are always a bit difficult to work with are sitting nicely in place. The hairdresser explained to Cloud how to do it himself, but he’s not sure it will look as good.

Most of the hosts go to the salon every day to get their hair done, but Cloud wont be able to afford that anytime soon, so he will just have to do his best to mimic what he was taught.

He enters the staff room and says a quick hello to everyone.

“Wow! Cloud, your hair looks awesome!” Zack says as he bounds over.

Cloud blushes and tries to look aloof.

“Ah, yeah, I had some time so thought I’d go to the salon…” he says as he swats Zack’s hand away. “Don’t touch it.”

“Sorry! It just looks really good,” Zack laughs.

“Thanks.” Cloud smiles, and then heads to his locker, Zack following behind him. He really is such a puppy.

“How was your weekend?” Zack asks lightly.

Cloud feels himself getting red, but he hides his face in his locker, making it look like he is trying to find something. “Uh. Fine.”

“Well, that’s good…” Zack says. “Wanna get a drink after work? We never got to celebrate your new customer!”

Cloud thinks about it for a moment. He really likes Zack, and despite feeling a little sore, he is pretty well rested, so he doesn’t really have a reason to say no.

“Yeah, okay. Sure,” Cloud decides.

“Perfect! Let’s go somewhere new!” Zack starts rattling off different bar ideas while Cloud finishes getting ready. They agree on a place and sit down to get ready for their daily meeting.

Roach, Sephiroth, and Genesis all have douhan, so none of them are present. Cloud tries to ignore the disappointment that flashes across his mind when he hears that Sephiroth won’t be there until later.

The meeting is uneventful. They have pushed Sephiroth’s birthday party back because Yuffie has some other plan on the day they wanted to have the party. This had annoyed Angeal greatly, as he had already started making all the plans and reservations, but whatever Yuffie wants, Yuffie gets.

Angeal lets everyone know that the party will finally happen in exactly two weeks. If customers want to buy a champagne tower, they will have to reserve it by the end of this week. Cloud makes notes in his phone, even though he’s not sure his sole customer will even be interested in the event, let alone spend that much money for someone who isn’t her shimei.

But Cloud is happy to be able to participate more in the conversation now that he has a customer. Even if she hasn’t come back yet, she always replies to Cloud’s messages in a timely manner, and earlier that morning had told Cloud that she would try to visit the next day.

He will believe it when he sees it, but she doesn’t seem like the type to lie, so Cloud remains cautiously optimistic.

The meeting ends, and everyone sets off to get the club ready for the night.

~~

Cloud finds himself at Aerith’s table for a large portion of the night. Apparently, she specifically requested that he sit with her tonight because Zack is busier than usual.

“He told me he spent his whole day off texting customers. He wants to move up the rankings,” Aerith says with a chuckle.

“Really? Damn… I don’t even think I looked at my phone the entire weekend.”

He likes sitting with Aerith. She seems really down to earth and is easy to talk to. Cloud had quickly noticed that all the hosts have a favorite customer, and Aerith is Zack’s.

“What did you do this weekend, Sky?” she asks warmly.

Cloud really wishes he had chosen a better lie than visiting his parents. His dead parents. But he wants to stick to his story.

“I, uh, went to visit my parents in Nibelheim.”

Aerith raises an eyebrow. “Isn’t that far away? Just for a day?”

Shit.

“Yeah, my ma was getting real worried about me, so I took a red-eye flight there and back,” Cloud explains, giving himself a mental pat on the back for thinking of that so quickly.

Thankfully, before Aerith can ask anything else, Zack appears and takes a seat.

“How are we doing over here? Sorry I’m so busy today,” he says to Aerith, who just gives him a small, sympathetic smile.

Cloud takes the opportunity to excuse himself and dashes to the back room. He needs to just take one small, deep breath, and maybe grab a drink of water.

As he enters the staff room, he runs into Sephiroth. Literally. There’s a small thud as Cloud’s body hits his, and Cloud almost jumps out of his skin.

“Shiva’s tits!” Cloud swears.

Sephiroth chuckles. “Hello, Cloud. Your hair looks nice.”

“Yeah, uhh… Thanks, Sephiroth. You really didn’t have to do that.”

Sephiroth looks around for a moment before leaning down to whisper in Cloud’s ear. “Is it Sephiroth, again? Not Seph?”

Cloud feels his whole face get hot.

“Shut up,” he says, pushing past Sephiroth to enter the staff room.

Sephiroth follows behind him. “I will admit, I’m not used to being called that. I might need to hear it a few more times to decide if I like it or not.”

Cloud rolls his eyes. “You have the worst pick-up lines.”

“Are we still playing this game, Cloud? You just spent two days at my house. Don’t act so shy.”

“If anyone is playing games here, it’s you,” Cloud mumbles.

An expression Cloud can’t quite recognize flashes across Sephiroth’s face. Is he hurt? But Sephiroth quickly recovers and smiles at him.

“You still think so little of me. Good luck out there, Sky.” And with that, he turns away from Cloud, a hand in his pocket as he saunters back into the club.

Cloud stares after him for a moment. Sky? Had he actually upset him? Who knew Sephiroth might actually have human emotions? A wave of panic washes over him. He feels sick to his stomach.

Whatever. Let him be mad. He’s the one who never speaks clearly.

He does his best to ignore the pit in his stomach, then heads back to work. He’s sure Sephiroth will get over it.

~~

“Man, I am beat!” Zack says as he takes a swig of his drink.

They found a quiet bar a short walk away from the club and are enjoying some cold, non-alcoholic drinks.

“Did you seriously spend all weekend messaging all your customers?” Cloud asks with a chuckle.

Zack barks out a laugh. “Did Aerith tell you about that? Look, I just wanna move up at least one rank.”

“I’m surprised. Aren’t you worried Aerith will get jealous or something?” Cloud asks curiously.

Zack smiles, but it’s not a real smile. He looks almost sad. “Nah. Aerith gets it. She supports me.”

Cloud isn’t sure what to say. He must have hit a touchy subject.

“What about you?” Zack suddenly changes the subject. His eyes are full of playfulness.

“What about me?”

“Did you have a good weekend with Sephiroth?”

Cloud nearly spits out his drink. He opens his mouth and gawks at Zack.

“What? How?” he finally sputters out.

Zack can’t stop laughing, though, and Cloud goes red rapidly.

“How did you know? Did Sephiroth tell you?” Anger starts building in Cloud’s gut.

Thankfully, that breaks Zack’s laughter, and he waves his hands in protest. “No! No, no. Of course not. I saw you guys.”

Cloud groans. They had taken a taxi together really close to the club. That had been stupid.

“Hey! Don’t worry about it. It’s not like anyone else would think anything of it. I just had a feeling, and I guess I was right!” he says smugly.

Cloud hides his face in his arms on the bar. He cannot believe that someone knows. Only a few weeks into a new job, and not only did he sleep with his coworker multiple times, but now someone else knows about it.

“Please don’t tell anyone,” Cloud says weakly, still hiding his face in his arms.

Zack gives him a pat on the back. “Of course I won’t, bud! Who do you think I am? You might be surprised to know Sephiroth and I are pretty good friends. I’m glad he’s opening up to someone!”

Cloud peeks up at Zack from the shelter of his arms. “Really?”

Zack smiles warmly at him. “Sephiroth is an interesting guy! Don’t be fooled by his host persona. All he does is work usually, but behind it all, he’s super kind—in his own way.”

Cloud thinks about this for a moment: the advice, the salon appointment, the soft kisses…

Cloud shakes his head and wills the thoughts away before he starts blushing again.

“I feel like he’s playing with me. He was such a dick to me at first, and then he invited me over? I can’t make sense of it.”

Cloud didn’t expect Zack to start laughing again. “Yet you still went to his place? Damn, Cloud, you’re down bad.”

Cloud huffs at him. “Forget it.”

“Whoa, hey. Sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you.”

“S’fine,” Cloud mumbles as he takes another sip.

“Look,” Zack says, suddenly very serious. “I’m not gonna sit here and be some kind of matchmaker. Okay, fine, maybe I am—don’t look at me like that. But Sephiroth never says things he doesn’t mean. He doesn’t have time to play head games. None of us do. Maybe he just likes you. Don’t think so little of him, ya know?”

You still think so little of me.

Cloud winces internally at Zack’s words. Maybe he had gotten in his head too much. Maybe he owes Sephiroth an apology. Maybe…

Cloud sighs. The annoying voice screaming why? at him every time he thinks of Sephiroth gets quieter for the first time.

“Yeah. Maybe.”

Maybe.

“Just give him a chance! It’s not like he’s asking you to be his boyfriend!”

Cloud’s stomach completely flips over at those words. Thankfully, Zack doesn’t seem to notice.

“Right,” Cloud says, finishing off his drink. In fact, Sephiroth hadn’t asked anything of him. He’s too tired to keep thinking about it anymore today. “I should head home and get to sleep.”

Zack agrees, and they both go their separate ways.

Cloud gets home eventually. It always feels like it takes longer to get home than it does to go to work. He doesn’t even bother showering and flops down on his bed.

He falls asleep as Zack’s words turn over in his head.

Maybe he just likes you.

~~

The next few days are a little awkward because Sephiroth barely talks to him. He’s not going out of his way to be rude or sassy. It’s just as if Cloud isn’t even there.

But to Cloud’s relief, Miya keeps her word and returns to the club. Barret isn’t too busy, so he sits with Cloud for some moral support.

Cloud thanks her for coming back, quickly asks what she’d like to drink, and if he can have one too. Even though customers almost always buy their shimei a drink, since it’s their money, Cloud was told very strictly to always ask first.

“So, what made ya pick our Sky? Yer his very first customer, y’know!” Barret says, sparking up the conversation.

Miya looks a little surprised. “Am I?”

Cloud blushes slightly but tries not to show nerves or insecurity. “I only started recently,” he explains with a soft smile. “So I’m really glad you came back. I’m looking forward to spending more time together.”

Miya returns his smile, a small flush on her cheeks.

Nailed it.

“Well, to answer your question, I thought Sky was the most down to earth and easy to talk to.”

Barret feigns a look of outrage. “You sayin’ I wasn’t easy to talk to?”

All three chuckle, and Cloud is very thankful to Barret for helping him out and keeping things light.

Miya tells them a little about her day. She and Cloud had been messaging a bit throughout the week, so he knows she’s been busy with work.

“I’m glad you could find some time to come and relax,” Cloud says as he wipes the condensation from her glass, keeping eye contact the whole time.

“Me too,” Miya says, leaning back and making herself more comfortable on the couch. “You know, I told one of my coworkers I tried a host club. She kind of judged me and said it was a waste of money.”

Cloud frowns. “Not really any of her business.”

Miya rolls her eyes. “Right? That’s what I thought too. At first, I wondered if she was right, but then I thought, who cares? If I’m having fun, why does it matter?”

“Hell ya!” Barret says in agreement.

The conversation flows easily after that, but Cloud keeps thinking about what Miya said.

Who cares? If I’m having fun, why does it matter?

Maybe Miya was onto something.

~~

Later that night, two girls arrive together for a shokai. Much to Cloud’s delight, one of the girls picks him. However, much to his horror, the other girl picks Sephiroth.

They don’t say anything to each other on the way to the table, but the moment Sephiroth sits down, it’s like someone pressed a button. He’s on.

It’s so jarring, compared to the ice queen Sephiroth has been for the past week, that it takes Cloud a moment to recover.

“Thank you, ladies. It’s our pleasure to spend more time with you tonight,” Sephiroth says smoothly.

Cloud tries his best to keep up. “Y-yeah, thanks so much. Do you mind if we have a drink?”

Sephiroth’s customer is quiet, well-spoken, and gentle. Cloud’s customer, however, is almost the exact opposite. He wonders how they’re even friends.

As much as Cloud tries to include the whole table in conversation, his customer seems determined to monopolize his time.

“You’re so cute! Let’s have more drinks! Let’s order champagne!” she says, grabbing her friend’s arm. Her friend looks concerned but brushes her off.

“I guess... if you want to.”

It’s really rare to order champagne on a first day, and Cloud can’t help but feel a little excited by the prospect of having a wealthy customer.

The champagne call comes and goes. Cloud will never get used to chugging champagne. It’s truly disgusting, but he’s mastered his poker face. Thankfully, their time ends quickly, and the girl doesn’t get another chance to push more drinks.

“Do you wanna get to know each other better? Message me when you’re off,” Cloud’s customer whispers as he and Sephiroth walk the girls out.

Cloud looks at her warily. So it’s true. He’s heard stories about shokai makura girls, ones who try to sleep with the host on the first night. They almost never come back and just hop clubs.

Cloud doesn’t want to cause a scene, so he simply smiles and says, “I have a lot of stuff to do after work today, but I’ll contact you.”

“I’ll make it worth your while if you do,” she whispers, then scrambles out with her friend.

The elevator doors close, leaving Sephiroth and Cloud alone in silence. Cloud chances a peek up at Sephiroth, who is still staring at the doors.

“What a waste of time,” Sephiroth mutters. Without a single glance at Cloud, he turns and walks back into the club.

Cloud lets out a sigh. He really messed up with Sephiroth. The teasing was annoying, but it was a million times better than being iced out.

Not even the rush of getting a customer can make up for Cloud’s mood, especially because he’s sure that customer won’t return. But Miya’s words stay with him, and he thinks maybe tomorrow he’ll be ready to try and fix things.

~~

Thanks to his conversations with Zack and Miya, Cloud heads to work with a new sense of determination. He’s going to ask Sephiroth for his number and try to apologize. He can’t deny he wants to get to know him better. They had fun. It was nice. Why shouldn’t he let it continue?

For the first time in a while, he feels like he needs to do more for himself.

Maybe Sephiroth was right. He needs to stop overthinking everything.

He gets ready quickly and heads to the daily meeting. Everyone is present today, which is rare, but it feels like the whole family’s together.

Angeal starts with the usual announcements, then turns to Cloud and Sephiroth.

“Congrats on your second customer, Cloud. And Miya came back too. It was a good night. We’re happy to see you thriving.”

Cloud smiles, but it falters. “Thanks. I don’t think the girls from last night will be coming back, though.”

Sephiroth speaks up. “Fairly certain they were shokai hoppers. They probably hit another club every week.”

Angeal sighs. “Did something happen?”

“Well, my customer made it very clear she wanted to hook up. When I said no, she stopped replying.” There is a small murmur around the room. Cloud is glad they sound annoyed on his behalf.

“My customer never replied at all. I’m too busy to chase them,” Sephiroth adds with a shrug.

“Yes, yes, we all know how busy you are,” Genesis says with an eye roll. “Good for you, Cloud. You didn’t give in. She wouldn’t have come back anyway.”

Cloud nods. “Yeah. It’s really thanks to all of you that I was prepared for that kind of customer.”

Genesis beams at him. Cloud is so grateful for everyone at the club. They’re becoming like brothers, and with each passing day, he feels more comfortable. Besides Roach and now Sephiroth, everyone is friendly and helpful. He never thought working at a host club would be like this.

“Aw, don’t get all cheesy on us now!” Zack laughs.

Eventually, Angeal brings things back on track and the meeting wraps. While everyone else does their final touches to get ready for the night, Cloud gathers his courage and walks over to Sephiroth.

“Can I talk to you?” he asks in a low voice.

Sephiroth, standing in front of his locker looking at his phone, slowly raises an eyebrow.

Of course he isn’t going to make it easy.

Cloud glances around, then spills his apology like word vomit. “ImsorryIwasrudetoyouafteryoudidareallynicethingforme.”

Sephiroth’s lips twitch slightly, but he doesn’t say anything. Cloud continues, slower this time.

“We had a nice time, and I threw it in your face. I was being an ass.”

Sephiroth considers him for a moment, then closes his locker. “Sure, Cloud. I can give you some advice on what to do next time a customer tries that.” His voice is louder than necessary for how close they’re standing.

Ah. He’s making sure this doesn’t look weird.

“Uh. Yeah. Thanks.” Cloud plays along, following Sephiroth out of the room.

They walk all the way to the VIP room, where Sephiroth holds the door open for him.

At first, neither speaks. Then Sephiroth sighs and sits on the sofa.

“Look, Cloud. I thought we had a good time. The back and forth was fun, but I really don’t have time for the games you think I’m playing.”

Cloud swallows, unsure of what to say. It’s hard to believe someone like Sephiroth would even care what he thinks.

“I didn’t mean to offend you. I just got in my own head.”

Sephiroth scoffs. “Didn’t I tell you to stop thinking so much?”

Cloud joins him on the couch. “Yeah. I just. I dunno.”

“Is it so hard to believe I find you attractive?” Sephiroth asks.

Cloud’s stomach flutters again. Thankfully, Sephiroth saves him from replying.

“I’m impressed you didn’t sleep with that customer. She really flaunted her wallet. Weaker hosts would’ve thought they could get her to come back.”

Cloud sighs. “Well, like I said, you guys prepared me. Plus, I wasn’t really in the mood.”

Sephiroth smirks, and Cloud is embarrassed at how happy he is to see it again.

“Still, I was impressed,” Sephiroth says lightly. “You’re interesting, Cloud. It’s been nice having you around.”

Cloud blushes. “Uh, thanks. I don’t really know what I’m doing.”

“Mmm. It’s refreshing,” Sephiroth replies. “You did your hair better this week. Did you listen to the stylist?”

“Oh. Yeah. I tried.”

Sephiroth reaches out and adjusts a few strands.

“Thanks again,” Cloud mumbles.

Sephiroth grins slightly and moves his hand to Cloud’s chin, his thumb grazing softly over his bottom lip.

Cloud’s breath hitches. Their eyes lock and hold for a few moments. Finally, Sephiroth drops his hand and stands.

“You can make it up to me tonight,” he says, brushing off his suit. It is casual, like he’s just asking for dinner, but Cloud knows what kind of dinner is implied.

Clearing his throat, Cloud stands too. “I, uh. Gods, this sounds stupid. Can I get your number?”

Sephiroth’s brows rise.

“I just mean, I dunno, it’s easier than having to talk in the VIP room,” Cloud says, flustered.

Sephiroth’s expression softens. He holds out his hand. “I suppose you’re right. Give me your phone.”

Cloud quickly fishes it out and hands it over, watching as Sephiroth’s long, slender fingers glide over the screen.

“Here you are,” Sephiroth says, passing it back.

Cloud nods and dials the number. Sephiroth’s phone rings from his pocket.

He takes it out and ends the call.

Cloud blushes slightly. “Thanks.”

“Sure. Now, let’s get back to work, shall we, Cloud?”

Cloud nods and walks out beside him, elated that he’s back to being Cloud again.

~~

Things aren’t as slow the second time. There is no pretense of asking Cloud if he wants a drink or a quiet moment on the balcony.

Sephiroth leads Cloud to the living room the moment they arrive and pushes him down on the couch.

Cloud glares up at him. “You don’t need to push me.”

Sephiroth chuckles. “I’m sorry. I’m feeling a little stressed after this week. Plus, you’re so easy to toss around.”

Cloud rolls his eyes, but there’s no real feeling behind it. He leans forward and starts to undo Sephiroth’s belt buckle.

“I guess I should help you with this.”

“Mmm, that’s very kind of you, Cloud,” Sephiroth purrs.

He drops Sephiroth’s pants and takes hold of his cock, which is hardening quickly. Cloud leans forward and swipes the tip of it with his tongue a few times, earning a small rumble of approval from Sephiroth. He feels Sephiroth’s hands slide into his hair as he sucks on the head, tonguing the slit gently.

He grasps the shaft with one hand, lifting it up to lick from his balls all the way to the tip, twirling his tongue to lather up his erection. When Sephiroth moans and nudges Cloud, he knows that means to get to it, so that’s what he does. He opens as much as he can and takes the now rock hard cock into his mouth.

Cloud makes it about halfway before he decides not to push it anymore today, letting his hand take care of the part he can’t fit. He finds a good rhythm, his cheeks hollowing as he sucks him off.

He looks up at Sephiroth, expecting to find those sharp green eyes staring back at him, but instead Sephiroth’s eyes are closed. He’s completely lost to pleasure, biting his lower lip as his hands run through Cloud’s hair desperately.

Cloud moans around the cock in his mouth at the sight. He can’t believe he thought this cock was too big. It’s perfect. Delicious.

Abruptly, Sephiroth pulls Cloud off of him. “You’re gonna make me cum,” he says breathlessly. “Not yet.”

Cloud wipes his mouth and nods. Sephiroth looks at him like a predator about to pounce on his prey and pushes Cloud back down on the couch. A bit more gentle this time.

Sephiroth’s lips find his quickly, and they kiss while Sephiroth takes off his own shirt, then Cloud’s.

Once he is done, he moves down Cloud’s body, sucking and kissing at his now exposed flesh.

Cloud sighs with pleasure. It feels so good, almost too good. Sephiroth’s lips know exactly where to kiss, like he is following a map towards his goal.

“Pants,” Sephiroth mumbles against his skin.

They quickly get Cloud’s pants off. Cloud doesn’t have the best fine motor skills at the moment, thanks to the champagne still flowing through his veins.

“Turn over,” Sephiroth commands.

Cloud doesn’t need to be told twice. He flips onto his stomach. Sephiroth grabs both his ass cheeks and squeezes them a few times before spreading them apart.

“Gods, look at your hole,” he whispers, almost like he’s talking to himself.

Before Cloud can say anything though, Sephiroth grabs his hips to hoist them up. Cloud almost loses his balance but recovers, supporting himself on his knees, his ass up and open for Sephiroth to enjoy.

The next thing he feels is Sephiroth’s tongue against his hole, lapping like a man dying of thirst. Both of his hands are gripping Cloud’s ass cheeks, keeping them spread so Sephiroth can devour freely.

Cloud whimpers, his hands gripping the arm of the couch in front of him. Sephiroth’s tongue is a force of its own, driving into Cloud’s hole enthusiastically. Cloud has never thought about eating ass that much. Sure, he’s done it a few times, but it is obvious that Sephiroth loves it.

Cloud tugs at his own erection, now hard and leaking between his legs. Just when he feels the familiar heat pooling in his lower stomach, Sephiroth stops eating him out.

Cloud moans at the sudden loss of attention and rolls his hips a few times, a desperate attempt to call Sephiroth back to task. Instead, he hears a chuckle and looks back to see Sephiroth on his feet, his cock still standing proudly at attention.

“Hang on,” he says and saunters out of the room, coming back a moment later with a bottle of lube. “I don’t think my tongue will be enough to stretch you,” he says quietly as he leans back down, pressing a few kisses to Cloud’s ass.

Cloud groans in agreement. “D’ya want me to do it?”

“No.” Is all he says before he thrusts two lubed up fingers inside of Cloud, pulling a guttural moan out of him.

Sephiroth’s fingers are long and make quick work of stretching him out. Cloud arches his back and tries to rock back against Sephiroth’s fingers as best he can.

By the time Sephiroth gets four fingers in, Cloud feels like he’s going to burst.

“Please, Seph.”

“Mmm. What was that?” Sephiroth says, bending his forefinger just so to hit that bundle of nerves inside of Cloud.

Cloud gasps. “Seph!”

“I think I do like that nickname.” Cloud can hear the smirk in his words without even having to look.

Much to Cloud’s relief, Sephiroth removes his fingers and lubes himself up.

“Ready?” he asks softly, rubbing his cock between Cloud’s cheeks a few times.

Cloud bites his lip. “Yeah.” He knows that no matter how stretched he is, the first few seconds are going to burn.

Sephiroth grabs his hip with one hand and pulls Cloud closer, using his other hand to guide his cock slowly into Cloud’s hole.

Cloud remembers to take a deep breath and try to relax, despite the pressure and the burning, as Sephiroth sinks deeper and deeper.

“Fuck,” Cloud breathes out. “You’re so big.”

Sephiroth doesn’t respond but bends over Cloud, turning his head to pull him into a messy kiss.

Cloud moans against him and rolls his hips against Sephiroth. Even though they have had sex a few times now, he will never get over how good Sephiroth feels inside of him.

Their tongues brush against each other as Sephiroth rocks into him, just small, shallow thrusts that make Cloud completely lose his mind.

It feels intimate like this, as if they are trying to fuse their bodies together, to become one.

Cloud shudders and breaks the kiss, needing to get some proper air. So Sephiroth changes course and kisses his neck and as far down his shoulder as this position allows him to. Then Cloud feels his hands grip his hips firmly and his small rocking movements turn into thrusts. Cloud loves the feeling of Sephiroth’s fingers digging into him. He’s sure there will be marks tomorrow.

The room is filled with the sound of Sephiroth’s balls slapping against Cloud with every thrust, broken only by moans and whimpers.

“Shit. You’re so tight,” Sephiroth says through gritted teeth. “You take me so well.”

Cloud’s back arches in delight and he moans at the praise. “Yeah? Yeah?” he pants in encouragement, grabbing his own cock from between his legs.

“Yeah. You feel so fucking good.”

Cloud lets out a sob, and before he knows what’s happening his toes are curling and his lower body is gyrating in pleasure as he comes all over Sephiroth’s couch.

“Good boy.” Sephiroth’s silky voice somehow reaches Cloud through the haze of his orgasm.

He’s panting so heavily, but still finds the energy to reach back and spread his cheeks for Sephiroth in silent invitation.

Sephiroth grunts and picks up his already brutal pace. Then Cloud feels it—Sephiroth’s hot seed filling him up deep inside.

Cloud sighs and rocks back a few times, milking Sephiroth until every last drop of cum is inside him. He loves this feeling. Full and satisfied.

His eyes are getting heavy, completely exhausted. He barely registers Sephiroth pulling out.

“Did I fuck you into oblivion?” Sephiroth asks, his strong hands massaging Cloud’s backside and hips gently.

Cloud can’t even respond. “Un.” Is all he gets out.

He vaguely registers Sephiroth getting up but doesn’t have the energy to join him wherever he is going, so he simply drops his hips and sprawls out as best he can on Sephiroth’s couch. Moments later he feels a warm cloth wiping at his hole, causing him to hiss. Despite the warmth of the cloth, his ass is truly spent.

“C’mon. Let’s go to bed.” Is the last thing Cloud hears before he feels Sephiroth picking him up.

He’s asleep before they even get to bed.

Chapter Text

Cloud wakes up less panicked than the last time he woke up in Sephiroth’s house. Almost like he is used to it now.

He rolls over and opens his eyes slowly to see Sephiroth still asleep next to him, his body facing towards Cloud. Cloud’s heart skips a beat as he watches Sephiroth for a moment. Like this, he looks so soft, so vulnerable. Nothing like the “Top Host of Midgar.”

Without thinking, Cloud reaches out to touch Sephiroth’s face, gently brushing a strand of his long silver hair away from his eyes.

“Good morning,” Sephiroth mumbles with his eyes still closed. He grabs Cloud’s hand and brushes it against his lips, kissing it softly.

“Hey,” Cloud replies. The butterflies in his stomach stir at Sephiroth’s gentle touch.

It feels domestic, almost dangerously so.

Cloud decides he needs to ruin the mood before he starts overthinking things. “Get up, I want coffee.”

Sephiroth chuckles and slowly opens his eyes. “I shouldn’t be surprised that you are one of those ’don’t talk to me before I’ve had my coffee’ kind of people.”

“I don’t think I used to be, but this job is killer. How are you not more hungover?”

Sephiroth lets out a laugh as he props himself up on his arm, resting his head against his hand. “Blessed with a high alcohol tolerance I suppose.”

Cloud looks at him skeptically.

“Okay, fine,” Sephiroth says with a smirk. “Only pour yourself a little bit of alcohol into each drink, and when the champagne comes around, block it with your tongue.”

“I knew it! I knew you guys weren’t drinking as much as you made it seem!”

Sephiroth smiles lazily at him. “Sometimes we do, really. It depends on the night, but you have to be stingy when you can. Better money, too.”

“I guess I still have a lot to learn.” Cloud rolls onto his back, and looks at the ceiling. His life has become really odd.

“Although.” Sephiroth sits up properly now, giving a big stretch. “It’s my birthday this week. Drinking will be inevitable. Everyone might get a little insufferable. Myself included.”

“And that would be different from usual, how…?” Cloud grins, meeting Sephiroth’s eyes.

“You’re not going to take care of me while I’m a mess, Cloud?”

“As if.” Cloud tries to sound indifferent, but he can’t help smiling.

Sephiroth climbs over Cloud, his hair draping around him, and suddenly their faces are extremely close.

“That’s not very nice, Cloud. I always take care of you.”

Cloud swallows. This man is going to be the death of him.

“I guess we’ll see,” Cloud breathes.

Sephiroth smiles down at him. “Good boy.”

His lips press against Cloud’s softly. So soft it almost doesn’t match their playfulness from a few moments earlier, and Cloud adds it to the long list of behaviours of Sephiroth’s that he doesn’t understand.

Cloud parts his lips and kisses Sephiroth back with a little bit more vigor, his tongue slipping out to brush against Sephiroth’s bottom lip.

Sephiroth smiles against his mouth, and gives him one more kiss before pulling back. “Your morning breath is horrible.”

Cloud huffs and pushes Sephiroth off of him. “You’re such an ass.” The moment ruined, Cloud slips out of the bed while Sephiroth laughs.

“I’m sorry. Let me get you coffee,” Sephiroth says, still laughing as he gets up.

