Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The bells of the church were ringing non-stop since early morning. Doves were flying all over the newly expanded city of Edge, and people from all over Gaia attended the church that was located in the old Sector 5 slums - which have been newly restored in order to facilitate the most phenomenal wedding ceremony on the Planet. Honored guests have filled in the seats, while the rest of the world would either go out on the streets waiting for the matrimony parade or have their eyes glued on the TV to catch the whole celebration on the news. Everybody wouldn’t stop talking about the bride and groom - the current President of Shinra Electric Power Company and a bartender girl from the Sector 7 slums who was apparently an Ex-AVALANCHE member.  

A modern cinderella story, some might say. 

Or perhaps a marriage that was destined to be doomed, the more skeptical others might think.

---

Meanwhile at the inner section of the church that has been converted into a dressing room, the groom of the day, Rufus Shinra, has been holed up in front of the dressing table mirror for hours by now, moping about his last hours on the Planet as a bachelor, as he tended the leftovers of his hangover from last night’s bachelor party. 

“Tseng, please tell me again why did I decide to go through this?” 

It was quite rare to see Rufus Shinra being nervous, let alone whining. However, hangovers and pre-wedding jitters can totally do wonders to anyone; even to the man who was once proudly said that he will control the world with fear and was known for his ruthlessness. 

“Because you love Tifa Lockhart?” 

Tseng have lost count on how many times he said that today, and that’s because his boss kept on asking questions that leads to that particular answer over and over. Now he might be known as a person who never seemed to lose his composure, but this repeated cycle began to take a toll on his sanity. He should’ve followed his gut and go to the main waiting room with the other bridesmaids and groomsmen, but he didn’t have the heart to leave poor Rufus (?) alone in the dressing room. 

“Yeah, but…” 

“You’re the one who fell in love with her, you’re the one who decided to become her boyfriend, and you’re the one who proposed to her as you kneeled on one knee and offered that billion gil ring and said ‘Will-you-marry-me’ to her.” 

“That’s true, but…” 

“There’s no way that we can turn away from this, sir. Better finish up and get it over with because your bride will be here soon.” 

Tseng then called in the makeup and hair team once more, who was temporarily dismissed from the room thirty minutes prior because the groom was impossible to work with. 

As the team worked on their magic again, Tseng leaned beside the door as he rubbed his temples. Sure, the Turks have been working loyally for Shinra and do any seemingly impossible missions without haste, but this whole wedding thing takes more energy than having to deal with one of Hojo’s experiments running rampant into town. At this moment, Tseng would kill to be assigned to deal with a Bahamut alone rather than having to deal with The President. Sometimes, Tseng wondered why he haven’t thrown a resignation letter to his boss’s desk a long time ago.  

Weddings are crazy, Tseng thought. 

When the makeup and hair team is done, the tailor team walks in and do the final fittings to his suit. The joint effort ends up making Rufus looking as if he worth a billion gil more than his current net worth. Oh, he’s more than ready to face this wedding - save for the slight trace of his hangover and nervousness that's still present. 

I don’t think anyone would be able to fix that except himself, Tseng thought. 

All of a sudden, the door opened wide in a rather hasty way - startling everyone in the room. 

“Oh, Reno. It’s you.” 

“Heya, Tseng. What’s with the groom? He looked like he could use some fresh air.” Reno said, munching into some traditional jelly snack from Gongaga that Zack have brought for all the groomsmen. 

Tseng shrugged. “Nothing abnormal for a man who's about to face his own wedding.” 

“Tseng…Reno…is it too late if I want to cancel everything?” Rufus asked. 

Reno was about to say something, but his words were cut off with the sound of the blaring orchestra outside bursting into a single note - a sign that they’re about to get ready to play the wedding song. They could also hear that the voices of the people in the guest seats were subsiding, and they can hear faint sounds of car engines in the distance…. 

The bride has arrived. 

“Too late.” Tseng and Reno said in unison. 

Rufus sighed deeply. 

“C’mon, boss. It’s time to meet your soon-to-be First Lady!” Reno said. 

“Does anyone have a pot of sleeping pills?” Rufus asked. 

“Huh? What for?” 

“Kill myself.” 

A few seconds later, Tseng and Reno were dragging Rufus out of the dressing room with no mercy; inaudible wails echoed throughout the back area of the Church.

Meanwhile, Zack and Cloud watched the whole scene with utter confusion and some concerns.

Heavy concerns. 

---

As everything have settled inside the church, the orchestra played Pachelbel’s Canon in D while everyone’s attention were directed towards the groom, who is standing handsomely in front of the altar in an all-white three-layered suit and leather shoes, all created by top notch designers on the Planet. In truth, his knees were shaking while his stomach was churning like a man strapped inside a malfunctioning helicopter. He really wished that he could just run to the bathroom right now and throw up, but he can’t; in a few seconds, he will make himself declared to be the husband of Tifa Lockhart. 

How in the world did an ex-AVALANCHE member agreed to marry the President of Shinra Company? A huge effort full of drama, sweat, tears, gunpoint threats of various weapons, a million ‘missed bullets’ (mostly from a certain man with a machine gun for a hand), hundreds of ‘surprise’ magic attacks (from various materia users in the group), a dozens of random ‘barely missed’ flying shuriken attacks (from a certain Wutaian princess), and the most hurtful of all, getting slapped by the girl herself for so many times that he lost count. 

People thought that their relationship would be short-lived - some even hoped that it is. Everyone around them told them that it’s a terrible idea, knowing that actions from both sides have once made each other lives’ more difficult, not to mention the losses they experience from the seemingly neverending war for mako energy and the Planet. However, both were known to be persistent and stubborn; even to this second, they still couldn’t believe how he managed to willingly kneel in front of her and begged, and how she said yes. 

The doors of the church opened wide, revealing ten little flower girls in two straight lines. They all wear white floor-length puffy dresses with red bows on their backs, each carrying a basket full of red and white flower petals that they spread on the ground as they walk closer to the altar. Behind them stands Tifa, who looks stunningly beautiful in her white wedding dress. 

Her beautiful figure wrapped so elegantly in the asymmetrical wedding dress, its front skirt were slightly above her knees while its train were almost three meters long; its edges were half-transparent with intricate laces sewn on it. Her long black hair has been tucked into an elegant bun, decorated with gardenia flowers on its edges - the same flower in her bouquet. Her veil is even longer than her train; held up by Marlene and Denzel. 

The two were also dressed in white, with Marlene wearing the same dress as the flower girls, her hair held up in a braided bun. She was smiling so proudly doing her duty for that day, not realizing that Barret was sobbing in his seat, looking at his daughter being so pretty and adorable. Meanwhile, Denzel was pouting hard in an attempt to hide his blush; overwhelmed by the amount of people praising him how handsome he looked since morning after he changed into the white tuxedo and maroon bowtie, a white rose pinned to his chest. Next to the kids are Dark Nation and Red XIII, also donned in maroon bowties; Red is tasked on carrying a basket with the wedding rings in his mouth, while Dark Nation is there as extra guard duty.  

Behind them were the bridesmaid and groomsmen; Tseng, Elena, Zack, Aerith, Reno, Cissnei, Vincent, and Yuffie. The men were also wearing white tuxedos and maroon neckties, while the ladies were donned in maroon sheath dresses. 

Tifa’s majestically beautiful form took Rufus’s breath away. Not that Rufus thought she wasn’t beautiful and elegant when she’s wearing her daily clothes, but the wedding dress have transformed her into a whole new level of elegance; no wonder many girls dreamed of wearing one someday - he was completely mesmerized. 

As Tifa approached the end of the aisle, Rufus offered his hand with probably one of the most gentle smile he ever showed in public; in which she immediately blushed at the sight, and gracefully took his hand with a smile. 

Neither realized that the two were making the audience swoon in their seats. 

Meanwhile, as the bridesmaid and groomsmen began to settle on their designated eats, they began to whisper to each other: 

Reno to Tseng: 

“Yo, Tseng! You see that glowing smile on his face? It’s making me shiver, man! What the hell he was drinking last night?” 

Tseng to Cissnei: 

“I’m not sure. Cissnei, was there something bad mixed in with The President’s drinks last night? Pesticide, perhaps?” 

Cissnei to Elena: 

“Hey Elena, don’t be fooled by that smile! Tseng said The President had accidentally mistaken pesticide for alcohol last night because he was too drunk. I think he’s still hungover and poisoned right now…remember how he looked so pale at the dressing room?” 

Elena to Aerith: 

“I can’t help but worry, Aerith. I heard from Cissnei that Tseng caught The President drinking spiritus mixed with pesticide last night - he was trying to end his life when he was way too drunk during the bachelor’s party, and ! I just hope that he won’t throw up on Tifa’s dress….” 

Aerith to Zack: 

“Hey Zack, I heard Tifa might be pregnant already. I heard Rufus was so drunk and forced himself onto her without protection, and she couldn’t stop throwing up in the car on her journey here. Elena is quite worried that she might throw up again in the middle of the ceremony. Oh, and she also mentioned that Rufus almost took his own life by drinking pesticide because one of his old injuries from the Diamond Weapon incident showed up again without warning a few days ago, and he was pretty upset about it.” 

Zack twitched one of his eyebrows, scratching his head in confusion. Angeal, who is seated next to him, couldn’t help but wonder on why his junior suddenly wouldn’t stop scratching his head with an expression that reminded him of monkeys begging for bananas in a zoo. 

“You have a dandruff problem or something?” Angeal asked. 

Zack shook his head. “Nah, I think I need to get my ears checked at the ENT after this.” 


---

Meanwhile, the bride and the groom were exchanging their vows. Rufus and Tifa each decided to write their own, and the women swoon even more on their seats because their vows doesn’t include some light cliche words such as ‘till death do us part’, but they even promised themselves to stay loyal to each other beyond death. 

“…And I promise that I will dedicate my heart to you forever, because you have shown me a life beyond what was destined for me.” 

They then proceeded to exchanged rings, with Denzel and Marlene assisting Red’s task as the ring bearer. Although Denzel tried his best to keep his cool, he couldn’t hide his amazement as the saw the bride and groom up close, their happiness radiating. When Rufus said “Thank you” to him with a charming smile, somehow Denzel couldn’t suppress the feeling that this guy is cool.

“I give you this ring as a symbol that I have committed my heart and soul to you forever, my dear.” he said, kissing her palm.  

Cloud said so many bad things about Rufus in the past that it may have clouded Denzel’s judgement, but even he have to admit that Tifa never smiled so radiantly glowing like this. 

Perhaps he wasn’t such a bad guy after all, he thought.

And after they said their I dos, the priest finally permitted Rufus; “You may kiss the bride”.  

Their faces draw to a close, and then they shared a gentle, tender kiss. The two were never the type who overly flair some public display of affection, but they’re not the ones who overly hide it either; in fact, there were many photos of them hugging and kisses in public places taken by paparazzis on mass medias. However, this is the first time that they kiss in front of audiences that specifically pay attention to them, and both bride and groom didn’t anticipate the nervousness. 

And when they returned their gazes to look at each other, it only took a few seconds before two starts giggling only for a simple reason; that they just shared their first kiss after becoming husband and wife. 

---

Pachelbel’s Canon in D came to an end as they walked out of the church together, and everyone cheered and congratulated them. When they reached the middle of the aisle, Rufus came to an abrupt stop and suddenly lifted his wife up, and carried her with a proud smile all the way into the open roof wedding car parked right in front of the church; a restored classic car decorated in white and gold with Shinra Company logo etched on its doors. 

Once they were seated, the brass band and the color guard units then took their positions at the front and back of the car. By the order of the troop leader, the brass section then began to play the beginning of a tune they’re all familiar with; Rufus’ Welcoming Ceremony.

