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        Reeve Leander slumped over his desk, concentrating hard on the project at hand, his dark hair falling over his eyes. Shinra wanted a city, and the seventeen year old was constructing one for submission. Then well known weapons manufacturers had turned to drawing Mako energy from the planet and using it as electricity. The President of the company had found an area rich in Mako energy located on the eastern continent, just a few miles from Reeve's hometown of Kalm. His idea was to build a city there, a Headquarters for the company. A place where large amounts of Mako could be extracted from the land and used to power the entire metropolis. Reeve was young, but he was deemed as brilliant by his teachers. He had an ingenious idea for Shinra's city of dreams, and he was determined to see his dreams built before his eyes.

    It was as if he were born to construct. As a child Reeve played with blocks as he dreamed of some day constructing a real life city where real life people would live, work and be happy.

    Because he was so smart, the young man had been permitted to skip several grades. He learned easily and quickly, not to mention eagerly. Reeve soaked up information like a dry sponge and he allowed none of it to go to waste.

    His mother had been dead many years, but Reeve lived comfortably with his father, Drewdin, and his grandmother, Rose, who was spunky and full of spirit, despite her weathered age. Drewdin owned the materia store in town, an establishment that had been in the family longer than anyone alive could even remember. The Leanders were not wealthy people, but they had never wanted for anything more than what they had.

    Not until Reeve began chasing his dream of becoming a city planner. The dark haired teenager wanted nothing more than to rise to success, to be well known, to be respected and to make people happy.

    So for hours he sat hunched over his plans, double, triple and quadruple checking each measurement, making sure his lines were straight, the overall design flawless and the presentation thoroughly professional and pleasing.

    Reeve was oblivious to the outside, so he didn't notice his grandmother shuffle into his room, refreshment in hand. "Still slaving over that blueprint, Reeve?" The old woman chuckled as she lay down the glass.

    "Yes," murmured the teen, taking a sip from the glass without taking his eyes from the paper. "My interview with Shinra is tomorrow. Everything must be perfect."

    "Tomorrow, huh?" The old woman glanced around his messy room. "You have something to wear?"

    "My blue suit," he answered curtly. "It's hanging on the back of the door."

    "Oh. Well I can see you're busy." She headed for the door before stopping again. "Good luck tomorrow, Reeve."

    "Thanks, grandma."

    The door closed Reeve away with his dream again.

    He was half an hour early for his ten thirty appointment. Now with five minutes between him and the rest of his life, Reeve was a nervous wreck. He held his masterpiece tightly as his leg nervously twitched up and down. There were several other applicants sitting in the waiting room as well. They all looked cool, calm, collected and thoroughly professional. Reeve envied them.

    Deep breaths, Reeve. Think positive. Don't let them intimidate you with their fancy suits and slicked back hairstyles. You....you have---

    "Reeve Leander?"

    The young man was jerked out of his thoughts by his own name. "Hmm? I'm he."

    The secretary stepped aside. "They're ready for you, sir."

    Reeve drew a deep, though shaky, breath, gathered his plans and confidence and marched right into the office.

    The room was bathed in a soft shadow, due to it's lack in lighting. There were only three executives present: an old blonde man, a young light haired woman in a revealing red dress and another older man with bushy hair and a face as well worn as a catcher's mitt.

    "You must be Reeve Leander," said the old blonde man. "Welcome. I'm President Shinra and this is Scarlet, head of weapons development, and this is Heidegger, head of public maintenance."

    The young man nodded in greeting. "A pleasure to meet you all." He smiled, but he must have looked uneasy.

    "Relax, boy! We don't bite," Heidegger chuckled.

    Scarlet looked like she might. Reeve glanced at her several times, made even more uncomfortable by her constant ogling. Each time he looked over she raised her eyebrows seductively. He didn't like it.

    "You are seventeen years old?" the President said in surprise, reading over his resume.

    "Yes, sir," the young man replied eagerly, setting his blue print up on the easel at the head of the table. "But my youth could be described as potential."

    "Most definitely," Scarlet replied sensuously.

    Reeve swallowed nervously and resisted the urge to wring his hands.

    "Can you explain your blueprint for us, young man? It does look unique."

    Reeve relaxed a bit, and managed a bit of a smile. They seemed to like it...and Scarlet seemed to like him...perhaps not too pleasant now, but if it helped him secure the job later...His confidence level rose. "I have divided the city into eight parts, or sectors," he pointed each one out before continuing, "in the center is the Shinra Headquarters, at the top of the plate. Each sector has it's own Mako reactor to provide power. Also, in order to support the Headquarters, each sector is covered by a plate of steel, held up by a support pole. This way the entire city is protected from the elements, as well as supporting the Headquarters."

    The President watched the presentation intently, his head resting on his hand. When Reeve had finished speaking the head of Shinra thought silently a moment before nodding slowly. "Shinra is above the common people, looking over them. I like that."

    "What would happen if one of the support structures holding up the plate shattered?" asked Heidegger.

    Reeve stammered. This would not be happy news. "Uh....well the entire sector would be crushed by the falling plate. However that is very unlikely to happen. It would take some strong explosives to destroy the supports in my blueprints."

    Scarlet asked, "does it have a name?"

    Reeve paused. He had named it Midgar after his mother...."Midgar," he said honestly, "but of course I understand if you wish to name your own city."

    "I believe an artist should name his own work," the President explained. "Besides, I believe Midgar would make a splendid city name. How did you come up with it?"

    Reeve quietly admitted, "it was my mother's," and shyly cast his eyes to the ground.

    "She must have been quite a person," Scarlet put in.

    Reeve shifted his eyes to the blonde. "She was."

    "I'm thoroughly impressed," the President spoke up. "You have an extraordinary vision, Mr. Leander. We will most certainly give it heavy consideration."

    Reeve smiled excitedly and picked up his masterpiece. They liked it! They really liked it! "Thank you very much. It has been a pleasure."

    Scarlet again raised her eyebrows at him. "The pleasure's been ours, Mr. Leander." She left his name roll off her tongue with a smile.

    The young man left the office light headed and giddy. The job of his dreams was so close he could see the city being built. Midgar....oh god, please. Just give me this and I'll never ask for anything ever again.

    He headed home.

    Reeve sat quietly, thought impatiently, through dinner. He was wriggling in his seat, praying the PHS would ring.

    His father and grandmother were quiet too. They would look at the young man, then at each other, growing nervous themselves.

