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Snow drifted lazily through the streets of Midgar, clinging to rooftops and streetlamps alike. The air was crisp, biting at your cheeks as you stepped out of a small corner shop, paper bag tucked securely under your arm. Inside was a warm treat you couldn’t resist—something sweet and comforting to take home on Christmas Eve.
You smiled to yourself, already imagining Cloud’s quiet reaction when you offered him a bite. He’d pretend not to care… but you always noticed how he ate it anyway.
That was when you heard it.
A soft, fragile mewl barely rose above the hush of falling snow.
You froze.
At first, you thought you imagined it, but then it came again—thin, trembling, and unmistakably real. You followed the sound toward a narrow alley beside the shop, boots crunching softly. Nestled between stacked crates and half-buried in snow was a tiny bundle of fur.
“Oh… sweetheart…” you whispered.
The kitten looked up at you with wide, mismatched eyes—one blue, one green—ears too big for her small head, body shivering uncontrollably. She let out another weak cry, paws pressing into the cold ground as if she didn’t have the strength to move anymore.
Your heart melted instantly.
You crouched down, shrugging off your scarf and gently wrapping it around her trembling form. The kitten let out the faintest purr, leaning into the warmth like she’d been waiting for you.
“You’re freezing,” you murmured, lifting her carefully. She was so light—too light. And when you glanced around, there was no sign of anyone nearby. No food. No shelter. No home.
Snow continued to fall. That was all the answer you needed.
“Well,” you said softly, cradling her against your chest, “you’re coming home with me.”
The kitten let out a tiny, content sound, curling into your coat as if she understood. You smiled, warmth spreading through you despite the cold, and turned back toward home—already picturing a cozy corner, soft blankets, and Cloud’s inevitable scowl when he realized you’d brought back more than just dessert.
But you knew him…
And you knew he wouldn’t really mean it.
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Snowflakes tapped gently against the apartment window as you stepped inside, kicking off your boots and shaking off the chill. The apartment smelled faintly of pine from the tiny tree Cloud had reluctantly let you put up in the corner. The quiet hum of the heater was comforting, but what made you smile was the little surprise tucked inside your bag.
Cloud was slouched on the sofa, arms crossed, eyebrows furrowed as he stared at the muted lights on the tree. “You’re home late,” he murmured, voice low, almost distracted.
“Yeah… but I brought something,” you said, kneeling down and carefully unzipping your bag.
A soft, tiny purr slipped out, and Cloud’s eyes shot to you immediately. His arms twitched, half out of instinct, half in caution. “What is that?”
You grinned, letting the little ball of fur wiggle out onto the floor. The kitten’s wide eyes blinked up at him, tail twitching nervously. “Surprise!”
Cloud’s jaw tightened. “We don’t need a cat.” His tone was flat, but his gaze softened just slightly as the kitten padded forward, sniffing at his boots.
“But… look at it!” you said, picking it up gently. “It had no home, and it was shivering in the snow. I couldn’t just leave it there…”
He gave a short, dismissive laugh. “Animals live in the wild. They… have to be used to that.” His gaze shifted back to the tree, and he deliberately didn’t look at the kitten, or at the way your lips pressed into a small frown.
You pursed your lips but didn’t argue. Instead, you began setting up a small corner by the heater: a soft blanket, a tiny bowl of milk, and a little makeshift bed for the kitten. The little creature immediately curled up, purring so loudly it almost filled the room.
Cloud watched quietly, leaning back into the sofa, arms still crossed. “It’s… yours then,” he said after a moment, his voice low, almost grudging.
You shrugged, smiling softly. “Well… we can share the responsibility. But for now, it needs a warm home.” You glanced at him. “Even if someone’s a grumpy, cold-hearted boyfriend.”
He didn’t respond right away, only glancing at the kitten, now comfortably nestled in its new little bed. The apartment grew warmer—not just from the heater, but from the small purrs echoing softly in the quiet. Cloud finally stretched out, one hand resting lightly on the sofa edge near you. You settled beside him, leaning into his shoulder as the kitten began exploring its new surroundings, tiny paws padding against the blanket.