And then, off they went for the citywide matrimony march. 

Throughout the city, people were filling up the sidewalks to see the parade up close; everybody couldn’t stop gushing at how the two looked so perfect for each other; the strikingly handsome groom and the amazingly beautiful bride. Some even almost couldn’t believe that Tifa was a bartender girl from the slums; dressed in clothing and jewellery worth more than a billion gil, she looked like she was born to be a First Lady. 

It wasn’t only the glimpse of the Shinra newlyweds they’re after; people, especially children - were also after those special edition white gold coins that Shinra Company produced to commemorate for this day; they keep a bag full of those coins tucked below the car seat, and they would occasionally throw a coin or two to the crowd. Of course, Rufus also slipped in some Moogle coins in too. 

Although they were busy entertaining the crowd throughout the parade, neither bride or groom would let go of each other’s hands; sometimes they’d steal a kiss or two, and the crowd, especially the ladies, will cheer and sigh. They wished to have a grand, fairytale-like wedding with a spouse that has confidence to show the world that he really loves his bride (Oh, they have no idea what happened this morning indeed…), while some men began to fret, knowing that it’ll be harder to propose to their love ones after this because they can already see how the girls all over the city wanted a dress or a ring just like Lady Shinra’s; the designs were very grand and elegant, even the replicas can be very expensive well after the Shinra wedding hype is over. 

---

The parade ends at sunset, where they were taken to the airport to leave for their honeymoon that day. All of their close friends were there to see them off. 

The car parked right in front of the plane, ready to take the couple to Costa del Sol. As Rufus and Tifa descended from the car, they were immediately welcomed with more cheers and hugs from everyone. Aerith and Marlene hugged Tifa and wished her a safe journey and a pleasant honeymoon, while Rufus shook hands with Lazard and entrusted him to take care of Shinra while he’s gone. Tseng used the opportunity to convince his boss once more whether it is safe and necessary for him to leave some of his entrusted Turks in Midgar, but he have already made up his mind; Tseng, Reno and Rude will stay and watch the base while assisting Lazard, while Elena and Cissnei will be the only present security units that accompanies them; the rest of the Shinra operatives tasked to watch over them in Costa del Sol will be incognito, as it was both Rufus and Tifa's request for them to be given as much privacy as possible during their honeymoon. And of course, Darkstar will be coming with them too. 

Both Elena and Cissnei understood the order well - while Tseng, Reno and Rude halfheartedly obeyed for different reasons.

After everyone started to say goodbye to each other, the two readied themselves to go onboard the airship. Tifa was wearing transparent crystal heels that looked so inviting for a sprained ankle when used to climb onto an airship ramp, so Rufus decided to carry her once more. This time, Tifa was a bit more resisting; she’s embarrassed to be treated like such in front of her best friends. 

“Let him, Tifa! You know more than better that most of us here have sworn to kill him one way or another if we caught him not treating you right!” Cid said, raising his spear. 

“That’s right!” Barret said, knocking his gun arm loudly. 

Rufus can only sigh - he’s getting used to her ol’ merry band. Well, I did decide on marrying this family after all… 

They were about to go into the plane when Denzel suddenly screamed, “Wait, Tifa! You forgot this!” 

It was the gardenia flower bouquet, which Tifa remembered she left at the car seat. Denzel brought the bouquet to Tifa, and she thanked him.
“Oh, I was supposed to throw it to the crowd sometime during the parade, but everyone was so enthusiastic about the coins that I forgot…” she said. 

“Well, why don’t you throw it to your friends?” Rufus suggested. “Besides, isn’t it more fun to see who amongst your best friends would be married next?” 

Tifa smiled, and kissed him on the cheek. “You are absolutely right.” 

Rufus then climb higher onto the ramp, and stops right in front of the plane door. Tifa told her friends to get ready, and then she throws the bouquet towards them. 

“I GOT ITTTTTT!!!!” 

Jessie and Yuffie both jumped up high from opposite sides with their arms stretching towards the flower bouquet, but the two crashed mid-air on each other's foreheads and they both fell onto the ground with empty hands and terrible headaches - leaving everyone roaring in laughter. 

“So….who got the flowers then?” Marlene asked. 

It was only after Marlene's question that the laughters diminished. They scanned at each person nearby; not Jessie, not Yuffie, nor Cissnei or even Rude and Reno…

And then, their eyes would go to the girl who happened to be standing between Biggs and Kunsel.

“AERITH!” 

Aerith couldn’t hold back her blush, hiding her face behind the bouquet. 

People cheered, and the boys immediately nudged Zack to stand closer to Aerith. 

“Atta girl! Congrats on getting the bouquet!” Cid said. 

“We can definitely look forward for the next wedding happening sooner than we thought!” Biggs added. 

“Hey Zack, why don’t you propose to her now? I know you’ve been saving up for a ring!” Kunsel teased. 

Both Zack and Aerith were too overwhelmed by everyone’s response, they could barely finish a sentence. 

While some were obviously disappointed for different reasons. Yuffie, who was quite upset that she didn’t manage to catch the bouquet (Just for the sake of ‘winning’ - marriage was not something she’s really aiming for), decided to yank her leg and made Zack tripped over, falling directly on Aerith and like a scene out of cliche romance comics, their lips meet. 

And then, the whole airstrip silenced before they erupted into another loud cheer. Yuffie just snickered, while Lazard, Tseng, Reeve, and Angeal just shook their heads as they sighed; Rude, Denzel, and Cloud turned their gazes away from the crowd, while Reno and Cid whistled. 

Rufus and Tifa can only giggle. Even to the very end, someone still managed to pull a scene! 

So then, the newlyweds finally bid their farewell to everyone. As the airship that took the newlyweds flies further and further towards Costa del Sol under the clear sunset sky of the city, everyone watches from the ground with a smile and a prayer - hoping that the two will forever be blessed with happiness just like today. 

Chapter Text

The day after the Shinra grand wedding, heavy rain fell throughout the city of Edge. Marlene and Denzel were just awake, standing in front of the window of their bedroom that looks over the city as they observed the view from their bedroom window, all covered with gloomy colors and raindrops. 

“I guess we can’t go out and play this morning…” Marlene mumbled, hugging a chocobo plush closer to her - a gift from Barret from his last trip. 

“I hope it’s going to clear up later during the day.” Denzel added.  

The two turned over to the door instantly when they heard footsteps of someone going up the stairs. 

“Cloud!” the two exclaimed. 

“What are you guys looking at?” Cloud asked, joining them by the window as he placed each of his hands on one of their shoulders. Nothing out of the ordinary, Cloud thought.

“Tifa…I wonder how she’s doing?” Marlene mumbled. 

Cloud sighed. “She’s…probably having fun with Rufus. They’re on their honeymoon, remember?” 

“Even though it’s raining?” Denzel asked. 

“I think they’re having clear skies over there - it doesn’t rain at Costa del Sol at this time of the year.” 

Seeing Marlene looking more gloomy than usual, Cloud gently stroke Marlene’s hair, which was quite frizzy and rough - she fell asleep on the way home yesterday, and she haven’t had the chance to give her hair a thorough wash to get rid of all the hairspray from yesterday’s formal updo; Cloud was having a hard time plucking out all the bobby pins on her hair, and he was afraid to wake her up if he’s being too rough - lucky Aerith came over to help tucking in the kids, and she took care the rest while Cloud was told to go downstairs to join Zack and the rest of the gang for a drink - he’s the one who knows where everything are kept in this bar anyway. 

To cheer the kids up, he then tells them to join him downstairs for some breakfast with sandwiches and hot chocolate at the bar counter while he's washing the pile of dishes from last night.

---

“Cloud?”

“Yes, Denzel?” he said, not looking away from the sink as he kept on scrubbing the dishes under the running water. 

“When will Tifa be back from Costa del Sol?” 

“Three more months.” 

“Would she live with Rufus after that?” Marlene asked. 

“Mm-hm. She’s moving to the new Shinra Mansion at that new sector at the west. Rufus is also building the new 7th Heaven at the center of the city for Tifa to maintain, while Johnny will come back here and maintain this place with me - he’ll continue running the bar, while I’m still running the delivery service center.”

“What about us?” 

“You both will be moving in with Rufus and Tifa - I heard he’s enrolling you both to this private school located not far from the new sector. Don’t forget to thank him later.” 

Denzel and Marlene looked at each other - while they were happy to hear that they won’t be separated from Tifa, living with Rufus and moving to a new place quite far from where their friends live doesn’t seem to be something they’re entirely comfortable with. 

“Um…Cloud?” 

“Yes, Marlene?” 

“Will Rufus and Tifa will have a baby together?” 

A plate smashed on the floor. 

“…Sorry.” Cloud muttered, hastily turning off the water tap and went away to grab the broom and dustpan at the back, leaving Denzel and Marlene who were staring at each other again in confusion. 

Come on, Cloud…don’t be stupid! They’re married already! Of course they’re going to have kids together someday soon. Hell, everyone thought that Tifa’s gonna be knocked up sooner than the wedding proposal! Aerith and Yuffie might said nothing, but god knows how many pregnancy scares she went through already… guy can’t even bother to get a fucking condom! 

But still… it’s hard to accept the fact that Tifa is now a Shinra.

His First Lady. 


---

Like Cloud have predicted earlier, the weather was quite sunny in Costa del Sol. Clear blue skies as far as the eyes could see, the wind gently blowing over the coconut trees, carrying over the scent of the sea throughout the city. 

The distant sound of the rolling waves greeted Tifa as she began to open her eyes; she was about to get up from bed when she realized that there’s something warm and gentle encasing her body; she rolled over, and immediately noticed Rufus’ sleeping face and soon noticed that he’s wrapping her in a hug. She caught a glance of the time from her cellphone placed on the bedside table, and immediately sat up - Oh no, I’m late! I need to go back to Seventh Heaven and make the kids some breakfast- 

…Hold on. I’m on my honeymoon right now. I got married yesterday, remember? she thought, giving a light knock to her own forehead. Silly me! 

She then turned her gaze towards Rufus, and looked at his gentle, sleeping face. The man who was known to have no mercy on anyone, now sleeping like a baby next to her. 

Tifa always loved how peaceful Rufus looked when he sleeps; it always reminded her how unpredictable life could be. One moment you’ll find yourself trying to kill each other and the next thing you know, you just fell for each other and what you thought would be your mortal enemy just became your husband. 

Husband. 

She giggled at the thought of that word. The whole thing still felt unreal - it seemed like yesterday when she thought he was joking when he said “I love you” so loud and clear at her; it was at that particular mission in Nibelheim where WRO decided to recruit Cloud and his team to clear out monsters in the area, and they were very unpleased when Rufus decided to oversee the project and be personally involved. Tifa forgot what they were arguing about in the middle of the mission, but Rufus said something that annoyed her so much to the point that she was on the verge of tears, and Cid almost stabbed him with a spear; “What the hell was that for?!” he yelled, and that’s when Rufus confessed his feelings, out of the blue. 

She remembered how everyone’s jaws dropped - Cid’s spear slipped away from his hands and fell onto the ground with a loud clang, and they all thought that he was making a stupid joke until he took her hand and kissed her palms. 

And that’s the first time she slapped him. The first of many. 

Seeing that it’s still quite early, she decided to pull up the covers and snuggled herself back into the embrace of his beloved husband and she drifted off to sleep as she listened to his heartbeat. 

---

When Tifa was finally awake again, she was startled to find that there was nobody lying next to her. As she got up from bed, she noticed Rufus at the balcony, sitting on the chair with a tablet in his hand, probably reading the news. Tifa took a shirt lying on the couch in front of the bed and put it on before she joined her husband at the balcony. 

She hugged Rufus from the back and lowered her head, while Rufus craned his head up and gave her a morning kiss. 