    The PHS rang out with a shrill pitch, making everyone jump. Reeve sat like a statue, too scared to answer the call, afraid it wouldn't be what he was dying for. It rang again.

    "Get it!" his father ordered.

    Reeve sprang to action at his father's words and dived for the device. "Hello?....yes, this is he..." his voice shook as he spoke, a smile growing rapidly across his face as he listened to the voice at the other end. "Thank you! Thank you so much!" He hung up, and squeezed his eyes shut, pushing back tears of joy. "I got the job."

    Reeve had never felt so much excitement in his entire life. His first day of work for Shinra... The young man must have grinned at his own reflection for a good ten minutes before he was satisfied with his appearance and left for the meeting.

    He walked in meekly, glancing around for any familiar face.

    "Hello, *Reeve*," Scarlet drawled, sliding up besides him in another revealing red dress. How many of these does she have?

    "Um, hello, Scarlet," he replied, nervously straightening his tie and trying not to stare at her chest. It was very difficult for him. After all, he was a seventeen year old, often known to think with something else besides his brain. Plus, there they were, almost right in his face.

    "I'm very excited about working together," she went on, running a hand down his chest.

    The young man couldn't help but helplessly watch. "I'm honored to have been chosen," he stammered. "I'm looking forward to working wit you too--with everyone here." Oh boy...this is a *bad* time to be getting an erection....

    "There's my boy wonder!" The President walked over and shook the young man's hand vibrantly, freeing him from Scarlet's spell. "Welcome to the future, Reeve. Welcome to Shinra Inc."

    "Thank you, sir. Thank you very much." As he was led across the room by the President, Reeve saw Scarlet wink at him. Working here was to be very interesting indeed.

    In the beginning work was simple and enjoyable. Every day they would go over the plans, formulating the exact cost of the building materials. Scarlet always seemed to be right behind him with a smile or a wink or a play of teasing fingers across his back. It was very distracting, and he found himself extremely attracted to her. Still, he concentrated on his work.

    At home, things were quiet as they always were. His father never said a word about work or anything else. Reeve had always found his father to be a cold and secretive man, but it was coming to be that his own father didn't speak to him. His grandmother tried her best to make up for it, but the distance between father and son was growing rapidly. Reeve found he dreaded coming home and consequentially spent more and more time at work.

    There was a lull in the process right now. The supplies had been ordered, and all they could do was wait before moving on.

    It was going on nine o'clock, and the only ones left in that meeting room where Reeve and the President. Even Scarlet had managed to pry herself away from the young man's side, after running a finger down his arm with a lusty, "see you tomorrow."

    "You're always here so late," the President chuckled. "Such a hard worker, Reeve."

    The young man reluctantly added up the last few digits on the financial report. "I don't mind at all, sir."

    "Good," replied Shinra. "Very good."

    Reeve was just slowly putting away the papers when a knock disturbed the evening silence.

    "Who could that be?" Shinra mumbled. "Come in!"

    The figure that stepped into the room drew a startled gasp from Reeve. Those green eyes...that silver hair...he would have know Sephiroth of SOLDIER anywhere. The sight of him in his intimidating black clothes was undermined by the presence of a child at his side, holding onto his hand.

    "Sephiroth...." Shinra stepped away from the table. "They've brought Rufus to me already?"

    "I'm afraid so, sir." The silver haired man nodded. "Is it inconvenient?"

    The President seemed uncomfortable. "I hate to step out for awhile."

    "I'll watch him!" Reeve eagerly jumped in, drawing the attention of everyone in the room. He must have sounded eager to suck up, when in reality he was eager to prolong his time away from home.

    Shinra smiled. "Reeve! Delightful! I'll be back soon." He left the room without so much as a look at his son.

    The green eyed SOLDIER looked after the President with a sigh and a shake of his head. Looking down at the child he said, "all right, Rufus. You stay here with this man and your father will return shortly."

    Rufus shook his head, looking up at Sephiroth pleadingly. "No, Sephy. You stay too."

    The older man made no verbal protest. "Well....all right." He ushered the child inside and glanced at Reeve. "You can go if you wish. I'll stay with him."

    "I'd rather stay here if you don't mind," Reeve explained, "I've got nowhere to rush home to."

    The other man nodded as he shut the door. "As you wish."

    "I'm Reeve Leander," he introduced himself, extending a hand.

    "Sephiroth," the green eyed man replied simply, roughly shaking the younger man's hand.

    "It's a pleasure to meet you." He took a seat again.

    Sephiroth sat too. "You're the one they have building their city?"

    He nodded. "Yes."

    "Hmn," muttered the older one,  "good luck with it."

    "I didn't know the President had a son."

    Sephiroth shook his head. "Yeah, well...." he trailed off with a sigh. "This is Rufus. He's five."

    Reeve gave the child a small wave. "Hiya, Rufus."

    The child was suddenly shy. "Hi....."

    "Do you happen to know why the President had to step out?" asked Sephiroth.

    Reeve shook his head no. "I haven't a clue."

    Sephiroth frowned and muttered, "typical."

    "Why's he always leaving me?" Rufus asked quietly, looking innocently up at Sephiroth.

    "I don't know," he honestly replied, eyes cast down on the table.

    Reeve was confused. The President frequently ran out on his little boy? He began to wonder why himself.

    The boy climbed up on Sephiroth's lap without asking, startling the green eyed man. "Oh, Rufus," he grunted, helping the child up. "Don't you think you're getting a little old for this?"

    Reeve couldn't help but find this all terribly amusing. Sephiroth seemed so cold to everyone and everything, by reputation anyway, now here he was with the child.... "He sure likes you," he commented.

    Green eyes looked over at him, narrowing slightly. "Yes, well--"

    "I love my Sephy!" Rufus proclaimed, wrapping his arms around Sephiroth's neck.

    Reeve watched as the SOLDIER's face grew bright red, very slowly, like an hourglass. Then, to his shock, Sephiroth burst out laughing. He looked down at Rufus and just laughed for a minute or so, while Reeve sat there, jaw dropped, blinking in surprise.

    When he calmed down, Sephiroth wiped a tear from his eye, ruffled the boy's hair and said, "yes, Rufus."

    Reeve finally managed to close his mouth and get over his shock. Well his vision of Sephiroth was altered forever....

    "Anyway...." again Sephiroth turned his eyes to Reeve, "how old are you, if you don't mind my asking."

    "I don't mind," he replied, "I'm seventeen."

    "Ah yes...." the older man nodded slowly, as though he was trying to recall something. "I remember hearing you were young." He paused. "I have heard a lot about you actually."