For a moment, Cloud didn’t say anything, just watched the tiny creature and you, the corners of his mouth twitching like he was fighting a smile. And though he’d never admit it aloud, seeing you happy, and seeing the little kitten safe and warm… maybe it wasn’t so bad after all.
“Guess… it’s not the worst idea you’ve had,” he muttered finally, his voice quiet but almost fond.
You laughed softly, tucking the kitten closer to you when it walked towards your direction. “See? I knew you would love the little guy.”
“…Whatever,” he grumbled, but you caught the faintest warmth in his eyes.
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The apartment was dark, lit only by the soft glow of the Christmas tree. You were asleep on the sofa, the kitten safely nestled in your arms. Cloud gotten up from the couch moments ago to grab some eggnog, he then couldn’t help but stand a few feet away as he’s staring at the kitten. His hands clenched in his pockets, jaw tight. The soft purr from the kitten had been growing louder, and the noise was… grating. He had to get it out.
He crouched, keeping his movements slow so as not to wake you, and nudged the little furball out of your grasp. The baby kitten slipped out of the blanket and is now on the floor as Cloud tries to lead it towards the door. “Go… outside,” he whispered, trying to sound commanding.
The kitten blinked up at him with wide, innocent eyes, then immediately darted to the other side of the room, brushing against his foot and tumbling gently onto its side. Cloud exhaled sharply. “Come on… just go…”
He tried again, gently nudging it with his foot. The kitten mewled softly, looked at him like he was some strange, giant predator, and then pounced playfully on Cloud’s leg, batting around it. Cloud’s jaw tightened. “Patience… you can do this…”
Step by step, he nudged it toward the door, but every time he thought he’d succeeded, the tiny creature would dart away, skitter across the floor, and flop onto its back, paws in the air. It was playful, timid, and utterly unafraid of him.
Cloud’s hands ball into fists. Why is this so difficult? It’s just a cat! He stomped lightly, trying to look intimidating. The kitten froze for a second, then—playfully—rolled toward the couch, mewling as if teasing him.
“I… I can’t—just… leave,” he muttered under his breath, his voice tinged with frustration. He tried a more strategic approach, cornering the kitten near the door. “Stay… here,” he whispered, lowering himself slowly.
The kitten blinked, tilted its head, and gave a tiny purr, pressing against his leg. Cloud froze, the irritation in his chest melting into something unfamiliar. He could feel his patience evaporating, replaced by guilt. It was just a tiny, defenseless creature… and yet somehow, he couldn’t push it out.
A soft sigh escaped him. “Damn it… why am I even…”
Before he could think any further, the kitten gave a sudden playful leap—landing on his feet, mewling innocently. Cloud flinched and took a step back, stumbling slightly. The cold soldier’s strict plan had completely failed.
In that moment, he realized… no amount of effort was going to make this little baby leave. And maybe… he didn’t want it to.
Sadly, it was too late regardless.
The kitten stepped forward cautiously, then skidded back with a frightened hiss when Cloud’s boot accidentally brushed its tiny paw. Its wide eyes locked onto him for a moment, and then, in a sudden dash, it bolted—vanishing into the snowy night outside.
Cloud’s chest tightened. No. No, no, no…
He looked down at your peaceful sleeping form and cursed under his breath. You could never know, not like this. Not tonight on Christmas Eve especially. The thought of telling you would break the soft little bubble of joy you’d created.
Panic clawed at him. He grabbed his phone and flicked it on, dialing the only person he trusted to help him without judgment.
“Barret,” he hissed into the receiver.
“What the hell, Cloud? It’s midnight!” Barret’s voice came loud and startled through the speaker.
“Listen… I need your help. Don’t ask questions.” Cloud’s voice was low, urgent.
There was a pause, then a gruff chuckle. “Heh… you better make it worth my time. You’re gonna give me some of them fancy Christmas treats your girl bakes, yeah?”
Cloud’s eyes narrowed. “Fine. I’ll invite you over… just meet me in the city.”