“Did you sleep well last night?” 

Tifa nodded. “How about you?” 

Rufus smiled, and kissed her once more. “Very.” 

Tifa’s attention then turned towards the view from the balcony - they got an ocean view suite with an amazing view, and the sea looked very inviting. 

“Would you like to take a stroll at the beach?” Rufus offered. 

“How did you know?” 

“It’s written all over your face, sweetheart. Besides, the weather is great today; pity if we spend it holed up in our bedroom all day. I haven’t asked breakfast to be served yet because I was thinking maybe you’d prefer if we go out for a stroll along with Darkstar.” 

“Alright then.” 

---

The two then got changed - Rufus wearing an unbuttoned white shirt and a pair of white surfer shorts with red and black bloodsplat-like pattern, while Tifa chooses a white bikini and a white thin fabric that she tied around her waists to form a long skirt with high slit that reveal her legs, and both were wearing sunglasses. The two went out by foot to the nearby boardwalk shopping avenue with Darkstar in tow. He wasn’t leashed, since the place was currently quite devoid of public foot traffic; Costa del Sol is currently off season at this time of the year, and the Turks have taken necessary precautions to fend off mass media from the area while the couple enjoys their honeymoon. 

The two found a quaint cafe that serves all-day breakfast menu, where they ordered some sandwiches and coffee; they also ordered a meat sandwich for Darkstar. 

“Would you like to do some shopping after this?” Rufus asked. 

“Up to you,” Tifa said, feeding the dog pieces of sandwich from her palms. The military canine may look intimidating at first, but once you get to know him, he is a pretty sweet and affectionate dog. “Why, is there something you’d like to buy?” 

Rufus smiled. “Nothing in particular, really. I was wondering if there’s anything that I can get for you, now that you’re my wife…Mrs. Shinra.” 

Upon hearing that, Tifa blushed. She’s well aware that Rufus is flirting on her, but she also understood what Rufus meant. 

Back when they were dating, Tifa was a very difficult woman to please; right from the beginning, she endlessly reminded him that she will never ‘fell heads over heels by Shinra’s money’ - which became a personal challenge for Rufus; what should he give that would not show off his wealth, but rather convey sincere feelings? 

He then started to try by giving her flower bouquets (Which he always bought from Aerith, and he would always consult in detail with the florist on what each flower should mean or convey, depending on the occasion), chocolates (which were handmade by his personal chef and taste-tested by him and his Turks), and more than often they’re accompanied by letters filled with poems and eloquent handwriting - they could be about love, apology, or a simple joke that would bring a smile to Tifa’s face. Rufus thanked his mother for insisting for him to take lessons on literature and penmanship in the past. 

When questioned by Reno on why he would go so far for Tifa, Rufus simply groaned “Karma was biting my ass”.  He remembered quite well back on his rebellious teenage days, his frustrated tutors would often say that one day he will find something that he couldn’t get with money; now they must’ve been rolling in their graves to see the spoiled Shinra brat scrambling around finding anything amongst whatever they’ve taught in the past, all to please a bartender girl from the slums without shoving his wealth to her face. 

So now, when Tifa mentioned what she wanted for the first time - a matching necklace for him and her - Rufus was more than elated; Tifa asking him to buy something for her made him instantly melt. He was so excited that he quickly took Tifa by hand and dragged her to the nearest jewelry store like a child who was too excited to go to the toy store, followed by Darkstar trotting behind them. 

It doesn’t take too long for Rufus and Tifa to choose a necklace; they found perfect ones that happen to be on display at the front of the store - pear-shaped necklaces made out of sea glass; the latest trend of handcraft in Costa del Sol. They also took the chance to buy Darkstar a new dog tag, since the old one kind of rusted and scratched after many battles that he went through with Rufus. 

Afterwards, they headed for the beach in front of their hotel, where they took a swim at the crystal clear ocean and took their time to enjoy all the beauty that Costa del Sol nature has to offer... 

Chapter Text

People would often dream that after marriage comes the happily ever after; when you’ve officially tied the knot and live together with someone you love so much to the point that you’re willing to spend the rest of your life with, what else could go wrong? 

“Rufuuuuuus! Did you forgot to close the toothpaste cap again?” Tifa yelled from the bathroom, while Rufus himself was busy digging through one of the many shelves in the walk-in closet with only a pair of dress pants and an unbuttoned long-sleeved shirt.  

“Sorry darling, I’m in a hurry right now! Did you see where my tie was?” 

The First Lady groaned and stomped out of the bathroom. “I already prepared them on the couch - next to your briefcase! Hold on - did you took that shirt from the bed?” she asked, pointing to the shirt he wore. 

“Yes, why did you ask? -Oh, there’s my tie! Darkstar! Get that thing off your mouth!” Rufus scolded, hurrying towards Darkstar and tried pulling the fabric out of his mouth. Darkstar took it as an invitation to play, where the game of tug-of-war was soon be won by the combat canine; the silk tie got completely shredded to pieces, and Rufus scolded the dog that obviously did not care; one of the dog’s handlers he hired to train Darkstar already warned Rufus and Tifa beforehand that presence of a new family member might make dogs misbehave for a bit for attention, but Rufus somehow forgot about it; probably because he’s in a hurry for an important investor of WRO and he’s running late. Meanwhile, Tifa decided to ignore her husband’s quarrel with his dog and took out a fresh pair of silk tie from the drawer, along with a neatly ironed shirt that was hung on the closet’s open clothes rack. 

“I already asked the maid to prepare a new shirt for you this morning, remember?” Tifa reminded, giving them to her husband. Rufus got up with a rather annoyed grunt, and hastily unbuttoned his shirt. 

“Why did you remind me this just now?” he asked, throwing his shirt to the floor and grabbed the new shirt from Tifa’s arms. 

“I already did, but you’re so obsessed looking for your tie! Why can’t you just wear another tie? It’s not like you don’t have anything else!” 

“The silk tie I was looking for was a gift from the investor I’m meeting today, my dear; thought that it’d be a nice gesture to wear it….” 

While Rufus buttoned up his shirt, he couldn’t help but notice Tifa’s face. She wasn’t smiling, nor that she looked at him in any particular expression either. She haven’t showered, and her hair was quite dishevelled as she just got up a few minutes ago - but to him, she still looked amazingly beautiful. 

After he somewhat finished putting on his shirt, Tifa came closer to him and she helped him put on his tie; an initiative that she did ever since they started sleeping together. It wasn’t easy for him to accept the gesture at first, seeing that it was a vulnerable position for someone to attack him. He never enjoyed being pampered as well, because he sees it as showing weakness (The Turks knew how stressful it was for both Rufus and the medical team at Healen Lodge during his recovery phase because he was being very uncooperative). However, as trust between him and Tifa grew, he learned to enjoy it. 

After she was done with the final adjustments, he reached out his hand towards Tifa’s chin and brought her face closer to his. And then, he gave her a slow, gentle kiss. 

The two wanted more, but soon she reminded him that he’s running late for the meeting. He let out a disappointed sigh, and turn to fetch his briefcase and was immediately stunned to find his loyal Turks standing by the bedroom door; none of them could hide their blushes - even Tseng decided to turn his gaze away. 

“Since when did you-?”  

“T-two minutes ago, boss…” Reno stuttered, “While you were busy making out, the office called and informed that the investor has arrived, and we know that we have to fetch you immediately, but you’re not answering the door so we thought something happened and-“ 

Rufus threw his briefcase to Tseng, who caught it without a word. “Knock the door louder next time!” he said, before storming out of his bedroom. 

The Turks then followed, excusing themselves to the First Lady one by one. As Rufus went down the spiral grand staircase, Tifa called her husband from the edge of the top floor and said “Have a nice day, darling!” and throw him a kiss and a sweet smile. 

Rufus smiled and nodded, and when he realized that his Turks were staring at them again, he let out a cough and they immediately resumed as if nothing happened. 

Meanwhile, Tifa returned to the bedroom and threw herself back in bed, followed by Darkstar. As she stroked the midnight black fur of the combat dog, she wondered about her life; three months after their honeymoon in Costa del Sol was over, she moved in to the newly built Shinra Mansion with Rufus. While she’s still settling in, it wasn’t as difficult or as awkward as she thought she would be; all the staffs are friendly and making sure she felt right at home, and Rufus asked a lot of her input to make the house look hospitable. 

“We’ll throw a housewarming party with your friends after everything is settled,” he said. 

And she looked forward to that. She missed them a lot.

She never knew that she would enjoy the life of being Shinra’s First Lady; especially getting along well with the Turks. She never knew that the agents known for their ruthlessness could be a merry band themselves - no different than AVALANCHE family. 

And as she gazed towards the window, she wondered… 

I wonder how our lives will be when we have children someday? 

Chapter Text

Today was the day when Denzel and Marlene finally arrived at the newly built Shinra Mansion for the first time. Upon descending from the car, the two children were stunned at the size of their new house - even the main doors were taller than Barret! 

As they stepped into the spacious entrance hall, everything just looked so clean and pristine - like one of those luxurious hotel entrances in LOVELESS Avenue that they went to for lunch after the wedding ceremony. Both Denzel and Marlene weren’t sure what to do until they heard someone calling their names from up the stairs. The two looked up, and immediately beamed.

“TIFA!” 

The First Lady of Shinra, now dressed in a white long dress, quickly descended the stairs and hugged the kids. 

“We missed you so much!” Marlene remarked. 

“Oh, I missed you both as well!” Tifa replied, “Now then,  you both must be excited to be in our new home! Why don’t we start by showing you both to your rooms? Rufus and I have spent a lot of time preparing them!”

The two looked at each other and nodded, and they followed Tifa up the stairs. As they looked around to observe the surroundings, they wondered about what Rufus might have prepared for them; was he really involved and care about them? Or did Tifa said that just so that Rufus would look better in their eyes? 

Denzel and Marlene got separate bedrooms, located near Rufus and Tifa’s. Between the children’s bedroom, there is a separate door. 

“Whose room is that?” Denzel asked. 

Tifa smiled. “You’ll see.” 

So first, they visited Marlene’s bedroom; it was designed like it was taken right out of a storybook; the ceilings were painted like the sky with the bright natural blue colors and puffy clouds, and if the lights were dimmed, there were tiny little dots lighting up, similar to stars. While the walls were coated with a custom wallpaper that has tiny pink butterflies on it. The bed was large and decorated with a white canopy tied with pink ribbons to its posts, and on its bedside table, a bedside lamp that has the shape of a hot air balloon sits, along with a Carbuncle plush holding a handwritten letter that says ‘Welcome home, Marlene’ - signed by Rufus and Tifa. There is a desk and a corner reading nook as well, with a large white armchair shaped a royal throne next to a tall bookshelf filled with books and toys. Adjacent to the room is a spacious walk-in closet already filled with hundreds of clothes and shoes, and also a renaissance-style bathroom dominated with pink and white marble colors. 

Denzel’s bedroom too, was decorated nicely in a futuristic theme. The walls were dark blue, installed with the starry ceilings as well. His bed were also as large as Marlene’s, only without a canopy but with LED lights installed at its underside, and a bedside lamp shaped like a rocket ship, along with the handwritten letter welcoming him too. Denzel also earns a desk and a corner reading nook, but with a round black egg-shaped chair with dark blue cushions. Like Marlene, he also have a private bedroom and a walk-in closet, already filled with various clothes. 

And then, comes the room that were located in-between theirs; the playroom. 