Cloud rolls his eyes and looks around. This is a different room than before. It’s neat, but there’s more life to it. There are pictures on the dresser, and the desk in the corner is covered in papers and notebooks.

Cloud realizes this is Sephiroth’s actual room. He feels a wave of pride wash over him. Only the second time they hook up, and he’s made it to the bedroom.

He peeks over at Sephiroth, who is putting on a pair of sweatpants.

“The shower is through there,” Sephiroth says, pointing to a door at the back of the room. Of course he has two bathrooms.

He walks over to Cloud and kisses him on the forehead. “I’ll make you coffee.”

Before Cloud can say anything, Sephiroth slips out of the room. Cloud watches him go. The way his hips look with sweat pants hanging low is so criminally attractive.

Cloud takes a deep breath and looks around. He’s only wearing his boxers, and he figures his clothes must still be in the living room. Since Sephiroth didn’t give him any clothes, he decides he will just steal some from the dresser.

He grabs a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt, but as he’s turning to head to the shower, he notices a picture frame that makes him pause.

It’s a selfie of Yuffie and Sephiroth. They’re on a beach somewhere, and Yuffie is in a cute green bikini, a huge grin on her face. Sephiroth looks flawless, of course, and somehow next to Yuffie’s petite frame, his muscles look even more impressive. He’s not smiling, but his eyes look bright. He looks happy.

Cloud is surprised to see that they are that close. He wonders what kind of relationship they really have. Obviously he knows it’s not romantic, but it’s clearly more than just host and customer.

Or maybe it’s not. Sephiroth is really good at his job. But then why would he have the photo framed and in his room?

Cloud gives the photo one last look, and heads into the shower. Maybe he will ask Sephiroth about it later.

~~

The bathroom attached to Sephiroth’s room is a lot smaller than the one he used before. There’s no bathtub, just a small shower room.

He quickly takes his clothes off and slips into the shower room, letting the water run for a few seconds until the temperature is just right.

The hot water is nice on his aching muscles. He considers himself a pretty fit person, but sex with Sephiroth is a different level of workout. Sephiroth surely gets off on pushing Cloud’s smaller body to the limits, but he’s okay with it. It feels good. Better than anyone he’s ever had.

His thoughts are interrupted by Sephiroth opening the door to the shower, in all his naked glory. Cloud looks up at him lazily.

“Hey.”

Why does this feel so normal?

Sephiroth smiles. “Hello. Sorry this shower isn’t as spacious as the other one.”

“I mean, I’m just impressed that you have two showers,” Cloud says, taking a step to the side to make room for Sephiroth. There isn’t really enough space for both of them, but neither of them care.

“Mm. I’m glad you find me impressive.” Sephiroth is so close to Cloud that the breath against his ear makes him shudder slightly.

“As if you don’t know how impressive you are. Everyone thinks you’re impressive. You’re you.” Cloud mumbles.

Sephiroth doesn’t say anything, but he straightens up and grabs some hair products from above Cloud’s head.

They both wash in silence, and Cloud feels worried he said the wrong thing again. He was sure Sephiroth was going to get handsy with him in the shower, but once he’s done, he merely lets Cloud know that there’s coffee in the kitchen and slips out of the shower room.

Cloud sighs and follows Sephiroth out of the shower, quickly drying off, and puts on the stolen pair of sweatpants and T-shirt before wandering out of the bedroom to find Sephiroth.

Sephiroth is sitting at the table with a cup of coffee, scrolling through his phone. It doesn’t escape Cloud’s notice that Sephiroth barely even looks up when he enters the room. Cloud mentally rolls his eyes as he grabs a cup of coffee for himself, and he sits down across from Sephiroth.

“So…” Cloud starts awkwardly.

Sephiroth’s thumb stops sliding over his phone. He looks up at Cloud but doesn’t say anything.

Cloud swallows and loses his confidence to ask what’s wrong. Those eyes are so sharp and intense. “Are uh… are you and Yuffie close?”

Sephiroth creases his brows slightly. “Why do you ask?”

“I just… I saw the picture in your room.”

Sephiroth sets down his phone and smiles softly, which is a massive relief to Cloud. That one smile releases all the awkward tension he had been holding, and his whole body relaxes.

“Yes. Actually, I’ve known her for a long time.”

Cloud looks at him curiously. “Like, since before you were a host?”

Sephiroth rolls his eyes, but is still smiling. “Yes. I haven’t been a host for that long, you know. I’m not that old.”

Now, it’s Cloud’s turn to roll his eyes. “Well, none of us know how old you are, so…”

Sephiroth’s smile widens, but he doesn’t elaborate further on his age. “I met her when we were young. She was one of my only friends.”

Cloud is shocked to hear they’ve been friends that long.

“She was the same as she is now,” Sephiroth continues, “loud, brash, not everyone’s cup of tea.”

Cloud notes how soft Sephiroth’s features become when he talks of Yuffie. His fondness for her is palpable, and Cloud can’t help but smile as Sephiroth talks about her.

But something confuses Cloud. “But…isn’t that…weird?”

Sephiroth looks knowingly at him. “You wonder why I let her come and spend so much money on me if she’s my friend?”

Cloud swallows. “Well, yeah.”

Sephiroth looks down at his coffee cup and swirls the coffee around a bit.

“Yuffie is incredibly wealthy, but she resents it. She would rather spend money to help me out than use it for herself.”

Cloud ponders this for a moment. “That’s…incredibly kind of her.”

Sephiroth lets out a sad kind of laugh. “She thinks she owes me.”

“For what?” Cloud presses.

Sephiroth sighs. “For tracking down the guy who killed her parents.”

Cloud almost spits out his drink. “I’m sorry, what?”

“I’m aware it sounds like something out of a movie,” Sephiroth says with a low chuckle. “It was in high school.”

“Wait,” Cloud interrupted. “You were just chasing down criminals when you were in high school?”

“Nothing so fantastical as that,” Sephiroth said. “A man broke into her house at night and killed both of her parents in front of her when she was twelve years old.”

Cloud nods along, but he’s still not entirely sure how this story can be real.

“When she told me about this a few years later, I asked my…” Sephiroth pauses for a moment, and his face twists into an expression of disgust. “...Father if he could help. In exchange I agreed to follow the path he wanted for me. Until I turned 18, at least.”

Cloud narrows his eyes. “And which path was that?” He knows that Sephiroth’s father is a very rich and powerful man.

Sephiroth, however, brushes past his question, standing up to bring his cup to the sink. “Anyway, he found the guy, and Yuffie got a huge settlement. Enough to never have to work again.”

“I see,” Cloud says sadly. He never would have guessed from Yuffie’s bubbly personality that something so horrific happened to her.

“She doesn’t want to use the money on herself, so she uses it on me. Anyway, I’m not sure why I’m telling you this. But now you know.”

Cloud smiles softly. He isn’t sure why Sephiroth is telling him any of this either, but he feels honoured to know, in some way.

“Well, it sounds complicated, but it’s good to have a friend like that.”

Sephiroth rejoins him at the table and crosses a leg over the other. “Indeed. She has helped me greatly.”

“I don’t even keep in contact with anyone from school. I have a few friends from the bar but…” Cloud trails off.

He instantly regrets telling this to Sephiroth. Directly after Sephiroth tells him this great story of friendship, he mopes about having no friends? He cringes at himself slightly.

“I think it’s quite rare to keep friends from school. Now is your chance to connect with new people, wouldn’t you say?” Sephiroth’s eyes are playful, and the familiar smirk is plastered on his face.

Cloud blushes slightly. He knows exactly what Sephiroth means by connecting.

“Yeah,” he says, shaking himself off. “It’s been good to connect with new people.”

Sephiroth’s grin curls. “I’m glad to hear that, Cloud.”

They hold each other’s gaze for a moment before Cloud remembers that he actually has to be home for a package that day. He finally got enough money to buy a new suit!

He quickly explains to Sephiroth that he needs to head home, and he feels a rush of something warm when Sephiroth looks disappointed.

“Okay, I’ll give you a ride. Give me a moment.” Sephiroth gets up and heads back into the bedroom.

Cloud quickly dashes to the living room to grab his stuff and his clothes. He will need to figure out a way to get Sephiroth’s things back to him later. He wonders if Sephiroth would be annoyed if he just left some clothes here…but maybe that’s being too presumptuous.

“Ready?” Sephiroth asks as he reappears.

“Uh. Yeah. Sorry I stole your clothes again…”

Sephiroth waves him off. “It’s fine. Keep them,” he says as he turns to walk down the hall to the door.

Cloud blinks a few times then follows after him.

Rich people.

~~

Sephiroth has the nicest car that Cloud has ever sat in. Of course he has a Mercedes.

It’s clean enough that it looks like no one ever drives it. Cloud almost remarks on how nice it is, but after Sephiroth’s cold reaction to his comments earlier in the shower, Cloud decides not to keep his thoughts to himself.

“Can you put your address in the GPS?” Sephiroth asks as he starts up the engine.

“Oh, sure,” Cloud mumbles as he touches the screen between them. Once his address comes up, Sephiroth puts the car into reverse and slowly backs out onto the road. The car moves very smoothly, and Cloud daydreams about being able to afford such a nice car one day. He would need to get a lot more customers.

“Is this the latest model?” Cloud asks, trying to keep his tone casual.

Sephiroth glances over at him, a smile tugging at his lips. “Shouldn’t you know that? Didn’t you say you wanted to be a mechanic?”

Cloud blushes slightly and clears his throat. “I guess I’m a little behind on things.” He isn’t. But he also doesn’t want Sephiroth to know how much he is internally salivating at his car. Which, if Cloud isn’t mistaken, is a model that was released two years ago.

“I bought it about two years ago.”

Bingo!

“Ah. It’s a nice car.”

Sephiroth hums in agreement. “It gets the job done. It was my first big purchase after I became number one. Yuffie picked it out.”

Of course she did. Cloud can’t help but smile. He’s starting to notice that despite him having a lot of money, Sephiroth doesn’t really show it off much. Even with this car. It’s nice, but surely he could’ve gotten something really fancy if he had wanted to.

As if Sephiroth could read Cloud’s thoughts, he spoke. “She wanted me to get some extravagant sports car, but I don’t want something so unique. It would be troublesome if customers could instantly recognize me driving around.”

Cloud frowns. “How come?”

“Sometimes I take customers out for a drive when we have douhan, but I don’t do it for just anyone. I’d rather not attract jealous attention from my other patrons."

That makes sense. Cloud wants to ask him more about his customers. He still can’t really comprehend how Sephiroth keeps track of so many people and keeps them all content. It’s something Cloud is going to have to learn if he ever wants to buy his own car.

Before he can ask Sephiroth any more questions, though, they arrive at Cloud’s apartment. Cloud sighs, feeling sad to have to return to his little home.

“See you tomorrow,” he says as he gets out. He turns to close the door and sees Sephiroth smiling so warmly at him, it makes his heart skip a beat.

“Bye, Cloud,” is all he says, and Cloud takes that as the hint to close the door. Cloud gives a wave as he watches Sephiroth’s car disappear down the road.

He’s soon cursing himself for scheduling the delivery for today. He could still be at Sephiroth’s house, curled up against him watching a movie.

Or fucking.

He sighs and heads inside.

~~

Cloud putters around his house aimlessly for the next few hours. He does some chores and tries to keep himself busy, but there is no denying that he’s bored out of his mind.

He thinks about Sephiroth and their conversation earlier. He really doesn’t have any friends, and it can be lonely sometimes. He had some good friends in high school, but they all lost touch with him when he started bartending.

The weird hours made it hard for them to hang out, and it was also hard for Cloud to see them and be reminded of his life before.

He had worked hard in high school to pay for school to become a mechanic, but after the first two years, the money ran out. He hadn’t been careful enough, and he had underestimated how much it would cost to live on his own.

He had been raised by a foster family after both of his parents died in a fire. His foster parents were kind, but they didn’t really prepare him for life on his own. He had been so sure he had everything figured out, but things went south quickly.

He’s 23 now, and his social media is full of estranged friends starting their careers or getting married. He feels detached from them, unable to reach out even if he wanted to. And how could he tell them he’s a host? No, it’s better to just let them drift away.

Maybe Sephiroth is right, and it’s time to make new connections.

He sits down on the couch and thinks about messaging Zack. He likes Zack, and he thinks they could really be good friends. Maybe he would want to go for drinks again tomorrow.

Just as he’s about to write a message to Zack, he gets a notification. Who would be messaging him? Unless…

He opens the message and sees it’s from Sephiroth.

Sephiroth: Hello, Cloud.

Cloud can practically hear his voice through the phone.

Cloud: Hey.

Sephiroth: What are you doing?

Cloud: Watching TV, why?

Sephiroth: What are you wearing?

Cloud rolls his eyes. He doesn’t know why he wants to have sex with this man. Well okay, he’s literally the hottest guy Cloud has ever seen, but still.

Cloud: ….Seriously?

Sephiroth: I’ll show you mine if you show me yours.

Cloud: Are you really that bored?

Sephiroth: Yes. Someone decided to leave me all alone.

Cloud: I’m not sending you a dick pic.

Sephiroth: You’re no fun tonight.

Cloud laughs softly. Sephiroth is such a mystery. He looks around, moving some stuff out of the way. Maybe just one picture…

He’s never sent a dirty picture before, and he can’t deny that the idea excites him a little, even if it also embarrasses him. He pulls his pants down a little to see what he’s working with. He’s limp and soft, so he grabs at his dick and gives it a few pumps.

Just then another message comes from Sephiroth.

Sephiroth: You’re trying to see if you can get a good picture right now, aren’t you?

Cloud goes beet red, all the confidence and excitement leaving his body.

Cloud: No! I’m going to bed. Goodnight.

Sephiroth: Whatever you say. Another time then. Goodnight, Cloud.

Cloud makes a face at the phone as if Sephiroth can see him, and then tosses it onto the couch next to him.

He looks down at his cock, which is now twitching with interest.

Seriously? You’re just as bad as he is.

He tucks his cock back into his pants and heads to bed.

~~

Cloud doesn’t get any more messages from Sephiroth for the rest of the week. He’s not sure he’ll ever get messages from Sephiroth on working days; he has way too many customers to take care of.

On top of his regular schedule though, Sephiroth—and everyone else at the club—is extremely busy because Sephiroth’s birthday event has finally arrived.

The week leading up to it had been so busy Cloud couldn’t believe it. Rude told him that Sephiroth and Genesis, who have the most customers, always required a lot of work to prepare for their birthday parties.

Champagne towers were reserved beforehand and delivered the morning before the party. They also received a huge shipment of champagne, and other drinks arrived that had to be sorted.

Since Cloud, Reno, and Rude had the fewest customers, they were tasked with counting inventory and making sure everything was ready.

In the end, Sephiroth had four champagne towers ordered.

“Ya have any idea how much these cost?” Reno asks him while they set up the towers at the front of the club by the VIP rooms.

Cloud looks them up and down while he thinks about how much they could be. Two of them have seven tiers of glasses, and two of them have nine.

“Well… I guess it depends on the type of champagne?”

Reno smirks. “Hey, the newbie is catching on! Ya, it definitely depends on the champagne. Since it’s Sephiroth though, you know all his customers are buying Armand or Dom Pérignon.”

Cloud nods in understanding. “Right. There were a lot of those in the order we got.”

“Exactly. These seven-tier ones are going to cost around 800,000 gil,” Reno says, sparing Cloud having to guess. “And the nine-tier ones are probably around a mil a pop.”

Cloud’s eyes go so wide they could pop out of their sockets. That’s more money than Cloud has ever seen, and Sephiroth is about to make it in just one night. And that’s not even counting the bottles of champagne that will be bought by customers who didn’t order towers.

Reno laughs as Cloud tries to process this information. “I know. I know. There’s a reason he’s the best.”

Cloud smiles weakly, trying to compose himself. Maybe one day he will be popular enough to have someone buy him a champagne tower at his birthday event.

Just then, Sephiroth walks into the club, and Cloud’s jaw drops again.

He looks stunning.

He’s wearing a black Hakama with green accents. His hair is pulled up into a high ponytail with three braids on each side of his head. Even with his hair up like this, it still goes all the way down his back.

Sephiroth meets his eye and smirks.

“Everything ready?” he asks innocently.

He knows he looks sexy, and Cloud knows he’s going to use that to torture him.

Cloud cannot let anyone else know what’s going on between them, though, so he quickly turns around to busy himself with the glasses.

“Yeah yeah, it’s ready, your highness,” Reno says with a wave of his hand, and a wink.

“Please make sure the customers don’t knock anything over,” Rude adds.

“I’m sure they will be fine,” Sephiroth says.

Cloud is sure that he is not going to be fine.

~~

The night is a blur. Cloud has never seen the club this busy. As he expected, Miya doesn’t show up, but he’s very surprised at just how many of everyone else’s customers come to celebrate Sephiroth.

“I think when you’re a regular here, it starts to feel comfortable, and customers want to support the club and their shimei. Just because it’s Sephiroth’s birthday doesn’t mean we can’t make some money, too!” Zack explains during a very rare moment between champagne calls.

Both Roach and Genesis have several customers show up, which makes things even busier. Roach really wants to move up in the rankings, so he went all out convincing his customers to stop by.

For the most part, Cloud has no time to sit with anyone, and he’s just running back and forth between the main floor of the club and the kitchen. He’s relieved, because Roach and Genesis have some of his least favourite customers.

The worst part of the night is when Scarlet shows up. Cloud is getting used to her, as she comes by the club a few times a week and is Genesis’ most loyal customer, but he still doesn’t look forward to dealing with her.

Despite it being Sephiroth’s party, she makes all types of demands. She asks four times to change seats when the VIP rooms aren’t available, and then refuses to sit unless Genesis, Angeal, or Barret are sitting with her.

“She’s driving me to the brink of insanity!” Genesis tells Cloud dramatically while they’re both in the kitchen grabbing ice buckets. Usually, Genesis is not in the kitchen. Higher ranking hosts don’t have time for those kinds of tasks.

Sure enough, Angeal sticks his head around the corner into the kitchen. “Genesis, get your ass out there!” he barks.

Genesis rolls his eyes and sulks out of his hiding spot and back onto the floor.

Scarlet buys three bottles of champagne that night, which sets off a series of champagne calls. Customers tend to be just as competitive as the hosts, especially on nights like tonight. It’s a chance to flaunt their wealth and to metaphorically stake a claim on their shimei. Even though customers know their shimei has multiple other patrons, there’s often an unspoken competition for who is the most important.

Roach’s customers buy so much champagne that he has to run to the bathrooms twice to puke. Luckily, Roach is able to flag Cloud down and uses a hand signal—crossed fingers—to let Cloud know he needs help.

He calls loudly, “Roach, please come help me with these bottles!” and Roach starts walking quickly to the back room. Cloud sends Reno to go sit with Roach’s customers while he makes sure Roach gets to the staff washrooms.

All the while, Sephiroth is floating from table to table, thanking people for coming and sharing a drink with each of the customers. He has to drink quickly because he only has a few moments at each table, and Cloud knows he’s getting drunk.

The most tell-tale sign is that Sephiroth keeps touching Cloud. Every time Cloud is nearby, Sephiroth will touch his shoulder or put his arm around him. To an unknowing eye, it just looks like two friendly co-workers enjoying a party, but every touch is like a spark on Cloud’s skin.

Cloud is almost sad that he doesn’t get a chance to sit with Sephiroth and Yuffie in the VIP room to celebrate, but even Sephiroth barely has time to sit with anyone for more than a few minutes, including Yuffie.

The night races by in a flash, and Cloud is exhausted. He barely even finds time to step out for a cigarette.

The night ends with Yuffie’s champagne tower.

“Thank you very much, Yuffie,” Sephiroth says into a microphone. “You have always been such a great supporter. I appreciate you so much.”

Sephiroth gives a speech for all the customers who got him a champagne tower, and now that they are on the last onet, he actually sounds slightly intoxicated.

Yuffie giggles and grabs the microphone. She all but yells, “Happy birthday, Sephiroth!!” and then grabs a bottle and pops the top in record time.

Everyone cheers and claps as she pours it into the glass on top of the tower. Cloud watches, hypnotized, as the alcohol makes its way down, flowing from one tier of glasses to the next. It’s almost a shame to drink it.

But they do drink it.

A lot of it.

Until finally it’s over.

~~

When they close up, the club feels strange. It’s almost too quiet as everyone attempts to clean up in their drunken states.

Roach already left in a taxi because he could barely stand, and Zack fell asleep in the staff room. He had pushed four chairs together as a bed and put a small towel over himself, which made Cloud howl with laughter.

Cloud supposes the best part of running around all night is that he doesn’t feel nearly as drunk as the others look. He spends an hour or so doing dishes by himself, enjoying some solitude after the craziness.

Cloud steps into the club to help finish cleaning up, but he only sees Sephiroth sitting on one of the sofas, his forearms covering his face. He looks exhausted.

“You alright?” Cloud asks as he approaches.

Sephiroth lowers his arms and looks at Cloud. His lips curl upwards as he makes eye contact.

“I’m fine, Cloud. I’m just glad it’s finally over.”

Cloud chuckles. “I didn’t think it was possible for you to be any busier, but tonight was just chaos.”

“Yes,” he says. He gets to his feet and groans. “I hate being drunk.”

Cloud scoffs. “You are barely even drunk.”

Sephiroth cocks a brow at him. "Don’t be so sure.”

“You can still stand, talk, and walk…”

“Mmm. I could still fuck you, too.”

Cloud goes red instantly and looks around. Thankfully no one else is in earshot.

“Relax,” Sephiroth says, waving his hand. “They’ve all gone home.”

Cloud looks at him curiously. “When?”

“When you were washing dishes. I told everyone that I’d lock up after you were done.”

“What about Zack?”

Sephiroth smirks. “It won’t be the first time he wakes up in the staff room. He has a key.”

Cloud nods. He had hoped that Sephiroth would want to spend the night together again, so he had even prepared some clothes and toiletries in his bag just in case.

“Okay. I just want to finish up the bulk of it…” Cloud says as he heads to the champagne towers. There’s still a few bottles on the tables next to them. He’ll leave the rest of the glasses for tomorrow.

He’s just about to grab some of the bottles when he feels Sephiroth gently grab both of his shoulders.

“Relax, Cloud. It’s not your job to clean up after my party,” he says lazily, leaning down to kiss the side of Cloud’s neck.

“Seph, not now,” Cloud says, trying to swat him away.

“Mmm. I love it when you call me Seph.”

The next thing Cloud knows, Sephiroth has undone Cloud’s belt and yanked his pants down, and one of his large hands is stroking Cloud’s dick.

Cloud tries to protest, but he’s too tired and too tipsy to pretend he isn’t getting off to the thought of Sephiroth taking him right here in the club.

“That’s right, Cloud. Don’t fight it, I promise we’re alone.”

Cloud moans and rubs his ass against Sephiroth. He officially doesn’t care. This is happening.

The table between two of the towers is fairly stable, but Cloud still eyes the glasses nervously as Sephiroth devours him, kissing down his neck and pumping his cock.

Cloud whimpers and wiggles in Sephiroth’s grasp until he’s able to turn to face him. He looks up at Sephiroth for a moment, both of them breathing heavily.

Sephiroth looks down at him with a goofy smile on his face, one that Cloud has never seen before, and he feels a warmth spread through him.

“You’re drunk,” Cloud says slyly.

“Mmm,” is all Sephiroth says before he bends down and connects their lips in a messy kiss.

Cloud yelps as Sephiroth picks him up and sets him on the edge of the table, not breaking their kiss.

It’s not long before Sephiroth’s pants are down by his ankles. The Hakama is not as easy to take off as it looks, but finally Cloud has Sephiroth’s cock in his hands. It’s heavy in Cloud’s hand as he strokes it, eliciting a moan from Sephiroth.

“Lube,” Cloud murmurs against Sephiroth’s mouth.

Sephiroth stops kissing him for a moment, and then to Cloud’s surprise, he pouts.

Cloud bursts out laughing. He cannot believe the look on Sephiroth’s face.

“Don’t look at me like that! I’m not letting you put that monster into me without lube!”

Sephiroth huffs, and just when Cloud thinks maybe their little rendezvous is over, Sephiroth spits on his hand a few times and scoots closer to Cloud, grabbing both of their erections in his large hand.

Cloud gasps, and his hands fly to Sephiroth’s shoulders for balance, his gasp soon turning into an eye-rolling moan as Sephiroth starts to stroke.

Cloud is completely lost in the pleasure, the feeling of flesh against flesh; it’s euphoric.

No one else who had taken him to bed had ever put so much effort into his pleasure in addition to their own. But with Sephiroth, it seems that he feeds on it, craves it.

Sephiroth leans down to capture his mouth again. Cloud flicks his tongue out to meet him, sighing into the kiss.

Sephiroth wordlessly removes one of Cloud’s hands from his shoulder, and guides it down to their cocks. Cloud nods in understanding and takes over for Sephiroth. He grabs both of them into his hand and does his best to match the rhythm Sephiroth had set.

Sephiroth breaks the kiss and looks down at Cloud. His eyes are playful—dangerously so.

Cloud’s eyes widen as Sephiroth grabs a glass from the tower next to them. He takes one of the half-full glasses and tips the contents into his mouth.

Then, his mouth is back on Cloud’s, feeding him the champagne. There is hardly any time for Cloud to do anything other than accept, opening his lips to drink the offering.

Sephiroth does it again and again, until the glass is empty. When the champagne spills from the kiss, Sephiroth licks it from the side of Cloud’s face, nipping at his skin, making sure he’s getting every drop. It feels so erotic, and the alcohol makes Cloud’s whole body feel warm and fuzzy.

“Good boy,” Sephiroth whispers after the last drop is swallowed. He kisses down Cloud’s neck, sucking hard enough to leave marks. Cloud feels like he’s going to lose his balance. He only has one hand to keep himself steady, and Sephiroth is kissing the life out of him.

“Seph,” Cloud whines, licking his lips of the remaining champagne. “Need you to do it.” He rolls his hips, pleading for Sephiroth to take over again. He wants to feel his strong hand around them again. He had almost completely stopped his movements when Sephiroth was feeding him, unable to focus on two things at once.

Sephiroth obliges and spits on his hand again, and Cloud bites his bottom lip in pleasure as Sephiroth takes them into his hand once more.

They’re both out of breath. They huff small moans as Sephiroth sets off at a brutal speed. Cloud is desperate for relief, his hands clawing at the table, sweat beading on his forehead.

“Seph,” he whines. He is so close to the edge, but he’s unable to get there. He wraps both of his legs around Sephiroth as best he can, trying to get him closer as if that might help.

“Just watch. Look at us. You’re s’fuckin’ hot,” Sephiroth babbles with slurred speech.

Cloud looks down and whimpers at the sight.

Both of them are leaking precum now, which makes it easier for Sephiroth’s hand to slide up and down. The sound of their slick cocks rubbing together is like music to Cloud’s ears.

Sephiroth’s thumb finds Cloud’s slit and a sound somewhere between and a yell and a groan escapes Cloud’s lips. It is the last push he needs to send him over the edge.

Sephiroth growls and both of them cum at nearly the same moment, their moans filling the club floor as Sephiroth’s hand is covered in their spend.

Cloud gasps for air as his orgasm comes to an end, and his body relaxes against the table. He feels dizzy, but completely blissed out.

Sephiroth brings his fingers to his lips, sucking them clean as Cloud watches with hooded eyes. They don’t break eye contact as Sephiroth gathers more of their cum on his fingers, and when they brush against Cloud’s mouth, he opens obediently.

He wraps his tongue around Sephiroth’s fingers. The flavour of both them together makes him moan softly as he sucks.

It feels so naughty to be doing this at their place of business. But Cloud can’t find it in himself to care. He reaches for Sephiroth, pulling him closer so that he can join their lips once again.

He kisses Sephiroth desperately. Their tongues pressing against each other, lips smacking as they took in the taste of each other.

“I can’t move,” Cloud says quietly after a few moments, begrudgingly breaking their connection.

Sephiroth chuckles. “Just wait a sec.”

Sephiroth lazily pulls the bottom of his Hakama back up, his chest still bare as he jogs to the back room.

A few minutes pass. It’s taking longer than Cloud thinks it should to grab a few towels to wipe with.

Cloud is mortified as he suddenly hears Sephiroth talking to someone. Zack must have woken up.

He slips off the table too quickly, still feeling a bit wobbly. But before he can try to get his clothes back on, Sephiroth is back with an oshibori.

“Thanks,” Cloud mumbles. “Did Zack wake up?”

“I told him to go back to sleep, it’s fine,” Sephiroth says softly as he wipes up Cloud.

“Are you sure?” Cloud pulls his pants up and quickly rebuttons his shirt.

“Yes, it’s fine. I doubt he’ll even remember waking up.” Sephiroth cleans himself as well and puts his clothes back on lazily. Cloud almost laughs at how funny he looks with such a nice Hakama thrown on so haphazardly.

Sephiroth tugs Cloud’s arm and pulls him to sit on a nearby sofa. Neither of them say anything, both enjoying the lingering warmth of their coupling.

“Zack knows,” Cloud says, breaking the silence.

Sephiroth smirks. “I know. He saw us the first night.”

Cloud is shocked. “What? Why didn’t you tell me?!”

Sephiroth cocks a brow in disbelief. “And why didn’t you tell me?”