    "Hopefully all good things," Reeve answered with a nervous laugh.

    "Yes," Sephiroth confirmed with a tiny smile, "no need to worry."

    "I've heard many, many good things about you too," Reeve put in. "There are many stories circulating on the street about the mighty Sephiroth."

    Green eyes shifted back to the young boy and he grew quiet. "Oh...."

    Guess he doesn't like to talk about himself, Reeve thought.

    Rufus broke the silence. "Sephy," he said, a piece of silver hair in his hand, "I wanna grow my hair long like you."

    "No you don't," Sephiroth replied, removing his hair from the child's grasp.

    The child frowned. "Oh. Why not?"

    "It's a lot of work," he explained.

    "Oh." The boy thought a moment. "Then why don't you cut yours?"

    "I can't."

    "Why not?"

    "I just can't," he said bluntly.

    Rufus just blinked. Silently he looked from Reeve to Sephiroth and back again. He said to the younger man, "do you know Vincent?"

    "Rufus," Sephiroth interjected firmly, "I told you no."

    "Sorry....." the boy murmured.

    Before Reeve could attempt to change the subject the President reentered, accompanied by another man. "Take Rufus," he instructed, gesturing to the boy. The unfamiliar man nodded, picked up the child and headed for the door.

    "Bye, Sephy!" he called, waving happily.

    "Good-bye, Rufus," Sephiroth replied with a tiny smile.

    "Bye, Reeve!"

    Reeve waved to the boy. "Bye bye, Rufus."

    The door was closed and the child was gone.

    Sephiroth stood. "A pleasure as always, sir." He headed for the door.

    "Sephiroth," Shinra called, halting the young SOLDIER, "...I'm afraid you won't be watching Rufus anymore."

    The other man turned. "Why?"

    "I think I should go..." Reeve said quietly, inching towards the door.

    "Stay, Reeve," Sephiroth commanded.

    Reeve stopped dead, not willing to go against the word of Sephiroth.

    The President looked at both men before he said, "I don't think it's a good idea for him to be getting too attached to anyone. We'll be sending him away again."

    Sephiroth thinned his lips and Reeve could tell the older man was not too happy with the news. "I see, sir."

    "I'm sorry," the President offered weakly.

    Without another word, Sephiroth turned and left the room in a swirl of black.

    Reeve stood still another minute before he too headed for the door.

    "Wait, Reeve," the President called to him.

    "Yes?" he turned.

    "There are some things you must know...." he trailed off and pulled out a chair from under the table. "Have a seat."

    He did, slightly wary. The President told him about the Jenova project, and about Sephiroth's creation. Reeve listened in amazement. "Does he *know*?" he asked quietly.

    "No," Shinra answered firmly, eyes intent. "No, and you must not breathe a word of this to him or anyone outside the company."

    Reeve nodded solemnly.

    "There's more....my son, Rufus....he has also been injected with Jenova."

    "Oh?"

    "He doesn't know either..." Shinra trailed off, giving the young man an intense glare. "We have secrets here which must be *kept* secret," he said firmly. "I trust you'll remember that, Reeve."

    He nodded. "Yes, sir. You can trust me."

    And so Midgar was built. The President rushed the process so that it took only a few months for the sprawling metropolis to spring up. Eight Sectors, arranged like the spokes of a wheel. And at the center of that wheel was Shinra, as it was now and always would be.

    Already the property was selling like hot cakes, as everyone was drooling for a piece of Shinra and all it's promise.

    Reeve looked out from one of the office windows--a room that would be *his*. There was no need of shades of any kind. He never wanted an obstructed view of this city. He had dreamed it and designed it. Now people were moving their lives here. They were starting over with a reliance on all Shinra had to offer. Reeve smiled, his heart swelling with pride as he gazed at what he created. It was remarkable. *So* remarkable, however, that he was still waiting to wake up and discover it was all a terrific dream.

    Reeve loved his city. And he was sure wherever his mother was, she was proud. Proud of hi accomplishment and honored that he used her name to make so many dreams come true.

    "Beautiful, isn't it?"

    He jumped and half turned, glancing back at Scarlet before going back to the window. "Yes. It is, isn't it."

    He felt her come up behind him, pressing herself against his back. Suddenly his mind was giving him different signals and he couldn't help sneaking glances back at her. "I guess beauty just comes easily to you, Reeve," she purred in his ear.

    Frozen, he griped the window sill for control. "Thank you." It was nothing louder than a whisper.

    "Mm." Scarlet cracked a smile, backing away. "The ceremony will start soon."

    He pried himself away from the window. "I'm ready," he replied, offering her his arm."

    Scarlet took it with a smile. "Good."

    They sat in a row. The President to his left, Scarlet to his right. He was so nervous. His palms were sweating and he moved his hands back and forth over his knees, trying to relieve the tension.

    The ceremony began, but he couldn't really listen. He was too exited, too nervous, too overwhelmed. After all, here he was at seventeen, already a success. How could it have been so easy? Everything still seemed to be a dream. But oh....if he woke up now...what a disappointment.

    The President's mention of his name jerked Reeve back to reality. He looked up to see the President was motioning for him to come up to the podium. Eyes widened, and he shakily got to his feet. Something pinched at his rear end, and he turned his head to catch Scarlet's wink. Swallowing the nervous lump in his throat, he drew a shallow breath and approached the podium.

    As he reached the mic and looked down at the crowd, every planned word flew out of him head. The image of so many faces, so many people, looking up full of hope, eyes eager to start fresh. Start new. Start over. Yes, he had always known the impact the city would have but it wasn't until that moment did he fully understand why. People were drawn to Shinra and everything it promised. People needed hope, and Shinra, and Midgar, were that hope. The picture stunned him, the emotion of it, and he knew that he would never forget it as long as he lived. What could he say? Nothing, except, "welcome to Midgar."

    The following morning he moved out of his home in Kalm to be in his city and with Shinra. As he loaded the last of his belongings into the car, his grandmother joined him outside, and his father though outside, remained in the doorway.

    "I'm so proud of us, Reeve." His grandmother had tears in her eyes as she embraced him. "You really followed your dream."

    "Thank you," Reeve replied with a weak smile.

    "You'll come back and see your old grandmother, won't you, Reeve?"

    "As often as I'm able," he assured her.

    "Make sure you eat right." With those words she kissed his cheek, told him she loved him and headed back up the stairs to the house.