They thought that they already have plenty of books and toys in each of their bedrooms, but the room was definitely a haven for children; a large dollhouse shaped like a castle, along with a vast collection of dolls and its clothes stacked neatly in a shelf; a corner filled with various plushes; diecast cars shaped like garage stacked up next to a custom-made racetrack circuit; a large TV and a rack filled with movies and video game consoles, arcades that they could only see in game centers; a mini-kitchen shaped like a miniature of a bar in Seventh Heaven; an activity center next to a shelf filled with books and art supplies where they could craft and read, and many more; even until they grow old, they’ll never run out of toys to play with. 

Gone were their initial doubts about Rufus; the children immediately ran towards different parts of the room to check out all the toys. They couldn’t believe that everything in their room are theirs. 

“Don’t forget to thank Rufus later when he’s home, okay?” 

“Okaaaaay!” the children yelled, already busy with some toys they picked. 

Looking at the two being so happy, Tifa smiled. Together with Rufus, they worked so hard to prepare the rooms for the children so that they would feel welcomed. Besides, the children have already gone through a lot of hardships for the past few years; they deserved happiness. 

Tifa then took a glanced at a clock nearby, and saw that it’s time for her to go now; she then assigned a guard to stand by the door in case the children needed anything, while she headed to her bedroom. 

---

When the sun began to set down, Marlene and Denzel were lying on the carpet with toys scattered around them. Hours upon hours trying out every toy in the room finally worn them down, and the two laughed when both of their tummies grumbled - they just realized that they’ve completely missed lunch. 

Denzel got up and turned towards the door, and saw that there’s no one there. They knew Tifa have left to do something else, while he somehow noticed that there’s a guard at the door checking on them a few times, but he already left. 

“Hey Marlene, let’s go look for Tifa.” 

Marlene nodded, and she got herself up from the carpet and joined Denzel out of the playroom. 

The children then roamed around the house, calling out Tifa’s name repeatedly. The house have many rooms, but some of them were locked. So far they have found the library, Rufus and Tifa’s bedroom, a room that they initially thought was a baby room but upon closer inspection the room was filled with dog toys - probably Darkstar’s, and Rufus’ home office. 

Just as they were about to go to the first floor, a Shinra guard in uniform and a red-haired young man with grneen eyes donned in a black suit and a matching bowtie approached them. 

“Miss Marlene? Master Denzel?” 

“Um…how did you know us?” Denzel asked. 

“Oh, allow me to introduce myself - my name is Dave, I am one of the servants in this mansion assigned to assist you. Lady Tifa and President Rufus have briefed us that both of you will be moving in to the mansion today,” he explained, slightly bowing his head to the kids, who still tried to wrap around that the adult in front of them just mentioned them by master and miss. 

“Now, how may we be of assistance?” Dave asked. 

“Um, we were looking for Tifa!” Marlene said. 

“Oh, now that you’ve mentioned it, I haven’t seen her for a few hours now…” Dave muttered, followed by worried reactions of the kids. 

“If I’m not mistaken, I think she left the playroom right around the time when she usually begins her daily exercise. Maybe we should look for her in the gym.” the guard said. 

They all agreed, and then Dave and the guard proceeded to escort the two kids to the gym room; the place is located on the first floor, and from the tall glass windows in the corridor they could see that almost the entire section of the house was made out of glass, overseeing the large swimming pool that has waterfall and large slides. As much as they’re excited to see the swimming pool, they really want to see Tifa right now. 

“That’s strange…the lights were off…” they heard the guard murmur, before he and Dave proceeded to walk faster - Denzel and Marlene knew something wasn’t right, and hastened their paces too. 

When they entered the gym room, they were shocked to find Tifa lying unconscious on the floor. She was still dressed in her gym attire, sweating heavily. The kids immediately ran to her. 

“Tifa! Tifa! Wake up!” Denzel yelled, shaking Tifa’s body. 

“Master Denzel, please step aside!” Dave said, approaching Tifa and tended her immediately. He checked her breathing and her pulse, and told the guard to inform the in-house doctors immediately and send assistance to take the First Lady to the master bedroom. 

---

As the doctors took care of the First Lady, Denzel and Marlene were accompanied by a few maids and male servants outside the master bedroom. They tried to convince the children to wait inside their rooms, but the kids refused. Even though the doctors would not allow them to go in to the master bedroom while they examined her, they decided to sit in front of the door and wait. Both were inconsolable - Marlene kept on sobbing to her knees, while Denzel silenced as he wrapped his legs with his own arms. 

Around fifteen minutes later, the maids and the butlers suddenly stood up from their posts and walked away from the children. The two thought that the servants were finally leaving them alone to take care of something else, but it turns out that Rufus has arrived - along with his loyal Turks standing behind him. 

Rufus walked closer towards them, and he slowly kneeled to level his eyes with them. Both children fell silent for a while as their eyes met his, until Marlene suddenly asked, “Will Tifa be alright?” 

Rufus nodded and brought his palm to Marlene’s head, and began to stroke her gently. “I’m sure that she will be alright.” 

Much to Rufus and Denzel’s surprise, the little girl suddenly pushed forward and fell into the arms of the President, crying as loud as she could onto his chest. 

Rufus was unsure what to do, but he remembered what Tifa would do; whenever Marlene is upset, she would hug her and stroke her head gently until the little girl felt better - so he did the same. He wasn’t sure if he had said the right thing, because he didn’t even know if his wife is going to be alright or not. But seeing that Marlene became calmer gave him some relief. 

A few moments later, the master bedroom door opened and a female doctor dressed in a white lab coat emerged. Rufus immediately stood up, but still maintaining to hold Marlene close to him. 

“Good afternoon, President Rufus. The team has just finished checking up on the First Lady. She’s already conscious, and we’re ready to announce the diagnosis. I’d like to invite you in, but…what about these kids, sir?” 

“They're our children.” he said. “Would it be okay for them to come in as well?” 

The doctor smiled gently. “Of course. I’m sure they’ll be delighted to see their mother.” 

Rufus then stepped into his bedroom, followed by the two children who was still greatly confused on what the President have just said - their children? 

Their curiosity would have to wait, as their attention immediately went to Tifa, lying on the king-sized bed. She still looked a bit tired, but at least she is conscious now. Another female doctor and a few nurses were standing there. 

“Tifa! Tifa! Are you alright?” the children asked, immediately running towards her.

She nodded and let out a weak smile, and stroked each of their heads gently. Meanwhile, Rufus slowly took a seat on the bed, careful not to shake or hurt his wife. He held her hand and smiled at her before she proceeded to kiss her forehead. 

“Okay, so…are you all ready to hear the news?” the doctor asked. 

Rufus nodded. 

“Well, I would like to say congratulations, because Lady TIfa is five weeks pregnant!”

Rufus and the children immediately turned to Tifa, who was smiling as she let out a gentle laugh. The children cheered, while Rufus embraced Tifa. 

“Thank you, my love.” he whispered to her ear, and kissed her forehead. “I couldn’t be happier.” 

“We’re going to go through this together, alright?” 

Rufus nodded. She noticed a single tear have dropped at the edge of her husband’s eye, and she brought her thumb to his face to wipe it away. As she watched him smile, she remembered a part of their wedding vows; 

“…To trust each other during the most vulnerable times, is part of being in a relationship…”

While the couple went to talk with the doctors, the servants escorted the children away to the dining hall to have their meal - Rufus noticed that the children’s stomachs have been grumbling; they were hesitant to go at first, but Tifa told them that they can come back later. 

So off they went to have their first meal in the mansion - the chef was very friendly, asking them personally what they would like to eat because it’s a special day; Denzel asked for steak and mashed potatoes, while Marlene asked for potatoes au gratin. The chef also made them chocolate pudding with whipped cream and cherry on top, and some fresh Banora White juice. 

The meal was very delicious, and the children happily filled their stomachs.

---

After the meal, they were told to take baths and after they changed into their pyjamas, the maids then took them to see Rufus and Tifa back in the master bedroom. The couple seemed to have refreshed themselves as well, as they have changed into comfortable sleeping outfits as well and they were lounging on their bed, with Darkstar curling up on the dog bed at the corner of the room. The dog looked up towards the children as they came closer to the bed, but soon yawned and went back to sleep. 

“Denzel, Marlene, have you guys had your meals and took your baths?” Tifa asked. 

“Yeeeeees,” the children answered in unison. 

“Alright, you both can come up to the bed - slowly, though.” 

The children obeyed, and they carefully shifted themselves as they got into comfortable sitting position to face Rufus and Tifa. 

“So, how do you guys like the house? Everything good?” Tifa asked. 

They nodded. 

“Are the servants nice to you?”

They nodded. 

“Is there anything you would like to say to Rufus?” 

The two children looked at each other, wondering what they should say. 

“Uuuumm…..I think we can start by saying…thank you for all the nice things you got for us?” Marlene said. 

“And thank you for welcoming us in your home,” Denzel added. “But…we have a question for you.” 

“What is it?” Rufus asked. 

“Earlier when we were waiting for the doctors in front of the room…why did you mention to her that we are your children?” 

Rufus and Tifa blanked. The children’s faces looked absolutely serious that the two adults couldn’t help but burst out laughing, leaving the children dumbfounded. 

“Oh, that…I’m sorry, we planned to discuss this on our first dinner together tonight, but things didn’t go as planned…” Tifa replied, “Well, we wanted you to know that we’ve adopted the both of you - legally, we are your parents.” 

Of course, the news was shocking for both of them - especially Marlene. “But what about my daddy?” 

“Barret have agreed to it, sweetie. Don’t worry.” 

The answer does not flush away the frown on Marlene’s face. “Does this mean…that daddy is not my daddy anymore?” 

Tifa shook her head. “Of course not! Barret is still your daddy, but from now on, Rufus is your daddy too.” 

“Is that even possible?” 

“Every child can have more than one mom and dad, Marlene - nothing’s wrong with that!” 

“...Does that mean that we have to call you both mommy and daddy from now on?” Denzel asked. 

Everyone fell silent for a while. Rufus turned to Tifa for an answer, but it seems that she wanted Rufus to answer this. Meanwhile, he looked over to the children, who were avoiding eye contact with him. 

“It is entirely up to you,” Rufus answered. “I understand that this life we’re taking you into is very different from what you’ve experienced before and this may be overwhelming, so I am more than fine for you both to take your time. After all, family bonds is never built within a day.” 

Denzel and Marlene sighed in relief, while Tifa couldn’t be more proud of her husband; he really did thought well of the children. He may not be aware of it, but a few months prior to the wedding, she found out that he discussed a lot of things with Reeve and some staffs in the company who have experience in adoption, or had experience living in the orphanage or being in the foster system. 

He’ll surely be a good father, Tifa thought. 

“Um, may I ask for another thing?” Marlene asked. 

“Sure, go on.” Rufus said. 

“Where do babies come from?” 

Both Rufus and Tifa froze. 

“I-I’m sure that you’ll learn that in school later….“ Tifa stuttered. 

“But we need to know! We want to know how you and Tifa are going to have babies because Tifa’s baby is going to be our little brother or sister!” Denzel insisted. 

Rufus was speechless. Overwhelmed by the children’s persistence, he suddenly blurted “M-maybe...you can ask the Turks?” 

And so, the children immediately jumped out of bed and went out of the bedroom to look for the Turks, while Rufus and Tifa sighed in relief. 

Crisis averted…for now. 

The peace and quiet didn’t last long; a few minutes later, Tifa beckoned Rufus to look out their bedroom window that oversees towards the swimming pool area, where the Turks are now being chased by Denzel and Marlene. 

The two couldn’t stop laughing - especially at Tseng; even the calm and collected leader of the Turks couldn’t handle being questioned about the birds and the bees by children. 

They then returned to lie down in bed, and Tifa turned on the TV. Rufus pulled up Tifa’s sleeping tanktop and planted a kiss to his wife’s stomach. 

“We’re all waiting for you, little one.” 