“Okay. Fair.”

Sephiroth chuckles softly. “He sent me a message like ’don’t mess up his life,’ or something.”

Cloud blushes. “Oh.”

They fall into a comfortable silence again before Sephiroth suddenly says, “I’m 26.”

Cloud looks at him. “Oh.” For some reason he thought Sephiroth was in his thirties, but they are a lot closer in age than he thought.

“I know. Everyone thinks I’m older. It’s probably the silver hair.”

“How come you don’t correct people?” Cloud asks curiously.

Sephiroth shrugs. “People make a lot of assumptions. I just gave up trying to fight against them. If people want to believe I am older, then so be it.”

Cloud doesn’t know what to say. Sometimes Sephiroth will just suddenly open up, and Cloud is always terrified he’ll say the wrong thing.

Sephiroth sighs and continues. “But I’m just a guy, ya know?”

Cloud nods. “Yeah.”

A wave of guilt washes over Cloud as he remembers the conversation from the shower. He feels horrible.

“I’m sorry, Seph. I didn’t… I said some stupid things to you these last few weeks.”

Sephiroth doesn’t look at him, but he smiles softly and says, “Can you help me get home? I think I’m a lot more drunk than I realized.”

It takes a moment for Cloud to realize what he is asking. “Oh! Uh. Yeah. Let’s go.”

Despite Sephiroth being a foot taller than Cloud, he is able to somehow get them safely into a taxi and back to Sephiroth’s house. Sephiroth barely makes it through the drive without passing out, and the moment they make it in the door, he throws his shoes off and drags Cloud to his bed.

Cloud doesn’t have the energy to change his clothes or shower, so they both crawl into bed.

Just two drunk guys.

Chapter Text

It’s past noon by the time that Cloud wakes up. He feels a little dizzy, but otherwise not as hungover as he thought he might be.

He sits up slowly and looks around to see that Sephiroth is gone, but he hears movement in the house.

He yawns, stretches, and looks around for his bag. Having clothes to change into this time is much more convenient, but he can’t help but feel a little sad that he isn’t borrowing Sephiroth’s. Although he didn’t bring Sephiroth’s clothes back, either. There’s no room in his bag is the lie he tried to tell himself, but really it’s because he likes to curl up in the oversized hoodies at night.

He puts on a pair of form-fitting jeans and a loose black t-shirt and ventures out to find Sephiroth.

He doesn’t see him in the kitchen but notices that the door to the balcony is open. Sure enough, he finds Sephiroth sitting on one of the chairs outside, having a cigarette with his morning coffee.

“Morning,” Cloud says as he steps outside.

“Ah. Good morning, Cloud.” Sephiroth’s lips are curved in a sleepy smile. Cloud’s heart skips a beat at how soft he looks, still slightly out of it.

Gosh, this is getting dangerous.

Cloud says nothing and joins him, sitting down and lighting up. Moments go by as they both enjoy their cigarettes. Cloud has never spent time with someone he’s so comfortable being around like this. Usually he feels the need to offer some kind of entertainment or will feel tension in the silence, but there isn’t anything like that with Sephiroth.

The sun feels good on his face, and the air is just cool enough that it’s comfortable to sit outside for a while. Working at night in a club with people drinking and smoking, Cloud has come to really enjoy the clean fresh air of the daytime.

“Would you like to go for a ride?” Sephiroth asks.

Cloud looks at him suspiciously. “Like, in your car?”

Sephiroth laughs. “Yes, in my car. Unless you have another idea?”

“No,” Cloud says a little too quickly. “Let’s go for a ride in your car.” He doesn’t know why he’s so shy to admit his dirty thoughts to Sephiroth, but he hopes that his face isn’t turning too pink.

“Let’s go, then,” Sephiroth says with a smirk as he gets up and stretches. He’s only wearing sweatpants, which Cloud is learning is his usual when he’s at home. Of course Cloud can’t help but watch his muscles as he reaches his arms over his head.

“I’ll go get changed,” Sephiroth calls behind him as he steps back into the house. His back looks so fucking hot from behind.

Cloud shakes the naughty thoughts from his brain and heads back inside, too. Any chance he gets to ride in Sephiroth’s car is a good one.

~~

Cloud isn’t exactly sure where they’re going, but the feeling of the wind blowing on his face as they speed down the road is bliss.

Sephiroth has some music playing, and Cloud can’t remember the last time he felt this sense of freedom. He really needs to start saving up for a motorcycle.

He wonders briefly if Sephiroth knows how to ride one, and if they could go places together someday.

Cloud surprises himself sometimes at how often he thinks about the future these days. He spent a long time just floating from day to day and not really having any kind of ambition. What surprises him and scares him even more is how often Sephiroth appears in those thoughts.

He turns his attention to Sephiroth. His hair is up in a high messy bun, which is good because Cloud cannot imagine the disaster his hair would be if it was down with the wind blowing as it is.

Sephiroth looks content, his eyes on the road and one elbow resting on the windowsill.

He can’t believe how okay Sephiroth is today. He seemed so out of it yesterday, so Cloud was sure he would be completely dead today. But other than seeming a little sleepy, he seems fine.

Sephiroth turns off the highway, and Cloud realizes they are quite far out of the city. There are mostly fields and small houses around them, with tall, beautiful mountains nearby.

“Where are we going?” Cloud asks. Now that they are cruising at a slower speed, it’s a lot easier to talk.

“You’ll see,” Sephiroth says with a smile as he turns down a narrow road, and Cloud realizes they’re heading up one of the mountains.

Cloud looks out the window in awe as Sephiroth takes them up the winding road. It’s so green and quiet. Cloud particularly likes being able to see Midgar in the distance from this high up.

They finally reach the top, and Sephiroth finds a place to park that has a good view of a nearby lake to one side, Midgar to the other. He doesn’t get out of the car though, instead just turns off the engine and looks at Cloud.

“It’s nice up here isn’t it?”

“Yeah. Midgar looks so small.” Cloud takes his phone out to take a picture.

Sephiroth smiles at him. “It’s nice to get out of there sometimes.”

“I don’t really get a chance. Thanks for taking me out here even though you must be tired after last night.”

Sephiroth shrugs. “A little, but I had one of those weird drinks at the beginning of the night. You know, the ones that coat your stomach?”

“Heparise? Does that actually work?” Cloud says with a scoff.

“Maybe. Maybe not. But I feel okay, surprisingly.”

“Well, that’s good. Did you have fun?”

Sephiroth grins and leans back in his seat. “I had fun right at the very end.”

Cloud blushes. “Yeah. Me too.”

“Why are you still so shy?” Sephiroth says with a chuckle. His hand reaches to run through Cloud’s hair.

Cloud shrugs and looks out the window. “I’m not shy. I just… I dunno.”

Sephiroth sighs and drops his hand. “Do you still doubt my intentions?”

“No!” Cloud moves his whole body to face Sephiroth. “No, it’s not that. I’m just not good at flirting, I guess.”

“I see.” Sephiroth smiles, which is a huge relief to Cloud. He does not want to fight again. Everything still feels really fragile.

“Can I ask you a question?” Sephiroth says, turning his body to face Cloud as well.

Cloud smiles and nods.

“Why did you become a host, Cloud?”

Cloud’s smile falters slightly. “Uh… a regular at my old bar said I’d make a good host, and I thought I’d give it a shot, I guess. And I uh… needed money.”

Sephiroth hums. “For school?”

Cloud blinks at him. “Well… maybe. I dunno if I’ll go back.”

“You should.”

Cloud does not want to be the focus of this conversation. “Do you like being a host?”

Sephiroth ponders his question for a moment. “I think so. Do you?”

Cloud narrows his brows at the question being turned around on him. “So far. It’s not bad. Why did you become a host?”

“To piss off my father,” Sephiroth says simply.

Cloud is surprised at his honesty. “Do you think it worked?”

“Definitely.” Sephiroth’s grin is wicked and it makes Cloud chuckle softly.

“What part of being a host do you like the best?” Cloud asks.

“Hmm. It was tough at the beginning, but once I figured it out, I appreciated the freedom it gave me. I like everyone at the shop, too. Except Roche.” His nose wrinkles slightly in disgust.

“Oh?” Cloud always forgets his real name is so similar to his host name.

“He really is a roach,” Sephiroth says bleakly. “Get along with him as you must, but don’t trust him. He’s trouble. I don’t know why Rufus hired him.”

Cloud has never heard any of the hosts speak badly of each other before, especially not Sephiroth, so it must be serious. “What did he do?” Cloud asks.

Sephiroth sighs. “I’ve been in the host world for a few years, and I hear a lot from my customers. He’s shady. Sleeps around, gives girls to the sharks.”

“What do you mean?”

“When girls can’t pay, some hosts—shit head ones—will suggest they… work the money off, if you know what I mean.”

Ah. Cloud has heard of this. His stomach sinks. He doesn’t want to believe someone at Club Shrina would be doing that.

“As far as I know, he hasn’t done it since he joined our club. But I don’t know why Rufus would allow someone with that kind of reputation to be hired.”

Sephiroth grabs a cigarette while he talks and hands one to Cloud before lighting up his own.

“I see…” Cloud says, trying to process all of this information. So far he is enjoying being a host, but every time he’s reminded that these types of things happen, it makes his stomach churn.

Sephiroth waves him off. “Don’t worry about it. I just don’t want to be involved in that shit.”

Cloud nods. He feels like there might be more to the story, but he decides not to push it. He tries to think of something else to talk about, but Sephiroth continues.

“Perhaps I was a bit harsh towards you at first. After he brought Roche on, I didn’t exactly trust Rufus’s judgement.”

Cloud blows some smoke out the window. “Is this an apology?”

“Would you like an apology, Cloud?”

“I think I deserve one, yes.”

Sephiroth takes a drag of his cigarette, then puts it out and throws it out the car window. He looks at Cloud with a shit eating grin. “Too bad.”

“Asshole!” Cloud says as he smacks a laughing Sephiroth on the chest with the back of his hand.

It takes a few minutes for them to stop laughing, and then Cloud asks, “What made you stop suspecting I was a bad guy?”

Sephiroth’s eyes meet him for a moment before he answers. “You’re so hot I stopped caring.”

Cloud smacks him again. “Come on!”

“So why did you agree to come home with me when I was such an ’asshole’?” He makes quotation marks with his fingers to emphasize.

Cloud smirks. “Cause you’re so hot I stopped caring,” he says in a mocking tone.

Sephiroth smirks. “Well, then I guess we still both want the same thing.”

Something between them snaps, and the next thing Cloud knows, Sephiroth’s seat is pushed as far back as it can go, and Cloud is climbing on top of him.

The car is surprisingly roomy, and Cloud has no problem getting his knees on either side of Sephiroth’s legs. He grabs his face and presses kisses to Sephiroth’s lips aggressively.

He feels powerful like this, like he’s actually taller for a change. Like Sephiroth is at his mercy.

Something about kissing Sephiroth always makes him feel drunk. He loves the feeling of Sephiroth’s lips pressing against his own, and when Sephiroth starts sucking Cloud’s bottom lip between his teeth, it’s all over.

Cloud moans desperately, curling his fingers into Sephiroth’s hair as he grinds his hips down on him. He knows he’s coming across as needy, but he doesn’t care anymore. He needs this man.

“Your ass looks amazing in those jeans,” Sephiroth whispers as his hands grip Cloud’s ass cheeks.

Cloud whimpers as his hands push down, encouraging Cloud to move against Sephiroth’s very obvious growing erection.

He feels himself getting hard, too, as they resume their kissing. The friction is so good. Cloud’s pants are way too tight for this to be comfortable for much longer, but he’s so caught up in the moment that he doesn’t even think of stopping. He might be horrified later to think about the fact he’s dry humping Sephiroth like a horny teenager, but right now it feels too good for him to give a fuck.

Sephiroth breaks their kiss, and their lips are puffy and covered in each other’s spit. Cloud tries to catch his breath while Sephiroth finally reaches for his jeans and undoes the button, yanking them down.

Cloud sighs as his cock is freed from his jeans and instinctively grabs it, giving it a few pumps. He’s still panting heavily, and he feels a blush crawling over his body.

Sephiroth sits up and kisses him again. “Steering wheel in the way,” he mumbles.

They maneuver into the passenger seat, and Cloud takes the opportunity to pull one of his legs free from his jeans, but he can’t be bothered with the other one.

He didn’t actually think that they would fuck in Sephiroth’s car and really hopes no one else is going to come up this mountain today.

It seems, however, that Sephiroth knew exactly what they would be doing today, because he pulls a package of lube from his pocket before lifting his hips to tug them down.

Cloud gives him an incredulous look, to which Sephiroth just says, “Not making the same mistake twice.” He removes his shirt in one movement as Cloud laughs and does the same.

Cloud snakes his hand between their bodies, grabbing Sephiroth’s cock gently. A soft moan escapes Sephiroth’s lips when Cloud brushes his tip.

“Do you want me to fuck you, Cloud?”

Cloud whimpers. “Yes. I want this.” His hand squeezes Sephiroth’s cock softly.

“You want my cock?”

Gods, Cloud loves it when Sephiroth speaks dirty to him in that silky voice.

“Yes!” Cloud gasps as he feels a lubed finger breach his hole. He falls forward, balancing his hands against the headrest. Sephiroth kisses his nipples as he stretches him open.

“You’re so beautiful, Cloud,” he says between kisses. “You don’t even realize how people look at you.”

Cloud lets out a whine and pushes his hips back against Sephiroth’s fingers. He just wants to hurry up and feel Sephiroth inside him.

“Please.”

“Come get it, if you want it.” Sephiroth removes his fingers and lubes up his cock.

Oh he’s so evil.

Cloud growls and grabs Sephiroth’s cock. He lines it up with his hole and sits down, taking him to the hilt in one movement.

Sephiroth lets out a deep moan, and Cloud’s mouth hangs open slightly in pleasure as he adjusts to the stretch.

“Shit. Cloud,” Sephiroth says with creased brows. His hands find Cloud’s hips and he rubs small circles against his skin with his thumbs.

Cloud steadies himself, his hands resting on Sephiroth’s chest, and he rolls his hips a few times. The initial burn of taking so much so quickly washes away, until all that’s left is the feeling of being full.

Sephiroth’s hands make their way back to his ass, roaming across his cheeks affectionately. Cloud moans and leans down to kiss Sephiroth. He needs to be connected to him even more. Needs to be adored and filled from both ends.

The way Sephiroth touches him, like he’s something precious, is addictive. He’s never felt so desired.

Sephiroth grips his ass and pulls out. Cloud whimpers at the loss, but Sephiroth doesn’t keep him wanting for long, quickly fucking back into him. Cloud practically purrs against Sephiroth’s lips in satisfaction.

He repeats his movements a few times, spreading Cloud’s cheeks as far as they can go, ensuring he hits deep and hard with every thrust. They’re both panting so heavily that their mouths just hang open, tongues twisting desperately around each other.

Soon enough, Cloud detaches himself from Sephiroth’s lips and straightens up. His hand grips the door, and he finds his balance to start bouncing.

Sephiroth groans and slides his hands to Cloud’s waist, helping him in his movements. Cloud looks down at Sephiroth, biting his lip at the sight.

Sephiroth is disheveled. Most of his hair has fallen out of his bun and there are strands sticking to the sweat on his face.

His eyes are dazed, but fixated on Cloud. His lips are swollen and bruised from their rough make out. Cloud feels a sense of pride wash over him. He does this to Sephiroth.

Their eyes bore into each other for a few moments before Sephiroth’s gaze drops to where they are connected.

“Your hole takes me so well.” His voice is barely above a whisper. “It’s like you were made for me.”

Usually Cloud would roll his eyes at such a cliché but he lets out a sob instead. Sephiroth is right. They fit together so perfectly, it’s unbelievable.

He feels his cock leaking precum as it flops in front of him. He grabs it, pumping it roughly as he moans and gasps.

Neither of them can form words anymore, and Cloud is sure they’ve scared off any wildlife with the sounds of their coupling.

“Cloud…” Sephiroth’s eyes are closed now. He’s close.

“Fill me up,” Cloud begs.

Sephiroth groans and slams Cloud down on him, holding him there as his cum spills inside. Cloud jerks himself off a few more times, joining Sephiroth as ropes of cum shoot onto his chest.

Cloud feels his whole body slump slightly, finally getting the release he was greedy for. Sephiroth grabs him and pulls him down so they are chest to chest.

He says nothing, just holds him. Cloud lets out a deep breath and tucks his head under Sephiroth’s chin. It feels nice like this. Despite the cum cooling between them and dripping from Cloud’s ass, it feels romantic.

Cloud allows the feeling to wash over him. Maybe there’s more than physical attraction between them. Cloud allows himself to actually consider it for the first time. He doesn’t think he is anywhere near ready to talk about feelings with Sephiroth, so instead he lets it linger unspoken between them.

~~

The drive back feels a lot shorter than the drive up the mountain. They had gotten cleaned up eventually—thankfully Sephiroth keeps wet wipes in his car—and reluctantly decided to leave when the sun started to go down.

The summer night is chilly, so they have the windows rolled up on their journey back to Sephiroth’s.

“Tomorrow Angeal is going to announce the annual trip to the hot springs,” Sephiroth tells Cloud as they pull off the highway back into Midgar.

“The what?” Cloud had been distracted by Sephiroth’s hand on his knee.

Sephiroth chuckles. “Every year we go to the hot springs.”

“Why? Do customers come?”

Sephiroth barks out a laugh. “Ifrit save us if that was the case. They would kill each other.”

“Then why?” It doesn’t make sense to Cloud.

“Bonding?”

Cloud can’t tell if he is serious or not, but when Sephiroth doesn’t elaborate, he figures he is.

“Haven’t you ever been on a company trip before?” Sephiroth asks.

Cloud shakes his head. “I’ve only ever worked at the bar, and we didn’t do that.”

“Ah. Well. It’s pretty common for us. We will probably go skiing in the winter, too.”

“Oh.” Cloud thinks about it for a moment. “I guess that sounds fun.”

“It’s something,” Sephiroth says with a smirk. “Of course, we have to document it on social media.”

Cloud groans. “I knew there was more to it!”

Sephiroth laughs and squeezes his knee. “Gotta let the customers know we are all friends. It’s lucky for Rufus that we mostly are.”

“Mostly,” Cloud says with a smirk.

“Unfortunately,” Sephiroth says as they arrive at his place, “I cannot fuck you in the hot springs. Pity.”

Cloud almost chokes on his own spit. Sephiroth laughs and turns off the car.

“We get an extra day off, but at what cost?” he says dramatically with a pout.

“I guess we will just have to make up for it tonight then.” Cloud tries to sound confident, but his voice cracks slightly.

It doesn’t matter though, because the look in Sephiroth’s eye tells him that’s exactly what they are going to do.

~~

Cloud walks into work the next day feeling sore. His body is covered in bruises from fucking inside the car. He didn’t realize at the time because he was too caught up in the moment.

Then there are the hickeys all over his neck. He’s glad his new suit has a pretty high collar, but he also had to use some concealer.

Sephiroth seems like such a logical and level-headed man, but the moment his cock is out, it’s like he loses all common sense. Cloud vows to mark him up just as much next time out of spite.

Everyone still looks exhausted. Cloud thinks they should have more than one day off after such a big event. He wonders if Roach was even able to move yesterday.

The only person who’s not in attendance is Barret, but there’s no explanation as to why.

Angeal and Rufus both run the meeting today. Rufus doesn’t come around very often, so Cloud is curious if something happened again.

“Just a reminder to everyone before we start. Please be careful about the types of photos you take in private with your customers.”

A low murmur spreads across the room. So something did happen.

There’s a deep sigh from somewhere behind him. “As if people don’t know she’s lying.” It’s Roach.

Cloud finds Sephiroth’s eyes and Sephiroth gives him a look that says, “Here we go again.”

“We aren’t upset at you, Roach, just a general reminder.” Angeal’s voice is calm but firm.

“What happened?” Genesis asks with narrowed eyes.

Rufus sighs. “One of the customers uploaded a picture of her and Roach holding hands at a cafe and told everyone he’s dating her for real.”

“Customers do that all the time!” Roach protests. “Never once did I call her my girlfriend. Delusional!”

Angeal rubs his temples in frustration before silencing everyone. “Roach. It is just a general reminder to be careful. That’s all. Please.”

Roach huffs and folds his arms.

Cloud wonders why Roach even works here when all he seems to do is fight with everyone. Maybe he’s desperate for money.

“Some of the women who frequent host clubs are opening more and more gossip websites about hosts, and we just need to be more careful. It isn’t my intention to point fingers,” Angeal says, addressing everyone.

“In addition to Roach, there are also rumours about Zack and his customer, Aerith.”

Zack shifts uncomfortably in his seat next to Cloud.

“Sorry about that, Angeal.”

“As I said, not pointing fingers. But you should be informed. Just keep the pictures to a minimum.”

Zack nods while Roach rolls his eyes.

“Anyway,” Rufus says with a slight smile. “We will be heading to the hot springs next weekend!”

It’s as Sephiroth had told him. They would all go to the hot springs together as some kind of bonding trip, and also post the photos on social media.

“We will stay for one night, after which you'll have your regular day off. There will be some planned activities during the day, but otherwise we can all just relax and let off some steam,” Rufus says happily.

After the meeting, Zack notices the sour look on Cloud’s face and offers more context.

“It’s a good way to advertise for the club, and looking at the pictures makes our customers feel closer to us!”

Cloud resists the urge to roll his eyes. He isn’t sure why he’s not looking forward to it. Maybe it just seems more fake than usual, and, well, it also means giving up a weekend with Sephiroth.

“The food is gonna be soooo good, I can’t wait!” Zack says, his eyes completely lit up.

Cloud supposes a free trip might not be so bad, since the club is paying for it all.

As Cloud sweeps the entrance he finds his mind wandering to thoughts of a hot spring vacation with just Sephiroth. The two of them fucking in a private bath under the moonlight.

He shifts slightly as he feels his dick twitch in interest and tries to focus on cleaning instead of his Sephiroth fantasy.

Hopefully his dick behaves while they are all naked together in a hot spring.

~~

The next few nights go by without much excitement. Barret doesn’t show up to work for a few days, and one morning curiosity gets the best of Cloud and he messages Sephiroth.

Cloud: Did Barret quit or something?

He knows Sephiroth is busy during the week, but he really wants to know. And okay, maybe he wants an excuse to text Sephiroth, but he ignores that voice in his head, as usual.

Sephiroth: Hello to you, too, Cloud.

Cloud is surprised that he replies so quickly. Maybe he’s at the salon.

The typing bubble appears so Cloud waits for another message.

Sephiroth: He’s busy. His kid is in the hospital.

What! Cloud can’t believe what he’s reading.

Cloud: He has a kid?! Since when?!

Sephiroth: Since she was born 8 years ago, I would assume.

Cloud rolls his eyes. He can hear Sephiroth’s tone even in his writing.

Cloud: Is it common knowledge?

Sephiroth: Not to his customers, but otherwise, yes. Although some rumours have spread online in the past.

Cloud’s mind was reeling. He just never thought that anyone working at the club would be able to do this type of job and also have a family at the same time.

Cloud: Is he like… married?

Sephiroth: Is it so hard to believe? You’re amusing today, Cloud.

Cloud: I guess it’s not… sorry to bother you.

Sephiroth: You could make it up to me with a photo…

Cloud: See you at work!

Seriously, he is unbelievable. Although, the idea is appealing, since they won’t get to be together this weekend… no! Cloud shakes his head and puts his phone in his pocket and focuses on getting ready for work.

~~

The night before the trip is a busy one. Many customers come because of the extra day off. It’s only one day, but the customers that might usually come that day, come today instead.

Barret is back at work and apologizes to everyone. “Marlene was in the hospital. Real sorry ’bout that. Told my customers I was sick.”

So his kid’s name is Marlene. As Sephiroth said, it wasn’t news to anyone. Cloud feels silly for being so shocked now. He just hadn’t really thought about everyone’s life outside of the club. They spend so much time here, it’s hard to think of having family, but Barret did it. Maybe one day Cloud could….

“Hello! Earth to Sky!” Cloud hadn’t realized he was washing the same cup for the last five minutes.

He looks up to see Genesis standing next to him. “Oh! Hi!”

“We got a shokai. Don’t want to miss your chance, do you?”

And just like that, Cloud pulls himself into his host mindset, pushing everything else aside, and follows Genesis onto the floor. It’s something he is getting a lot better at.

The shokai is a young girl with longish black hair. Her clothes are a little more casual than most of the customers who come to the club. In fact, she almost reminds Cloud of Yuffie. She wears short shorts and a tank top with a jean jacket. Her socks are striped and go all the way up to her knees.

“Hello, I’m Sky. Nice to meet you!” Cloud says with a smile, handing her his business card.

“Hello! I’m Kyrie!”

Such a unique name, too, Cloud thinks.

“Tell me a bit about yourself,” Cloud says after Reno brings her a drink.

She takes out a pack of cigarettes and Cloud grabs a lighter from his pocket, flipping it open and lighting her cigarette for her. This is one of the things he really dislikes about being a host. It seems so insignificant, but he’s always worried that he will fumble and light something on fire.

“Well, I like to have fun because I’m really tired from my job,” she explains.

“What do you do for a job?”

“Oh, I have my own business!” she says enthusiastically.

“Oh?” Cloud is genuinely interested. “What kind of business?”

“Uhhm…well, I just sell things, mostly.”

“What kind of things do you sell?”

“Just like normal stuff, ya know!”

Cloud does not know. He’s starting to wonder if she’s just completely talking out of her ass, so he stops pushing it. “Well, that sounds stressful. I hope we can offer you a place to relax and enjoy yourself.”

“Ugh, I hope so. So many host clubs are so pushy! You better not start trying to sell me stuff!” She’s smiling, but Cloud can’t help but think she isn’t joking at all.

“One time, I swear a host tried to steal money from me, so I had to punch him right in the balls!”

Cloud does his best to laugh, but she seems a little unhinged. As the conversation goes on, Cloud finds himself thinking she’s a bit scary, but she’s entertaining at least.

She continues sharing stories of her previous experiences at host clubs and practically squeals in delight when Cloud tells her that he’s still pretty new.

“Oh my gosh, I love newbies! The popular hosts are way too full of themselves. Plus you’re totally my type!”

“Well, that works out perfectly for me,” Cloud says with a grin.

Cloud feels like this is his biggest challenge since he started here. He struggles to find out what to say but digs deep into his host persona and gets through his time with her fairly smoothly.

In the end, she chooses him as her shimei.

“Don’t know if I should say congratulations or not,” Reno says with a chuckle. “That’s a crazy one.”

Cloud grimaces as they stand in front of the elevators after seeing her out.

“You think she’ll be back?”

Reno shrugs. “Probably. Just don’t let her cause you too much trouble.”

Cloud nods but he isn’t really sure what that means. He has an unsettling feeling in his stomach.

His phone buzzes a few seconds later. Only a few minutes have passed since she left the club, but Kyrie is already messaging him.

Kyrie: Thanks, Sky. We’re gonna have lots of fun together from now on ❤️

Chapter Text

Cloud is not prepared for how hectic the trip to the hot springs turns out to be. What he thought was going to be an employee getaway really feels like nothing more than an advertising campaign.

Every single thing they do is documented from the minute they step on the train. They’ve only been on their trip a few hours, and Cloud is already exhausted.

He tries not to feel too sorry for himself, though, because when he sees what Sephiroth is going through, he knows it could be worse.

Sephiroth doesn’t show any kind of discomfort, of course, but Rufus is in his face constantly. Every time he makes a video he’s sure to ask Sephiroth questions, and he insists that Sephiroth pose for photos at every good spot they find along the walk from the train station to the resort.

The resort is located deep in the mountains and Cloud finds himself wishing he had more time to stop and really look around. It is beautiful.

Lush, dense forests are on either side of the path they’re walking on, with a small river flowing next to them. There are a lot of small shrines along the way that make for great photo opportunities.

Of course, they take lots of group photos, and all the hosts are taking selfies and what not, but Rufus seems overly focused on Sephiroth. It’s enough that even Zack notices.

“He’s going to be absolutely wrecked by the end of this trip. Rufus is completely up his ass,” he says in a low voice so only Cloud can hear him. They stopped to take a selfie in front of a particularly stunning weeping willow tree, and the others are now slightly ahead of them.

“Is this normal?” Cloud asks.

Zack thinks for a moment. “Not really. It seems a little excessive this time. I hope Seph doesn’t get too burnt out by the end.”

“Did something happen to make Rufus focus on him?”

Zack lets out a deep sigh. “Another club recently opened in Midgar and they’re doing pretty well. Club Materia.”

Cloud tries to think if he’s heard of it, but he hasn’t. He’s starting to think lately that if he wants to do this seriously, he’s going to need to start knowing these things. He still feels completely clueless sometimes.

“Isn’t Club Shinra one of the best in Midgar? Is Rufus worried?”

Zack looks up ahead to make sure no one can hear them. “Probably. Club Shinra is definitely one of the more popular clubs, but things can change quickly around here.”

Cloud nods. He wonders sometimes why Rufus would have hired him when he had no experience considering it’s such a famous club. Maybe Rufus figures that as long as he has Sephiroth, everything will be fine.