    He looked at his father a moment and wondered why he wasn't saying anything. As happy as he was, his father's actions made him feel as though he was doing something horribly wrong. And he looked so stern, standing with with his arms crossed, a sour expression on his face. It was though he was being let out of jail instead of leaving home. Frowning, he waved quickly. "Bye, dad."

    His father frowned, turned, and went into the house.

    Reeve wondered what he had done wrong to deserve this from his own father.

    His grandmother hurried into the house too, leaving the young man alone.

    That's it, Reeve thought, climbing into the car. I'm on my own.

    He drove home to Midgar.

    Reeve proudly stood in his new room, looking around, a smile on his face. Now this was life.

    Just as he put his suitcase down there was a sharp rapping on the door. Confused as to who the caller might be, Reeve went over and swung the door open.

    Scantily clad in red as always, Scarlet leaned against the door frame, a teasing smile on her lips. "Getting settled, Reeve?"

    He straightened his tie, suddenly nervous for no particular reason. "Um....yeah....I was just unpacking."

    She stepped inside, and he backed away, green eyes stuck on her. Scarlet kicked the door shut, and Reeve found he now had a reason to be nervous. She said, "you're very attractive, Reeve."

    Oh my god she's coming on to me, he thought as he felt the sweat drip down the back of his neck. I should have seen this coming....what should I say? "Um......thanks. So are you. You're pretty, I mean," he stumbled.

    She stepped forward. "You ever been with a woman, Reeve?" She took his tie and loosened it ever so slowly.

    The young man was frozen, eyes wide. He barely shook his head in response to her question, and swallowed nervously as she pressed her body to his.

    "Then this ought to be quite a learning experience for you." Her voice was barely a whisper as her breath tickled his ear.

    Reeve' breathing grew quick and harsh, his heart beating in his ears as he felt her hands slide under his jacket to run over his spine. He trembled. "Oh Scarlet..."

    She smiled. "Like that, Reeve?" Her lips were only several millimeters from him, and her breath on his skin drove him mad with desire. "I can do *many* things to pleasure you."

    As she leaned forward to kiss him, the last coherent thought that flashed through his mind was another happy reminder of how glad he was to work for Shinra.

    Everything was wonderful for awhile, awhile being four years. Those four years were uneventful. Reeve was happy at Shinra. The President liked him, Midgar was running smoothly, and he had Scarlet to screw around with. And, unlike in the beginning, he was legal now-- twenty-one. A man in the eyes of the world, but still an ingenious boy in the eyes of President Shinra. Still, he didn't mind too much. He was treated extremely well and life was good.

    Life on the home front had not changed much. His father remained quiet and reserved, and Reeve just resorted to ignored him. Visits home became increasingly rare, and he didn't like to think or talk about it.

    That morning they were at a meeting as usual, seated around the rectangular table. Scarlet sat close besides him as usual, hand under his jacket, rubbing up and down his back. "He's late," Heidegger complained, glancing around the room. Eyeing Reeve he asked, "what're you reading, kid?"

    The young man looked up. "The reports from yesterday."

    Heidegger laughed annoyingly. "When will you learn, kid? No one reads that junk!"

    Scarlet's eyes narrowed. "Leave him alone. You're a moron."

    He mirrored her glare. "I'd keep my mouth shut if I were, skank. And get your hand out from under his jacket before the President gets here."

    She scowled, but took her hand away.

    And just in time too. The door to the meeting room opened and in came a smiling President Shinra, accompanied by a younger man in a Turk uniform who couldn't have been older than sixteen. He too looked quite happy.

    "I see you have a new Turk for me, sir," Heidegger commented, extending a hand to the boy. "I'm Heidegger, your boss."

    The new Turk turned to his boss and professionally shook his hand. "It will be my pleasure to serve under you, sir."

    The President took the opportunity to introduce him to everyone around the table. Reeve put down the reports to really study the teenager. He was fairly tall, with pale, smooth skin. His eyes were so dark they were black. They had a dull shine to them, still innocent, but it was clear the boy had seen more than his share of pain. His hair was black as well, and short, tucked back behind his ears. The uniform he wore was spotless, without a wrinkle and he held it well.

    "--too busy to train him," the President was explaining. Reeve had been too busy studying the boy to notice. "This poses a great problem, as he needs to be able to get into the field as soon as possible."

    "What will his weapon be?" Hojo spoke up.

    "We need a Turk who can use a sword, so he will use one," the President told him.

    The Professor sighed. "Then why not let Sephiroth train him? SOLDIER...Turk...little difference."

    Heidegger laughed, and Reeve winced at the noise. He almost chuckled noting that the boy did too. "Ah, Sephiroth would be a splendid  teacher!" He patted the scientist on the back. "Good thinking, Hojo!"

    The old man frowned. "Yes, well..."

    "Come, Heidegger," the President said warmly, an arm around his friend. "We have much to discuss!"

    "You're to come too, Hojo," Heidegger instructed as he and President exited.

    "Yes," Hojo hissed, not to happily following.

    "So much for that meeting," Scarlet muttered, getting to her feet. "I'm going to go have a cigarette. I'll see you later, all right, lover?" She looked down at Reeve.

    Reeve had been looking at the new Turk, who stood by himself, looking a bit lost. "Huh?" He snapped back to attention, meeting eyes with Scarlet. "Yes, I'll see you later."

    "Good." She smiled, kissed him, and left.

    Reeve stood too, brushed himself off and cautiously approached the younger man who still stood at attention. "Hello," he greeted him warmly, extending his hand. "Welcome to Shinra. I'm Reeve Leander, head of city development."

    "Tseng Tyutyuik," the boy answered, a smile appearing on his once stern face. "It's a pleasure to meet you, sir."

    Reeve almost laughed. "No need to call me, sir. No one else does. It's just Reeve."

    "All right, Reeve," he nodded.

    "Where are you from?" asked Reeve, "how did they find you? Not just anyone can become a Turk, you know."

    The teenager cleared his throat. "Actually, I'm from Midgar. They picked me up off the street. I had been living there ever since my family died in a fire fiveyears ago."

    Reeve blinked in shock as his mind absorbed the words. "I'm sorry to hear that." He paused briefly before adding, "I designed Midgar."

    The boy didn't make eye contact with him. "Shinra saved me, and I'm forever in their debt. I will do whatever is asked of me, as long as...." he trailed off, looking back and meeting with Reeve's eyes. "I'm sorry."

    The older man smiled. "It's all right. Sounds like you've been through a lot."