And through the whole night, Tifa felt her stomach very warm; other than feeling a life is growing inside her, Rufus wouldn’t take his hand off. He’ll gently rub it from time to time, and he kept on holding on to it even as he hugged his beloved wife in his sleep, as if he’s trying to protect it from everything that may harm the mom and baby. 

And that becomes a habit of his for the months to come. 

Chapter Text

Another day, another morning begins at Shinra Mansion. For the past month, Tifa has been starting her day in the bathroom...throwing up. 

Seven weeks in, and her belly is starting to show - although still quite small; she’s always been a very fit woman who stays in shape all the time, so Rufus thought it’s normal that every slight growth in her belly becomes noticeable. 

However, the bigger she grew, the weaker she seems to have become. 

She couldn’t even join them for mealtimes at the dining room anymore; the moment she stepped in, she couldn’t bear the scent of the food and dashed towards the nearest bathroom. Her choice of meal would be soup and crackers that has minimum spices and aroma, and she would eat alone either after Rufus has gone to work and the kids have gone to school, or she will stay in her bedroom. 

And it wasn’t only limited to food; Darkstar needed to bathe right after his walks because she could smell the doggy sweat and the smell of grass and soil; Rufus needed to stop using his favorite cologne because the smell that she was once fond of now becomes absolutely revolting, and he would need to shower immediately if he’s been meeting clients and coworkers who smoked. The non-stop episodes of morning sickness (which happened to last all day) and how quickly she became exhausted each day has made Rufus stopped her from attending First Lady duties for the time being; he would attend those formality events alone, but now he wouldn’t need to stay for too long either because he got a pregnant wife waiting at home. He would try to be home with his family as much as possible, even during weekdays. Often times, he would go home early or even declare to work from home, and read documents or take care of e-mails through his tablet as he sit on his bed with Tifa lying next to him. Sometimes she would lie over her husband’s laps as she watched TV or text with her friends on her phone. 

Initially, Rufus and Tifa decided that they wanted to wait as long as possible to announce their pregnancy to the public. Paparazzis are constantly trying to catch a glimpse on what’s going on with her, but she rarely went out to public places after she became First Lady because she didn’t need to; groceries are already taken care of by the mansion staffs, and anything else she needed would be attended by Elena first. Nowadays, she barely have the energy to move around the house, so her friends would come visit her from time to time. Also, she would be taken to the hospital with a Shinra helicopter for her doctors appointments in order to avoid traffic. 

Without solid information, speculations have began to appear in the mass media; while some did guessed that Tifa might be pregnant, there were not-so-nice ones like they suspected how she might be abused by Rufus and she was kept away from the public’s eye because she was hurt badly; or that she might be cheating with someone else and married Rufus just for his money. Some have made-up crazy stories that they have seen him hanging around the wall market these days - in which they all knew that it was bogus. 

So then, they decided to announce the pregnancy to the public right after she’s getting her first ultrasound. 

“I really wished I could keep my first pregnancy intimate, you know. Just me and my family.” Tifa moaned to Aerith during one of her visits. “But I’m worried about Rufus and the kids. They still have to go to work and school and face the public; the kids have been quite anxious, too. They don’t quite understand why we wanted to keep the pregnancy quiet. Their friends at school have been asking on why does the media keep reporting that bad things are happening to me if they have nothing to hide?” 

“Even kids are talking about gossips as well?” Aerith remarked, “That’s not good.” 

“Yeah, apparently our wedding was so phenomenal, everyone at their new school knew who they are before they even introduced themselves.” 

“I remembered that the media started to speculate that things were going badly with your marriage when they saw Rufus and the Turks were the only ones who took them on their first day of school, right?” 

“Well…I couldn’t go with them that day because I spent the whole morning throwing up. We didn’t anticipate journalists hounding the school gates because we thought that their interest wouldn’t go as far as prying on Denzel and Marlene.” 

“Shouldn’t Shinra be able to take care of it?” 

“As much as we wanted to, Rufus is being very careful on using his authority to the media right now. Back in the days, his father controlled the press a lot; most of the public news portal were Shinra-owned. He couldn’t militantly shut the media like his father did back then, especially when some of them are run independently by anti-Shinra activists. He’s worried that the backslash will be harsh on us.” 

Aerith sighed. “Oh my…the situation is so complicated! I really hope that they media won’t spread more baseless lies after your pregnancy announcement just because Rufus is going a bit loose on them! “ 

“I’ve anticipated stuffs like this, you know?” Tifa said, “When I decided that I’m going to be his First Lady, I know that I wouldn’t live a happily ever after - especially because I was ex-AVALANCHE.” 

Smiling, Aerith held out her hands towards Tifa's and hold on to them tightly. “You can always count on us, Tifa. You know you don’t need to hold onto your problems alone.” 

“Thank you, Aerith. I-“ 

Tifa didn’t manage to finish her sentence. She abruptly excused herself and dashed into the bathroom, and soon enough Aerith could hear gagging and coughing noises coming out. 

The flower girl could only sigh; despite already being prescribed what was said to be the best morning sickness pills on the market, none of them worked on Tifa. Perhaps she could read some of Elmyra’s old books and look up for some herbal remedy for morning sickness, or maybe pick up some flowers that have therapeutic scents that might ease her nausea…

The next day, Denzel and Marlene were told to come home early from school that day because Tifa is having her first ultrasound that day, and they’re going to announce the results in front of the media right after the hospital check-up. Both Rufus and Tifa were concerned that the children may be disturbed either by the media or their friends while they’re waiting for the news. 

So after they changed out of their school uniforms, the two waited patiently in front of the television along with Darkstar for the announcement. Media weren’t allowed to enter the hospital, so they were showing footage of journalists and camera crew waiting by the hospital gates that were already designated as the media waiting area. 

Meanwhile, Rufus accompanied Tifa in the hospital that day; he didn’t want to miss the first glimpse of their child, although they can’t find out yet whether it’s going to be a boy or a girl. He held her hand tightly, both were smiling with anticipation. 

As the doctor operated the scanner and projected the images on the screen, the doctor gasped. 

“Oh my goodness,” she said. “You’re expecting twins!”

When Rufus and Tifa got home that day, Denzel and Marlene were already running towards the main entrance of the house, along with Darkstar in tow; the children immediately embraced Tifa, asking whether she’s alright and all. As much as she wanted to answer them, she almost fell forward to the floor had Rufus didn’t caught her in time. 

“You need to rest, my dear. The media appearance earlier must be tiring you out-“ 

Tifa shook her head. “Honey, we need to explain this to the kids,” she insisted. “They deserve to know this directly from us - not from the newspaper or some trashy tabloid.” 

Rufus then helped his wife walk to the living room, while he told the kids to follow. 

As they all settled down on their seats, Tifa then explained that what they said on television earlier is true - that they’re expecting twins, and this is why the pregnancy will be more difficult than normal pregnancies with one child; especially because this is her first. 

“With two babies growing inside my belly, it’s taking so much of my energy, so I probably won’t be able to move around as much and I’ll have to be very careful maintaining my health.” Tifa explained, “So please...please try to get along as a family, all right? After all, we’re waiting for these babies together. I hope that by the time your siblings are born, we’ll be united as a family. Both these two children, and the two of you, are all our children and we love all of you equally.” 

And then, the two adults had to dismiss themselves into the master bedroom because Tifa grew even paler. Elena offered to help, but Rufus insisted that he help Tifa to the bedroom on his own. 

Meanwhile, the two children turned to each other. 

“What should we do, Denzel?” Marlene asked. “I don’t want to make Tifa feel worried about us, but..” 

“Come to think about it, Rufus himself was never mean to us.” Denzel said, “He put us to a nice school, welcomed us in his home, and he never yelled at us or do anything that makes us feel threatened…” 

“It’s not that we hate him, it’s just that…” 

“It’s awkward, I know.” 

“Daddy’s been calling me every single day, you know. Just to make sure that I’m okay.” 

“Are you?” 

Marlene nodded. “Yeah - I am okay, even though I missed him a lot.” 

“My father…if he was still alive, he wouldn’t mind if I’m adopted by the president, I guess. He was a Shinra employee after all…and what I remembered, he was so proud with his job.” 

“But then…if he was still alive, you wouldn’t even meet us in the first place.” 

“True,” Denzel murmured, and then they stayed quiet for a while as he stroked Darkstar’s head. 

“I guess…we should try to get along with him, huh?” 

Marlene got up, and shifted closer to Denzel. “For Tifa’s sake,” 

Denzel turned to Marlene, and he nodded. “For Tifa’s sake.” 

The next day, they approached Reno and Elena and asked about Rufus’ schedule. 

“Huh? You’re asking what the boss likes to do on the weekend?” Reno asked, scratching his head. “What’s this all of a sudden?” 

“We…we just wanted to try to get along with him,” Denzel said, avoiding eye contact with Reno. It sure sounds easy when they said that it’s for Tifa’s sake, but asking about Rufus to a Turk is somehow difficult and awkward; they decided early on not to ask from Tseng, since he’s always around Rufus. Rude is too straightforward to pick up what they intended at times, and the only ones who seemed friendly and okay enough to ask might be Reno and Elena. 

“He enjoys clay shooting and sailing in his leisure time,” Elena said. “Why? Are you thinking of doing something together with him?” 

“We just don’t know what he likes to do, since…obviously he doesn’t seem to spend time with kids a lot.” Denzel said timidly.

“Let’s see…” Elena wondered, “He might not want to take you guys for clay shooting until you’re older, since I’ve heard about The President have planned about enrolling you guys in self-defense classes soon. While Lady Tifa agrees, she didn’t want any of you to touch guns until both of you are much older.” 

Denzel pouted - he already put an interest with Rufus’ weapon collections; he saw an article that showed Shinra Family’s weaponry museum that was recently opened in Junon in a magazine the other day, and he was looking forward to see it. 

“What about sailing, then?” Marlene suggested. 

“I don’t know if he has time for it these days, but maybe you can ask him?” 

“Can’t you ask for us?” Marlene asked. 

“Hey, you’re the ones who wants to ask the boss to do stuff with you - go and ask him on your own!” Reno encouraged. 

Denzel and Marlene hesitated. 

“How about I walk you both into his office, but you’ll be the ones doing the talking later?” Elena offered. 

“Uh…I-I guess that’ll be fine…” Denzel murmured. 

“Hey, I promise that he won’t bite!” Reno said, giving a hard tap on Denzel’s back. “He’s also your dad now, you know? No need to be so stiff around him!” 

Denzel and Marlene looked at each other, and sighed. 

So then, the kids went to the new Shinra building, escorted by the two Turks into Rufus’ office where they saw a lot of people were waiting outside the President’s office door. 

“What are these people doing here?” Marlene asked. 

“They’re waiting for their turn to see the boss,” Elena said. “The President is a very busy man, so people have to make an appointment before they get to see him.” 

“Are we bothering him? Should we also make an appointment first?” Denzel asked. 

Both Elena and Reno laughed. “Oh, the boss would’ve shot me in the head if I make you guys make an appointment just to see your own father!” Reno said. 

“But…these people were also waiting to see him. Is this really fair?” Marlene asked. 

“The President told us to make his family first priority above everything else; you’re way above his business clients, my dear.” 

Just as Elena finished talking, Tseng opened the door and a few men in a construction worker uniforms stepped out. And then, he beckoned Denzel and Marlene to come in. 

Rufus was standing by the window, talking on the phone; the phone call seemed important. Rude approached him and whispered to him something, and Rufus turned back, noticing the children immediately. He then quickly muttered “I’ll call you back later,” before he switched off the call and immediately beckoned the children to come sit with him at the lounge area. 

“So, is there anything I can help?” Rufus asked.