Sephiroth is so busy already, though. Cloud can’t imagine how he could handle even more customers than he already has. He really doesn’t know how Sephiroth does it and still stays sane.

Kyrie has been texting Cloud every day, and that alone is exhausting. She likes to show him what she’s eating, what she’s buying when she goes shopping, and whatever she’s doing throughout the day. She says that she will be back to see him as soon as their trip is over, so he tries to reply to her as much as he can. She might be a bit of a handful, but Cloud can’t afford to dismiss any customers.

“How are things between you guys anyway?” Zack says with a smirk.

Cloud feels himself going red and can’t meet Zack’s eye, suddenly very focused on the foliage around them. “We’re just messing around.”

“Ahh, come on! It’s more than that isn’t it?”

Cloud shrugs. “I dunno.” He really doesn’t wanna talk about it, because he honestly doesn’t know what they are or what they are doing. He’s just kind of going with the flow.

Zack seems to take the hint and changes the subject. They talk about their customers, and before they know it they’ve arrived at the hot springs.

The building itself looks old but taken care of, giving it a very warm and traditional atmosphere. Angeal files them all inside and gets them all checked in.

“All of you have your own room,” he says to the group. “But we will be spending most of our time together.”

Everyone murmurs in response. Cloud is surprised they all get their own room, but he’s glad to get his own space at least.

“We will meet back here and head to the spa area before lunch.” Angeal is holding a clipboard, reading off their itinerary. “There are rock beds and massages available. Lunch will be held in the first floor dining hall, and after that we can head to the hot springs.”

He asks if anyone has questions, and when everyone shakes their head no, he puts his clipboard under one arm and claps his hands together and smiles. “Well then, come get your keys.”

Cloud makes eye contact with Sephiroth for a moment and gives him a weak smile. Sephiroth, however, is pulled away by Rufus in seconds, the two of them talking in hushed voices. Cloud can’t help but feel disappointed. He knows that this is work, so Sephiroth won't be giving him any special attention, but they’ve barely had the chance to say more than a few words to each other.

Cloud sighs and grabs his key. He and the others make their way up the stairs and onto the third floor, where the rooms are located.

Cloud quickly finds his room and opens the door. The rooms are very small, so each of them having their own makes more sense now. There’s basically just room for a bed and a small bedside table. He had seen a sign for the washrooms when they arrived on this floor, so those must be shared.

He puts his backpack on the bed and sees two yukata laid out for him. One of them is for the spa area of the resort, and the other is for sleeping. Cloud puts on the spa yukata and some slippers. Thankfully, there’s a full length mirror in the room, and he takes the opportunity to send a quick mirror selfie to Kyrie.

Cloud: All ready for the spa!

He gets a reply almost instantly.

Kyrie: You look so cool!!❤️❤️❤️

Cloud grimaces slightly at the excessive use of hearts but sends her a thank you before pocketing his phone and heading down to meet the others.

~~

The spa rooms are incredibly relaxing, and Cloud thanks the gods that they aren’t allowed to take any photos inside the rock beds. Of course that doesn’t stop Rufus from taking as many pictures as he can outside, but at least he takes some pictures of the others this time too, not just Sephiroth.

There are a few different rock beds to choose from, with each type of rock in its own dedicated room. There’s also a cold room off to one side to cool down afterwards.

Cloud chooses the rock bed farthest away from him and dips inside the room. Zack, Reno, and Rude had chosen to get massages instead, and Barret, Roach and Genesis all had chosen a different rock bed.

Cloud jumps in surprise when he enters and sees Sephiroth laying on one of the stone slabs. He opens one eye and sees Cloud, a small grin appearing on his lips.

“Hey, you.”

Cloud smiles and takes a place next to him. “Hey.”

There’s a small timer next to where you place your head, to ensure you don’t stay in for too long, so Cloud flips it and settles in on the warm rock.

It feels good, and Cloud can’t help but let out a satisfied breath.

“Are you looking forward to the rest of the trip?” Sephiroth asks in a low voice. There isn’t anyone else in the room, but it’s customary to be quiet in such places.

“Sort of, I guess. Seems like Rufus is keeping you busy.”

Sephiroth sighs and is quiet for a moment before responding. “It’s fine.”

Cloud can’t see his face, as there are small walls separating each stone bed, but he cocks an eyebrow in his direction anyway.

“Is it?” he retorts.

“I said it’s fine, Cloud,” Sephiroth snaps.

Cloud feels a twist in his stomach. He gets it every time he thinks he might have pissed off Sephiroth. Pushing away the feeling, he tries to think of something else to say to change the subject, but just as he’s about to open his mouth, Sephiroth’s timer goes off.

“That’s my cue. See you later,” Sephiroth says as he stands up and heads out the door.

Cloud does his best not to read too much into their interaction, but he catches himself mulling it over in his head, wondering if Sephiroth still sounded angry when he left the room.

Cloud groans and takes a deep breath. He doesn’t need to care. It’s fine.

Probably.

~~

Cloud enjoys the rest of his time at the rock beds and eventually finds Zack, Reno, and Rude to hang out with. He actively avoids Sephiroth, who only seems to be getting more annoyed the more Rufus is in his face.

“You know there’s more than just Sephiroth, right?” Reno calls to Rufus, who is fussing over Sephiroth’s yukata, making sure it looks just right for the photo he wants to take in the lounge area.

Rufus doesn’t respond. He completely ignores Reno as if he had said nothing.

“Do not piss him off, Reno,” Rude mutters under his breath once they’re a short distance away. “Not again.”

Reno chuckles. “Yeah, yeah. He doesn’t scare me.”

Rude doesn’t look convinced.

“Did something… happen?” Cloud asks curiously.

Reno shrugs and leads them into one of the areas of the spa that just has tons of comfortable seating and a wall of comic books to read.

Flopping down on one of the bean bag chairs, Reno gestures for them to join him, so both Cloud and Rude get comfortable as well.

“Rufus doesn’t like me much. I don’t make enough money for him.” Reno sinks deeper into his bean bag. “One time I suggested he should try getting a few customers of his own if he wants money so badly. This was way back, when we weren’t as popular. I might’ve also implied that he has time since Angeal runs everything anyway.”

From what Cloud knows of Reno, he’s not very surprised, but talking to your boss like that was definitely asking for trouble. “What did he do?”

Reno shrugs again. “Nothing, really.”

Rude clears his throat.

“Okay fine,” Reno sighs. “He threatened to blackball me in Wall Market so I’d never work again.”

Cloud gasps. “Shit, seriously? And you kept working for him?”

“Eh. I was a lot younger then. Things are mostly fine between us now.”

Cloud doesn’t know what to say, so he just hums in acknowledgement. When he glances over at Rude, his usually stoic face looks a little tired. Cloud wonders how much he’s had to do to help Reno stay out of trouble.

“Anyway, he’s not a bad guy, he just likes money. Wouldn’t trust him as far as I can throw ’im. But he’s not the worst out there.” Reno closes his eyes and leans back, clearly finished talking about it.

Cloud makes a mental note to stay in Rufus’s good graces.

~~

The best part of the trip is probably the food. Cloud is completely in heaven eating fresh raw fish and soba noodles, as well as delicious slabs of seared steak.

He is barely listening to the conversation that they’re having at lunch because he’s so engrossed in the food. They’re talking about fishing or something, nothing that Cloud is even remotely interested in, so he continues to eat his lunch happily in his own little world.

He makes eye contact with Sephiroth a few times, but he still can’t really tell if Sephiroth wants his company or not, so he decides it’s best to just leave Sephiroth be for now.

The rest of the afternoon is spent in the hot springs themselves. The baths feel amazing on Cloud’s muscles, and he decides that he definitely needs to come back on a solo trip. Or with Sephiroth, maybe.

To his delight, Sephiroth joins Cloud and Zack in one of the outdoor baths. The mountain air outside is so refreshing while being submersed in such hot water.

“Hey! Sephiroth!” Zack says happily as he takes a seat next to them.

Cloud can’t help but sneak a peak at Sephiroth’s naked body as he’s getting into the bath. He tries not to get too excited or to look like too much of a perv, but he can never get over that body. It’s so perfect.

“It’s nice out here,” Sephiroth says with a smile.

“No cameras,” Zack adds with a small smirk.

Sephiroth sighs and sinks deeper into the pool but doesn’t say anything.

“The food is so good though, right?” Cloud says, changing the subject quickly.

“Mm, the sweet fish from the local lake make for some delightful dishes,” Sephiroth says in agreement.

Cloud feels relieved, thinks maybe Sephiroth isn’t upset with him after all. He wishes he didn’t care, but he does.

They make some more small talk and then all head back inside to try the carbonated pool, which ends up being Cloud’s favourite. It makes Cloud’s skin feel so nice; he wishes that he could stay in there forever.

They spend a nice time in the hot springs and then head to dinner, which is just as delicious as lunch. There are a bunch of seasonal vegetables and a hot pot to boil them in with a flavourful soy milk and sesame broth. There are slabs of beef to stick into the hot pot as well, and Cloud once again barely pays attention to the conversation because he’s so focused on the food.

That is, until Barret brings up Kyrie.

“Cloud has a bit of an interesting new customer,” he says with a laugh.

Cloud looks up, his mouth half full of food. “Huh?” is all he manages.

“Earth to Cloud!” Zack laughs, “We’re talking about our new customers.”

“Oh.” Cloud swallows this mouthful of food and tries to think of what to say. “She’s uh, enthusiastic.”

“Psh. That’s a nice way of saying it,” Reno says with an eye roll.

Cloud ponders for a moment. “Is she really that bad?”

They all trade looks between each other, but it’s Angeal who speaks up. “All of our customers are important. Just make sure you set some boundaries in case she tries to take things too far.”

“That is such an Angeal answer,” Genesis quips and a laugh passes across the table.

Cloud blinks at them. “How can you tell she’s going to try and cross boundaries?”

“You can just tell, after a while. They have a certain air around them. Just a bit of chaos,” Genesis says, looking at Cloud like he’s talking to a child.

“Genesis would know well. He has a lot of those customers,” Sephiroth adds with a smirk.

That’s all it takes for Genesis and Sephiroth to start going at it. Of course Roach joins in, and now they are arguing about Sephiroth and his cockiness. Sephiroth looks completely unfazed, but Cloud can’t help but notice the flash of annoyance on his face when Roach joins the argument. Cloud is starting to understand that the seeming animosity with Genesis is like brotherly teasing, whereas Sephiroth really just doesn’t like Roach.

“You really should come to us for advice, not Sephiroth. He clearly only has perfect customers,” Roach says with a huff after Angeal calms them all down.

Cloud doesn’t know what to say so he just focuses on his food again. Rufus was oddly quiet throughout the whole dinner, but after hearing the story from Reno, he wonders if it’s less about enjoying the food, and more that he is observing with purpose.

~~

It’s pretty late by the time they’re done with dinner, so everyone goes back to their rooms. Cloud knows that Sephiroth said before that they wouldn’t do anything at the hot springs, but he can’t help but wish Sephiroth would sneak into his room.

He is starting to feel a little stupid. Surely Sephiroth isn’t laying alone in his bed pining after Cloud, thinking of future trips together, wondering what Cloud was doing. He’s probably busy focusing on work, which is what Cloud should be doing, too.

So, he opens his phone and at first he intends to reply to messages from Kyrie and Miya, but his thumb hovers over his conversation with Sephiroth instead. He makes a noise close to a groan and clicks on it, and despite his better judgement, sends Sephiroth a message.

Cloud: What are you doing?

He waits and stares at the screen for a few minutes, but when Sephiroth doesn’t even open his message, Cloud gives up and goes back to messaging Miya and Kyrie. Surely, Sephiroth is just busy doing the same, messaging his customers.

Cloud wraps up his conversations, and when he checks Sephiroth’s chat and sees that he still hasn’t read it, he kicks himself internally and throws his phone onto the bed next to him. Not wanting to overthink things anymore, he grabs his phone again and finds a show to watch while he falls asleep, all thoughts of Sephiroth very temporarily put to the back of his mind.

~~

Sephiroth: Sorry, I didn’t see your message. The trip was a bit of a whirlwind for me. I was in work mode.

Cloud stares at his phone. He had gotten home from the hot springs the day before and busied himself with house work he’d been avoiding while spending all his weekends with Sephiroth. His room needed vacuuming and there had been too many pots that had been left with water “to soak.”

Now, the morning before they go back to work, Sephiroth finally replies.

Cloud doesn’t know what to make of it. Surely Sephiroth can’t be upset with him. Really he’s done nothing wrong. He’s just busy, Cloud tells himself over and over.

He hates himself for how clingy and weird he’s being. He knows it’s stupid. They’ve just spent a few weekends together, and Cloud is getting way too ahead of himself as it is. He needs to chill.

Cloud: All good.

He waits for a moment to see if Sephiroth will reply but he doesn’t. Throwing his phone into his bed, Cloud resigns himself to getting ready for work.

A few hours later Sephiroth replies again.

Sephiroth: I’m just really busy right now.

Cloud reads the message a few times. He feels some relief, but at the same time a small voice is nagging in the back of his mind. He was busy for his birthday and he still had time to hang out and talk to Cloud, surely he isn’t any busier now than he was then.

Cloud huffs in frustration at himself and his brain, and decides not to answer. He’ll see him later, anyway.

~~

“We got so much engagement on our posts on social media, and a few host websites are going to post our photos as well. Thank you everyone for your effort. I hope the hot springs made up for it.” As usual, Stallion is supportive and uplifting on their first day back at work after the trip.

Cloud is always in awe of how he is so good at telling them the facts while still being encouraging. Probably why he’s usually in charge of the meetings instead of Rufus.

“As for this month,” Stallion continues, “we will have Genesis’ birthday on the last weekend, so please start letting your customers know.”

Cloud didn’t think that Genesis’ birthday would happen so quickly after Sephiroth’s.

“Yes, please everyone, let’s do our absolute best to help me beat Sephiroth in earnings!”

Everyone laughs, and Cloud peeks over at Sephiroth, who has a small smirk on his lips and is rolling his eyes playfully. Cloud is starting to really understand the rivalry between these two, but he’s almost positive that Genesis won’t earn more than Sephiroth did.

“Has he ever beat him?” Cloud asks Zack quietly. It has just become a customary thing for Zack and Cloud to sit together during every meeting.

“Nope,” Zack says with an emphasis on the “p,” a wide grin on his face.

Cloud chuckles. Thought so.

“But there’s always a first time for everything!” Genesis says, clearly having heard their exchange.

Angeal settles down the laughter and ends the meeting by reminding them that all their activity on social media will likely bring a large wave of shokai.

Everyone mutters their understanding and heads off to get ready for work. Just as everyone is dispersing, Rufus sticks his head out of his office.

“Sephiroth. A word, please.”

Cloud watches as Sephiroth’s body tenses, but he gets up without complaint and slips into Rufus’ office, closing the door behind him.

Cloud decides to take a bit of extra time getting ready to see if he can get a chance to talk to Sephiroth before their work starts, so he starts mindlessly shuffling around in his locker as the others leave the room.

About ten minutes later, Sephiroth leaves the office. Cloud searches his face for some kind of clue concerning what they talked about, but his expression is as neutral as ever.

When he sees Cloud, however, his face softens slightly, which makes Cloud’s heart skip a beat.

Shit, I am so cooked.

“Hey,” Sephiroth says smoothly as he walks over to where Cloud is standing at his locker.

“Hey. Is everything okay?”

Sephiroth’s mouth twitches slightly, but doesn’t fully smile.

“It’s fine. Just stuff Rufus wants me to do. Sorry I’ve been so busy. Really.”

Relief washes over Cloud. He looks around to make sure they’re alone, but keeps his voice low since Rufus is still in his office.

“It’s fine.”

Sephiroth nods at him and places a hand on his shoulder. “Things might be hectic for me for a while yet. Focus on getting some of those shokai, okay?”

Cloud blinks at him, and the uncertainty returns like whiplash.

“Yeah. I will,” is all he manages to say.

Sephiroth gives his shoulder a squeeze and then drops his hand. “Let’s do our best.” Finally he smiles, but Cloud can’t help but think he looks tired, that his eyes aren’t quite lit up like they usually are.

He watches as Sephiroth walks out of the room, confusion seeping into his mind once again. Why isn’t anything ever simple with Sephiroth?

~~

As she promised, Kyrie comes back that day. Even though she is rather aggressive, Cloud finds himself enjoying his conversations with her. Sure, Miya is kind and warm, but sometimes Cloud can’t keep the conversation going as well as he does with Kyrie. Probably mostly thanks to the fact that Kyrie seems to detest silence.

Also, Miya sure doesn’t spend like Kyrie does. Right after sitting down, Kyrie orders a bottle of brandy. It comes in one of the fancy bottles that are kept on the display cases, and it takes every morsel of self control for Cloud to not look too shocked. He has to keep his cool.

Kyrie writes their names in a heart on a keychain with a nameplate attached to it and loops it over the neck of the bottle. This is how they keep track of whose bottle is whose.

“Did you have fun at the hot springs?” Kyrie asks as she takes a sip of the brandy.

“Yeah. It was super relaxing,” Cloud says with a smile.

“I bet everyone here looked soooo hot without clothes on!”

Cloud raises his eyebrows at her and she smacks him playfully on the arm. “I’m just joking!”

He’s sure she was not joking.

“Do you like going to the hot springs?” Cloud asks, changing the subject.

“Yes! I love them! Maybe we can go together sometime!” She winks at Cloud and he returns it with a smile.

“Yeah. Why not?”

Cloud is learning that being a host is a lot like a game of improv. You always have to say “yes.” He can always decline a real invitation later, but it’s always best to appease the customer in the moment. Most of them know that it’s not genuine, but within the walls of the club, they pretend it’s real. It’s just how it is.

“I’ll hold you to that!” Kyrie says with a smirk and then promptly orders champagne.

Cloud puts the order in, and the lights go dark as the champagne call music starts playing. Everyone gathers around the table, Barret and Zack both giving Cloud a wink, while Reno looks like he’s just heard the punch line to a joke. Cloud shoots him a look. Kyrie really isn’t that bad!

Plus, he’s finally making some commission, and he is already thinking of some of the things he might be able to buy if she continues spending like this. It will actually be close to a normal mid-paying job’s paycheque!

He tries the trick that Sephiroth taught him and to his surprise it kind of works. He definitely still has to drink some of it but not as much as he did before. He finds Sephiroth in the circle of hosts and gives him a small grin. Thankfully Sephiroth seems to understand what he’s saying and smirks back.

Cloud curses himself for the way the butterflies soar in his stomach.

Kyrie ends up staying for a good part of the night, and for the first time ever Cloud doesn’t have to help with washing dishes or sitting with other people’s customers.

He could get used to this.

~~

The week goes by quickly. Kyrie visits again and stays for a few hours. Cloud is definitely starting to feel like she’s a little overbearing but he’s not going to complain.

Barret warns him once just to be careful, but Cloud still doesn’t know what exactly it is he’s supposed to be careful about. He doesn’t feel like she’s acting any differently than some of the other more dedicated customers. Still, he knows they have more experience than he does, so he keeps their advice in the back of his mind.

Sephiroth continues to be busy, and as their days off approach, Cloud can tell they aren’t going to be spending the weekend together. They barely even talk all week, and Sephiroth doesn’t even invite him to join when Yuffie comes to the club, which has never happened before. Usually, Yuffie grabs him right away and insists that he join them, and Sephroth makes some joke, but this time both of them walk right to the VIP room without even looking in Cloud’s direction.

He’s been agonizing over it all week, and while he’s sure that Sephiroth really is just busy, he can’t help but worry that something else is going on. In the past when he’s said something to upset Sephiroth, Sephiroth would just leave Cloud to figure it out on his own, so maybe that’s what he is doing now.

On their last day of work that week, he decides to confront Sephiroth. He doesn’t want to spend the entire weekend going over scenarios in his head again. Just asking Sephiroth if everything is okay makes him feel silly, but he figures that it’s better for his own peace of mind.

“Could I talk to you in the VIP room real quick?” Cloud asks in a low voice at the end of the night.

Sephiroth studies his face for a moment and then nods. “Sure.”

They head to the VIP rooms, and Sephiroth closes the door behind them.

“I won’t have any time this weekend, if that’s what you want to talk about,” Sephiroth says abruptly.

Cloud is slightly taken aback. “Uh. Well, I figured but, I mean… I guess I just wanted to know if everything is okay between us?”

Now it’s Sephiroth’s turn to seem confused. “Why wouldn’t it be?”

Cloud tries to choose his words carefully. “I know you’ve been busy, but I just couldn’t help but wonder if you were upset with me? Maybe I’m being stupid…”

Sephiroth’s brows narrow. “I told you I was busy.”

Cloud gulps. “Yeah. I just…I dunno.”

“I thought that being busy was understandable. Why must I explain myself beyond that, and why would you assume I’m upset?” Sephiroth snaps at him.

Cloud feels anger bubbling in him. “Cause when you’ve been pissy at me before, you gave me the silent treatment instead of just telling me, so how am I supposed to know? You were busy before your birthday and still were able to message me and,” his voice cracks on the last word, “hang out.”

Now Sephiroth looks angry, too. “I am deeply sorry if I did not give you enough attention for one week, Cloud. Rufus needs my help with advertising and has offered me a promotion. Unlike you, this is my career, not something I chose to do because I was bored.”

Cloud cannot believe it. All he wanted was to be honest and have a conversation, like an adult. He opens his mouth and closes it, words not forming.

The silence is heavy between them.

Sephiroth sighs. “I apologize. I have not been sleeping well. I shouldn’t snap at you.”

But in spite of the apology, Cloud feels like he’s going to throw up. Over a week of worrying that he did something wrong, and this is what’s thrown back at him. He swallows down the lump in his throat.

“No, you’re right. You don’t have to explain every detail of your life to me. It’s not like we owe each other anything. We aren’t dating. You just think I’m hot and like using me to blow off some steam, right? Let’s just focus on work.”

Cloud feels warm, and Sephiroth merely looks at him. His eyes burrow into Cloud’s.

After what feels like an eternity, he finally speaks, his voice soft and calm.

“How disappointing.”

Before Cloud can say anything else, Sephiroth is gone.

Chapter Text

The entire journey back to his apartment is an emotional rollercoaster; shock, anger, and hurt swirl around in the pit of his stomach. By the time he gets home, anger is winning, and he feels fury spreading across his body like fire.

How dare Sephiroth react the way he did? Cloud has never asked him for anything, never expected anything, but now Cloud is the one who’s being disappointing? It is completely unbelievable.

He stomps around his apartment, huffing as he throws his belongings this way and that, unable to stay still for too long before he has to move again. He regrets not saying more to Sephiroth and goes over what he thinks he should’ve said. Over and over he replays the conversation in his head.

He finally sits down for a moment, his leg shaking aimlessly as he tries to find something to watch on TV. The loop of “what if” doesn’t end, and his body can’t seem to calm down as he tries to focus on the screen in front of him. He gives up after a few moments, the distraction proving futile.

He walks into his room and digs deep into his laundry basket, pulling out the clothes he “borrowed” from Sephiroth. He takes them to the kitchen and opens the garbage can. His movements stop, his hands hovering just over the top of it.

He growls in frustration, unable to actually throw them out, and stomps back to his room. Opening his closet, he throws the clothes to the utmost back corner. Out of sight, out of mind, right? He doesn’t want to think about why he’s unable to throw them out right now.

Satisfied with this petty act of revenge, Cloud runs his hands over his face a few times.

This is so stupid. Fuck him.

And with that, he forces himself to watch something on TV. He knows he won’t be able to sleep well without watching something to distract himself, so he picks a show that he’s seen a million times and gets comfy on the couch. Thankfully, it isn’t too long before he’s able to drift off.

~~

When Cloud wakes up the next morning, the anger has subsided slightly, and instead a wave of confusion and hurt washes over him.

He continues to spend the entire weekend agonizing over his relationship, or lack thereof, with Sephiroth. Every hypothetical situation consumes his thoughts as he attempts to be productive.

He remembers what Sephiroth told him about setting boundaries and not texting customers on his day off, but he yearns for an escape from his thoughts and ends up texting Kyrie on and off all day.

She shows him pictures of her new nails and the items she bought shopping. For someone who “sells things,” she certainly has a lot of expendable money.

However, even with the distractions, it’s very hard not to dwell on someone you have to see every single day, and tomorrow Sephiroth will be right in front of him. Cloud really regrets getting involved with a coworker now.

~~

The first day back at work after their fight, Sephiroth corners him outside before the daily meeting and tries to talk to him.

“Cloud, about the other night–” he starts, but Cloud cuts him off.

“Just leave it. Let’s just focus on Genesis’ birthday event, yeah?”

Sephiroth studies his face for a moment. He opens his mouth like he wants to say something but apparently decides not to, and walks off with a sigh, one hand loosely in his pocket.

Cloud makes a childish face behind his back and instantly feels stupid. He doesn’t know why he’s acting this way. He’s just tired and doesn’t want to deal with this anymore. Ending it and not humouring the idea of talking it out is better. Things will be a lot less complicated this way. Sephiroth is clearly too busy, and Cloud really does want to focus.

Despite what Sephiroth says, he is taking this job seriously. And, thanks to Kyrie, he’s starting to make some money now. The more money he makes, the more he can invest into things to boost his career. Better clothes, hair, accessories; all of these things are beneficial to being a host.

Cloud follows Sephiroth into the club shortly afterwards and takes his usual spot next to Zack for the meeting. He’s determined to keep his cool. He will never let Sephiroth know how much he upset him.

“Hey buddy, how was your day off?” Zack asks when Cloud takes a seat.

Cloud does his best to give Zack a genuine smile. “It was great. Cleaned out my apartment, and I’m feeling refreshed for the first time in a while.”

“That’s awesome!”

Cloud secretly hopes Sephiroth hears him but doesn’t dare look in his direction.

“Yeah. I’m feeling focused. Determined to get some new customers.”

“Hell ya, Spike! Let’s do it!” Zack beams at him, and this time Cloud has no trouble returning the smile. This week is gonna be good.

~~

The week goes by in a flash. It’s a lot easier for Cloud to work with Sephiroth than he thought it would be. They exchange pleasantries and mostly just work as they always have, since they had been keeping everything on the down low anyway.

The only big difference is that Yuffie doesn’t insist on him joining the VIP room anymore. In fact, she isn’t at the club nearly as often as she usually is. Her absence doesn’t go unnoticed.

“Is everything alright with Yuffie?” Stallion asks at a staff meeting one day.

“She’s busy,” Sephiroth says smoothly, but Cloud can’t help but notice a pang of annoyance in his voice.

Rufus gives Sephiroth a small smile. “I trust she will be coming to Genesis’ birthday event tomorrow?”

If Sephiroth is annoyed, any trace of it is gone now. “Of course.”

It really is weird that Yuffie hasn’t been around much, so it makes sense for Rufus to be worried that she isn’t coming. Yuffie is a big spender and those customers are extremely crucial on event nights. Rufus is looking to make as much money as possible.

“Cloud, you said that Kyrie is also going to be coming?”

Cloud pushes the interaction between Rufus and Sephiroth out of his mind and turns his attention back to Stallion.

“Yep. She’ll definitely be there,” he says with a thumbs up.

“Excellent. You have been working hard lately, I hear you got two more customers as well?”

Cloud blushes slightly as everyone claps. Everyone except Sephiroth, who remains as stoic as ever.

“Uh, yeah. Hopefully I’ll get them to come back soon.”

“Thatta boy! Knew you’d start rackin’ up the customers!” Barret says with a slap on Cloud’s shoulder from where he is sitting behind him.

“Just make sure you keep them. A pretty face will only take you so far!” Reno says with a devilish grin.

“I’ll do my best,” Cloud says as the others continue to congratulate him.

Stallion finishes up the meeting and gives everyone orders on what to do for Genesis’ event the next day. Cloud is really excited to know he’ll have a customer at the event. It means he won’t be running back and forth between the floor and the kitchen like he had been for Sephiroth’s birthday.

Cloud has a small pep in his step as he rummages through his locker, looking for some cologne that Kyrie had recently gifted him. She had insisted on getting him new cologne and a new necklace to wear for work. Cloud doesn’t mind. Everyone gets gifts from their customers, and she actually has really good taste!

“Hello, Cloud.”

Cloud looks up to see Rufus standing next to him.

“Oh. Hey boss.”

Rufus chuckles. “Just Rufus is fine.”

“Sorry. Rufus. What’s up?”

Rufus has that weird look in his eye that he gets sometimes, like he’s trying to extract information deep from someone’s mind with just a look.

“Just wanted to say that you’re doing great. I knew I was right to hire you.”

“Uhh…” Cloud isn’t sure what to say. “Thanks. I’m learning a lot.”

Rufus smiles softly. “I’m glad to hear it. Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.”

Cloud feels a shiver run down his spine as Rufus puts his hand on Cloud’s shoulder. Cloud suddenly feels extremely uncomfortable but smiles to hide it.

“Of course. Thanks,” he says.

Rufus’ hand lingers for a few more moments before he gives Cloud’s shoulder a small squeeze and walks off.

Cloud watches him go and shrugs his shoulders a few times, trying to shake the feeling of Rufus’ hand.

That was weird.

~~

Genesis’ birthday event is just as hectic as Sephiroth’s, but from the beginning Cloud already knows that Genesis isn’t going to outsell Sephiroth.