“I knew you’d cave,” Barret said with a laugh. “Don’t worry, I’ll be there. But you owe me, Cloud.”
Cloud hung up and ran to grab his coat and scarf, checking the streets outside through the frosty window. Somewhere out there, the kitten shivered, and Cloud’s chest tightened with guilt.
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Snow crunched beneath Cloud’s boots as he stepped outside, breath fogging in the cold night air. He lingered near the streetlight, shoulders tense, eyes constantly scanning the dark alleys nearby. Somewhere out there, the kitten was alone — cold, scared, and lost because of him.
He pulled out his phone again, thumb hovering for a second before he sent his location.
A moment later, heavy footsteps approached.
“The hell you doin’ standin’ out here like a lost soldier?” Barret’s voice cut through the quiet as he emerged from the corner of the street, bundled up and scowling. “You said it was urgent. Better not be some kinda joke.”
Cloud lowered his phone and shook his head. “It’s not.”
Barret stopped a few feet away, studying him. “Then talk. What’s goin’ on?”
Cloud hesitated, eyes flicking back toward the dark street. “…The kitten ran off.”
Barret blinked. “The kitten,” he repeated flatly. “Since when do you care about pets? Last I checked, you barely tolerated people.”
Cloud’s jaw tightened. For a moment, it looked like he might snap back — but instead, his shoulders sagged just slightly.
“…It’s not about the cat,” he said quietly.
Barret raised a brow. “Oh?”
Cloud exhaled, breath coming out slow and shaky. “…It’s for her.”
That did it.
Barret’s expression shifted, scowl softening into something almost proud. “Heh,” he muttered. “Knew it. You’re really in love, Spiky. Completely.”
Cloud didn’t deny it.
Barret crossed his arms. “Alright then. Tell me what we’re lookin’ for.”
Cloud answered instantly, without hesitation. “Small. Gray-and-white fur. Big ears — too big for its head. Tail’s bent a little at the tip.” He paused, brow furrowing as he pictured her. “One blue eye, one green. Shivers when it’s scared. Purrs loud when it feels safe.”
Barret stared at him.
“…You didn’t even have to think about that,” he said slowly.
Cloud looked away, faint color rising to his cheeks. “…I noticed.”
Barret huffed a laugh. “Yeah. Sure you did.” He clapped a heavy hand against Cloud’s shoulder. “Alright, hero. Let’s go get your girl’s Christmas miracle back.”
Cloud nodded, resolve settling deep in his chest. Together, they stepped into the snow-covered streets, two unlikely partners on a rescue mission — one gruff, one quiet — both determined not to let a tiny life disappear into the cold.
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The duo doesn’t really have a lot of time until the sun rises and before you wake up any moment. Barret stomped beside Cloud, arms crossed, grumbling, but clearly enjoying himself in a loud, boisterous way.
“You sure this little thing’s even out here?” Cloud muttered, scanning the snow-covered alleys.
“I ain’t leavin’ you hangin’, emo-boy!” Barret barked, peering into a dumpster like it was a prime hiding spot. “It’s a tiny furball, it’s gotta be somewhere!”
Cloud sighed, muttering under his breath, “I don’t even like cats…”
“Don’t even like? You were fussin’ ‘bout it all night!” Barret shot back, shoving his hands deep into his pockets.
Their search quickly turned into a ridiculous quest. Cloud crouched behind snowbanks, eyes narrowed as Barret jingled a bit of tinfoil, calling, “C’mon lil’ dude! Don’t be shy!”
Cloud muttered constantly, “Move. Stop making noise.” and Barret tripped over a stray sled, sliding into a pile of snow with a loud thud, laughing through it.
Finally, a faint mewl sound cut through the night. Cloud froze. There, peeking from under a snow-dusted trash bin, was the kitten.
“There! That’s the one!” Barret whispered excitedly.
Cloud approached, hands ready to scoop it up. But Barret, overexcited, shouted, “Hey! Look!” The kitten bolted.
“Barret!” Cloud hissed.
But the kitten’s tiny mewl was faint again. Cloud cornered it, scooping it into his hands. “Gotcha,” he muttered softly.