Denzel and Marlene looked towards each other. They were hesitating - especially after seeing that Rufus is busy and there are many people waiting for him. He is an important man after all, and all of a sudden, trying to ask him whether they can spend time with him seemed so petty. 

“I-it’s not important-“ 

“It’s okay, Denzel.” Elena encouraged. 

“But…he’s busy-“ 

“It’s okay. I always have time to listen to the both of you.” Rufus interjected. 

Seeing that they have no more reasons not to talk, Marlene finally spoke out what they wanted. 

“The waters around Midgar isn’t that great at this time of the year, so maybe I won’t take you both on a sailing trip.” Rufus said, making the kids frown for a bit before he continued. “But…I might be able to take you both for a weekend to Icicle Inn. How’s that?” 

“What about Tifa?” Denzel asked. 

“Actually, she’s been asking whether I can take you both out of town for a weekend; she wanted to have a sleepover with Aerith and Yuffie. Preferably, I’d send her to Healen Lodge for a small vacation with her friends, but she said that she’d rather not leave home.” 

“Did you guys have a fight?” Marlene asked. 

“No, it’s nothing like that.” 

“But if you both love each other, don’t you always want to be together forever?”

Rufus smiled. “Perhaps you’ll understand this when you’re older…but sometimes, even when you love each other so much, you will need your own personal time to do things on your own.” 

Marlene tried to think about it; all the stories she read about two people loving each other would often come with a ‘happily ever after’ - in which the characters got together forever. Separation would often mean sadness or anger; she remembered how Tifa would always look sad and longing whenever she had to see Cloud go, and Cloud would often ask Tifa not to travel anywhere far if he’s staying home for a while. 

Now that Rufus and Tifa got together after so many struggles, why do they wanted to go different ways for a bit like Cloud always did whenever he had an argument with Tifa back then?

Perhaps Rufus was right - she’ll understand when she’s older. 

So then, off they went that weekend for a trip to Icicle Inn. It was Marlene and Denzel’s first time in a helicopter, with Reno and Rude on the controls. Elena stayed back per Tifa’s request, while Tseng had to stay and hold the fort in their base, making sure that all of Rufus’ business calls and e-mails were directed to him for the weekend - they will all have to ask to be put on hold until Monday except if it is something extremely urgent like another meteorfall.

Darkstar came with them too, and the big mutt remain seated next to Rufus, while Denzel and Marlene sat across each other. As they fly across the sky, Denzel tried to start a conversation while Marlene preferred to look out the window. 

“Why do you like to fly in helicopters a lot?” Denzel asked. 

“It’s not the matter whether I like it or not; it’s just a matter of convenience.” Rufus said, “Often times I can’t afford to be late or get stuck in traffic…or being attacked by monsters along the way. Flying is relatively safer and faster.” 

“But do you enjoy flying?” Denzel asked. 

Rufus nodded. “I do. In fact, I can fly this thing on my own, if I wanted to. I started learning how to fly when I was around Marlene’s age - do you want to learn how to fly on your own too?” 

“I DO!” Denzel enthusiastically answered - much to Rufus and Marlene’s surprise. “…Sorry,” he said. 

“It’s okay,” Rufus said. “We won’t start with helicopters right away, though. My old single engine plane is still routinely maintained in my hangar in Junon - I’ll get it transferred to Edge, and I’ll contact a flying instructor for you. We can start flying lessons on Wednesday after school.” 

And just like that, Denzel and Rufus held a conversation throughout the journey. Marlene tried to listen, but soon she turned her attention at the scenery once more; all they talk is about planes, weapons, and machines - stuffs that boys like. While Marlene is happy to see them get along, she couldn’t help but feel a bit left out as well. She was hoping that Elena would follow them for the trip so they have another girl, but now that she’s the only female in the helicopter, she felt a bit left out. 

She squeezed her chocobo plush tighter to her chest and wondered how she’s going to survive through the whole weekend. 

Much to Marlene’s relief, she was introduced to another  female Turk named Cissnei when they arrived at Icicle Inn. Apparently, Rufus have noticed that Marlene might need a female companion for the trip, and so, he asked Cissnei to join them for the weekend. They met briefly during the wedding, but they didn’t talk much as they focused on the ceremony, and Cissnei spent most of the time talking to Zack and her fellow Turks afterwards.  

“If there’s anything you need, I’m at your service, Miss Marlene.” she said, bowing to the little girl before closing the door. 

They were staying at a rustic-style private ski lodge located not far from a Shinra-owned luxury resort. Each of them were given separate bedrooms, and Marlene was somehow relieved that her bedroom was much smaller than her bedroom back in their mansion. The bed is covered in a pink-colored, princess-themed quilt and pillowcases that looks very cute - which reminded her of the old children’s quilt that was lended to her back when she was staying with Aerith’s mom; she remembered it was Aerith’s back then, and it was handmade. 

As much as she wanted to stay indoors, she was told to change into her snow gears and meet Rufus and Denzel at the livingroom. 

So then, she turned towards the small table where her suitcase was already laid, and changed into a pair of white insulated bib and a white parka with fur at the edge of its hood - she remembered the texture is similar to the creatures from the Northern Continent, and she reckoned that it must be taken from those. Her daddy used to bring some home and take it to the shop to be made into clothes for her. 

Gone were the days where most of the things she had were mostly handmade by the people around her - now all she do is just ask, and she would receive them (or, mostly, she would just receive them without asking). Those pretty and expensive stuffs are indeed pretty - she remembered seeing those things seemed to sparkle behind the glasses of store displays, but now that she have touched and put them on, they just looked somewhat plain. 

Maybe I’m just not used to this yet, Marlene thought. I don’t want to be ungrateful…but somehow, these days felt so cold compared to the old days when it was me, my daddy, and the folks of AVALANCHE.  

After she put on her boots, she went downstairs to the living room area and joined Rufus and Denzel, who have already changed into their snow gears as well and now talking about the creatures in the mountains, Darkstar curling up by the fireplace. Rufus noticed her descending down the staircase, and he smiled. 

“You’re all set?” 

Marlene nodded. 

As soon as they stepped outside, they entered an armored four-wheeled drive vehicle emblazoned with Shinra logos on it that transported them to the skiing area. The Turks were all sitting on the front, Rude taking control. 

The weather was perfect that day - the sun was bright, and the snow was packed. 

Prior to the trip, Denzel and Marlene have both tried snowboarding during their winter holidays trip with Cloud and Tifa. However, Rufus still took them to the beginners’ slope first to see how they fare. The three went up the ski lift and tried a few rounds, and they went on the higher slopes later on. Gone were the fears and their awkwardness once they were all busy playing in the snow.

After a few hours, they decided to take a break inside the vehicle, where they have converted the seats into a mini dining table. The Turks served them each a warm pot of borscht, and the kids immediately ate them like no tomorrow. 

Rufus was taken aback - usually, the kids would eat in very proper manner during their dinners at home, and they’re rather coy and slow when they sit together with him at the dining room. However, they didn’t even bother this time. Well, no one needs to upkeep formal manners during a weekend getaway in the mountains, he thought. Besides, those kids were probably very hungry after all that snowboarding. 

After they finished their meals, the kids hurried back to run around in the snow with Reno and Rude as they throw snowballs at each other, while Rufus decided to call his wife to check on how she was doing. Apparently, he was interrupting their mani-pedi session; Aerith and Yuffie endlessly teased Rufus about being the one who called first - apparently, they’re making bets on it and they both won. Tifa on the other hand, were glad to hear laughters of kids in the background as Rufus talked. 

“Did you enjoy your time with the kids?” 

Rufus didn’t manage to answer that question - he grunted so hard over the phone’s speaker that Tifa startled, and the kids quieted. 

“Rufus, are you alright?” 

She heard some rustling (perhaps the phone was picked up from the snow), and him asking who was that. She heard Marlene saying Reno’s name, and after a few seconds of more silence, Rufus finally spoke. 

“I think I got a snowball fight to settle here, my dear. Talk to you soon?” 

Tifa couldn’t help but chuckle at that reply. “Alright, darling. Love you.” 

“Love you too.” 

The call ended, and Yuffie and Aerith were waiting with eager smiles, asking Tifa to share what just happened. 

Meanwhile, Rufus was chasing Reno up and down the hills throwing snowballs at the poor Turk, while the kids laughed to no end watching the two. 

Chapter Text

Days passed by so quickly in Shinra Mansion, and the family have fallen into a routine; Rufus busied himself with city restoration projects and infrastructure buildings; Tifa’s condition have become more stable, and spend her days preparing to be a mother with pregnancy exercises and parenting classes from top-notch coaches. The kids weren’t so fidgety around Rufus anymore; Denzel have started his flight lessons after school, and each day he started opening up to Rufus more and more - perhaps it was because he was a Shinra employee’s son to begin with, it’s easier for him to familiarize himself with Rufus’ work. Since Tifa was still heavily reluctant for Rufus to talk about Shinra’s weaponry technology business and development around the children, he would divert the conversation to transportation, gadgets, or medical advancements that his company is developing. Meanwhile, Marlene seemed began to adapt well in school; she have asked to enroll in a ballet school that her friends go to every after school - in which Rufus and Tifa happily agreed for. 

Every end of the day, they would sit together at the dining table eating dinner - but it was never a formal setting. They would talk about each other’s day with ease and laughter. 

It all seemed to be fine. However, things was never as perfect as it all seemed. 

---

Somewhere at a crowded tea shop in Wutai, a bunch of men were sitting on a table together to have tea and cigarette. 

“What the hell is this garbage news?” a man yelled, slamming a tabloid paper that has a family photograph of Rufus, Tifa, Denzel and Marlene on the tea shop table. “Shinra couple now expecting twins” - pah! What do I care? So what if I knew that they’re expecting not just one, but two soon-to-be brats that’s gonna be spoiled to death for the rest of their life? Would that knowledge help me pay my bills?” 

“Oh you know, Wu Long…women likes to read that kind of stuff” another man sitting across him replied, taking a puff on his cigarette. “It seemed that the president’s wedding with that slum bartender have became so popular amongst women in the country.” 

The man named Wu Long huffed. “Yeah, yeah…them ladies like to dream that their love story is a true life fairytale just like in those sappy TV dramas - you know, those unrealistic enemies to lovers stories? Rich man falling in love with a lady from a humble background? They quickly forgot that our country have suffered so long from Shinra’s ruthlessness!”

“Well, I don’t know about you, but…” another man in the table chimed in, taking a sip out of his teacup. “I find that bratty president more bearable after his wedding - probably because his first lady is so damn sexy!” 

“I know, right?” the smoking man laughed, “That president surely know how to pick a lady off the slums!” 

“Well, she’s already kinda famous before she became Shinra’s First Lady - she’s the prettiest bartender in Midgar’s under plate, and she was in AVALANCHE too. Ten Gil the president have had his eyes on her for a while!” 

“Wonder why she chose to marry Rufus Shinra in the end tho - wasn’t she a sidekick to that good-looking ex-SOLDIER fella who runs a delivery service in Edge now? But I guess money talks in the end!” 

“True - no matter what they said about her being a damn fine fighter, Tifa Lockhart is still a brainless slum girl! Of course Shinra’s money blinds her!” 

The round of laughter on the table soon replaced by an ear-piercing scream as they were caught in a rain of cold water and shards of ice prickling through their skin, leaving them shaking in pain as their clothes were soaking wet and their skin were bleeding from the cuts of ice. 

“GODDAMNIT! WHO THE FUCK USED MATERIA HERE?!” 

At the same time, Cloud stepped out of the tea shop with an angry Yuffie waiting in front of him. 

“Cloud! Did you take my materia again?” 

“Sorry, just two - one water and one ice. I’ll get you new ones later.” 

---

Meanwhile, back in Edge, Rufus was just finished a business lunch with an important client from Junon, and had just returned to his office.  