    The young man shrugged. "I lived the best I could."

    Putting a hand on the new Turk's shoulder Reeve said, "would you like to get a cup of coffee and talk a bit?" He winked. "I could tell you a little about what you're about to get into."

    The Turk smiled. "Sure. I would really like that."

    They went off together.

    The two men sat down together, steaming mugs of coffee in hand.

    "You look to be pretty young for a Shinra executive," Tseng commented as he sat himself across from Reeve.

    "I'm 21," replied the other man, taking a sip from his mug. He chuckled, "you took pretty young for a Turk."

    The teenager blushed. "I'm fifteen," he admitted shyly, sipping at his drink. "I have not been treated like I am though."

    Hmm....quite the opposite of me, Reeve mused as he silently took another sip. "Well that is something to be thankful for."

    "I agree," he replied.

    A moment of silence passed.

    "So," Reeve began, breaking the quiet, "you must be apprehensive....after all, you are to be trained by Sephiroth."

    The teenager carefully placed his mug on the desk. "I am.... I don't really know much about him."

    "I met him once," Reeve told him. "And that was a long time ago, when I first came to work here. I hear many stories but..." he smiled, mind wandering back. "He seemed nice enough to me."

    Tseng let out the breath he had been holding. "I'm glad.... I too have heard many stories."

    "What have they told you?" asked Reeve. "About the Turks?"

    He looked up, black eyes suddenly intent now that his new job was mentioned. "They told me I must be loyal, and do whatever is asked of me."

    "It is what the Turks are known for," Reeve assured him, breaking into a smile. "You'll do fine. And if you never need to talk or anything like that, you can always come by my office." He took a sip from his mug. "Consider me your first friend at Shinra."

    The younger man smiled in relief. "Thank you, s--Reeve." He laughed. "Sorry."

    Reeve's eyes sparkled. "No problem."

    And so Tseng became a frequent visitor to Reeve's office. Reeve enjoyed chatting with the young Turk. He was bright, and very mature for someone so young. They found they were able to talk or share anything with one another. Tseng would sometimes talk about his family, but it would always bring tears to his eyes, and the subject was less frequent than it once was. Reeve seldom mentioned his own family. Occasionally he would reminisce  about his mother or his grandmother, but never his father. That was a confidential file.

    He lay in bed with Scarlet one night, still panting from the after shocks of pleasure. Gods, I don't think she ever ceases to surprise me...

    Scarlet said, "what do you think of that new Turk?"

    "Tseng?" he sat up and looked at her. "I like him a lot. He's a good choice. I talk with him often."

    "Do you?" she raised her eyebrows. "How old is he?"

    "Fifteen," he told her.

    Scarlet seemed to frown for a moment, as though she was disappointed. "That's too young..." she muttered to herself.

    "Hm?" Reeve turned. "Did you say something?"

    She smiled at him, running her slender fingers over his chest. "No....." she paused as she extracted several moans from deep within Reeve's throat. "Have you been using the gym, Reeve?" she purred. "You're becoming quite muscular."

    "On and off," he told her, trying to hide the want in his voice. Geez, we just finished and I could go all over again...

    She pulled him towards her. "Do you enjoy being with me Reeve?" Her hands sought out and touched a part of him that made his whole body jerk.

    "Hell yes," he answered, moving towards her. He then cleared his throat, embarrassed at the crass words he had used. "I mean yes. Very much so."

    She smiled seductively as her fingertips continued to stroke that. "It's something you won't forget."

    "Oh yeah!" he celebrated quietly as another "basket" was made. "Score!"

    A knock at the door startled him, and the front of the chair hit the ground with a loud bang. "Aw, shit," he cursed as he banged his foot on the desk. "Come in!!"

    Tseng entered, looking a bit wary. "Reeve?"

    "Oh, hey there," Reeve greeted him, removing his shoe and rubbing his foot. "Come in, Tseng."

    The young Turk did and stood at the desk. "Did you hurt yourself? I heard a bang."

    "Don't even ask," mumbled Reeve.

    "Can we talk?"

    "Yes, of course. Sit down."

    He did, slowly, and then cleared his throat as if he was nervous. "As you know, Sephiroth has been teaching me."

    "Yes, I know," Reeve confirmed as he slid his shoe back on his foot. "Is there a problem?"

    "No, no, no," Tseng said very quickly. "No problem. It's just that....that...." he took a deep breath. "ReevecanIaskyouapersonelquestion?"

    The older man blinked, put off balance at the way the younger man was acting. "A personal question? I don't see why not. We're friends, no?"

    "Well....um...." his avoided Reeve's gaze as he said, "are you sleeping with Scarlet?"

    A knot formed in Reeve's stomach as he replied, "was it that obvious?"

    Still the young man would not look at him. "Sephiroth said I should speak to you about it."

    "Sephiroth?" Reeve frowned and narrowed his eyes. "What does he know?"

    "He....he....he said to ask you if you knew how she got to where she is in the company," stuttered the teenager.

    He paused a moment and thought. Actually, he had never asked or even wondered how Scarlet got her position. "No...as a matter of a fact I don't." He leaned forward, getting closer to Tseng in an effort to make eye contact. "Would you care to enlighten me?"

    Tseng's head turned, and his eyes widened as he realized how close his face was to Reeve's. "Uh...well, Sephiroth said that she got her job by sleeping her way there and she's a whore and you shouldn't trust her. That's what he said and I thought I would tell you cause you're my friend and I don't want you to get hurt," he rushed his words, obviously fearing the other man's response.

    Reeve just smiled, tousled the younger man's hair and said, "I appreciate your concern, Tseng, but that was a long time ago. People change."

    The Turk blinked. "You're not mad?"

    "Why should I be?"

    "I thought you would be mad."

    "Look, Tseng," Reeve said, coming around the desk. He stopped besides Tseng's chair. "I don't want you to be afraid of me. You can tell me about anything."

    Tseng stood, eyes locked with Reeve's. "Really? Anything?"

    "Yes. Anything at all," he confirmed, a smile crossing his lips. "Don't forget that."

    Tseng nodded. "I won't."

    This particular morning he sat stirring his gourmet coffee and smiling to himself. "This is gonna be a good day," he sighed, taking in the smell of vanilla as he took a sip from his mug.

    There was a knock at the door and he placed his mug down, turning forwards. "Come in!"

    Tseng entered, smiling. "Good morning, Reeve."

    "Tseng!" exclaimed Reeve, glad to see the young man. "It's been almost a week! Have a seat! Would you like some coffee?"