Genesis only has two champagne towers, for one, and Scarlet causes problems the entire night and sours the mood slightly. A sour mood results in less champagne flowing, and it doesn’t take a genius to figure out that Sephiroth is going to win this battle yet again.

On the bright side, Genesis looks very handsome—at least Cloud thinks so. His hakama is red and white with golden trim. It suits him really well, so at least his pictures will look great.

“I want Genesis!”

Cloud looks over from where he’s sitting with Kyrie.

Scarlet is once again throwing a fit. It’s probably the third or fourth time so far. Genesis had already suggested she call it a night, as she just keeps drinking and getting more and more wasted.

Of course, that suggestion had only resulted in another tantrum.

Now she’s upset because Genesis hasn’t been sitting with her as much as she wants him to. Most customers know that they are not going to see their shimei on a busy birthday event, but Scarlet really is a special kind of client.

“She’s at it again? Shiva’s tits, she’s annoying.” Kyrie says with an eyeroll as she takes a sip of brandy.

Kyrie has also been here for a long time, but Cloud isn’t complaining. The longer she stays, the more money he makes. She has already ordered champagne twice for Genesis, and even though it’s his birthday, Cloud will still get a cut of it.

“She’s pretty drunk,” Cloud says with a weak grin. He holds back a sigh and busies himself with wiping the condensation from Kyrie’s glass. He wonders if he should go see if there’s anything he can do. Scarlet does not care for Cloud, so he’s not sure there’s anything he could do but…

Crash

Cloud whips around to see where the noise came from. Scarlet is standing, her face completely in shock, as Reno, Genesis, and Stallion run over.

“Just gimme one sec,” Cloud says hurriedly to Kyrie as he stands up and rushes over to where the commotion is.

“Shut the fuck up!” A girl is standing next to Scarlet, an empty glass in her hand. Its contents are now dripping from Scarlet’s head.

It’s one of Roach’s customers. He’s standing next to her, trying to take the glass from her hand.

“You bitch!” Scarlet shrieks once the shock wears off. Her glass lies shattered at her feet, which Cloud realizes now was the crash he heard, and she looks ready to attack.

Genesis grabs her and holds her back while she spits threats at Roach’s customer, who isn’t backing down.

“You’re making this huge scene, while some of us are here to have a good time!”

“Mind your own fucking business!” Scarlet hisses.

Cloud pivots aimlessly for a moment, trying to think of what to do. At this point everyone has stopped what they’re doing to look at the commotion. Sephiroth and his customer have even come out from the VIP room.

Suddenly Cloud feels a hand on his shoulder. He jumps and looks to see Kyrie behind him.

He gives her a weak smile. “Go have a seat, everything’s fine.”

But she does not sit down. Instead, she pushes her way through and joins in the fight.

“Stop wasting our time and money!” she spits at the other two girls.

Before the others can retort, Rufus appears. The look on his face alone is enough to shut everyone up. Genesis loosens his grip on Scarlet, and Roach maneuvers his customer into a sitting position.

“I think it is time for Genesis and Roach to see their customers out.”

His voice is so commanding that no one says anything. Roach’s customer nods, her face now bright red with embarrassment.

Scarlet, however, sucks her teeth and sits back down, refusing to leave until her time is up. Rufus considers her for a moment and decides that’s fine.

Cloud knows she is a big spender, but for Rufus to give in that quickly, she must be one of the biggest spenders at the club.

Barret rushes over to help Roach take his customer out of the club while Reno and Rude go to get a broom to clean up the glass.

“Genesis, we will talk about this later,” Rufus says in a low voice. Genesis grits his teeth but doesn’t say anything.

Rufus turns to address the patrons. “We are terribly sorry for all the trouble. Everyone, please enjoy a complimentary hour of time, on us.”

Cloud, realizing that he’s just standing there like a moron, grabs Kyrie and leads her back to their seats.

“That was exciting!” Kyrie says with a laugh as they sit down.

Cloud really cannot believe this girl sometimes. “Kyrie…you could’ve gotten hurt or something.” What he really wants to say is “what the fuck were you thinking,” but he doesn’t think that would go over well with her.

“Aww, thanks Sky, you’re so sweet. I just couldn’t believe they were behaving that way!”

And so you thought you’d join them?

“Next time, just leave it to me and the others, okay?”

Kyrie giggles and grabs her drink. “Yes, sir.”

Cloud does his best to flash her a smile but he’s not sure how genuine it is. He’s sure that next week’s meeting is going to be a nightmare. Scarlet has been known to cause a scene in the club, but things have never gotten this bad before.

Cloud looks around. Sephiroth and his client are back in the VIP room and everyone seems to have returned to their previous bustle. Genesis is sitting with Scarlet, who looks very smug, and Roach disappears into the VIP room. From the look on his face, Cloud can tell he is not happy.

Cloud turns his attention back to Kyrie. He wonders if she’s going to be his Scarlet.

“So, Sky…” Kyrie says, scooting over in the sofa seat to be a bit closer to Cloud. “What are you doing after the party?”

Cloud feels alarm bells going off in his head. “Well… it usually takes forever to clean up, and we still have a few hours left, so I’m sure some of us are going to be pretty drunk. Usually I help everyone home.”

Kyrie pouts. “I wanted you to hang out with me after!”

Cloud gives her a weak smile and starts thinking of more excuses to say no. “Sometimes things get pretty wild on birthday nights, so I gotta stay until after closing. By then, I’ll probably be pretty tired…”

Kyrie purses her lips at him, seemingly considering his words. Suddenly her expression changes and she claps her hands together in glee. “You always take care of everyone! I think it’s your turn to have fun! Let’s get champagne!”

Despite it already being the fourth bottle she’s ordered tonight, Cloud can’t say no.

“Sounds good, let’s have some fun. And hey, maybe we can go out after another night.”

“We’d better,” Kyrie says with a wink.

Maybe everyone’s warnings about her were right.

~~

Cloud doesn’t remember much of the night after that.

When he wakes up, it’s on one of the sofas in the club. His head is throbbing and the taste of champagne lingers in his mouth.

He closes his eyes again and rolls to his side, but it’s no use. His brain feels like it’s been detached from his skull. There’s no way he’s going to be able to fall asleep again.

He slowly sits up and looks around. Most of the lights are off, and it’s completely silent. He doesn’t see his phone anywhere, so he figures it must be in his locker. He takes a few more minutes to steady himself before he stands up and makes his way to the staff room.

He’s able to make it without falling over and opens his locker in search of his phone. He finds it thrown in his bag and grabs it to look at the time. It’s a little after 6am. Thank the gods they don’t have work tomorrow, because Cloud is feeling completely wrecked.

“You okay, Cloud?”

Cloud yelps in surprise as he wheels around to see Zack lying on his usual make-shift chair bed. Cloud really doesn’t understand why he doesn’t just sleep on the sofas.

“Uh, yeah. Just wanted my phone…” he says, holding his phone up.

“Never seen you as wasted as you were last night!”

Cloud sighs. “Kyrie went over board.”

“We all have those nights. She seemed really upset when you were too drunk to leave together,” Zack says with a smirk.

“She really wants me to hang out with her. I don’t think she has many friends.” Cloud doesn’t know why he feels the need to defend her to everyone, but it’s not like what he’s saying is wrong. He just… maybe doesn’t care as much as he pretends to. But he feels like everyone is particularly hard on Kyrie. He’s sure there are parts of Scarlet that Genesis enjoys, even though she’s kind of crazy.

“Mmm,” is all Zack says before he stands up. “Let’s go home. I can lock up.”

Cloud doesn’t have a key, so he would’ve had to stay until someone could come get him.

“Oh, thank gods. Let’s go.”

Just as they are getting ready to leave, Cloud realizes that he’s wearing a hoodie—a hoodie that he did not come to work wearing. He sticks his nose in the collar and inhales the scent.

It’s Sephiroth’s. No doubt in his mind.

“Cloud, everything okay?” Zack asks as he starts trying to hail down a taxi.

Cloud does not need Zack teasing him about this, so he just nods and joins Zack in flagging down a ride home.

~~

The mood is tense as everyone sits and waits for the meeting to start. They all know what it’s going to be about.

Stallion and Rufus come out of the office, and everyone stops murmuring to pay attention.

“Obviously,” Stallion starts, “we need to avoid what happened on Genesis’ birthday from ever happening again.”

He holds up a hand when Genesis tries to say something. “I don’t want to argue about it. Roach, you should have controlled your customer better.”

“What the hells? My customer?” Roach protests.

“Yes,” Rufus cuts in. “Scarlet is a very important client, and it was Genesis’ birthday.”

Roach scoffs. “She’s always making trouble.”

“She’s never thrown a drink on someone, though,” Genesis points out with a smug look on his face.

“Sky’s customer got involved, too! Why isn’t he getting scolded?!” Roach says with a huff.

Rufus waves a hand. “That’s enough. Sky’s customer was upset at the situation. If anything, you should be apologizing to Sky and his client.”

Cloud feels his face going red. He doesn’t think he needs any kind of apology at all. Kyrie had gotten involved when he asked her not to, so she was just as culpable as the other two.

“Nah, really, she was wrong, too.” Cloud says quickly.

“Don’t worry about it, Cloud,” Rufus says smoothly. Cloud doesn’t miss that he switched to using his real name. Rufus has been overly familiar lately.

Cloud can’t help but glance around the room. He sees Sephiroth’s brows scrunched together as he looks intently at Rufus. Unsure of why Sephiroth is confused, Cloud looks to his side. Zack meets his eye and gives him a sympathetic smile.

They finish the meeting and everyone disperses. The mood in the room is still tense, and it’s only made worse when Rufus calls Roach to his office. Roach grumbles under his breath as he stalks off after Rufus and Stallion.

Cloud watches them go with a pit in his stomach. It’s made even worse when he remembers he still needs to return Sephiroth’s hoodie. He feels stupid returning it and not the other clothes he has stashed in his closet, but returning them somehow would have felt like acknowledging the tension between them.

He quickly heads to his locker and pulls out the hoodie. Taking a deep breath, he scans the room and sees Sephiroth on his phone in the corner, so he takes a beat to mentally prepare himself.

He walks up awkwardly and clears his throat.

“Uhm, thanks,” he says as Sephiroth looks up, holding the hoodie out for him.

Sephiroth looks at him for a moment, then takes the hoodie with his free hand and places it on his knees.

“Be careful not to drink too much.” His eyes return to his phone.

Cloud swallows the wave of anger he feels at Sephiroth’s words. It’s rich coming from someone who got drunk and fucked him against a bunch of glasses, but Cloud won’t bring it up. He’ll be the bigger person.

“Right. Thanks again,” he mumbles as he turns away and heads out the door to start setting up for the night.

~~

As the days go by, Cloud gets busier and busier, not only with Kyrie, but with a few other new customers as well. He’s still not anywhere near the level of most of the others, but he’s secretly delighted when Reno informs him that Cloud has more customers than him and Rude now.

“You’re gonna be ranking before you know it,” Reno says with a shrug. “We all knew it when you joined. Glad you’re fulfilling your destiny.”

Cloud laughs. “I don’t think it’s my destiny, but I’m glad to be getting more regulars.”

With more regulars though, more of Cloud’s personal time is being taken up by them. He’s constantly busy messaging clients, going on douhan, and sometimes going out with them after shifts.

Of course, Kyrie is the most demanding. Cloud goes out with her at least twice a week. It’s baffling how much money she’s spending on him, and he wonders again where she gets it all.

When he voices this to Barret one evening, though, Barret only laughs.

“You really haven’t figured it out?”

Cloud blinks at him. “No… she said she sells things. I know some shop owners, they really don’t make that much. I just don’t want someone going into debt…”

Barret barks out a laugh again. “Don’t worry. She’s got th’money.”

“How do you know?”

“She’s a sex worker, Cloud,” Barret says bluntly.

Cloud’s eyebrows shoot up. He doesn’t know why he’s surprised. A lot of their customers are in sex work or at least sex work adjacent.

“Oh.”

Barret gives him a pat on the shoulder. “Is it really that shockin’?”

Cloud thinks for a moment. “I guess not. She’s just so chatty. I’m surprised she never mentioned it before or just said so in the beginning.”

“Nahh,” Barret says with a shrug. “She might come here lookin’ for a bit of an escape. She gets to be the one payin’ for stuff here. Maybe she likes havin’ this space free of work.”

Cloud hadn’t thought of that, but it makes sense. He can definitely relate to having to keep customers happy, and it must be even more work for her. This information helps him see Kyrie in a bit of a different light. She’s just looking for a place to blow off steam and have some fun. Cloud’s happy that he can give that to her.

~~

A few more weeks go by and Cloud continues to stay busy. He has a handful of clients who come in fairly regularly, and when he gets his paycheque he is ecstatic—it’s more money than he’s ever seen!

He decides he’s going to buy a gift for Kyrie next time they go out, to say thank you. He thinks he might have enough money saved now to start getting his hair done everyday before work just like the others. It will take time out of his day, but at least he can message his customers while he’s getting it done.

However, with more money also seems to come more attention from Rufus. One day after a particularly successful night, he pulls Cloud into his office.

“So, Cloud,” he starts, “you’ve been doing very well lately.”

Cloud does his best to keep his face neutral, but he can’t help but feel nervous. “Uh, yeah. I’ve really been doing my best.”

“That’s what I like to hear,” Rufus says with a smile. “A host website reached out. They want to do a photoshoot with some up and comers, so I have recommended you for it.”

Cloud can’t believe it. A photoshoot! And the photos would be on the internet. He feels so excited he can’t help the wide grin on his face.

“That sounds awesome! Really?”

Rufus chuckles. “Of course. Maybe we can have dinner together afterwards. To celebrate.”

Cloud’s smile falters. The excitement slowly starts draining out of him.

“Oh. Uhm. Yeah. Of course.” How can he say no to his boss?

“Splendid.”

Rufus gives him the details for the photoshoot and sends Cloud out of his office.

Much to his misfortune, Sephiroth is sitting outside. Cloud tries not to look over at him and heads to his locker. For the most part, the two of them get along okay. They don’t talk unless they have to, but Cloud thinks that some of the tension has evaporated, at least.

He grabs his things and sits down at a table to answer some messages.

“What did Rufus want?” Sephiroth asks suddenly.

Cloud is surprised that Sephiroth is even talking to him, and he tries to keep his face casual. “Wants me to do a photoshoot.”

Sephiroth hums in response, and after a few moments says, “Congratulations.”

“Thanks,” Cloud says awkwardly. He leaves out the part about dinner. There is a very good chance Rufus is hitting on him, but he’s okay with it if it gives him some opportunities. He’s been pretty good at keeping Kyrie at bay, certainly he can handle Rufus.

Probably.

“Just be careful,” Sephiroth says after several moments.

Cloud rolls his eyes. What is with Sephiroth constantly telling him to be careful. After everything they did together and all the talks they had, all he can do is treat him like a kid who doesn’t know anything?

“Of what, exactly?”

“Rufus.” Sephiroth says quietly. “Don’t trust him.”

Of course, Cloud already knows this. Reno already told him, and he’s starting to see for himself that Rufus is a bit slimy, but he doesn’t want to give Sephiroth any satisfaction.

“Right. So, don’t trust Rufus. Don’t trust Roach. Don’t trust my customers. Anything else?” Cloud snaps.

Sephiroth smirks at him. That fucking smirk. “That’s all.”

“You’re unbelievable,” Cloud says before he gets up and leaves the room seething.

Sephiroth is the person he never should have trusted.

~~

Later that week, everyone decides to go out for drinks at Seventh Heaven. It’s been a while since all of them got together, so the mood is light and everyone’s happy. Only Roach doesn’t come. He’s been in a particularly bad mood lately. Word is that Rufus told him he’s on his last chance.

Most of them aren’t drinking anything too strong, since it’s been a long week at work. However, they do order a lot of food. Cloud loves it when they eat more than they drink. He orders some fried chicken, edamame, and fried tofu. Some of his favourites.

“Did you guys hear the rumours again? Probably why Roach is avoiding us.” Genesis suddenly says. Cloud looks up from his food and listens while he chews.

“Nah, I think he’s just a little bummed after the whole birthday fiasco,” Zack says with a shrug.

That makes more sense to Cloud. Roach always has rumours about him sleeping with customers, so that’s nothing new, as much as Cloud hates to think it.

“He’s a buzzkill anyway,” Reno adds.

Sephiroth reaches for his drink and puts in his two cents. “If none of you are actually sleeping around, why care about rumours?”

Cloud is shocked as Sephiroth looks at him when he says this. Why is he looking at Cloud? He never does anything. Sephiroth should know that. Shouldn’t he?

Cloud frowns at him and then goes back to eating. He tries to ignore the nagging thoughts at the back of his mind and focus on the conversation, but the atmosphere is a little tense.

“Is Roach’s customer banned from the club?” he asks, trying to change the subject.

Reno waves a hand dismissively. “No, she can still come, but I don’t think she will. Prob’ly pretty embarrassed."

“I wish Scarlet would get a little embarrassed sometimes…” Genesis says with a sigh.

Sephiroth smirks at him. “Doesn’t matter, you were never going to win.”

“Oh, shut up.”

Everyone bursts into laughter and the night resumes in good spirits, the small awkward moment forgotten quickly.

~~

Cloud takes Kyrie to the high-end department store to pick out a gift the next time they have douhan. She is, of course, elated that Cloud wants to buy her something. She’s practically vibrating as they make their way through the perfume section.

She had told him that she wanted a new fragrance, so they decide to buy it together.

“My favourite brand is over here!” she says excitedly, looping her arm around Cloud’s and basically dragging him to a shop in the back corner. It’s a shop Cloud has never heard of before, but the scent coming from it is really nice.

“Sky, look at this one. Isn’t the bottle cute?”

Cloud looks at what she’s holding. The bottle is shaped like a small bear holding a heart. Not wanting to disappoint her, he smiles. “Wow Kyrie, that one is really cute.”

She grins at him, then grabs his hand and sprays the perfume onto his wrist. Still holding his fingers, she raises his hand. “Smell!”

Cloud takes a small sniff. “It smells really good. Like a bakery.”

“I think so too. I think I’ll get this one.” She pulls him by the hand and leads him to the register.

Cloud can tell how happy she is because of how much she is touching him, and he worries for a moment that maybe he’s giving her the wrong idea. Then again, he’s a host and this is his job. He’s sure everyone would agree with him. She knows.

“Let’s go get dinner and then head to the club,” Cloud suggests as they walk out of the store with their purchase.

“Yes! I’m starving! Let’s go to that really nice place where you can see all of Midgar!”

Cloud smiles weakly but doesn’t protest. Of course she wants to go there. But again, this is a thank you to her, so he won’t complain.

He lets her hold his arm as they walk to the restaurant, chatting happily about her day.

~~

Cloud is feeling pretty good when he gets to work. He’s just spent a lot of money on Kyrie, but he has another customer coming in later as well, and it feels good to be busy.

He truly feels like nothing can bring him down.

Except maybe one thing. Or person, rather. A person who happens to be standing right in front of him while he’s trying to go to the kitchen to get an ice bucket.

Sephiroth is standing in the entryway to the club, chatting with Yuffie, who looks like she’s on her way out.

“Sky!! I haven’t seen you in forever!” Yuffie shrieks.

Cloud mentally curses. He had been trying to slip by unnoticed.

“Hey, Yuffie. How are you?” he asks, begrudgingly moving to stand next to Sephiroth.

“Life is as boring as ever,” she says with a smile that does not match the words. “I hear you’ve been super busy!”

Cloud glances at Sephiroth and blushes slightly. “Uh, yeah. I guess.”

“I heard you got tons of customers. I can tell by all your new accessories, too. Get it, Sky!”

Cloud forgot how fun Yuffie can be. She’s a little intense, but it’s really endearing.

“Just doing my best. I take this seriously, ya know?” he says, emphasizing the word “seriously.”

“Yes, he’s been very busy with Rufus. Photoshoots and what not,” Sephiroth says smoothly.

Cloud shoots him a glare quickly before smiling at Yuffie. But Yuffie isn’t smiling back at him. Her brows are scrunched together and she looks concerned.

“Rufus?”

Cloud feels a wave of panic. “Yeah, he set me up to do a photoshoot. That’s all.”

Yuffie quickly fixes her expression, flashing a smile. “Oh! Of course! Good luck!”

And with that, she’s gone out the door.

At this point Kyrie is probably wondering where Cloud is, but he isn’t going to just let Sephiroth go.

“What the fuck was that?” he hisses at Sephiroth, who looks completely unphased as usual.

“What was what?” he says, almost annoyed.

Cloud wants to scream. “Do you ever just speak honestly?! Why did you tell her I’m hanging out with Rufus as if it’s a shady thing to take opportunities from your boss?”

“I never implied anything,” Sephiroth says with a shrug. “That’s your own interpretation.”

Cloud’s hands curl into fists at his side. He might actually punch him.

“What’s your problem?” he says through gritted teeth. “All I wanted was to talk to you and you’re the one who threw it in my face.”

Sephiroth stares at him. “I believe you’re the one who wouldn’t let me talk to you afterwards. You’re the one who also continues to snap at me.”

Cloud cannot believe what he is hearing. For a moment, he wonders if Sephiroth is right. His head hurts. He is so tired of this. It feels like everything Sephiroth says is a riddle he has to figure out.

“You’re the one I never should’ve trusted.” With that Cloud storms back in the club. He doesn’t have the ice bucket he meant to get, but he doesn’t care. He flings himself onto the couch next to Kyrie.

“Sky? Are you okay?” Kyrie asks, her face full of concern.

“What? Oh. Yeah. Sorry.” Cloud tries to fix his face and calm down, but he still really wants to punch Sephiroth.

“Did something happen?”

Cloud lets out a sigh. “It’s fine. Let’s just have fun, okay?”

That’s always something Kyrie can agree too.

The night goes on and the drinks keep coming. Cloud knows he should stop drinking, but he doesn’t. He isn’t completely wasted, but he’s past the point of any type of good decision making.

He doesn’t care.

He can feel the alcohol swimming around in his head, making things a little fuzzy, a little hard to sort through.

Fuck it.

The music pounds in his ears and he slams back the rest of his drink.

Fuck Sephiroth.

Before he knows it, he’s in the back seat of a taxi with Kyrie by his side.

“Where to?” the taxi driver asks.

“Nearest love hotel.”

Chapter Text

Cloud wakes up with a jolt, sitting up in his bed which instantly causes the entire room to spin.

Except he’s not in his bed. He looks around. The walls are covered in some kind of weird Christmas wallpaper. His brows furrow and he looks down. Tons of little smiling Santa faces are looking back at him from the comforter.

What the fuck…

Suddenly, the memories of last night come flooding back to him. Too many drinks, Sephiroth being an asshole, more drinks, and then…

Love hotel.

He’d brought Kyrie to a love hotel. This terrifying, Christmas-themed love hotel. Why couldn’t he have at least brought her to a nicer one. Now, he’s not only full of regret with a hangover, he’s also surrounded by Santa Clauses (Santas Claus?), his little beady eyes judging Cloud from every angle.

Cloud shuts his eyes and takes a deep breath and then looks next to him. Kyrie is still dozing, her hair sprawled out on the pillows around her. Cloud sighs again as he realizes she is wearing only a bra. He lifts the blanket to cover her before he lies back down for a moment.

Lying down is worse. The whole room spins, and he sits up to avoid puking. He glances at Kyrie again and feels his entire stomach churn. He can’t say that he didn’t want to; he had been drunk, but he was so pissed at Sephiroth that he wanted to get back at him somehow.

Now, he feels nothing but guilt and regret. For using Kyrie to enact his childish revenge, and because he went against his own convictions and slept with a customer.

The worst is, even though he and Sephiroth aren’t together—never were together, in fact…

It feels like he cheated.

He stumbles out of the bed and follows a small crack of light to what he vaguely remembers is the bathroom.

The light of the bathroom burns his eyes and makes his head throb. Champagne hangovers are truly the worst. He finds a toothbrush and toothpaste. While he brushes his teeth, he looks around. The Christmas horror story continues in this room, too. Jolly images of Santa are everywhere, even on the toothbrush he’s using.

How is it that this is the closest love hotel? He finds himself thinking he should take her to a nicer place next time before a roaring voice in his head yells at him that this is never happening again.

Odin’s balls. He really fucked up.

He rinses his mouth and looks at himself in the mirror. He looks completely disheveled. Unsure of what he should do next, he takes a deep breath and heads back into the main room. There’s one thing he knows for sure: he needs to get out of here and he needs his own bed.

“Good morning!”

Cloud nearly runs into Kyrie when he opens the door.

“Oh! Uh…hey.”

He doesn’t know why he’s suddenly feeling so nervous. There have been many hook ups in his past, and this should be no different. It’s not like he had a bad time, but…

“Is everything okay?” she asks with a tilt of her head.

Cloud sighs. “Yeah, let’s just…uh. Do you need the washroom?” he asks, gesturing towards the door.

“Sky…” Kyrie suddenly looks annoyed and places a hand on her hip, unimpressed. “Are you seriously going to make this weird?”

“What? No…I didn’t mean to,” Cloud says with a soft smile.

Kyrie rolls her eyes. “It’s not like you’re a virgin or something right? It’s just sex, relax.”

Cloud is so confused. Weeks of hanging off his shoulder, talking to him in that sing-song voice, inviting him to meet her whenever she could and now…she’s like a different person.

“I’m not a virgin,” Cloud sputters out.

“Then what’s the big deal? Stop being weird.” She pushes past him and heads into the bathroom.

Completely stunned in place, Cloud watches her go. What just happened?

Cloud was so sure she was going to be all over him again this morning. Even after spending so much time with her, she’s still completely a mystery. It’s not like he’s been unaware of her advances and tactics; everyone had warned him, but never did he consider for a moment that she was also putting on an act.

It takes a minute for him to collect his things and finish getting dressed. Not wanting to leave without her, he makes himself comfortable on a sofa-chair that is covered in elves. He grimaces as he notices even the ashtray next to him on the table is Christmas themed—golden bells and stars.

He lights up his cigarette and watches the smoke fly into the vent above him. How did he end up here? The worst thing is the thoughts of Sephiroth still swimming through his mind. If he ever found out about this, surely things would really be done between them.

But aren’t things already done? Cloud doesn’t know. He thinks of the hoodie, of the last conversation they had. It’s true that Sephiroth did try to talk to him—albeit he didn’t try very hard in Cloud’s opinion. Maybe Cloud is overreacting.

He winces.

What kind of trash human thinks of another person while someone they just slept with is in the other room? This is truly the worst he’s felt in awhile.

He takes a long drag of nicotine and closes his eyes. His head is still pounding, and the images of last night play behind his eyelids like a movie.

“Are you done being stupid?”

Cloud opens his eyes and sees Kyrie standing in front of him, now fully dressed with her hair up in a messy bun.

Cloud blinks at her. “Yeah. Sorry.”

She shrugs and sits down in the chair on the other side of the table and grabs her own cigarettes.

“Kyrie. I really don’t mean to make it weird, but I don’t wanna sleep with my customers. I wasn’t thinking.”

“Ugh!” Kyrie says with another eye roll. “You just said you were done being stupid! What did you think I was going to do, Sky? Ask you to marry me? It was just sex.”

Cloud scowls at her. “Sex you’ve been hinting that you want for awhile, and I was trying to be respectful and professional.”

“If we both wanted to, what’s the problem? Gods, why are you ruining it?” she asks with a huff before taking a deep inhale of her cigarette.

“Cause I just don’t want you to think this is going to be a normal thing.”

Kyrie scoffs. “Wow. You’re such a gentleman.”

Cloud is so flabbergasted, and suddenly a thought hits him. Is she going to stop coming to see him now? Sure, he’s been getting more customers lately, but Kyrie is still his biggest spender.

Fuck, I’m the worst.

“Sorry,” Cloud says with a sigh as he puts his cigarette out. “Everything is new to me and I don’t want to cross lines. I had a good time.”

Kyrie looks at him from the corner of her eye. “I’ll forgive you this time. It’s not like you have a girlfriend or something, right?”

“Nah. It’s nothing like that.” Cloud says with another sigh. “Sorry.”

He’s sure he’s fucked up. This kind of apology might not be enough to get her to actually continue coming back to the shop. More importantly though, when had he become so heartless?

There’s too much to think about, and he can’t shake the feeling that he’s let Sephiroth down, so he stands up and grabs his bag.

“Let’s get out of here. This place is creepy as fuck.”

Kyrie giggles. “You said it was funny last night!”

“Last night’s me was an idiot,” he mumbles.

“What?” Kyrie says with a smile and grabs her bag.

“Nothing. Let’s go.”

~~

Cloud can’t get out of bed. He doesn’t feel like doing anything. There are chores that need to be done, messages that need to be answered, but he’s stuck.

Guilt and uncertainty cloud his mind. Despite Kyrie not caring, he feels like he used her, just as he had accused Sephiroth of using him. Still, he tried his best to do damage control so as to not lose his customer. Sephiroth would be so disappointed in every single thing he had done.

Sephiroth. Sephiroth. Sephiroth.

No matter what he does, he can’t get him out of his head. When had he fallen so hard? Despite himself, he smiles as he remembers their drive up the mountain. The way Sephiroth had curled his massive body up in the driver’s seat to talk with him. His stupid smirk. The feeling of his hands gently roaming up Cloud’s thighs while they—

Cloud groans and rolls over. He doesn’t want to think about it. What an idiot. Maybe this job isn’t good for him.