Though putting up a fake business smile was nothing difficult for him since he had been taught to do so ever since he was still in diapers, it’s getting harder and harder to do each day, since now everyone’s eyes and ears seemed to be centered around him and his family; everywhere he goes, everyone was buzzing about Tifa’s pregnancy. While he doesn’t mind the well-wishes, the fanaticism towards his family had been bothering him and Tifa a lot; all the medias have been reporting even the slightest nitty-gritty such as where will Tifa gave birth? Which designer would Rufus and Tifa choose for their baby’s first publicity photoshoot? And since now they are going to have biological children, would Rufus position them forward as his rightful heir, or still keep Denzel as his first-in-line? 

The most ridiculous thing that he found out was an online gambling website have opened bets on whether they will have twin boys or twin girls, or a twin pair of a boy and a girl - within less than a month, the total lot have reached over ten million Gils. 

“This is insane!” he yelled, almost throwing his tablet as he read the news in the car. “I thought I’ve done a lot of favor to the city recently - I’ve opened up a lot of work fields and restored a large portion of the city with WRO, but why do people still pry on my personal life like this? And what the heck with this ten million Gil bet? Does people think my wife’s pregnancy is a Chocobo race or something?”

Elena and Tseng can only sigh and remind him to ease his mind during the small personal time he has to take a break - he still got more important things to do, and Tseng reminded that they can always easily arrange for the tabloids to shut up or close the gambling website to close. 

And then, he wondered whether doing so would even make his family receive more scrutiny - back when his father was still reigning, and on the early days when he took over, Shinra strictly controlled what the media says about their company. After the meteorfall, he decided not to continue such dictator-like policy and let the media says whatever they say about Shinra, as he preferred to work with WRO in the background and that controlling people’s opinions about them is useless. 

It was Tifa who encouraged him to come forward as WRO’s biggest backer, and let the public know that WRO have been working together with Shinra for a while. Sure, that proved to be very great PR move for him and his company, but he didn’t care; he knew that Tifa cared so much about him and wanted people to know the good side of him. All of a sudden, people pictured their relationship as a Cinderella story, or Beauty and The Beast, even - that the kindness and beauty of a humble bartender girl from the slums have melted the heart of the man who was once known to never bleed or cry.

And now, he felt that it backfired on him. People seemed to think that it’s completely free to pry on his family’s personal lives just because he seemed to be more humble and approachable than before. Now he understood why his father placed a strict policy on mass medias back then. 

Just as he wondered on what to do, he noticed one of his private limousines at the office’s drop-off area. At first, he thought that it was Tifa visiting him, although he doubt it since she said Zack and Aerith are coming to visit her this afternoon. Security approached to open the car door, but the door had already opened first - and that’s when he noticed that it was Denzel and Marlene; the two kids jumped out of the car, still in their school uniforms, while Reno hastily got out from the front seat. 

“Denzel! Wait! Listen to me-“ 

Rufus took a quick look at his watch, and then he approached the kids. 

“Denzel, Marlene, why are you here? I thought school isn’t over yet-“ 

Rufus’ words were cut off because Denzel landed a punch on his face. The boy strike him strong enough that he fell back onto the floor. 

Security quickly crowded the president to make sure that he’s okay, while Tseng quickly got ahold of Denzel’s arms. 

“What’s that all about, Denzel?” Tseng remarked sternly. Denzel quickly retaliated and tried to release himself from the Turk leader, but of course a pre-teen boy’s strength couldn’t par with a trained security personnel of a Shinra president.

Slowly, Rufus tried to get up from the floor while he covered his nose - it surely felt very sore, but he tried to assure his staffs that he’s alright. 

“Let go! Let go of me!” Denzel yelled as he struggled to release himself from Tseng. 

“Not until you apologize to your father!”   

“Shut up! He’s not my father! Let go of me, you goddamn Turk!” 

The rest of the Turks - including Rude, who just got out of the driver’s seat, widened their eyes at Denzel’s words. Meanwhile, Rufus quieted. 

What happened? Just last Friday, he surprised them by picking them up early from school and took them to Gold Saucer - he came to inspect the property, but the children dragged him to play with them all day and they looked fine and happy. The three even held hands together as they walked back to the car, and that’s the first time that Denzel and Marlene were willing to hold hands with him.

“…Tseng, let Denzel go.” Rufus murmured. 

“But, sir-“ 

“Just let him go.” 

Although reluctant, Tseng then released his hands from Denzel, who quickly pulled his arms away from the Turk. 

“Denzel-“ 

“Shut up! I hate you, Rufus Shinra!” Denzel screamed, pointing straight to Rufus. “Me and Marlene…we’re sick of all this! We didn’t do anything wrong, but…but we have to deal with everything that came with your family name!” 

Rufus twitched one of his eyebrows. “What do you mean by that?”

“We…we don’t want to be adopted by you!” Marlene finally spoke up. “We…we’ve had enough! Take us back to our old home in Seventh Heaven with Tifa!” 

And then, Marlene couldn’t hold back her tears anymore - she fell on her knees on the Shinra Headquarters’ driveway and wailed so loudly. No one dared to say or do anything - not even Rufus. 

It was Cissnei who finally came to approach her and convinced the children to go back to the car and let Reno and Rude drive them home, while Elena approached Rufus. 

“Sir, you-“ 

“I’m okay, Elena. Those children-“ 

“You’re definitely not, sir! You’re bleeding!” 

Rufus pulled away the hand that he’s been using to cover his nose, and saw that it’s covered in blood - some have even seeped onto his white suit. 

---

“This isn’t as bad as it looks, sir. Your nose isn’t broken - I’ve given you a lot of Curaga spells, you’ll be good as new by the time you return home and you don’t need to explain anything to the First Lady.” the office paramedic explained to the president as he placed a band-aid on his nose. 

Rufus didn’t say anything. 

“But my oh my, I’ve never thought that I’m going to live to see the day Rufus Shinra bleeding in front of my eyes, wincing with teary eyes because his nose accidentally hit the toilet door!” the paramedic laughed. 

Rufus sighed. This particular paramedic is a senior staff who grew up in the slums and have been working with Shinra since he was a teenager - he wouldn’t reprimand him for saying such things. He have surely heard the horror stories about him and his family growing up, and now he’s right in front of him in such a sorry state. 

“I guess I wasn’t aware of my surroundings because I am exhausted,” Rufus simply commented. “There’s a lot of restoration projects that needs to be finished before the end of the year.” 

“Oh? The ones you’re doing with WRO?” 

Rufus nodded. “I want those projects done by the time my children are born - I don’t want to see my children grow up in a sad city surrounded by pieces of past destruction.” 

“Is that so?” the paramedic raised his eyebrow. “Well, well… working hard for the family is surely a noble thing to do, sir. However…I think you need to pay more attention to your family.” 

Rufus tilted his head. “What do you mean?” 

“Your children…this is the third time they left school early this week to come and see me. Well, they’ve been coming here in secret ever since they were enrolled in the new school, but this week is the worst I’ve seen.” 

Rufus’ eyes widened. “Why am I not notified?” 

“The red-haired Turk you assigned to watch them…Reno, wasn’t it? He promised them that they will not tell you or Lady Tifa as long as they want to be treated before they go home.” 

“Treated? Were they hurt?” 

The paramedic nodded. “Very - especially Master Denzel. The two kids would come here every so often with bruises and scrapes all over their body - it seems that they’ve been having fights with other kids at school.” 

Now that Rufus thought about it - Denzel and Marlene looked rather disheveled when they came out of the car earlier. 

“After I treated them, a Turk named Cissnei would bring in fresh uniforms and put them on, and then Reno would send them home as soon as possible so you won’t find out.” 

Rufus grunted. “I have assigned two of my Turks to watch for those children in school. Are they careless? Should I add more security escort for them-“ 

“I don’t think any of our best SOLDIERs could even stand a chance to avoid children’s quarrels, sir.” 

“What do you suggest me to do, then?” 

“I say, you should have a heart-to-heart conversation with the children and be stricter about what can people say out there about your family.” 

The paramedic handed a rather tattered magazine to Rufus’ hands. “Reno found this in Master Denzel’s backpack on the day he first came here with scrapes and bruises - he snatched it from one of his classmates.”  

And then, the paramedic left the room, leaving Rufus alone in the medical bay. As Rufus took a seat on the stretcher, he looked at the magazine - which he immediately recognized as one of those trashy celebrity tabloids published in the city. This particular volume have a formal family photo of him, Tifa, Denzel, Marlene and Darkstar that they took a few days after Denzel and Marlene moved into their mansion - which was taken for publicity purposes and have circulated many times within the mass media. However, their headline news on the cover was rather grim:

RUFUS SHINRA TRYING TO WASH AWAY PAST SINS WITH HIS WEDDING AND ADOPTION. 

Trembling, he then braved himself to flip open the pages… 

Chapter Text

As Rufus flipped open through each page, he trembled. Sure, he’s used to trashy tabloids making hyperbolic stories about him, but this particular magazine is way too much.
One section of the tabloid detailed on how Rufus took over Marlene’s custody by force because Barrett Wallace was drowning in gambling debts, and he gave Barrett a ton of money and forbade him to ever see his daughter again; this was a complete lie - not only Barrett doesn’t have any debts nor gambling problems, Rufus had actually went through a very tough debate with Barrett back and forth when he and Tifa told their wish to adopt Denzel and Marlene after they got married. Barrett finally agreed because not only he had to leave Marlene on a longer period of time as hi, he also knew that Rufus would give Marlene a better life than he could; Rufus also mentioned over and over that the adoption papers were merely formalities required by the law - he’s free to visit Marlene anytime he wants, and he could take her back with him if she felt unhappy or whether he thinks that Rufus couldn’t be a good father to her.
However, the next paragraph caught his attention; they stated that Marlene wasn’t Barrett’s biological daughter - her parents died in Corel Valley when the Mako Reactor in that area exploded. The entire village was destroyed, and Barrett’s wife also died in the fire.

Both Tifa and Barrett never told him about this at all, but Rufus couldn’t deny it; he knew that Marlene was born in Corel Valley - it was written on her birth certificate. He knew exactly how the reactor exploded and burned the small village to the ground; at that time, AVALANCHE hijacked that reactor and he was the benefactor for that exact mission because he wanted to betray his father. When the mission failed, his father placed him on house arrest in Junon and appointed him as Vice President of the company as punishment.

As if the section about Marlene wasn’t enough, another section detailed on Denzel; there was a photo of a young boy that looked like him so much standing amongst a man and a woman that resembled him, and the article detailed on how Denzel was the son of a Shinra company employee who lived a peaceful life as a topside resident until the Sector Seven plate drop happened, and he ended up living in the streets until Cloud Strife and Tifa Lockhart took him in. The article suggested that Denzel’s father was a valuable member of the Shinra R&D Weapons Department and played a key role in designing advanced weapons that have caused many great wars and suffering, and Rufus Shinra wanted him as his son because he hoped that one day the boy would be continuing his birth father’s work.

While Rufus is aware of who Denzel’s father was, he did not have such intentions; sure, the boy might develop an interest in Shinra weaponries, but that’s normal for a boy his age. After talking to him for a while, it was clear that the boy was interested more in technological advancements rather than creating a massive destruction. Besides, the article was wrong - Denzel’s father wasn’t part of the weaponry design team; he designed things marketed for the public; smart home appliances, personal aids for the elderly and the disabled, and everyday personal gadgets such as smart watches and wireless headphones. Many of his prototypes have become the basis of what’s currently the hottest-selling items in Shinra’s catalogue. It never crossed that he would force Denzel to do anything for him; although he is now the father of the boy by paper, he is free to choose his future.
Rufus then set down the tabloid on a nearby table, trying not to smash anything in front of his eyes.
He let people write this kind of bullshit about his family and the people around them right under this nose.
Tseng was right. He had to do something.