    "That's all right," the young Turk declined gently, taking his seat across from Reeve. "Reeve....I want to tell you something."

    Reeve picked up his mug. "Go right ahead."

    "...I...I hope it doesn't scare you."

    "Why would it scare me?" He took a sip of the beverage. "You can tell me anything, remember?" He went to take another sip as Tseng spoke.

    "All right." Tseng took a deep breath. "Reeve, I'm attracted to Sephiroth."

    Reeve spat out what he was drinking and dropped the mug to the ground. It didn't break, but the coffee spilled out and was absorbed into the carpet. He turned his head to the young man in shock.

    "Um....sorry?" Tseng offered weakly, beads of sweat forming on his skin.

    The older man blinked. "Tseng..." he began, and he leaned forward to whisper, "are you gay?"

    Tseng shrugged, looking away. "Yeah....I guess I am if I'm attracted to Sephiroth."

    Reeve was silent for a moment. "Oh." He sat back and thought a moment. "Well that's fine. Sorry if I scared you. I was a little...um...caught off guard." He leaned down to pick his empty mug off the ground. "My designer coffee," he sighed unhappily.

    "You're not....scared of me?"

    "Why would I be? You're not some kind of monster." He chuckled.

    "So...it doesn't bother you that I like men."

    "No," Reeve assured him. Grinning he added, "just don't forget I'm straight."

    Tseng laughed. "No, Reeve. I don't think that I could."

    He was going to call his father.

    He hesitated a good long time, holding the PHS in his shaking hand. Why the hell am I so nervous? He's just my father. I shouldn't feel this way about calling my own father. Suck it up, Reeve. Are you a man or a stupid little kid. Just call him.

    He dialed, hand still shaking. As it rang he seriously considered hanging up and forgetting all about this.

    "Hello?"

    The voice at the other side froze him for a moment. "Uh..."

    "Hello?"

    "Uh, grandma?" he finally spoke, clearing his throat as he finally found his voice.

    "Reeve? Is that you?"

    "Yeah, grandma, it's me," he admitted.

    "Oh, Reeve!" she sounded very happy to speak with him. "How are you doing?"

    He smiled, relaxing as he answered. "I'm just fine, grandma." Licking his lips he posed his question. "Is my father there?"

    He was answered with silence.

    Maybe she didn't hear me, he thought. "Grandma, is my dad--"

    "No." Her warm voice had suddenly turned so cold. "Try another time. Good-bye, Reeve."

    A feeling of emptiness overwhelmed him and his voice failed him. "Good-bye," was whispered, and he hung up, arms suddenly feeling like weights.

    So he won't speak to me at all. That bastard. What did I ever do besides succeed? I don't understand...

    For the first time since he had come to Shinra, Reeve bent his head and wept.

    When Tseng finally returned, the scene of him finally back in his office, put a huge smile on Reeve's face.

    "Tseng! I'm so glad to see you! Have a seat! I want to hear all about your trip!!"

    The young man seemed shy as he took his seat without a word.

    "Well?" Reeve prompted as he seated himself eyes sparkling.  "Did anything interesting happen?"

    The teenager looked up, a coy grin on his lips. "Don't fall off your chair, Reeve."

    "You know me too well."

    "Well, Reeve, I....I....I know you won't be happy with me, and you probably won't even believe me but..." his eyes locked with his friend's. "You can't tell anyone, Reeve. Not a soul. I'm only telling you because I trust you and you're my friend."

    "Not a soul," Reeve echoed, a bit apprehensive of what he was about to hear. "What happened?"

    "I slept with Sephiroth."

    He managed only to blink. Every other muscle had locked up on him. Finally he voiced a reply, low and serious, "you're kidding."

    "No....." Tseng trembled slightly as he spoke. "I....we....um....he found out I found him attractive and we..."

    "Only once?" Reeve couldn't help asking. "Just one night?"

    "Um..."

    "Tseng!" The older exclaimed in surprise. "Do you realize you're fifteen years old, and he's what--he's older than me!"

    "I know," Tseng replied, serious beyond his years. "That is why you must not tell anyone." He paused and as Reeve looked away he began pleading. "Reeve, *please*. I don't expect you to understand. I can't even use words to explain why I need this. I know I'm young. But it doesn't matter." He rose to his feet. "Reeve, please."

    The older man shut his eyes as he answered, "I gave you my word. I will keep it to myself. You are my friend, Tseng. My *best* friend. And I only wish to see you happy." He turned, green eyes opening. "I apologize for my reaction."

    Black eyes blinked back at him. "Understandable." The Turk went to leave, but as he reached the door he turned back, a wide grin on his face. "Oh and Reeve. You're my best friend too."

    He didn't understand his father's sudden coldness ever since he had mentioned even *applying* for the Shinra job. Ever since then, ever since that day, it had seemed as though there were worlds between them, and they were only drifting further apart.

    Most of the time he tried not to think about it. In other areas he was happy. He was happy to be with Scarlet, despite what other said about her. She gave him pleasure and backed all his ideas one hundred percent. The only thing about her that got on his nerves was her habit of smoking. Lately, after the love making was over, she would pull out a pack of the foul smelling cigarettes and light up. She would always offer one to him, claiming it was a great relaxer, but he always turned away. He hated those things. Reeve found that Scarlet was becoming less and less important to him.

    Tseng, however, made up for everything older woman was not. Whenever Reeve needed someone to talk to or to vent to, the young Turk was always there to listen. But try as he might, there was some days where he just wanted to be shut off from everyone and everything. Days when his father wouldn't talk to him and he just felt so isolated he wanted to cry. On those days he couldn't even turn to his best friend. He was too ashamed to go crying too him. After all, he was the older of the two. Wasn't it his job to act mature? Grown men didn't go crying to each other.

    One night, a few months or so after Tseng fell in with the older SOLDIER member, Reeve was half asleep, feet up on his desk, leaning back in his chair, head to the ceiling. The light in his office was out, and only the pale rays of moonlight lit parts of the room. He figured he should probably go *home* and go to sleep, but he was too tired to move. Besides, he wasn't in the mood to inhale any of Scarlet's second hand smoke either.

    Just as he was about to drift off completely, a monotone knock at his office door jerked him awake and he fell forward, off his chair and onto the floor with a loud thump.

    And the prize for the biggest klutz goes to.... Reeve thought warily as he picked himself up off the floor. "Come in." He called, assuming it was Tseng coming to say good night.