He considers quitting. He only needs to work for a few more months, and he could save enough to go back to school.

His stomach churns at the thought of never seeing Sephiroth again and he wants to scream.

This is so stupid.

He rolls over in bed again and grabs his phone. Surprisingly, there’s a message from Kyrie, with a picture of her dinner attached. It's as if nothing happened.

“Damn, she really doesn’t care…” Cloud mumbles under his breath as he quickly types out a reply.

He feels even more like an idiot for acting so weird this morning, when she’s just going about her day as usual.

Instead of dwelling on the churning in his stomach, he decides to message Zack. Zack is trustworthy and can probably give him some advice about what to do.

Cloud: Hey Zack, you busy? Wanna go grab drinks?

It isn’t too late yet, plenty of time to have a few drinks and make it home in time to get a decent night’s sleep before work. To his dismay, however, a reply from Zack never comes.

Usually Zack replies to him fairly quickly, so it feels off. But maybe he’s just busy.

Cloud spends the rest of his evening rolling around in bed, alternating between scrolling on his phone and hiding his head in the pillows, screaming softly into them.

Eventually, sleep is kind enough to find him.

~~

Even though he has no reason to fret—no one knows what he did—he feels nervous going into work the next day.

His anxiety only grows when he walks into the staff room and can’t find Zack, who never did respond to his text message.

He looks around a bit more and accidentally makes eye contact with Sephiroth. Those green eyes lock onto his and for one moment, Cloud thinks that Sephiroth is going to say something to him, or gesture him over, but instead, Sephiroth just blinks at him and then returns to looking at his phone.

Cloud curses his beating heart and slumps down in his usual seat.

Soon enough, Stallion’s office door opens and Stallion, Rufus, and Zack walk out.

Expecting Zack to come and sit next to him, Cloud straightens up a bit and smiles at him. But Zack doesn’t move and his smile is weak.

The whole room quiets in an instant and there’s a weird feeling in the air, like everyone knows something happened.

“Well,” Stallion starts, clearing his throat, “Zack has some news he’d like to share with you all.”

Everyone stares at Zack and Cloud is running through different scenarios in his brain. Did Zack need something from everyone? Did one of his customers die or something?

“I uh… this weekend will be my last.” Zack tries to make it sound light, but his voice breaks halfway through.

The entire room is dead silent.

“What?” Cloud says after a few moments.

Zack takes a deep breath and does his best to smile. This time Cloud thinks it looks a little bit more genuine.

“I wanna be honest with all of you. You’re like my family so… even though I know what I did is frowned upon…well…” His smile turns bright. “Aerith is pregnant.”

Everyone just gapes at him. There’s an uncomfortable air in the room, and Cloud figures that, like him, everyone is trying to find the words to respond.

“It’s mine, obviously. I mean, maybe not obviously but…” Zack laughs awkwardly, rubbing one hand behind his head.

“Well shit. That’s great news, kiddo.” Barret breaks the silence. “We’ll be real sad to see ya go.”

Zack’s expression falters for a moment and Cloud wonders if he’s going to cry.

“Yeah. Thanks, man. I’m gonna do my best to take care of her.”

Suddenly everyone is congratulating him. The awkwardness lifts, and even Sephiroth has a faint smile on his face.

“Thanks everyone. I know that what I did was wrong, but I really care for her.”

A few more words of congratulations are passed around before Zack takes his seat next to Cloud.

Cloud can’t help but feel a little hurt that Zack never told him about the relationship between him and Aerith. With how easy rumours seem to spread though, maybe Zack just wanted to protect her—and himself.

Cloud throws his arm around Zack’s shoulder despite his feelings and gives him a bit of a squeeze.

“Thanks, man,” Zack whispers as Rufus starts talking.

“We will have a big farewell party for Zack this weekend. Please make sure all of your customers come.” Rufus sounds annoyed, not his usual fake cheeriness. He doesn’t say anything else and nods to Stallion, before turning around and going back to his office.

Cloud watches him go and wonders why he’s so upset. People move on from jobs all the time, is it really such a big deal?

Stallion quickly goes over the plans for Zack’s event and then ends the meeting with a final congratulations to Zack.

Cloud watches him go back into his office and then turns to look at Zack.

“Sorry I didn’t answer you last night,” Zack says.

“No! It’s all good. Pregnant? That’s…wow.”

Zack lets out a long sigh. “Yeah. I’m sorry I never told you. It’s been going on for a while…pretty cliché, eh? Host knocks up his customer…”

Cloud shakes his head. “You can’t help how you feel.”

“Thanks, Cloud. Do you still want to get drinks? Maybe we can go tonight. Is everything okay?”

Suddenly, Cloud really doesn’t want to tell Zack what happened.

“All good, I was just bored. Let’s go out another time and celebrate!”

“Sounds good. Probably better to wait until after this goodbye party.” He leans in and speaks quietly. “Rufus is forcing me to do it or else I gotta break contract or some shit. I know he’s an asshole but…”

Cloud scowls. It’s like every day Rufus shows him more and more how unpleasant he is. He is beginning to dread that photoshoot and dinner.

They get up and start getting ready for work.

When they had talked about sleeping with customers back when Cloud was still a total newbie, he had gotten the impression that not many of them were sleeping with their customers.

The way that they had all reacted to Zack’s announcement makes him wonder if that wasn’t the case, after all. Could it be that sleeping with your customers is just something that happens sometimes? Maybe it’s just Sephiroth who really feels so strongly against it.

He doesn’t want his closest friend to leave. The thought of quitting himself comes back as he sweeps the floors in the back corner of the club. Their contracts last a year, so Cloud will still have to work for another seven months or so if he wants to break it without penalty. He wonders if he can last that long. Being a host wasn’t something he ever thought was going to be easy, but he certainly didn’t imagine this much drama.

“I saw you. You should be more careful.”

Cloud turns to see Roach behind him wiping down some sofas. Cheeks burning with embarrassment, Cloud tries to play dumb.

“What?”

Roach doesn’t stop wiping, but Cloud can see a small smirk on his face.

“You got out of a taxi at that insane Christmas hotel. If I saw you, then that means others could have as well.”

Cloud winces. He had hoped Roach had only seen them getting in a taxi or something. How can he deny what happened when he saw them going into a hotel?

“Uh…yeah. Well. Shit happens,” Cloud mumbles. He’s never really had a problem with Roach, so he believes Roach is just trying to give him advice. “It won’t happen again.”

“You have to go to the hotels further away, not the ones so nearby,” Roach says with a shrug.

“Oh.” Cloud doesn’t know what to say. He means it when he says it won’t happen again because just this one time has already caused him enough stress.

“Was it the first time you took a customer to a hotel?” Roach’s voice is so casual, Cloud figures the rumours about him must be true.

In which case, maybe Roach can offer him some advice on how to make sure he hasn’t totally fucked things up with Kyrie.

“Yeah. I really…don’t want to make a habit of it. I got too drunk and slipped up, and now I’m worried she’s not going to come back.”

Roach straightens up and smiles at him. “Oh my dear friend, that girl? What was her name? Kyrie? Trust me, she will come back.”

Cloud puts the broom he’s holding against the wall and joins Roach at the tables, haphazardly moving things around in an attempt to look busy.

“What makes you so sure?” Cloud asks.

Roach ponders him for a moment. “She is the type who wants the boyfriend experience but doesn’t want a boyfriend. She likes hanging out with you and using you for what she wants. Why would she stop that?”

Cloud had never thought of it that way, and he feels a little embarrassed. For the most part, that’s the understanding between a host and his customer, so it makes sense Kyrie has just been using him. She does pay him, after all.

“I guess,” Cloud says with a sigh.

Roach pats his shoulder. “We’re only human. You just gotta keep your head in the game, my friend.”

“Right.” He supposes Roach knows what he’s talking about. He is pretty popular, and he certainly makes a lot of money. Despite the nagging voice in the back of his mind telling Cloud not to trust him, he doesn’t see any reason why not to at this moment. That stupid voice belongs to Sephiroth anyway.

Roach leaves to go set up for the night somewhere else, and Cloud goes back to sweeping. He wonders what Sephiroth thinks about Zack leaving to take care of his kid and start a life with Aerith. Maybe there is some hope of Sephiroth forgiving Cloud if he ever finds out about Kyrie.

Maybe.

~~

Much to Cloud’s relief, Roach seems to have been right about Kyrie, who continues to visit the club as though nothing has changed.

She makes a few jokes about their night together when no one else is around, which makes Cloud cringe internally, but Roach is right. He just has to keep his head in the game. There will definitely not be a next time, so Cloud just has to focus on keeping her as happy as possible.

She agrees to come to Zack’s farewell party, but she doesn’t buy the story that he’s deciding to take over his family’s business.

“He knocked someone up, didn’t he?” Kyrie says slyly.

Cloud shakes his head. She really does not hold back.

“I only know what I told you,” he says with a smile. Kyrie clearly isn’t convinced—, he can tell by the way she scoffs—but she also doesn’t push the topic.

Cloud thanks the heavens that he hadn’t been drunk enough to forget condoms that night.

~~

In the days following the announcement of Zack’s departure, Cloud often finds Sephiroth nearby. Sometimes he wordlessly helps Cloud with something, or he comes to sit with one of Cloud’s customers—this gesture is particularly odd because Sephiroth is already so busy.

Cloud doesn’t really know what to make of it. A part of him is happy about it, but another part remembers how they got to this point in the first place. Sephiroth never just tells Cloud what’s going on and instead does whatever he wants.

Even now, he’s hovering around Cloud again as if he wants to repair things, or at least try to be more friendly. But he’s doing so without a word of explanation, and it’s driving Cloud insane.

With what happened with Kyrie and now with Zack leaving, Cloud still can’t help but let Sephiroth hover. He feels exhausted mentally, and despite Sephiroth being part of the mess that occupies his mind, he really doesn’t have the energy to fight it or to even try and understand his motivations anymore.

He floats through the week, going through the motions. Customers come and go, and Cloud smiles when he’s supposed to, laughs with Reno, messes around with Zack, and lets Rufus plan the photoshoot scheduled for two weeks later.

Maybe this is a good spot for him to be. He’s not so stressed out, and it feels easier to just let his mind go blank and coast through the days.

His routine at home is unchanging: he comes home and showers, watches TV until he falls asleep, and then gets up and goes to work. A new salon opens near his house, and he goes there to get his hair done everyday.

His diet consists of food from the local diner or convenience store. He knows it isn’t healthy, but he can’t bring himself to care that much right now.

The week trudges on, and Cloud convinces himself that everything is good. This is just what it’s like to be a host.

Zack’s farewell party arrives, and it goes as event nights always go. Cloud continues to go through the motions. His customers visit and buy champagne. Rude and Reno run around bringing glasses and ice to the customers.

Just like Genesis’ birthday, Cloud is too busy to help them. For one shameful moment, Cloud thinks that maybe he can start ranking now that Zack is gone. That’s the game, after all.

Zack seems happy. Cloud wonders what kind of job he’s going to do after this, and laughs to himself at the image of Zack sitting in an office.

Aerith shows up and Cloud finds a moment to sit with her.

“Congratulations,” he says in a low voice.

She smiles but doesn’t say anything about her pregnancy.

“Zack will miss this place, but I think he’s getting tired.”

Cloud lets out a heavy breath. “Yeah. He’s been doing this for a long time.”

“I don’t think people were meant to do this long-term…ya know?” she says softly.

Cloud shrugs. “Yeah. I guess. Not all of us have much else going on though. Plus, it’s fun.”

Aerith raises an eyebrow in disbelief at him but Cloud just winks at her. He’s so good at being playful when he needs to. Words fall out of his mouth like a script he’s memorized.

“Wish you all the happiness,” he says in a low voice, standing up to return to his customers.

Zack gives a farewell speech, and just like that, the night is over.

Everyone is feeling the alcohol, and once the last customer leaves, Zack is able to convince everyone to go to Seventh Heaven. Even Rufus and Roach attend, which really goes to show just how well-loved Zack is.

The night continues until early morning. Cloud quietly enjoys the company of others and feels a small warmth inside of him. There’s a lot of drama, but maybe it’s not so bad. Times like this with everyone feel good, like he’s not alone.

He goes out to have a cigarette and finds Sephiroth standing by the ashtray. With everything that’s been going on, Cloud doesn’t have it in him to care much about what happened between them. Sephiroth sees him and sidesteps to make space for Cloud, a silent invitation to join him.

Neither of them speak, and Cloud feels like he could cut the tension with a knife. He wants to say something, anything, and judging by how stiffly Sephiroth stands beside him, he’s fairly certain he’s not alone in that.

Cloud watches the smoke dance in the cool air of the morning. He recalls his first day on the job, when he had a cigarette in this very same place. At that time he was full of anxiety, completely unsure of what to expect.

Now he knows more about hosts than he could have ever imagined. A part of him yearns for those days when things were more simple. Everything seems complicated and heavy now, as if every time he gets in the elevator after a shift, another weight is added to his shoulders.

Sephiroth was right. He did this job on a whim.

“Cloud…”

Cloud jumps slightly and looks up at Sephiroth. His green eyes are locked on his, so intense, as if Sephiroth is trying to communicate to Cloud what he’s feeling in just that look.

“Yeah?” he says, barely above a whisper, his heart pounding.

“I—”

“THERE YOU GUYS ARE!!”

Cloud will kill Zack.

Sephiroth quickly puts his cigarette out as Zack bounds over to them and throws his arms around their necks. Well, around Cloud’s neck and Sephiroth’s upper back.

“I’M GONNA MISS YOU GUYS!”

Cloud does not care how drunk Zack is. He’s going to kill him.

They get Zack back inside and return to the party.

Sephiroth doesn’t try to talk to him again.

~~

Work continues as if Zack never left, and the empty chair next to Cloud every day in the staff meetings is more depressing than Cloud wants to admit.

But he continues to float. A voice in his head yells at him to talk to Sephiroth, to try and figure out where they stand.

He’s being so stubborn. He knows this.

He lies awake in bed one night staring at the ceiling. He wonders, for what feels like the millionth time in the last few months, how he got here.

He should be happy. He’s making money—enough money that he shouldn’t have to do this much longer. After the photoshoot, he will hopefully make even more.

He tries not to think about having to use more of his time to message his customers or go out with them. It’s better this way, he tells himself, to stay busy.

He misses Zack, though.

He misses Sephiroth, too.

He sighs and grabs his phone and opens the messaging app. He scrolls through messages until he finds the person he’s looking for.

Sephiroth

He takes a deep breath.

Cloud: Hey.

Sephiroth: Yes?

The reply comes almost instantly. Cloud narrows his brow at the cold response, but it’s better than no response.

Cloud actually isn’t even sure what he wants to say.

Sephiroth: What do you want?

Cloud scowls. It’s barely even been two minutes.

Cloud: Nothing. Just saying hi, I guess.

Cloud hits send and instantly regrets it. He feels so stupid. His heart starts racing as he sees the read receipt and then the three dots indicating Sephiroth is replying.

Sephiroth: Not too busy with customers tonight?

Cloud doesn’t know what he’s talking about.

Cloud: Huh? It’s our day off.

Sephiroth: I told you not to trust Roach.

Cloud’s entire stomach sinks. He is sure his heart stops for a moment, too.

No no no no no no no

His hands shake as he stares at the screen. He knows. Roach told him.

He’s going to kill Roach. Actually kill him. Just as Cloud is starting to come to terms with his current situation, everything comes crashing down.

Cloud: It was one time. A lapse in judgement.

There’s no use denying it. It’s not like they were together. He didn’t actually do anything wrong.

But another response doesn’t come. Cloud grabs a pillow and screams into it. He can’t believe this is happening.

He feels itchy all over, like he wants to rip his skin off to escape the discomfort of this situation.

Standing up, he paces the room, trying to find something, anything, to ground himself to.

Sephiroth was right. About Roach, probably right about Rufus…

He sits down again and grabs his phone. He quickly finds Zack’s number and shoots him a message.

Cloud: Can we get drinks?

This time, a reply comes right away.

Zack: Everything okay? See you at the usual spot in 10.

~~

He tells Zack everything, starting at the very beginning.

“I thought something real was happening between Seph and I, but then when I tried to talk to him, he totally pulled back. Then I just lost it,” Cloud says miserably. When he tells the story out loud, he feels a little stupid.

Zack nods in understanding. “Despite being a host, I don’t think Seph is actually skilled in any real kind of communication. From what I understand, Yuffie is the only friend he has outside of the club.”

“I just…I really fucked it up. And now he’s never going to forgive me.”

“I wouldn’t say that. And it takes two to tango! He’s responsible here, too.”

Cloud shakes his head. “Zack, I…I slept with Kyrie.”

Zack nearly chokes on his drink. “You WHAT?”

Cloud sighs. “I know. Sephiroth pissed me off and I used her to blow off some steam. I mean, I think she used me just as much but. Well. Seph knows.”

“You told him?!”

“Roach did.”

“Why the fuck did Roach know?!” Zack seems so much more angry on his behalf than Cloud thought he would be.

“I told him. Sort of. He saw us.”

“Shit…”

“Yeah. Everything got really messed up. I was so focused on making money. My head is such a mess. I wanna quit but I don’t. I wanna yell at Seph but I also wanna just…well. You know.” His cheeks flush pink slightly.

“Damn, Spike,” Zack says, putting an arm around him in support. “You should kick the shit outta Roach.”

Cloud laughs in spite of his overwhelming gloom. “Yeah. Maybe I should.”

Zack stands up with way too much enthusiasm. “I’m not joking. Kick his ass! Fuck that guy!”

Cloud laughs some more. It feels good to laugh.

“And after that. Go fuck Sephiroth! Just do it! Pull the stick out of his ass!” Zack’s arms are flailing as he makes gestures of pulling a stick out of one’s ass dramatically.

Cloud is in tears from laughing now. Zack spends the rest of the night gassing Cloud up with anger towards Roach. And when Cloud goes to work the next day, he has a plan.

~~

Cloud marches into the staff room. He hasn’t slept much because he stayed out way too late with Zack, but he doesn’t care. He’s going to do it.

He opens the door and looks around. It feels like something out of a movie as he spots Roach and makes a beeline for him.

Roach turns and holds his arms out. “Ah, my dear Sky, good morning!”

Cloud grits his teeth. In one fluid movement Cloud pulls his fist back and then punches Roach square in the face.

“Fuck you!” Cloud spits.

The whole room turns to look at the commotion as Roach stumbles, clutching the side of his face where Cloud made impact.

“What the fuck, you little bitch!” Cloud knows Roach going to try and hit him back, so he braces himself.

Before Roach can do it, though, Genesis grabs him and holds him back. Cloud hadn’t realized that everyone is now standing around them, and suddenly he feels Barret’s hands around his arms as well.

“What is going on here?” Rufus asks, stepping through the throng to stand next to Cloud and Roach.

Cloud can’t help but notice that Sephiroth isn’t there. Maybe that’s for the best.

“He’s a little shit. Telling people my business,” Cloud says matter of factly.

“If you don’t want people to know you’re fucking your customers, don’t do it at a hotel ten minutes away!” Roach all but yells.

Rufus’ eyes narrow. “Roach. You mean to tell me you are spreading rumours about your own colleagues? Have you any idea how bad this is for business?”

Roach looks at him, bewildered. “I didn’t…I just saw him! He’s the one sleeping with his customer!”

“It was one fucking time!” Cloud retorts.

Rufus holds up a hand to silence them.

“Sky. I will not accept violence in my business.”

Cloud’s stomach sinks. He hadn’t really thought through what hitting Roach might mean for his job.

“However, Roach, I told you that I was done giving you chances. Get your things and go.”

“What?!” Roach pulls his arm free of Genesis’ hold.

Rufus doesn’t say anything. Everyone just looks at each other in disbelief.

“Fine. I get it. Fuck all of you.”

It’s silent as Roach goes to his locker and grabs his stuff. He kicks the door closed and within just a few minutes, he’s gone.

~~

After a very awkward meeting, the night goes on as usual. Cloud is relieved that everyone takes his side, and Cloud comes to find out that Roach had told everyone, not just Sephiroth.

He feels mortified, but even more justified in his decision to hit him.

“Shit happens. Don' beat yerself up about it!” Barret tells him.

“And plus, she still visits the club! She must genuinely like you!’ Reno adds.

Cloud feels a bit better. But the one person he wants encouragement from wasn’t even there to see it all go down, and who knows if Sephiroth will ever forgive him.

Rufus standing up for him feels off, though. Surely he should have gotten some kind of punishment. Instead, Rufus just asks him to see him in his office later to discuss the details of the photoshoot.

So Cloud just goes about his night as he always does, trying to focus on his clients. He definitely does his best not to stare at Sephiroth when he comes in later. He must have had a douhan.

When the night is finished, he helps everyone clean up and then heads to Rufus’ office.

He knocks and then opens the door. Rufus is sitting at his desk looking intently at some papers, but his face breaks into a smile when he sees Cloud.

“Hello, Cloud.”

Ugh, he hates it when he calls him by his real name.

“Hey, uh, Rufus. What’s up?”

“Have a seat. I just wanted to go over the plans for the photoshoot. It shouldn’t take long. Has everyone left?”

There’s a pricking at the back of Cloud’s neck. What an odd thing to ask.

“Uh. Yeah, I think so?” Cloud says as he sits down at the desk.

Rufus just nods and pulls out some papers.

They go over what outfits he’s going to wear and the time to meet. Cloud takes the first chance he gets to stand up and attempts to excuse himself, but Rufus moves to the other side of his desk to stand face to face with Cloud.

“Must you leave so soon?” Rufus asks. “Perhaps we could have a drink?” He places his hand on Cloud’s shoulder. The gesture is way too intimate.

He’s next on Cloud’s list of people to punch.

“I’m pretty tired. Think I just wanna head home.” He tries to shrug off Rufus’ hand, but Rufus pushes him back against the desk.

Cloud loses his balance and grabs onto the desk for support. He looks at Rufus wide-eyed. Is he really doing this right now? Cloud’s heart is pounding.

“If you want to keep getting opportunities like this, I’d suggest you stay for a drink,” Rufus says sternly.

He reaches to start undoing the buttons on Cloud’s shirt. And for a moment, Cloud freezes. He is stunned. He knows that Rufus is a massive dickhead, but he never thought he was also a fucking predator.

By the time Rufus opens the third button, Cloud comes to his senses and pushes Rufus off of him.

“Fuck you!”

Rufus smirks at him, but Cloud can tell he’s pissed.

“I guess we’ll forget the photoshoot, then.” He’s still smirking but his voice is cold.

“Yeah. I guess so,” Cloud snaps as he makes a break for the door. He needs to get home now.

Fuck this. Fuck this job. Fuck Rufus. Fuck hosts. He’s done. So done.

He slams the door behind him and rushes through the staff room.

“What are you doing?”

Cloud turns and looks behind him.

Of course. Of course fucking Sephiroth is here right now.

Sephiroth looks him up and down, sees the open shirt buttons and then glances to Rufus’ door. It’s like he just put a puzzle together. A horrible puzzle.

Cloud opens his mouth, but no words come out.

“First your customer and now Rufus?" Sephiroth hisses in a low voice. “I really misjudged you.”

But Cloud doesn’t care. Fury as hot as lava boils through him.

“Yep, exactly, you figured it out. Just fucking my boss ’cause I’m such a fucking slut!” Cloud bites back, but his body betrays him and his voice cracks. Tears run down his cheeks. “This is all your fucking fault. Fuck you, and fuck this!”

His voice is more like a whimper, and before he can embarrass himself further, he pushes past Sephiroth and jogs through the club to the elevators.

Cloud wipes the tears from his face. Why must he be someone who cries when he’s frustrated?

He hears raised voices coming from inside the club. Sephiroth sounds upset, but Cloud is too shaken up to try and make out what they’re saying. He just stares at the elevator and wills it to hurry.

When it arrives a few moments later, he rushes inside, pounding the “close” button like his life depends on it.

He is not fast enough, however. Just as the doors are closing, a hand appears, pushing them open again.

Sephiroth is standing in the doorway, looking down at him with a face full of worry. An expression that Cloud has never seen before.

“Cloud…”

Cloud just glares at him and tries to push the close button again, but Sephiroth is holding the doors open.

“Can you just fuck off? I’m done. I quit. I’m getting out of this place.”

“Cloud. Please, can we just talk?”

Cloud scoffs. “Oh, now you wanna talk to me? That’s rich. None of this would’ve happened if you had just been honest with me from the start. You’re such an entitled prick. Everything just has to be on your terms, doesn’t it? From the beginning all you did was mess with me. You don’t even bother to hear me out. Why would you even take Roach’s word for what happ—”

Sephiroth steps into the elevator and pulls Cloud tight against him, cutting him off mid-rant.

Cloud wants to fight, wants to yell, but he has no fight left. He lets Sephiroth pull him closer. A sob escapes Cloud’s lips as his arms dangle awkwardly, not ready yet to return the embrace.

But he doesn’t pull back.

They stay like that until the elevator reaches the first floor.

Chapter Text

The ding that sounds as the elevator opens jerks Cloud back to the present.

“Get off me,” he mumbles as he pushes Sephiroth away from him.

Sephiroth doesn’t fight it and lets Cloud back away and stumble out of the elevator. Thankfully he already fixed all the buttons on his shirt again.

“Cloud.”

Sephiroth’s voice is smooth. So calm that it pisses Cloud off even more.

“Fuck off. I’m tired of all of this.” He feels around in his pockets, making sure he has everything he needs—wallet, phone. Good enough.

“Cloud, please.”

Cloud rounds on him and he barely recognizes the growl that comes out of his mouth as his own. He’s so overwhelmed and Sephiroth isn’t helping.

“Just leave me ALONE.”

How dare Sephiroth come in like some hero to save him now, when he’s been drowning for weeks? He started all of this anyway—t least that’s what Cloud tells himself to feel better about it all.

Something flashes across Sephiroth’s face, and Cloud can tell he’s getting annoyed. Despite how hard Cloud glares at him, it doesn’t feel very effective. Sephiroth looms over him, brows furrowed just slightly.

Cloud rolls his eyes but doesn’t back down, so Sephiroth takes a step toward him. Cloud takes a step back. They repeat this dance until Cloud feels a hard wall behind him.

He tries to find his footing from the shock of hitting a wall.

DON!

Sephiroth cages him in with both arms, leaning down to match Cloud’s height. His face is so close that Cloud can feel his warm breath. Unable to help himself, Cloud’s eyes dart to Sephiroth’s lips. It’s a quick movement, but Sephiroth surely caught it because he smirks a moment later.

Cloud feels himself getting hot.

“I said fuck off,” he tries, although there’s not much conviction behind his words.

Sephiroth doesn’t say anything but instead brushes his lips against Cloud’s.

A jolt of pleasure runs down Cloud’s spine and he can’t help but relax slightly. He’s losing his resolve quickly.

He’s pissed, but he’s also tired. Ever since his first day on the job, his mind has been working overtime to figure out what everything means and how to navigate it all. The situation only became more complicated as he grew entangled with Sephiroth, and he’s exhausted.

This has gone on long enough, so he decides maybe it's time to talk. However, even if he wants to talk, he’s not sure he has it in him before he gets some sleep, and the selfish, childish part of him wants Sephiroth to just make his problems all go away. It’s an odd feeling, wanting to be taken care of by the person who caused him so much grief, but Cloud doesn’t really have the energy to question it.

“Just…take me home,” Cloud whispers against him. Their lips are so close, neither of them making the move to push them together properly.

“Okay.” Sephiroth’s breath against him kicks up the butterflies in his stomach that he thought had gone dormant.

“I’m not going to fuck you.”

Sephiroth smiles and lets out a quiet laugh through his nose. “That’s fine.”

Cloud hesitates for a moment. He wants to close the distance between them. It feels like it would be easier to just forget everything and lose himself in Sephiroth again. All he needs to do is kiss those lips and let his mind go blank.

But no. He can’t. They need to figure this shit out before Cloud indulges in his lust again. Unfortunately he’s caught too many feelings for it to ever just be sex.

Cloud looks down and moves to duck under Sephiroth’s arm, but Sephiroth grabs his chin and presses their lips together instead. Cloud lets him. It feels like it’s okay as long as Sephiroth is the one initiating it.

It isn’t like the kisses they’ve shared before. There’s no playfulness or passion. Just a light press of the lips together, something careful. Nothing how Cloud expected it would be.

Before Cloud can push him off, Sephiroth pulls away and lets his hands drop.

“Let’s go,” he says, straightening up.

Cloud nods. He pushes down the feeling of disappointment and follows Sephiroth outside. His thoughts are so conflicted at the moment, and all he wants to do is sleep, so he lets Sephiroth guide him into the cool air of the night.

~~

They ride back to Sephiroth’s in silence, but Sephiroth keeps his hand on Cloud’s thigh, just above his knee. Cloud allows it. He welcomes the warmth, although he still isn’t sure just how angry he is at Sephiroth.

But on the bright side, thinking about the situation with Sephiroth keeps him from dwelling on what Rufus pulled. Nothing really happened, but he can’t help feeling dirty.

He hates the guy. Does Cloud really come across as the type of person who would go along with that? He’s disgusted with himself. Has he really been so desperate?