—

The next day, both Denzel and Marlene woke up late - unlike the usual mornings, there’s no maid that came into their bedrooms to wake them up and help them get ready for school. The two jumped out of bed and went out hurriedly, only to bump each other in front of their bedroom doors.
“You too?”
The two then saw Dave passing by, who greeted them cheerfully. “Oh hello, you both are awake.”
“Dave! Why didn’t the maids woke us up this morning?” Denzel protested, “We’re too late for school now!”
“Oh, the President and the First Lady have briefed us that you both get the day off.”
Denzel and Marlene exchanged looks.
“Both of you have separate schedules to attend today - I shall inform the maids that you are awake, so that they can help you prepare to go out. Now then, go and wait in your room, I’ll send the maids immediately to help you prepare.”
The two obeyed, and went back to their own bedrooms.

One of the things that was very awkward for the two at first were the maids attending them every time they want to go out. The two of them were old enough to bathe on their own and choose their outfits, but at least one maid is always present to help them with things - dry and brush their hair, button up and adjust their clothes, things like that. Often times when they come out of the bathroom, a set of freshly ironed clothes have already been prepared for them - usually, other than for school uniform, this is a sign that they’re going out for a special occasion.

Today, however, was unusual; clothes that were chosen for them were often formal, but the ones that the maids prepared for them today were rather casual - Denzel was given a short-sleeved T-shirt and a dark blue sweater vest, along with a pair of brown shorts and a pair of dark brown leather shoes and white knee-length socks. Marlene was given a white summer dress with a lacy trim and a large sun hat, along with a pair of white strapped heels that has tiny little sunflowers on it. These clothes were pretty simple compared to the ones they’ve worn for the past few months for formal outings, but the two knows that ever since they live with Rufus, they were never given anything cheap or something that could easily be bought in malls no matter how simple something looked; the treatment was so overwhelming to the point that sometimes they would behave as if they were wearing borrowed clothes.

When they're finally ready, Dave was waiting for them at the main hall of the house. He then gave each of them a leather satchel bag that matches their outfits - Denzel got a classic brown one, while Marlene got a baby blue one. Each of the bags were stuffed with their personal cellphone and a wallet filled with cash of equal amount, along with a black-colored credit card from Shinra Company Bank.
“Present from the President and the First Lady,” Dave remarked, “You can do whatever you want with it for today.”

Upon noticing the money and card, Denzel twitched one of his eyebrows. As much as people thought that they always have unlimited access of money, they don’t; whenever they go out without Rufus or Tifa, they almost never hold cash on their hand - money and payments would be handled by either a Turk or a personal assistant who accompany them for the day, and they don’t always get approval to get what they want. Same goes with the cellphone - they only have it during the time they leave the house, and they don’t have access to social media in it too; only some video games and other necessary apps that they use to communicate with friends, family, and others. Denzel could already guess that they will not be accompanied by any Shinra staff today.

“Daddy!”
Upon hearing Marlene’s excited squeal, Denzel looked up and noticed that Barret Wallace had arrived. Marlene ran to him and he held her up high, as always, before squishing her in his embrace. He remarked about missing her so much and that they were going to spend the whole day together in Kalm area for the day - including a visit to the Chocobo Farm. Marlene beamed, and it was the first time Denzel saw her being that happy ever since they moved in to this mansion.

After Barrett and Marlene bid him farewell, Denzel was lead to a chauffeured limousine - if Marlene gets to spending the whole day together with her dad, then where the heck would he go?
Dave then escorted Denzel to the helipad on one of Shinra-owned offices, where he was taken to the city airfield immediately by one of Shinra’s helicopter and was told to get into an airship that has been prepared to go.
“Can I at least ask where am I being sent to?”

“Wutai,” Dave said. “You’re going on a day trip to Wutai.”
Denzel’s eyes widened. He knew exactly what, or who to look forward on this trip.

Just as Denzel thought - after the airship landed on Wutai’s Royal Airfield and he disembarked, he saw Cloud and his motorcycle immediately. The man stood by his Fenrir, donned in his usual attire. Denzel ran up to him and embraced Cloud, saying how glad he was to finally see him.
“I’m glad to see you too, Denzel.” Cloud remarked. “Come on, let’s get out of here so we can talk somewhere more quieter.”
Cloud then helped Denzel climb the passenger side of his motorbike. After notifying the Shinra staffs who served Denzel on the plane that he’ll be “Taking over from here,” drove out of the air field and in to the city.

This was Denzel’s first trip to Wutai. Before the meteorfall, he remembered vaguely about one morning during breakfast where his mom and dad mentioned about the ongoing war in there and how it wasn’t a good time for them to visit Wutai, so they went for a trip to the Mideel hot springs instead.

As Cloud drove throughout the city, Denzel was fascinated by everything he saw - how the people dress, how the buildings looked, and how everyone lived and interact; it’s very different from Midgar or Edge, and now he could understand why Yuffie is acting like she always did - she’s a Wutaian royalty after all.
They stopped at Wutai’s National Bird Park, where there are thousands of birds living in a large glass dome. Cloud was about to purchase tickets when he noticed that Denzel had already bought them. He then watched the boy put his wallet back into his satchel, and they proceeded to enter the bird park.
Cloud bit his lip - even though Denzel tried not to make him notice, he did notice the wallet had so much money in it; way too much for a boy his age to have. What was Rufus Shinra thinking?

Despite that the boy now looking like a young master of an affluent Midgar family from top to bottom, Denzel is still Denzel - still being timid yet full of curiosity, and the two still laugh at the same jokes they share back when they were still living together in Seventh Heaven - which made Cloud felt relieved. 
While exploring the bird park, Denzel and Cloud got hungry. They then decided to go to the food court within the dome, where birds can’t come in so they won’t go pecking food intended for humans. Cloud recommended a few dishes that he thought Denzel would like, and the boy choose to have a Wutaian-style noodle and a melon juice, while Cloud choose to have some fried rice and some soft drink.
Again, Denzel insisted that he paid everything. Cloud just sighed and decided to go along.

They didn’t talk much during mealtime, but once they got some ice cream for dessert, Cloud decided to have a conversation with the boy.
“So, I heard what’s been happening at your new school.”
Denzel raised his eyebrows and looked up. Before he could ask how did he know, Cloud had already answered. “Rufus told me about it - hence why he arranged a day for you to skip school to come spend the day in Wutai with me.”
Denzel was surprised - Rufus went all the way to talk to Cloud and arranged all this?
“I thought he’s going to be this very disciplined person who wouldn’t let us skip school no matter what.” Denzel murmured.
“I thought the same too,” Cloud remarked. “But he does care for your wellbeing more than we thought, huh?”
“Does Tifa know what happened?” Denzel asked, this time looking a bit worried.
Cloud shook his head. “What I heard from Rufus, no - she didn’t know anything about what happened in your school. He just said that both of you needed some break from school.”
“Oh...” Denzel sighed in relief.
“He also didn’t told her about you punching him in the face in front of his office.”
Denzel blanked for a second, and then he turned his gaze away. Cloud then ran his hand through the boy’s head. “You really got guts there,” he chuckled. “Just don’t do that again, okay?”
“...Okay.” Denzel nodded reluctantly.

“Look, Denzel; I know you are frustrated, but violence won’t solve any problem here - especially if you’re doing it to the person who is now your father.”
Denzel retaliated immediately. “He’s not-“
Cloud didn’t let Denzel finish his sentence. “Say whatever you want, but if you and Marlene are accepting Tifa as your mother, then Rufus is your father as well.”
Denzel sat back on his seat, grumbling.
“Meaning that he and Tifa is responsible to provide both of you with food, home, and education - at least until you guys turn eighteen.”
This time, the boy looked down and quieted.
“Listen, Denzel. If there are no tabloids writing about lies, and the kids at school stopped bullying you - do you think you will enjoy living with Rufus and Tifa?”
No words came out of Denzel’s mouth yet, and Cloud patiently waited - he knew that this is a tough question for the boy to answer.

Meanwhile, Denzel tried to remember the first time he stepped into the new Shinra mansion; it looks luxurious and very clean like a hotel lobby, but when he was shown his own bedroom with a handwritten welcome note from Rufus and Tifa, he felt that he’s being sincerely welcomed. And when he saw the room full of toys, he was overjoyed - it was as if he got an entire toy store for free.
What happened later that day was unforgettable, and he remembered the tender face full of joy on Tifa’s face, and how Rufus sincerely cared for them - although none of the Turks managed to tell him and Marlene where babies come from that day, he was gkad that Rufus didn’t force him to call them mom and dad immediately.
Fast forward to the time when Rufus took them on a weekend trip to Icicle Inn - it was a very fun; he remembered how the three of them ended up lying on the snow and laughing together after beating Reno on the snowball fight.
Not only that, Rufus was a man who fulfilled his promises - shortly after their snowboarding trip, he got an extra schedule every Wednesday after school; go to Shinra’s private airfield and take flying lessons with the single engine plane that the Shinra crew bring all the way from Junon. His instructor was a very kind and patient lady, and yet she was full of energy and likes to give him some challenges. Many of his friends at his new schools took extracurriculars or private lessons after school like sports, swimming, or musical instruments - so far, Denzel is the only one who took flying lessons as an after school activity in his class. Most of the kids took those extra lessons because their parents wanted them, or even forced them. Rufus didn’t. In fact, he said that if he or Marlene wanted to learn something, they should tell Rufus or Tifa and they’re free to try learning anything they want.

I guess I was happy, Denzel thought. I’m happier than most of the other kids - perhaps that’s why they bullied me and Marlene so much.

And also, Denzel just realized something - when he began to live with Rufus and Tifa, he began to feel different - all of a sudden, life was like back then when he still live with his birth parents. Perhaps because during the time in Seventh Heaven they have to think about survival and he got sick with the stigma afterwards, but when he thought about it, there was something more; and that is having parents who sincerely love each other and communicate clearly. With Cloud and Tifa, everything was ambiguous; while Tifa is clearly the mother figure to him and Marlene, Cloud was somewhat unclear; he’s definitely not a father figure - he’s more like an older brother. And yet, even though Tifa had strong romantic feelings towards him, Cloud never seem to return those feelings clearly. Even without him being sick or Tifa’s business struggling, there’s always unresolved tension in the house.

On the other hand, the roles in Shinra Mansion is very clear in the house - Rufus and Tifa are his adoptive parents, and they’re not shy to show the kids that they truly love and care for each other. And that somehow gave him a bigger sense of ‘security’ and ‘family’- if that even make any sense to anyone.

“Denzel?”

Cloud’s voice snapped the boy off his train of thoughts. “Oh, um...sorry - just...kinda letting my mind wander off a bit.”
“Listen, Denzel; I’m going to be honest here - Rufus has given you an offer to let you move to Wutai with me. Marlene too - she got the same offer to go live with Barrett again.”
Denzel blanked. “Does he...not want us anymore? Does he think that we’re in the way?”
“Absolutely not,” Cloud hastily remarked. “Tifa would leave him straight away if he thinks like that.”
“True,” the boy shrugged. “So...why does he gave us those offers?”
“He said that if living as a Shinra is too hard for the both of you, then he will let you guys choose to live elsewhere. He will try to convince Tifa about your choices if you decided to leave the mansion, and he will still keep paying for both of your education and monthly allowances.”

Denzel turned his eyes down. He curled up his fists, thinking hard. Meanwhile, Cloud left the boy to think as he checked some messages on his phone.
A few minutes passed, and then Denzel looked up to Cloud.

“Alright, I’ve made my decision.” Denzel said.