    A dark shadow glided into the room, and the sound of heavy footsteps were heard as the door closed softly. Reeve looked up, still on the floor, eyes wide at the figure that had entered.

    Sephiroth came over to the desk and peered down at Reeve. "Hiding from something?"

    Oh, my god, I feel.....like an idiot...Reeve thought as he met Sephiroth's glowing green eyes. "Um....no...uh, sir. I was just....looking for a paper clip that I...uh...dropped." He pulled himself to his feet. "Is there something wrong?"

    "It's Sephiroth." He said simply. "Do not call me, sir, Reeve. We do not even work in the same area."

    "Ah....all right," Reeve agreed, nodding several times. He had to look away from Sephiroth. This was only his second him in his presence and he felt so intimidated by him. There stood the legendary SOLDIER, moonlight spilling over his powerful form. I hope he's not mad at me or anything, Reeve thought, because I don't even have a chance....

    "I know Tseng told you about the two of us. He told you because he trusts you."

    Reeve found the strength to look back into the face of Sephiroth. "I haven't told anyone. Not a soul."

    "I know," he replied. "And I thank you for it. I don't have any doubt in Tseng's choice in friends. Clearly, you are one of the few trustworthy people in this company."

    What does he mean by that? Reeve thought warily.

    "That is why I come to you now," Sephiroth went on, "because I know I can trust you."

    Reeve nodded solemnly, a pit of fear forming in his stomach that told him something was horribly, horribly wrong. "Sephiroth.....did...did something happen to Tseng?" his voice was shaking. "Oh god...tell me I'm wrong..."

    Sephiroth cast his eyes downward. "I'm afraid he was raped."

    Reeve knees gave out, and he would have fell to the ground had Sephiroth not taken him by the arms and held him up. "Raped!? Raped by who?! Who raped him?!" His voice was consumed with anger. "I swear to god, I'll--"

    "There lies the problem." Sephiroth said smoothly. "You cannot tell anyone. It will only result in pain for everyone involved. Do you understand? I would have killed Hojo myself if not for...." the older man cleared his throat and started over. "I walked in on it, you see? And I was all set to end his miserable life." Sephiroth's voice took such a bitter road that Reeve became stiff with fear. "However, that horrible excuse for a person offered evidence that made it impossible to end his life without horrible consequences. I should not even be telling you this, but I must."

    Reeve found his voice. "Why's that?"

    "Because he's been calling your name ever since it happened. He is in bad shape, Reeve." The older man's voice seemed choked for a moment. "I will take you to him, but only if you promise not to breathe a word."

    "Not a word," Reeve promised sternly. "Take me to him, Sephiroth. Please."

    He nodded. "Follow me."

    Reeve kneeled at his friend's side, taking his hand immediately in his own. Tseng was crying, hysterical as he lay on his bed, inconsolable.

    "Reeve...." he groaned. "Reeve..."

    "Tseng..." Reeve said urgently. "Tseng, I here. I'm here now. It's all right. Hojo's gone. Sephiroth saved you, and we're both here for you now. We won't let anyone else hurt you. "

    The teenager turned his head, black eyes finally opening. His face was flushed and streaked with tears. "Reeve...." he breathed as if his own eyes betrayed him.

    "Yeah...." Reeve said, choking back his own tears. How could anyone do this to him? Rape and take advantage of him like that? Hojo makes me wanna vomit.... I don't even know what to say to him. "Hey. I came as fast as I could."

    "Reeve!" Going into hysterics again, Tseng lunged and grabbed for Reeve as if he was drowning. He clung tightly at the older man's neck, sobbing into his shoulder.

    Reeve held the young man close, massaging his back in gentle circles. "I'm so sorry, Tseng.... So so sorry."

    "Reeve....."

    Sephiroth kneeled besides Reeve and ran a hand though the young Turk's hair. "Why, Tseng? Why didn't you fight him off? Why did you let him do this to you?"

    "I didn't....I didn't want to lose my job....he said I would...if I didn't let him....and I....I need this job so much..." he clung desperately to Reeve, nails digging into the fabric of his suit jacket.

    Reeve and Sephiroth looked at one another. The silver haired man looked so outraged, his jaw was set in such a way that it looked as though he was about to explode. Reeve was so upset over this whole thing that he didn't know what to do.

    So he broke down in tears as well. "This shouldn't have happened!" Reeve held the young man closer, nuzzling against his neck as he cried. "Stupid *fucking* Hojo should just go die!"

    "Hmmmmm...." Sephiroth agreed quietly.

    "I couldn't lose this job....Reeve....I couldn't....I couldn't....it's all I have....I couldn't let...I couldn't let him..."

    "Ssh...." Reeve soothed him, cupping the back of the teenager's head in his hand. "I understand you, Tseng. I understand too well."

    "The injustice," Sephiroth muttered. His next words were very soft, but Reeve thought he heard him say, "I wish I could kill him....but I'm so weak..."

    Reeve pulled away, trying to slow his tears. "How do you feel, Tseng? Are you all right? Do you need anything? I....I'm sorry I can't stop....crying...."

    "Cry, Reeve," Tseng said, taking his friend's face gently in his cool hands. "Please....don't be ashamed to...I will never think less of you."

    "You...you..." Reeve stammered, unable to believe his ears as the tears trickled down his face. "Tseng, how did you know I was just---"

    "I don't call myself your best friend for nothing."

    They met eyes for a moment, and Reeve couldn't help but feel a strange fulfillment. Tseng understood him more perfectly than he could ever imagine in anyone. "Oh gods, Tseng....I....I....thank you."

    "No..." the young Turk's voice was shaking as he said, "thank you. Thank you for supporting me and for being my friend."

    Reeve looked from Sephiroth and Tseng and backed off, somewhat regretfully letting the young Turk out of his arms.

    "Sephiroth...." Tseng looked at his lover, a sparkle in his eye. "Thank you...thank you for saving me."

    The usually stern SOLDIER looked at the young boy for a moment in his usual upright manner before he crumbled, taking the boy in his arms. "There is never a need to thank me. I care for you very deeply, my little one."

    "Yes....yes...me too..." Tseng breathed, placing a kiss to the other man's cheek. "You are worthy of a shrine...."

    Reeve backed out until he was at the door. "Tseng...I'll see you tomorrow."

    "Thank you, Reeve," Tseng said again, turning his head as Sephiroth sucked gently as his neck. "I owe you one."

    Reeve shook his head, the last of his tears drying on his cheek. "No, my friend. You owe me nothing."