He scrunches his face up as he looks out the window. Making money, getting customers, it all feels stupid to him now. He should have known that he isn’t the type of person who can handle this kind of job. He lacks the strength and mental power to work there, and gods, he doesn’t want to go back there.

He’s not even sure how he’s going to face Rufus after this, or what the ramifications for leaving are truly going to be. Would Rufus scare away all his customers? Surely losing the photoshoot isn’t going to be his only punishment.

It’s probably better if he just doesn’t go back. He sighs out loud, unable to help himself. He feels a squeeze on his leg and instantly a lump builds in his throat.

He swallows it down and continues to watch the city lights as they pass by, and before he knows it, they’ve arrived at Sephiroth’s house.

Cloud exits the taxi first and leaves Sephiroth to pay without hesitation. He owes him that much and more. Cloud smirks in spite of himself. He’s glad to know even when he feels so shitty, his ability to be petty hasn’t diminished at all.

He takes in a few deep breaths while he waits for Sephiroth. The cool midnight air feels refreshing. Sometimes it really is annoying how much being outside can make one feel better, Cloud thinks. But truly, he feels just a tiny bit more relaxed once Sephiroth walks up next to him to open the door.

“I should just have a key made for you,” Sephiroth mumbles as he opens the door and gestures Cloud inside.

Cloud cocks an eyebrow at him and all but shoves past him into the house. “Don’t get ahead of yourself.”

He hears Sephiroth chuckle behind him and doesn’t know if that amuses him or angers him. He sighs and kicks his shoes off and makes his way through the house to the balcony.

Really, he’s only been here a handful of times, but all pretenses are off the table at this point. Cloud does not care about being polite or about what Sephiroth might think of him. He wants to be outside with a cigarette, and Sephiroth’s balcony is the best place for that.

He fishes his cigarettes out of his back pocket and sticks one in his mouth before plopping down on one of the chairs.

He lights up and inhales deeply, closing his eyes for a moment to take it all in. The familiar fuzzy feeling hits his brain as the smoke sinks into his lungs. Quitting used to be something he thought about doing, but he needs this right now more than ever. It’s relaxing and comforting. He releases the smoke after a few moments and wishes that he could exhale all of his stress with it.

Sephiroth joins him a short time later, setting a glass of water on the table between the two deck chairs and lighting up a cigarette of his own.

Neither of them say anything. It must be around three in the morning, Cloud figures, but he doesn’t even have the energy to grab his phone out of his pocket to check.

It’s still dark out and the world is quiet. Cloud never noticed before that Sephiroth has a fairly large backyard, something that’s rare in Midgar. It doesn’t seem like he’s done much with the yard itself, except for keeping the grass short. There are a few trees and through the darkness, Cloud thinks he can make out a small bird bath. He wonders if he could see birds in it if he came out in the morning.

The neighbours' houses are pretty close to Sephiroth’s, just a fence separating them, but with how silent things are at this time of night, it feels like they are completely alone, with just each other and the stars as company.

For a second he forgets why he’s here and everything that’s happened, and he daydreams about having a BBQ party with Zack and Aerith. But he shouldn’t let himself indulge in such fantasy. Who knows where this is even going to go?

He’s learned his lesson about getting his hopes up. At least after they talk, he hopes he will have closure and they can move on from this awkward situation, whichever way it may go.

He finishes his cigarette and puts it out on the ashtray, then finally allows himself to look at Sephiroth.

“I didn’t fuck Rufus,” he mumbles.

Sephiroth’s face is unreadable. “Okay.” His voice is calm and smooth, as always. Seemingly in control of his emotions and completely unbothered.

It pisses Cloud off.

“So you could fuckin’ apologize maybe?” Cloud had told himself he just wanted to sleep tonight, but here he is, already getting into it.

Sephiroth sighs. “I’m sorry, Cloud. But I have my reasons. Hardly any of which have to do with you, specifically.”

Cloud furrows his brows because what the fuck is that supposed to mean? But he doesn’t say anything, so Sephiroth continues.

“I will tell you everything, but not out here, and perhaps not tonight.”

Cloud knows he’s right. Which annoys him even further, but he’s going to let him have this one. The wave of emotion he just had has left him feeling tired again. His battery is so fucking low.

“I’m gonna shower,” Cloud says in some childish act of defiance, not wanting to completely let Sephiroth control the situation.

“Of course.”

Cloud hesitates. Odin’s balls, he hates himself right now. Everything he does and says is followed up by second guessing himself or flip flopping.

Shower and bed.

“Right, I’ll go do that, then.”

He lets his feet carry him to the shower in Sephiroth’s room. Maybe he should’ve used the other one, but whatever.

He grabs a towel from the cabinet and tosses it next to the sink before stepping into the shower room.

The water at Sephiroth’s gets warm so quickly. Cloud relishes in it for a few moments before he gets to work and starts washing his hair and body. He scrubs longer than usual, hoping to wash away…everything.

He lets the water fall on his hair and down his body for a little while longer once he is done. Showers truly help just as much as fresh air.

Once he’s done efficiently hiking up Sephiroth’s water bill, he steps out of the shower room and grabs his towel. He dries off and ties the towel around his waist. Grabbing the hair dryer, he decides to stall just a bit longer and tells himself it’s so that he doesn’t get Sephiroth’s expensive pillows wet.

He slowly puts away the hair dryer and instantly regrets not stealing something to wear before he came into the bathroom. He can hear Sephiroth in his bedroom shuffling around, which makes him annoyed. Grabbing clothes discretely wasn’t going to work.

He hears the movements stop, so he groans internally and then opens the door and steps into the bedroom. Sephiroth is sitting on the edge of his bed, looking down at his phone, but he looks up when Cloud opens the door.

There’s a tension as they watch each other for a moment before Cloud moves to the dresser to grab clothes. He can feel Sephiroth’s eyes follow him, and he desperately hopes that he looks calm and unbothered, despite feeling extremely uncomfortable and awkward.

He hears Sephiroth chuckle as he grabs some clothes, and he whips around to look at him.

“What?”

Sephiroth shakes his head. “Nothing. You’re welcome to wear whatever you’d like.”

Cloud just rolls his eyes and grunts as he finishes finding something to wear and slips it on in lightning-fast movements, knowing that Sephiroth is still watching him.

The bed is calling his name. He knows he should sleep in the guest room, but he can’t seem to make himself head out the door.

He looks awkwardly at Sephiroth, hoping he will make the decision for him.

“You’re welcome to sleep here with me, or I can go,” he says as he turns his phone off and stands up.

Damn him for being so mature and cool all the godsdamn time. Cloud huffs, defeated.

“Just turn the light off,” he grumbles as he climbs into bed, facing outwards so he doesn’t have to look at Sephiroth. He curls up in a ball and feels instant relief as his body hits the soft mattress. This is such a nice bed.

Sephiroth doesn’t say anything but turns the light off and gets into bed next to Cloud. The bed is so comfortable that Cloud is sure he will fall asleep right away, but when minutes pass and sleep doesn’t come, he feels his thoughts drifting.

This is the last thing he wants. He just wants to sleep and not to go over everything again for the millionth time.

He huffs and turns around, jumping slightly when he sees Sephiroth already facing him, eyes closed. They flutter open, however, with Cloud’s movement, and their eyes meet.

Cloud swallows and says, “I’m really mad at you.” His voice sounds pathetic.

“I know,” Sephiroth says softly.

“Like, I wanna punch you so badly.”

“You should do it.”

Cloud scrunches his brows, “Don’t be like that. I know you’re pissed at me, too.”

Despite the darkness, he can see the concern flash across Sephiroth’s face. “I’m not.”

Rolling his eyes, Cloud says, “Sure.”

“Really. I’m…confused about some things. Perhaps a little upset, but I’m not angry. Not at you, anyway.”

Cloud sighs. “I’m really mad at you,” he says again. He pauses for a beat. “But I don’t want to be.”

Sephiroth is quiet for a moment. “I’m sorry, Cloud.”

Cloud feels the last fragments of resolve leave him and he lets his body relax, more than it’s relaxed in weeks.

“‘Kay,” is all he manages to say. He doesn’t want to fight right now. Or cry. So he accepts the apology.

“I promise, we will talk tomorrow. Just get some sleep,” Sephiroth says as he brushes some hair out of Cloud’s face.

Cloud settles into the pillow even more, feeling the tug of sleep finally pulling at him. A warm shower and a soft bed can really work wonders, so he asks before he can change his mind.

“Seph?”

“Yes?”

A pause, but not long enough for him to second-guess himself. “Was it just sex? Before, I mean.”

“No.”

~~

Cloud wakes up slowly the next morning. He doesn’t want to get up. Everything from last night hits him like a truck the moment his mind begins to clear, so he rolls over and tries to go back to dreamland.

His dreams were calm and comforting. He doesn’t remember them, but he knows they were better than whatever he has to deal with in real life.

Maybe he and Sephiroth can just forget whatever went wrong and go back to how things had been. He can ignore Rufus, pretend nothing happened, and go back to work. That would be a lot easier than facing it all.

He squeezes his eyes shut when he hears the bedroom door open.

“If you’re up, I made coffee. And there are some muffins.”

Cloud considers this for a moment. He almost laughs at the image of Sephiroth wearing an apron and baking muffins for him first thing in the morning.

“You baked?” Cloud’s voice sounds muffled with the blankets pulled up to his chin, and his face still half buried in the pillows.

He hears a laugh. “No. I bought them the other day and there’s a few left. You have to buy two cases of them from MOGSCO and it’s always too much for me, but they are so delicious I can’t help it.”

This time Cloud can’t hide his laughter. Sephiroth with a shopping cart walking around MOGSCO is an even funnier picture.

“What?” Cloud can hear the smile in Sephiroth’s voice as he steps further into the bedroom.

Cloud rolls over to face him, shaking his head. “Just didn’t take you for a muffin guy.”

Sephiroth looks perplexed.

“Who doesn’t like muffins?”

Cloud takes a deep breath after his laughter. “You’re right. Muffins are great.”

Sephiroth still looks confused as he nods and leaves the room. Cloud shakes his head.

That man has no idea how people see him.

He feels a burst of motivation to get out of bed and get things over with, so he throws the covers off of himself and heads out into the kitchen.

~~

The muffins are actually really good. They are some mix of blueberry and lemon with a kind of sugary crispy top. Cloud thinks he needs to join Sephiroth next time he goes to MOGSCO.

There he goes again, thinking of the future and getting ahead of himself. Why does Sephiroth have this effect on him?

He sighs and finishes his coffee. Sephiroth stands up from the table and grabs both of their dishes to put in the sink. Cloud mumbles his thanks as he gets up to move to the living room. He doesn’t want to sit on the kitchen chairs if they’re going to hash it all out.

He’s gotten sleep, food, and coffee. There are truly no more excuses.

He flops down on one edge of the couch and grabs a pillow to hug for comfort. Sephiroth joins him soon after, sitting on the opposite side of the couch and taking a deep breath. He seems nervous.

Good. He owes Cloud that much, at least.

“Well…” he starts and looks over at Cloud. “I’m not sure where to begin.”

Cloud shrugs. “How about you tell me why you turned into a somehow even bigger asshole than you were before we started fucking?”

Despite Cloud’s heavy sarcasm, Sephiroth smiles.

“You will be disappointed to hear that being an asshole might just be one of my personality traits.”

Cloud rolls his eyes. “Just…what happened? You said Rufus was keeping you busy, and then you snapped at me. We had such a nice time on the drive up to the mountain, and then…” He feels anger bubbling up again, which means tears, which he does not want, so he pushes it down and gives Sephiroth a chance to speak.

“I wish it was as simple as that,” Sephiroth says, his voice sounding tired and a little sad. “It’s a long story, if you are willing to listen to it.”

“I mean, I’m here aren’t I?”

Sephiroth smiles. “Indeed. And I’m aware this doesn’t excuse my behaviour, but perhaps you will hate me just a little less once you know everything.”

“Just tell me already,” Cloud huffs.

Sephiroth grabs a pillow as well and fiddles with the lining on it for a moment. The gesture is so un-Sephiroth-like that it takes Cloud by surprise. Just what exactly is he about to hear?

“Okay, I guess I’ll start with my father.”

“Your father?” Cloud only knows the little bit Sephiroth told him before about his father helping to find Yuffie’s parents’ killer.

Sephiroth ponders for a moment. “Or perhaps I should start with my relationship with Rufus.”

Cloud looks at him in disbelief. “Relationship—?”

“Yes,” Sephiroth says with a sigh. “Not the way you’re imagining… Well, not really.”

Cloud is going to kill him. “Sephiroth. Tell the fucking story.”

“Sorry,” Sephiroth says sheepishly. “Okay. My father. You know he owns a big pharmaceutical company?”

“Yeah. Of course. And you already told me about Yuffie’s parents,” Cloud notes.

Sephiroth nods. “Right. Well. I guess that’s the best place to start.” He leans back a bit and avoids eye contact with Cloud. “He helped with Yuffie, and in return, he…well, he owned me for a few years. He tested new products on me, made me sick on purpose, used me as a test subject for anything he couldn’t do above board.” Sephiroth’s expression twisted into something between sadness and anger. “It was truly horrible. I was in hell and my own father was at the centre of it all.”

Well, this has taken a very sharp turn that Cloud was not expecting. He’s unsure of how this has anything to do with him, but he would rather trust the process than interrupt Sephiroth in the middle of such a vulnerable story.

“That’s…horrible, Seph. Really.”

“It’s okay. That’s not…we can talk about that later, if you want to know more . But the point is that my father, Hojo, is an evil bastard.”

“Right.”

Sephiroth sighs. Now he’s the one who looks exhausted. Cloud finds himself impressed again at how well he’s able to put on a calm face most of the time. “Fast-forward a few years later, our agreement was coming to an end and I decided to become a host. A path to freedom and a way to piss off Hojo, the best of both worlds. I met Rufus and he took me under his wing.”

Cloud has a bad feeling he knows where this is going.

“Yeah,” Sephiroth says in response to Cloud’s expression. “Preying on young new hires is nothing new for Rufus.”

Cloud feels disgusted. What a fucking creep.

“He taught me a lot, but honestly, I don’t think even Rufus was prepared for how fast my career launched. I used him as much as he used me. I let him think I was interested in him, and I played the game until a customer of mine gave me some interesting information.”

“Information?” Cloud asks. He tries not to think about Sephiroth and Rufus in bed together.

“She was an employee at Hojo’s company, and one day, she mentioned that she saw Rufus sometimes, coming for private meetings with Hojo.” Sephiroth scowls. “Warning bells went off immediately. By this point I had so many customers that Rufus needed me more than I needed him, and he had already started moving onto someone else.”

Cloud feels his stomach turn again. What a piece of shit. “I’m still not sure I’m following…”

“Sorry,” Sephiroth says with a sympathetic smile. “It is not a short story. Nor is it a pleasant one. Rufus tried to cozy up to me a few times after that, but I rejected his advances. I couldn’t trust him anymore, knowing he might have some kind of relationship with my father.”

Makes sense, Cloud thinks.

“Anyway,” Sephiroth continues, “when I told Yuffie, she demanded that I distance myself from Rufus. She’s always been better at reading people than I have, so I did as she told me. Things carried on smoothly for a while after that. Rufus would occasionally ask me to do promotional things, as you saw at the hot springs, while flaunting men in my face as if I cared.”

Cloud looks at him curiously as puzzle pieces start to fall into place. “Did you think I was a man he was flaunting in your face when we first met?”

Sephiroth blinks at him. “Yes. And I was especially mad because the moment I saw you, I nearly had the breath knocked out of my lungs,” he says simply.

Cloud feels himself blush. He never would have guessed that Sephiroth felt the exact same way he had during that first meeting. Well, the way he had felt until Sephiroth opened his mouth and was a massive douchebag.

“So…how did you know I wasn’t with Rufus?”

Sephiroth smiles. “You seemed utterly disgusted when he tried to flirt with you. Which, honestly, just made me even more interested in you. Truly, you are very captivating.”

Cloud waves him off. “Continue the story, please.” He sounds like a kid asking for another book to be read before bed, but he is going to be a puddle of goop on the floor if Sephiroth keeps up the flattery. No goop today, though. He needs to stay strong.

Sephiroth smiles at him for a moment longer and then continues. “This is where you come into play. For a moment, I thought perhaps I could have some kind of connection with someone. Maybe even a future together.”

Cloud’s heart stutters. So he wasn’t the only one being insane and thinking about the future.

“Me?” Cloud asks quietly.

“Mmm,” Sephiroth chuckles. “Indeed. However, Rufus ruined things, as usual.”

Cloud cocks an eyebrow at him. Because really, Sephiroth ruined things all on his own. Had Cloud known that Sephiroth was feeling the same way he had been, none of this would have even happened.

Sephiroth holds up a hand in defence. “Okay, okay. I ruined things by letting Rufus and his schemes get to me.”

“And what schemes were those?”

“It’s…Cloud, you must not tell anyone what I’m about to tell you.”

Cloud feels nervous due to the sudden tone change. He would like to go back to hearing about how smitten Sephiroth is.

“I mean…I have no one to tell,” he says weakly.

“Not even Zack.”

“Okay! Not Zack! What is it?” Damn. Sephiroth already knows him too well.

Sephiroth is quiet for a moment, seemingly deep in thought.

“Yuffie, she… discovered something.” Sephiroth grits his teeth. “She’s been snooping into Rufus at every chance she has. She has a day job, but her true passion is private investigating. It never sat right with her what happened with me, working for Hojo and all that, and I think a part of her feels responsible, even now. So, she took up investigating, perhaps as a way to protect me, so we would never have to rely on him again, and maybe even find something to use against him.” He sighs and adjusts himself on the couch. Cloud can’t help but notice how his face softens when he talks about Yuffie. He must really care about her.

“Anyway,” Sephiroth continues, clearing his throat, “when we found out that Rufus and Hojo might be connected, she dived into things head first. She always makes jokes that she’s a ninja or something,” he says with a smile. “It took her a few years to find her footing, but she’s actually scarily good at it now.”

Cloud smiles; he can definitely see Yuffie doing that kind of work.

Sephiroth grabs a bottle of water from a table beside him and takes a swig before continuing.

“You know, I’m sure, that many of the host club owners are Zakuya?”

Cloud nods.

“Well, Rufus is no exception, so Yuffie has had to be very careful. She found out however…fuck.” Sephiroth sighs and looks over at Cloud.

Cloud meets his eyes with bated breath.

“She found out that Rufus has been giving the girls who cannot pay their tabs, or girls who are desperate to earn more cash, to Hojo.”

Cloud gapes at him. “You mean to, like…”

“Experiment on, yes,” Sephiroth finishes for him. “Probably various drug trials. He offers them a lot of money. Once they sign the contract, though, he locks them in. The debts are never truly paid off, and they get stuck.”

“Seph…why the hell are you still working for Rufus? Fuck him!” Cloud is sitting up in his seat now. He feels hot, a burning rage and disgust flooding all his senses. Hojo and Rufus sound like fucking psychopaths.

Sephiroth scoots closer to him and rests a hand on his knee to calm him down. “I know. Your reaction is not so different from my own. However, Yuffie had more information.”

Shiva’s tits, it gets worse.

“Most of the customers being sent to Hojo are my customers. And if I leave or confront Rufus, I know he’ll make sure that I’m implicated in what’s happening to them.”

Cloud slumps back onto the couch. He’s right. Rufus is a lot smarter than he ever gave him credit for. He’s playing a long and dangerous game.

“So, he doesn’t know that you know?” Cloud asks.

Sephiroth shakes his head. “He has no idea. Yuffie and I are trying to figure out a way to bring him down. We are also planning to open our own club. But we can’t move on until we’re certain that Rufus isn’t a threat.”

Cloud tries to process everything he’s hearing. It feels so much bigger than anything he’s ever dealt with, and it makes his concerns feel small and insignificant. He can barely even grasp what he’s being told. It’s like something out of a movie.

“I’m sorry I…I didn’t know things were…well…like that.” Cloud fumbles with the corner of the pillow he’s still holding.

“Cloud…” Sephiroth’s silky voice grounds him, and he looks up to meet his eyes, which are now a lot closer than they were a few seconds ago. Sephiroth is practically sitting right next to him at this point. “You didn’t know. I found out before the trip and I was an idiot. I thought I was protecting you. I was pissed that I had to end the only thing that was…the only good thing I had going for me. I was angry, and you’re the last person I wanted to take it out on.”

Cloud stares at him. He feels so stupid. “No, Seph. Shit. It doesn’t matter. This is way more important. I should’ve just let you talk to me that day. I was so pissed at you I just…”

“You had every right to be pissed.”

Another wave of emotion hits Cloud. “Why didn’t you just tell me? Like ‘Hey, I don’t think we should see each other anymore.’”

Sephiroth grimaces. “I guess I was being a coward. Or so Yuffie told me.”

Cloud rolls his eyes. “Just fucking tell me the truth. I don’t want to have to guess what’s going on. I thought you hated me, or that you just saw me as some toy.”

“No. You didn’t do anything wrong.”

Cloud huffs a weak laugh. “I slept with my customer.”

Sephiroth’s nose scrunches up at that. “Yes, well. I was not thrilled about that. But you did not owe me any kind of loyalty.”

“Still felt like I…had done something wrong.” Cloud shrugs.

Sephiroth smirks at him. “It was stupid. I’ll give you that.”

That smirk will truly be the death of him. “Shut up,” he mumbles. “I don’t even want to do this anymore. Being a host, I mean. Fuck all of it.”

“It is certainly not for everyone.”

Cloud sighs. “You were right, ya know? I did this on a whim and it blew up in my face.”

Sephiroth studies his face for a moment. “Regardless of your intentions going into this job, it was out of place for me to say what I did.”

Cloud hates how good he is at apologizing. “I wish I’d just talked to you sooner. The last few weeks have been fucking awful.”

“I’m sorry. I could have tried harder. My head was also all over the place. Once I saw you with Rufus so often, though, I thought maybe I couldn’t trust you anymore, but last night I…I’m sorry I did not trust you. I still don’t know how I will face Rufus after knowing what he tried.”

Cloud sinks into the couch a few inches and shrugs. “It’s fine. I’m just gonna quit.”

Sephiroth frowns. “I doubt he will let you go so easily, but we can try.”

Cloud and Sephiroth are both quiet for a moment.

“Please, please don’t ever fucking do this again. Just tell me what’s going on. I really felt like I was going crazy.”

“Despite my job, I have been told I’m not very good at communication,” Sephiroth says shyly.

Cloud gives him a deadpan stare. “No shit.”

They both laugh. It feels good to laugh together again. Things are still extremely heavy, but there’s an ease between them that Cloud had missed.

All the weight he’s been carrying finally feels a bit lighter. Clarity after months of uncertainty. Real answers to everything.

“You’ve been driving me insane for months.”

“I know, I’m sorry.”

“And now I find out you’ve got some crazy mafia dad who is mixed up with our freak of a boss?”

Sephiroth grimaces. “That’s correct.”

“And you—we are going to try and take him down.”

“I mean, if you want to help…”

“Okay,” Cloud says with a sigh. “Let’s take him down.”

“Really?”

“Yeah.” Cloud smiles. A real, genuine smile. He wasn’t sure he even remembered how to do that.

Quiet falls over them again for a moment.

Cloud’s mouth twitches into a slightly smug grin. “So you think I’m captivating?”

Sephiroth smirks. “Yes.”

“And you want some kind of future with me?”

“Yes.” The smirk widens.

“Do you wanna fuck now?”

Sephiroth looks at him in surprise for a moment, and then the smirk returns.

“Yes.”

~~

Their clothes are off in moments. Cloud briefly wonders if he should have made Sephiroth work harder for it. Maybe he should have let himself be angry for a bit longer.

He usually isn’t so quick to forgive someone, but the absolute absurdity of Sephiroth’s situation, of his entire life for that matter, helps put things into perspective a bit. Cloud will just have to make sure they continue to be on the same page.

He doesn’t want to think about it anymore, though. Finally he’s going to take exactly what he’s wanted. No need to be shy or careful. Everything is out in the open now and he can be greedy. He deserves that, right?

Sephiroth pushes him down onto the bed, and Cloud goes down without protest. He looks down at that long, thick member that somehow fits inside of him so well. He lets out a small whimper in spite of himself—who knew he could go from being so angry and depressed to this fucking horny in less than 24 hours?

Sephiroth leans down and kisses him. Careful at first, like he’s waiting for Cloud to give him permission.

Cloud chuckles and wraps his arms around Sephiroth’s neck and his legs around his back, pulling their bodies close against each other.

“Just let me have it, please,” he whispers against Sephiroth’s lips.

Sephiroth growls and forces Cloud’s lips open, plunging his tongue inside. Cloud gasps playfully and allows the onslaught on his mouth. Their kisses quickly become messy and desperate.

Cloud bucks his hips against Sephiroth, his hardening cock seeking friction against Sephiroth’s toned abs. He can feel Sephiroth’s erection brushing against him as well, and he wants nothing more than for Sephiroth to open him up and take him. After weeks of confusion he just needs to be connected.

Cloud’s moans become pleading, and Sephiroth finally gets the message. Sephiroth moves from his mouth and makes his way down his jaw, stopping to suck a few marks into Cloud’s neck. He’s so sensitive that his toes curl in pleasure, his cock fully hard now and leaking, just begging for attention.

He releases his arms and legs from around Sephiroth to give him space to move as he sees fit.

Thankfully, Sephiroth doesn’t seem to be in the mood to tease or make him wait, and the next thing Cloud knows, his cock is being enveloped by Sephiroth’s warm mouth.

Cloud gasps in pleasure and his hands quickly find themselves buried in Sephiroth’s hair, grabbing fistfuls of it and hanging on for dear life as Sephiroth’s tongue works its magic on his shaft.

Sephiroth sucks his dick like it’s their last day on earth, each movement smooth and precise but also messy and lewd. The wet, slobbering sounds coming from his mouth are downright sinful, in the best way possible.

Cloud is going to come before they get to the good part if he keeps it up like this. “Seph,” he mumbles, pulling at Sephiroth’s hair to signal him to stop.

Sephiroth barely takes a breath as he releases Cloud’s cock and then proceeds to press kisses down his cock. He grabs both of Cloud’s thighs and pushes them back while he continues to kiss his way to his prize.

Cloud moans deeply as Sephiroth laps at his hole, teasing it just slightly with the tip of his tongue.

“Seph…” Cloud whines. He’s so needy but he doesn’t care.

“Hold your legs for me, baby,” Sephiroth purrs. Cloud quickly obliges and grabs behind his knees, pulling them flush against his torso to give Sephiroth as much access as possible.

“Good boy. Gods, I missed this. You’re so perfect.”

Cloud keens at the praise but also wants him to hurry up. “C’mon.”

Sephiroth chuckles. “So bossy.” But before Cloud can say anything, Sephiroth dives back in between his cheeks, nipping and licking against his hole.

Cloud hums with pleasure. Nothing in his life could ever beat the feeling of Sephiroth eating him out.

Sephiroth gives Cloud’s cock a few tugs, letting the precum coat his fingers. Cloud grunts as Sephiroth slowly inserts one finger. He hasn’t prepared for this at all and he is tight.

“Let me in, Cloud,” Sephiroth says smoothly. “Just relax.”

Cloud whines but does his best to comply, focusing on the feeling of Sephiroth’s long, slender finger opening him up.

“S’not enough,” Cloud says quietly. “I need, like, a litre of lube.”

Sephiroth chuckles and kisses each of his cheeks once before removing his finger and standing up quickly. Cloud is sure he’s never seen Sephiroth move so fast, but he enjoys the sight of a naked Sephiroth in front of him while it lasts.

His body is so perfect. Toned but still soft somehow, and the curve of his ass is so delicious Cloud can’t help but lick his lips. He briefly thinks about how hot it must look while Sephiroth pounds into his hole. Maybe he should convince Sephiroth to make a movie with him.

Sephiroth returns with the lube, but his tongue ravishes Cloud’s hole with his tongue for a few moments longer before he puts his now lubed up finger back inside.

Cloud sighs. “That’s better. Stretch it. More. Ah—Seph!” He feels Sephiroth’s tongue join his finger and the feeling is ecstasy. His eyes roll back and his head flops down on the pillow.

Before he can even catch his breath, Sephiroth adds another finger. He digs deep, scissoring him open in precise movements, and it isn’t long before Cloud is ready to burst.

“You gotta just fuck me already, please!” Cloud begs. He doesn’t even think he’s going to last long. His cock has been leaking uncontrollably.

Sephiroth straightens up and pulls Cloud’s thighs back down. Cloud sighs in relief, not realizing how tightly he had been holding them.

Sephiroth towers over him, leaning down to press a few kisses to his lips. “Do you taste how delicious you are, my Cloud?”

Sephiroth inserts his fingers into Cloud’s mouth, and Cloud whines around them, his hips bucking desperately.

“Mmm, good boy,” Sephiroth purrs as Cloud sucks and licks them clean, tasting himself and feeling way more turned on than he thought he would.

“Fuck me,” Cloud murmurs around his digits. He feels like that’s all he’s been able to say.

Sephiroth removes his fingers and turns the lower half of Cloud’s torso to the side, straddling one of his legs loosely while he throws the other onto his shoulder. Then, slowly, Cloud feels the head of his cock pressing against his hole. He goes slow at first; Cloud is still tight despite Sephiroth’s skilled finger work.