Barret, in typical fashion, clapped Cloud on the back—too hard. The kitten slipped from his grasp.
“Barret! Are you serious?!” Cloud scolded, voice sharp.
“Hey! I was just tryin’ to celebrate!” Barret barked back.
Cloud ignored him, carefully holding the kitten again. “I’m not tense,” he muttered, voice clipped, though his grip was gentle.
“Now let’s get this little guy back home,” Cloud said, finally giving in to a faint smile.
By sunrise, they finally caught the kitten. Cloud looked down at it, and for the first time that night, admitted quietly, “…It was… fun.”
Barret laughed, clapping him on the shoulder. “Ha! I knew it!”
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The first soft rays of Christmas morning light filtered through the curtains. You stretched, blinking at the warm glow filling the apartment. Something felt… off. The little kitten, which had been curled up in your lap last night, was gone. And Cloud? He wasn’t there either.
A flicker of worry tugged at your chest. Where are they? You pushed yourself up and glanced around the apartment. The cozy corner you’d made for the kitten was empty, blankets slightly ruffled, the milk bowl untouched. Your heart thumped.
“Cloud?” you called softly, voice tight with concern.
The door creaked open, and your eyes widened. There stood Cloud, snow-dusted coat clinging slightly to him, the tiny kitten safely cradled in his arms. Behind him, almost like an afterthought, Barret lumbered in, hair messy, boots leaving wet prints on the floor, looking every bit like a grumpy bear who’d been dragged out into the snow.
“What’s going on?” you asked, rushing to your feet. Concern laced your tone as you noticed Cloud’s tense posture and Barret’s mischievous grin.
Cloud opened his mouth to speak, then froze, eyes flicking toward the floor. Don’t say anything. Just… act casual… He took a careful step toward you.
“Cloud…” you prompted, stepping closer, your hands brushing lightly against his arms.
Before he could answer, Barret let out a sharp bark of exasperation. “C’mon, boy! Don’t be a wimp! You lost the kitten ‘cause you tried to kick it out, didn’t ya? Now quit hidin’ and be a man! Tell your girl the truth!”
Cloud’s jaw clenched, frustration flickering across his face. He glanced at you, caught between hiding the truth and facing it. “…I… I—” His voice cracked, faltering.
“Yes,” Barret pressed, stepping closer, arms crossed like a drill sergeant. “No excuses. Be honest.”
The tiny kitten mewled softly from Cloud’s arms, pressing against him like it knew he needed support. Cloud exhaled slowly, hands trembling just slightly as he finally met your gaze. “I… I tried to kick the kitten out last night,” he admitted, voice low and guilty. “It ran outside. I… I didn’t want you to find out. I thought… I thought you’d be mad. I panicked…”
Your heart softened instantly. You stepped closer and placed a gentle hand against his chest. “Cloud… you went through all that… in the middle of the night… and you didn’t tell me? But you made sure she was safe?”
He swallowed, eyes darting away. “…Yeah. I… I didn’t know how to… say it.”
You smiled softly, cupping his cheek with both hands. “You didn’t need to do it alone. But… I love that you did.”
Cloud’s lips twitched, faint pink creeping across his cheeks. “…I… love you,” he whispered, voice low but steady, full of meaning.
“I love you too,” you whispered, leaning in to press a tender, lingering kiss to his lips. The kitten mewled softly, nudging your hands as if encouraging the moment. Cloud’s hands rested lightly on your waist at first, then firmed slightly, melting fully into the warmth of your embrace.
Barret let out a loud cough, glancing awkwardly between you two. “Heh… I don’t wanna ruin this lovey-dovey moment, but—”
You laughed softly, turning toward him with a smile. “Sit down, Barret. You’ve earned a break. I’ll get you some hot drinks, warm food, and sweet treats. Come on.”
Barret’s scowl softened into a wide grin as he plopped down on the sofa. “Alright… fine. But I better get my treats!”
You prepared cocoa, mugs steaming and cinnamon-spiced, along with warm pastries and small sweet treats. Cloud handed the kitten a tiny corner of blanket and watched quietly, his usual brooding self softened by the morning’s events.