As the moments go by it gets easier, and finally Sephiroth is fully inside him. Sephiroth stops his movements and hugs the leg that’s on his shoulder, pressing kisses to the side of it.

“Give me a second,” he murmurs, his voice a little breathless.

Cloud breathes deeply as he adjusts, feeling proud that Sephiroth is so close to coming just from being inside of him.

Soon, Sephiroth starts moving. Slowly at first and then quicker, never fully pulling all the way out. Cloud feels so full, so complete, that massive cock completely splitting him open.

“Seph—ah! Harder!” he pleads. He needs to feel Sephiroth’s seed inside of him. That warmth that leaves him feeling claimed and wanted.

“Shh, baby. You’re doing so well,” Sephiroth says through gritted teeth, still holding onto Cloud’s leg to use it as leverage.

Cloud sobs and feels his orgasm building in his stomach. There are tears in his eyes as his hand flies to his cock, giving it a few strokes to send himself over the edge.

He moans as the cum spills over his hand, his chest, and the bed.

“You’re so fucking hot,” Sephiroth whispers. He’s barely holding on, Cloud can tell. He’s covered in sweat, his movements are janky and uncoordinated, and his eyes are fixated on where Cloud’s hand is still grabbing his spent cock.

“Come, Seph.”

Seph groans and pulls out, grabbing his cock and stroking it rapidly.

“No!” Cloud cries. “Inside!”

He’s such a needy little bitch.

Sephiroth grunts and does his best to shove his cock back inside as he comes, although a few strings of his cum hit Cloud’s ass in the process. Cloud sighs blissfully as the familiar warmth spills inside of him.

Both of them go still, quiet. The only sound is their panting as they catch their breath.

Sephiroth eventually releases his leg and collapses beside him.

“You’re…shit, Cloud,” he says, still trying to even out his breathing.

“Hmm?” Cloud says playfully as he snuggles up to Sephiroth, trying not to think too much about the cum dripping from his ass.

“I think I might love you.”

Chapter Text

“Shut up.”

He quickly covers Sephiroth’s mouth with his hand but Cloud is unable to hide the tug of his lips upward. He doesn’t want to hear it right now though. They still have so much to learn about each other, and one day of communication doesn’t fix the weeks of hurt and confusion on Cloud’s part. Plus, what kind of confession is that? 

He can feel Sephiroth smiling under his hand, too.

“I’m still a little pissed at you,” Cloud mumbles as he removes his hand. And really, he is. Maybe even a little more now that he just casually dropped the L-word. Cloud just spent weeks in utter turmoil, and now he’s just gonna drop that on him? He truly is the worst communicator Cloud has ever met.  

Sephiroth wiggles in the bed a bit, making himself comfortable. “I didn’t mean to upset you more, but I mean it.”

“You barely know me. You can’t just have sex with someone and then say you think you…well. That.”

Sephiroth chuckles. “I guess my timing is as bad as my communication.”

“If you still feel that way after all this is over, say it to me then.” 

Sephiroth’s chuckle turns into a full blown laugh. Cloud scowls. 

“What?”

“You amuse me,” he says as his laughter dies. “Understood. I will save it for later.”

Cloud nods, but he feels the butterflies in his stomach again. This time they are less confusing. At least he knows for sure that Sephiroth has feelings for him. Whether it’s actually love or not, Cloud isn’t ready to go there, but at least his uncertainty is gone. He cannot believe he actually said that, but he’s starting to learn Sephiroth is not as stoic and put together as he comes across. 

“Thank you,” he says with a yawn. “Can you…help me?” He gestures towards his lower half, still covered in both of their cum. 

“Bath?” Sephiroth suggests. 

Cloud ponders that for a moment. A bath actually sounds amazing. “Sure. But I want you to carry me.”

It feels good to be openly needy. And with Sephiroth’s impulsive confession, Cloud feels a little empowered to use it to his advantage. After everything Sephiroth put him through—good intentions or not—Cloud thinks he’s earned some pampering. 

“Okay,” Sephiroth says warmly as he gets up. “I’ll go get the bath ready first. Wait a moment please.” 

Cloud watches that perfect ass leave the room and then flops onto his back with a sigh. He instantly regrets it as he feels the cooling cum on his ass press against the sheets. He winces and rolls back over.

Sex is so gross. 

Sephiroth comes back a moment later, and without a word he scoops Cloud up off of the bed and carries him off to the bathroom. Cloud is always in awe of how easily Sephiroth picks him up, as if he weighs nothing. When does he even have time to go to the gym? 

They arrive in the bathroom and Sephiroth gently sets Cloud down on the plastic stool next to the bath and turns on the shower. It feels amazing. 

“Thank you,” Cloud says with a happy sigh. When Sephiroth starts washing his back with a loofa, he adds, “I can wash myself.” 

“I don’t mean to suggest you can’t. Perhaps I want to?” Sephiroth says with a grin. 

Damn, Sephiroth is sweet when he knows he’s fucked up. 

Although… 

Cloud thinks back to before their tussle and remembers how sweet and caring Sephiroth always was when they fucked. At the time he thought it was just how Sephiroth had sex and that Cloud was just another person on a long list of people who got to indulge in it.

But hearing the things Sephiroth said, it sounds more like he hasn’t really had many relationships. 

Except there was Rufus. 

Cloud grimaces involuntarily. He really doesn’t want to think about that. Of course, he can’t hold it against him either, but knowing that Rufus has gotten to experience Sephiroth’s tender lovemaking makes his stomach churn. 

“Have you…” he starts without thinking. 

“Hmm?” Sephiroth has moved onto his hair, lathering it with one of his fancy shampoos.

“Did you and Rufus…” He’s honestly not even sure what he’s trying to ask. He knows he doesn’t have a right to ask or to be jealous, but it’s Rufus.

Sephiroth’s movements pause for a moment. “I did not own this house at that time. He’s never been here, if that’s what you’re asking. No one has, other than you.”

A warmth washes over Cloud, mixing with the steam of the shower, making him feel relaxed and content. 

“I see.”

They both know that’s exactly what he had been asking. 

“I only bought the house last year. I’m not sure what I was expecting, getting a place with so many rooms,” Sephiroth says with a low chuckle while he grabs the shower head to rinse Cloud’s hair. 

Cloud closes his eyes and relishes in the warm water washing over him. “Is it ever lonely?” 

Sephiroth doesn’t respond. Instead, he pulls Cloud to his feet and grabs the back of his head, pressing their mouths together. He wastes no time in sliding his tongue against Cloud’s. The kiss comes so suddenly, with so much passion that it leaves Cloud feeling dizzy. 

He clings to Sephiroth helplessly, moaning into his mouth as their naked bodies move closer, their hardening cocks brushing ever so lightly against each other. 

“Seph,” Cloud whines, his hips gyrating forward slightly, trying to find some more friction. 

Sephiroth moves a hand down Cloud’s back and pushes him against his chest, his hand firm against his skin, sending sparks up Cloud’s spine. 

“It used to be,” Sephiroth whispers into his ear. “It’s not anymore.” The sparks jolt straight to his cock. 

It takes a moment for Cloud’s brain to realize Sephiroth is answering his question. What a fucking sap. Too bad Cloud is a sucker for his sweet words. 

He tries to think of a response but Sephiroth is sucking marks into his neck. Small nibbles and kisses erasing all thoughts from his head. 

Gods, he wants this to last forever. Safe from everything else outside of Sephiroth’s warm embrace. He sobs out a whimper and digs his fingers into Sephiroth’s shoulder blades. 

Hold me. Don’t let me go.

“Can I fuck you again, baby?” Sephiroth murmurs against his neck. 

“Please,” Cloud whines as he instinctively lifts a leg, trying to get closer to Sephiroth somehow, like he could somehow fuse them together like this. 

Sephiroth grabs one thigh and then the other, hoisting Cloud onto his hips. Cloud’s cock is pressed so close against Sephiroth’s stomach like this that he lets out a moan as he rocks his hips, his cock finally getting some of that friction he was craving. 

Sephiroth’s lips find his again and they resume their sloppy kisses as Sephiroth’s hand roams down Cloud’s backside. He slips his fingers between Cloud’s ass cheeks, circling his hole, teasing it. Cloud whimpers and tries to move against his finger, inviting it inside. Sephiroth smiles against his mouth, breaking their kiss for a moment while he slowly slips his finger in. Cloud is still full of lube and probably some cum, so it slides in easily. 

He groans with relief as he is breached. Sephiroth truly just has some kind of magic power over him to make him this horny. It’s like no amount of touching, kissing, or fucking is will ever be enough to satisfy his craving to be together, to be connected.  

He squirms in Sephiroth’s hold just a little when Sephiroth adds another two fingers, adjusting to the thickness and wishing he would just hurry up and shove his cock inside. 

Cloud figures it must be hard for him to keep his balance with one hand holding Cloud and the other fingering his ass.

Cloud decides to help him out and leans back against the wall that Sephiroth had taken a few steps towards, begrudgingly loosening his hold on Sephiroth and moving to grab onto a shelf to steady himself. Sephiroth breaks the kiss, his chest heaving as he removes his fingers from Cloud, grabbing both of his cheeks and trying to get into a position that will work.

Cloud can’t help but laugh at how uncoordinated they are. 

Sephiroth exhales a breathy laugh as well. “Put it in,” he pants.

Cloud is snapped out of the humorous moment and is brought back to the matter at hand in an instant, his cock twitching with interest at Sephiroth’s words. He adjusts his position one more time, using the wall to carry some of his weight, and Sephiroth’s shoulder for balance. Finally, he reaches down to grab Sephiroth’s cock. It doesn’t take long before he’s got that huge erection in his hand and, with some joint effort, slips it inside of him. 

In this position, he’s grateful that he’s still loose from having just been fucked; there’s no resistance and they are able to find a rhythm that works well without much effort. He holds on tight to Sephiroth again as best he can as Sephiroth rocks into him. It’s slow, and deep, just the kind of sex that Cloud loves. The feeling of his long, thick cock slowly entering him, stretching his hole with every movement, is enough to drive Cloud wild. 

He moans and whimpers as Sephiroth hits him in that spot with every thrust, just so. He swears he can see stars, but maybe that’s just him getting dizzy from all the steam. “Fuck, Seph. You feel so good. It’s—ugh!” 

He doesn’t even know what he’s saying, but he wants to say something. He wants Sephiroth to know how perfect it all is. How amazing he feels, how they belong together like this, how right it feels. 

The deep and tender movements of Sephiroth’s cock inside of him, the fingers pressing into his flesh, the breath against his skin, it’s all euphoric. 

Suddenly, Sephiroth grunts and slowly pulls out, letting Cloud’s legs fall, but making sure he isn’t going to fall. Cloud whines in protest but Sephiroth presses a kiss to his puffy lips. “I’m going to pass out,” he mumbles as he walks over to the door and pushes it open. A gust of cool air enters the room and Cloud feels like he can breathe properly again. “That’s better,” Sephiroth says before taking a few strides back to where Cloud is waiting for him. 

He turns him around and Cloud takes the hint, leaning forward and slamming his hands against the wall. Gods, he just needs that cock back inside of him, now. He reaches back with one hand and spreads one cheek. “Come on.”

Sephiroth growls and grabs his cheeks, swatting his hand away. He leans down and spreads them apart himself, giving each one a kiss before licking a long swipe along his hole. Cloud moans and writhes under his touch. He kisses up Cloud’s back before stopping at his shoulders, giving them a small nibble. “You want it?”

Cloud keens, arching his back against him. “Always,” he breathes.

“Good,” he says with one final kiss before straightening up. The next thing Cloud knows, Sephiroth slams his cock deep into Cloud.

Wailing in pleasure, Cloud feels his legs shaking and he wonders if he will last much longer like this. It’s not slow anymore, as Sephiroth pounds into him with abandon. Cloud can’t help but completely come undone, his hands furling into fists against the wall as he takes the brutal thrusts.

“Seph!” he whimpers as more moans slip from his lips, the only noise other than the sound of Sephiroth’s balls slapping against Cloud’s ass. The bathroom’s acoustics really amplify everything, and the erotic noises go straight to Cloud’s cock.

Sephiroth’s fingers dig into the meat of his ass, so hard Cloud is sure he’ll have bruises tomorrow. He knows Sephiroth is losing his control, using Cloud’s hole to give into his desires. 

“Seph, shit, I’m gonna—” he can’t hold it back anymore and comes completely untouched. His knees buckle, but Sephiroth grabs him just in time and helps him keep his balance. 

“Cloud,” Sephiroth says through gritted teeth, his pace getting faster. Cloud’s head lolls forward in relief when he feels Sephiroth spill into him moments later. He’s sure he can’t stand any longer, even with Sephiroth’s help. He’s going to need to really wash himself out after two rounds in a row.

Cloud tries to take a step forward to balance himself out, but he slips on the bathroom tile and the next thing he knows, both he and Sephiroth are on the floor, their naked bodies completely tangled together. There is silence for a moment before both of them burst out laughing. 

“I don’t think I like shower sex as much as I thought,” Cloud says, trying to catch his breath while maneuvering himself into a sitting position. He can feel cum dripping out of his ass, which brings on another wave of laughter.

Sephiroth takes a deep breath and wipes his face off, a smile spread across it. “I’ll buy those little shower mats for you.” He manages to get himself up and offers Cloud a hand. 

“Only if you get the ones with little chocobos on it!” Cloud jokes as Sephiroth helps him into the bath.

“Deal,” he says, getting in behind him.

Sephiroth sits down and pulls Cloud backwards against his chest. Cloud is so much shorter than him that Sephiroth is able to use his head as a headrest, nuzzling his face into Cloud’s blonde locks. Cloud sighs and makes himself comfortable against Sephiroth’s torso.

They sit in an easy silence. Cloud can’t help but think about how this could be their new normal. Maybe not the fucking in the shower—his ass is sore for way too many reasons at the moment—but taking a bath every night, spending time in each other’s arms, doing the dumb mundane things together. 

Now that he knows Sephiroth has feelings for him, might even—mmm, nope, can’t even think the word just yet—but he allows himself to daydream to his heart’s content. Maybe the barbeque with Zack and Aerith is something that could actually happen.

Then, like a sudden summer storm, the thoughts of Rufus and Hojo come to mind and ruin all of his fantasies. Not that those things couldn’t happen, just that Cloud doesn’t know when they could happen. He solved one problem and adopted a whole slew of new ones.

Who knows what Rufus is going to do tomorrow, and what effect that is going to have on Cloud. He is really hopeful that Rufus will let him quit, but there is a voice in his head telling him that Sephiroth is right, and Rufus won’t let him go that easily. He does have a contract, after all.

“If I have to stay until the end of my contract…I dunno if I can do it.” He knows that he doesn’t have to elaborate for Sephiroth to know what he’s talking about. 

He feels Sephiroth’s arms tighten around him. “We’ll figure it out tomorrow.”

Cloud sighs. “What are we going to do?”

“Cloud,” Sephiroth says, leaning down to whisper in his ear, “I will take care of it.”

Cloud smiles for a moment, but that doesn’t ease his anxiety. “How can you promise that, though? Ugh, I can’t even think about messaging customers or putting on a smile right now. And what are we going to do about your dad?”

“One thing at a time, Cloud.” Sephiroth attempts to ease his worries, massaging his shoulders gently. “We will talk to Rufus first thing tomorrow. I will go with you.”

“But what if I can’t quit?” Cloud feels a lump building in his throati. He feels so childish but he can’t help it. What happened with Rufus has never happened to him before, and while he’s glad he was able to stop it before it went any further, the entire situation has left him feeling completely turned off by the club. 

Sephiroth stops his massage to wrap his arms around Cloud’s shoulders, pressing a kiss to the side of his head. “Then you will continue to work. I’ll protect you.”

Cloud huffs, “I don’t need you to protect me.” Despite his words, he sinks into Sephiroth’s embrace, letting those strong arms hold him and comfort him.

“Let’s just try to figure it out tomorrow. There’s no point in fretting over so many hypotheticals."

“Easier said than done,” Cloud mumbles. He pauses for a moment before asking: “Can we watch stupid reality shows on your massive TV with some popcorn to distract me?”

Sephiroth laughs softly. “You and your reality shows.”  

“Just indulge me, please.”

Sephiroth gives him another squeeze. “Of course, baby.”

Cloud’s stomach does somersaults every single time that Sephiroth calls him baby. It’s wild how quickly things have changed in just a few hours. It feels right with Sephiroth. A few hours feels like a few years, like they have been together for longer than they’ve even known each other. The thought is both exciting and terrifying.

They stay in the warm water a bit longer, only begrudgingly getting out when their fingers start to prune. Cloud shuffles lazily to Sephiroth’s room first, leaving his man to clean up the shower room. Cloud is too sore to help. (Although he probably wouldn’t have helped either way. He is getting way too used to being spoiled.) 

He grabs some new clothes and throws them on—biker shorts and a hoodie that is so big on him it goes down to his knees, his hands disappearing into the sleeves as he makes his way to the living room.

He looks around until he finds what he’s looking for: big fluffy blankets. Cloud had indulged in the comforts of these blankets the first time he had stayed at Sephiroth’s house, and had thought of them more than once. They are so comfortable, probably stuffed with real animal feathers, and they have a soft fuzzy cover. 

He grabs one and drags it over to the couch, curling up and making himself comfortable, waiting for Sephiroth to come join him. 

True to his word, Sephiroth appears a few minutes later with a bowl of popcorn. He’d changed into some sweat pants, his hair tied up in a loose pony tail. He looks so hot like this, Cloud could almost have him again if he wasn’t so tired. Licking his lips as Sephiroth walks over to the couch, Cloud takes his time appreciating the man in front of him. After all, this is all supposed to be a distraction from everything, right? 

He lifts up the blanket as Sephiroth approaches, inviting him to snuggle up next to him, to which Sephiroth obliges without hesitation. 

“What do you want to watch?” Sephiroth asks, tugging Cloud toward him. Cloud rests his head on Sephiroth’s chest and grabs a handful of popcorn from the bowl he’s holding. 

“I wanna watch that weird dating one where they get engaged before ever seeing each other,” he says with his mouth full of popcorn. 

Sephiroth chuckles. “As you wish.”

He finds the right show on Cetraflix, a popular streaming site, then wraps his hand that isn’t holding the bowl of popcorn around Cloud, squeezing him tightly.

Cloud sighs and snuggles close, letting his mind turn off as he watches people profess their undying love to each other through a wall. He makes a conscious effort not to think about the confession he had heard earlier that day. 

By the time they are on the third episode, Cloud is starting to drift off again. It’s been a long day, and he’s having a hard time keeping his eyes open. That is, until he’s startled awake by the sound of the front door opening and slamming shut.

“I brought dinner!”

“Put it on the table,” Sephiroth says with a sigh and Cloud sits up, trying to figure out what exactly is happening right now.

He looks up and sees Yuffie walking down the hallway and into the living room.

She stops when they come into view. “Oh. Thank fuck, you guys finally worked it out.” She throws her hands dramatically to the ceiling as if she is thanking Odin himself. “He has been insufferable for weeks,” she says with a sigh, gesturing to Sephiroth before disappearing into the kitchen. 

Cloud blinks after her and then straightens up and looks at Sephiroth. “You didn’t tell me she was coming over,” he hisses.

“I didn't think she'd show up today,” Sephiroth whispers back. “She has a key and stops by sometimes. Sorry.”

Cloud huffs. So much for his distraction. With Yuffie showing up, all the thoughts of Rufus and Hojo come back to the fore.

“Sorry,” Sephiroth whispers again, pressing a kiss to Cloud’s temple. Cloud hates that such a small gesture makes him melt inside. 

“I guess it can’t be helped,” Cloud grumbles. 

Throwing the blanket off of them, they both get up and head into the kitchen where Yuffie is busying herself at the stove. Cloud hadn’t noticed right away, but whatever food she brought with her smells absolutely amazing. It is a mix of savoury aromas, and perhaps some type of fish dish, and Cloud wonders if she brought Wutainese food. 

“I didn’t know Cloud was going to be here, so I’ll just quickly make some more noodles,” Yuffie says as she grabs some things from the bags she brought, adding them to the pot in front of her. Cloud peeks over at the pot. There are a bunch of vegetables, as well as thick noodles swimming around in it. Cloud licks his lips. It looks delicious.

“Uh,” Cloud says, clearing his throat, “thanks, Yuffie.”

She waves her hand dismissively. “All good, go sit down.”

Cloud glances at Sephiroth, who looks utterly amused by the situation. Cloud gives him a “what is going on?” kind of look but Sephiroth just smiles and shrugs, taking a seat at the table. A man of few words, as usual. 

They both take a seat at the table, and Cloud still feels incredibly awkward. He knew Sephiroth and Yuffie are close, but he didn’t realize that they were this close. 

Sephiroth, seemingly ready to put him out of his misery, finally speaks up. “Perhaps Yuffie should give you her key.”

“Hey!” Yuffie snaps as she brings some dishes to the table. “You can’t take my key away! Who’s going to make sure you’re eating properly?”

“Do you guys eat together often?” Cloud asks, grabbing a plate. Despite the awkward situation, he is more than happy to dig into this amazing food Yuffie has prepared. There are the noodles she was making, and some fried chicken, topped with grated radish and ponzu, as well as a salad of chopped vegetables with some kind of spicy oil sauce.

“Yeah, sometimes I give him breakfast to take home if I go to the club, or bring dinner over on his nights off,” Yuffie says as she sits down and starts helping herself to dinner. 

“But with Cloud around, you don’t want to walk into something you don’t want to see,” Sephiroth says nonchalantly, as if he’s just talking about the weather. 

Cloud stops chewing and looks up at Yuffie, whose face is twisted into a look of disgust. 

“I’ll knock first,” she says flatly. “Don’t ruin my appetite.”

Sephiroth chuckles and reaches over to squeeze Cloud’s hand. Gods, why is he being so fucking romantic today? All these microactions are actually going to make Cloud’s heart pound out of his body.

Cloud looks at Yuffie, attempting to distract himself from the heart eyes Sephiroth is shooting his way. “How much did Seph tell you? About…us, I mean.”

Yuffie smirks. “Seph, eh?”

Cloud feels his cheeks get warm, but Sephiroth has mercy on him.

“I told her that we had been seeing each other, and how trying to pull back when things blew up with Rufus went disastrously wrong,” he explains.

Yuffie rolls her eyes. “More like he moped about it for weeks. He is completely obsessed with you. Are you sure you want a key to his house? He might not let you leave.” She’s making a face of disgust but her eyes are playful. 

Sephiroth shifts in his seat uncomfortably. “I explained to him already that I was also unhappy. You don’t need to be dramatic.” He sounds like a kid being scolded by his mother.

Cloud smiles at Sephiroth. It’s always nice when the stoic mask slips. There is a dorky and awkward part of Sephiroth, and Cloud thinks it’s very attractive. It’s nice to know that he’s not always perfect, not always on. He hopes that one day Sephiroth will be as comfortable with him as he is with Yuffie. 

“And exactly how much has he told you?” Yuffie asks.

Cloud catches Sephiroth’s eye. He isn’t sure how much he is supposed to know, so doesn’t answer right away. 

Instead, Sephiroth answers for him. 

“He knows everything,” he says. 

Yuffie sighs. “So we are trusting him fully, now?”

“Yes,” Sephiroth says, shoving a spoonful of food into his mouth.

“No offence to you, Cloud,” Yuffie says, “but I just need to make sure that you aren’t with Rufus at all. No contact outside of work.”

“Fuck that guy,” Cloud mumbles. He wants to leave the table now. He puts his fork down and grabs a drink of water instead. 

“We can trust him. You have my word.” Sephiroth says with a tone of finality.

Yuffie looks between them for a few minutes and then sighs. “Fine. So, I take it you are going to help us out then?”

Glad that he wasn't made to give any details about what happened, Cloud smiles. “Yeah, I mean, I’ll try. I don’t know how much I can actually do. I’m going to try and quit tomorrow.”

Yuffie snorts. “Good luck with that. He’s not going to break the contract. “

“Yuffie,” Sephiroth says in a threatening tone. 

“What? He’s not.”

Cloud feels that familiar sense of panic washing over him. 

“Cloud, it’s going to be fine,” Sephiroth says. 

Cloud nods but gets up from the table. “Thanks for dinner, Yuffie. I think I’m just going to go to bed though. You guys go ahead and finish up.”

“Hey, Cloud, I’m really sorry, I didn’t mean to—” Yuffie tries to apologize but Cloud cuts her off. 

“All good. Don’t worry about it. Really, I’m just tired. I was falling asleep when you showed up. You guys finish talking.”

 He takes his plate and places it on the counter. There is still some food left, so he figures Sephiroth will put it into the fridge for him.

“Cloud,” Sephiroth says in a low voice. The air is tense and Cloud feels bad for killing the mood, but he’s truly suddenly very exhausted. He’s happy to talk to Yuffie, and despite asking Sephiroth earlier what they are going to do about Hojo, he doesn’t want to talk about it anymore tonight. 

“It’s fine, Seph. I’ll just go to bed. Good night,” he mumbles and leaves the kitchen. 

He makes his way to Sephiroth’s room, turns off the light and collapses onto the bed. He doesn’t even feel like getting up to brush his teeth. It’s been the longest two days of his life.

~~

It isn’t long before Sephiroth is stepping into the bedroom. Despite telling Sephiroth to stay and talk to Yuffie, Cloud isn’t surprised with how quickly Sephiroth followed after him. They have been very clingy with each other all day. 

“I’m sorry, baby,” Sephiroth says, climbing into bed and pulling him into his arms. Cloud can’t even resist even if he wanted to. Sephiroth’s arms are so big and powerful, he could probably just throw him around like it’s nothing.

“S’fine. She didn’t know.” 

“She still doesn’t. She doesn’t need to know.”

Coud is thankful for that. Sephiroth and Yuffie are so close, and he had told her everything about them, so he thought that maybe Sephiroth would tell her what happened with Rufus. 

“She won’t come over unannounced anymore,” Sephiroth says. “I couldn’t get her to give up the key, though.”

Cloud can hear the smile in his voice and lets out a small chuckle. “It’s okay. It’s too soon for you to be giving me a key, anyway.”

Sephiroth doesn’t say anything; he just hums and pulls Cloud against him even tighter. 

“It’s going to be fine,” Sephiroth says for what feels like the hundredth time that day.   

Cloud is quiet for a moment. He doesn’t think anything is going to be fine. It’s going to be a pain in the ass, and it’s going to be hard and messy. Sometimes he wishes that he had never even given this whole host thing a try. The deeper he gets into the host world, the more he realizes ignorance was bliss. The flirtation and the charm are flimsy, held up by something dark. But if he hadn’t become a host, he never would have met Sephiroth, so perhaps sometimes good things can be found in giant piles of shit. 

Not that Sephiroth had exactly been an easy relationship to figure out. 

“Can’t we just quit? Never go back.”

Sephiroth squeezes him. “Not that easy.”

Cloud huffs. “Why? Surely you have enough money. You’ll be fine! And I, well…I’ve been able to save enough. I can bartend again.” 

“You’re assuming I want to quit,” Sephiroth says quietly.

Cloud hadn’t actually considered that.He forgets that Sephiroth has been doing this for years, and has had ample opportunities to quit, and never has. Cloud never really thought deeply about hosting as a job that someone would want to do long term, as a career. It had always just seemed like a means to an end—something to do for a short time to make money, then get out. But the more he thinks about it, the more that doesn’t make any sense, and he realizes his naivety. 

“Sorry, Seph. I didn’t mean to…I dunno.”

“Are you okay with it?” Sephiroth asks. 

“What? Of course!” Cloud says quickly, twisting himself in Sephiroth’s hold to look up at him. “I won't ask you to quit if you don’t want to.”

Sephiroth hums. “I know it might seem odd, a gay man likes a job where he essentially dates women, but it’s…” he pauses for a moment. “Perhaps I enjoy feeling like I’m good at communicating.”

Cloud snorts. “That can’t be the only thing you like about it. I mean, you want to open your own club right?”

“I guess I never really thought about it,” Sephiroth says.

“Maybe it's just a comfortable job for you at this point?” 

“Yeah. Maybe.”

Cloud supposes that’s as good of an answer he’s going to get for now. He does wonder how it will affect their relationship going forward. Sephroth is going to be busy with his customers most of the time, but maybe Cloud can start staying here more… 

“I can practically hear that little head of yours thinking a mile a minute,” Sephiroth says, interrupting his thoughts. “Let’s just sleep for now.”

Right. Sleep. Cloud really needs to get more of that if he’s going to deal with all the shit being pelted at him. 

“Yeah. Okay. Good night,” he says, pulling out of Sephiroth’s embrace a bit. Sephiroth runs way too hot to be cuddled up together all night. 

“Good night, Cloud.” Sephiroth grabs his face and kisses him hard on the mouth. 

Those pesky butterflies flutter to life in Cloud’s stomach as he returns the kiss, brushing his tongue against Sephiroth’s lips. Just when he thinks maybe things will progress, Sephiroth pulls back and kisses him on the forehead with a chuckle. “Sleep.”

Cloud grumbles but doesn’t protest, gathering some blankets into his hands to pull up to his chin. He’s out the moment his eyes close.