After a few quiet, cozy moments, Barret sighed and smiled at the scene in front of him. “Alright, I think my job here is done. Gotta get back to my wife and kid before they wonder where I am.”
You waved warmly. “Thanks for helping, Barret. Merry Christmas!”
“Yeah, yeah, Merry Christmas,” he muttered, stepping toward the door, waving a hand, and finally leaving to be with his family. The apartment felt even warmer once he was gone—just you, Cloud, the tiny kitten, and the soft morning light glinting off the Christmas tree.
Cloud finally let out a quiet sigh, eyes soft, lingering on you. “I… I’m glad it’s over.”
You smiled, brushing a strand of hair from his face. “Me too. Now we can enjoy Christmas… together.”
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The apartment was quiet once more, snow falling gently against the windows. The little kitten curled up on the blanket, purring softly as you and Cloud settled on the sofa. The morning had stretched lazily into mid-morning, and now, it was finally time for one last tradition: Christmas presents.
You handed Cloud a small, carefully wrapped box. “Merry Christmas,” you said, smiling softly.
He raised an eyebrow, taking it with his usual stoic expression. “You didn’t have to,” he muttered, though the slight twitch of his lips betrayed him.
“Open it,” you encouraged.
Cloud peeled back the paper and lifted the lid. Inside was a hand-knitted scarf, soft and warm, in the colors you knew he liked, with a little embroidered emblem of a sword at one corner. Cloud’s eyes softened almost imperceptibly as he lifted it, holding it against his chest.
“It’s… really good,” he said quietly.
You smiled, heart fluttering at the rare softness in his voice. “I wanted you to have something cozy, since you’re always… cold,” you said teasingly.
Now it was Cloud’s turn. He handed you a small, square package wrapped in deep green paper. “Here.”
You unwrapped it carefully, and inside was a small photo album. On the cover, he’d etched the first letters of your names together, neatly and precisely. As you flipped through the pages, you saw snapshots from little moments he’d remembered: the first time you laughed together, the day he took you to your favorite cafe, the quiet times in the apartment… even the silly times with Barret and the others.
You paused, heart tightening. This was exactly why you had fallen in love with him—the thoughtfulness hidden beneath all that cold exterior. “Cloud… this… this is perfect,” you whispered, eyes glistening. “It’s… exactly why I love you.”
Cloud’s cheeks tinged faint pink, and he tried hard not to let it show. “…Don’t make it sound so sentimental,” he muttered, voice low.
You giggled softly, reaching out to hold his hand. “I love it. I love you,” you said quietly, leaning closer.
He hesitated for a heartbeat, then lowered his head, brushing your lips softly with his. The kiss deepened, tender and lingering, before he pulled back just enough to murmur against your lips, “The scarf is lovely… but you’re the only one I truly want for Christmas, baby.”
The kiss became more heated, Cloud’s usual restraint giving way as he pressed gently but firmly against you, the warmth of the moment filling the room. You melted into him, hands tangled in his hair, hearts racing. Just as the intensity grew, a tiny mewl cut through the air.
The kitten padded forward, batting at your sleeve, and Cloud let out a low chuckle, lifting you carefully into his arms. “Since she’s a girl… what should we name her?” he asked softly, looking down at the little furball.
You tilted your head, smiling. “I don’t know… what do you think?”
Cloud’s dark eyes softened as he spoke, “Luna. She’s gentle… like the moonlight.”
“Luna,” you repeated, your voice full of warmth. “I love it.” You leaned down, brushing a soft kiss over the kitten’s tiny head.
Cloud held you close as you nestled together on the sofa, the kitten curled safely between you. Outside, the snow continued to fall, covering Midgar in a soft, sparkling blanket. You rested your head against his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat, and whispered, “I love you.”
“I love you too,” Cloud murmured, pressing a tender kiss to your hair.
The three of you—Cloud, you, and Luna—sat quietly, watching the snow drift lazily down, hearts full, warmth surrounding you despite the winter chill. Christmas had never felt so… complete.