    He slept uneasily that night. He kept having nightmares of someone hurting Tseng. What if Sephiroth hadn't walked in and stopped it? What would Hojo have done when he was threw with him? He shuddered, not wanting to finish his own thoughts. He reported to work later than usual. He found it hard to look at that building knowing that his best friend had gotten raped to keep a job there. Wasn't Shinra really that important? The scary part was yes, to him and to Tseng it was. It was life. Deep in his heart he knew it shouldn't be. That they should love something more.

    He headed down the hallway to his own office, imagining the great cup of coffee he was going to make himself. He need something strong to wake himself up. Scarlet would probably be there as well, waiting for him and wondering why he never came to her last night. And for some reason the thought of her didn't excite him as it usually did.

    "We're running an *organization* here, kid! There's no time for this lazy shit!"

    Reeve stopped dead as he heard Heidegger's roar. It was coming from his office. Never had he heard the other man so vocal.

    "I apologize deeply, sir. I know Shinra is far more important than I am. I assure you it will never happen again."

    Tseng? He showed up for work after that? Reeve furrowed his brow and came closer to the door to hear better, even though Heidegger's voice could probably be heard throughout the building.

    "We do *not* show up an hour late for work!"

    Big fucking deal, Reeve thought. I was a 2 hours late and *I* didn't get raped last night. He frowned, coming closer to the door.

    "I'm sorry, sir. Never again. I swear to you." Tseng apologized.

    He shouldn't have to apologize.

    "We don't tolerate this at Shinra," snapped Heidegger, "and we teach those who go against policy lessons they won't forget!"

    "Sir I--" Tseng's yelp was followed by the unmistakable sound of flesh coming down hard on flesh. The young Turk cried out in pain as another blow was laid upon him.

    Reeve felt the anger boil inside him. What the fuck is going on?! First he gets yelled at for some stupid thing, and now this! I can't let this happen! Without another thought Reeve threw open the door to Heidegger's office to see Tseng accepting another hard slap across the face as Heidegger threw him to the ground. Silent tears were pouring from the young man's black eyes.

    "What the fuck is going on here?!" Reeve snapped, stepping between the two. "Leave him alone! You have no right to lay a hand on him!"

    "Out of my way, Leander!" Heidegger growled, trying to shove Reeve aside. "This is none of your business. It's out of your jurisdiction. Why don't you just get a cup of coffee and let Scarlet feel you up for awhile?"

    Reeve gritted his teeth and snapped, raising a hand to strike Heidegger himself.

    "I can have you fired in an instant!" With those words Heidegger grabbed Reeve's wrist and turned him so that his arm was twisted behind his back.

    Reeve cried out in pain, but it did him no use. "Just leave him alone!"

    "It is not wise to mess with people in a higher position than you. I could have you both fired, and I don't think you want that, do you?"

    "Please, Reeve...." Tseng begged, looking teary eyed as he pleaded.

    "No...." Reeve admitted, gritting his teeth in pain. He couldn't afford be fired. He couldn't be fired. His whole life was within these walls. "No, sir. I'm sorry."

    "You walk out that door and shut it. And I never want to see you in here like this again, you hear?" He tugged harder on Reeve's bruised arm.

    Reeve was in extreme pain, and he felt a tear squeeze from his eye. "Yes, sir. Never again. I'm sorry."

    He was released, and he silently walked out just as he had been told to.

    But he didn't go back to his office. Instead he waited outside, cringing every time he heard the sound of a his friend being hit or crying out in pain. He stood back against the wall besides and door and quietly sobbed. He sobbed because it wasn't fair. Shinra had created a home for them, and they only way they could stay was if they put up with the abuse. Seemed like a big price to pay for what was supposed to be comfort.

    After what seemed like an eternity, Tseng emerged from the office, his uniform ripped and wrinkled, dried blood on his skin and the pathways of tears on his cheek.

    "Tseng..." Reeve faced his friend, not bothering to wipe away his own tears.

    "Thank you, Reeve."

    "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to threaten your job again."

    "It means a lot that you care about me so much, Reeve. More than you can understand." The young Turk managed a shaky smile, as though he had not just went through two traumatic events. There were tears in his eyes. "I'm sorry. I just can't stop crying."

    Reeve put a hand on the young Turk's shoulder and met his eyes. "Cry all you want, Tseng. Right now there is no reason for you to stop. There is no reason for any of us not to."

    It's funny how three years can pass like nothing.

    Both Reeve and Tseng had kept up their relationships, even though Reeve was growing slightly weary of Scarlet and Tseng spoke less frequently of the Jenova fused man. Their friendship, however, had only grown stronger, and they trusted one another completely.

    There were the same problems involving his family and the company, but he ignored them for the most part.

    "How old is your little friend Tseng now?" Scarlet asked as she handcuffed Reeve to the bed post. "I heard he just had a birthday."

    "Eighteen," Reeve said a bit warily. He watched her tighten the cuffs around his wrist. "Um...Scarlet...I'm not so sure about this."

    She laughed. He cringed. "I only want to be dominating over you this one time, Reevy. Don't worry. I won't leave you here." She laughed again.

    He cringed again and frowned. "You're always dominating me," he mumbled. But he surrendered to her anyway.

    Only this time she had two packages.

    "Here," she offered, tossing on onto Reeve's bare stomach. "You've been uptight lately."

    "Have not," he protested as he sat up, pack in hand. "I don't need this or want it."

    She took a drag on hers and waved his hand away as he tried to hand it back to her. "Just keep it. You might want it later."

    With a sigh, he held onto it.

    Reeve ran his fingers through his wet hair as he climbed out of the pool. The company gym was a highlight of the building, and only those in distinguished positions could make use of it.

    "Hey, Reeve!"

    He turned and smiled as he saw Tseng jogging towards him. He too was clad in swim trunks.

    "There you are, birthday boy!" Reeve gave his friend a good natured punch in the arm. "Where have you been?"

    Tseng grinned, a twinkle in his eye. He became a completely different person when he was off duty. "Where *haven't* I been."

    Reeve laughed and said with a fake exaggerated groan, "off celebrating with *Sephiroth* no doubt. Now that you're finally *legal*." He chuckled. "Not that that's ever stopped you before."

    "Go ahead and make fun of me," The Turk pretended to be offended as he crossed his arms. "And I was going to tell you you looked hot in your bathing suit."

    Reeve broke out into more laughter. "Nice try, but that kind of flattery doesn't work on me." He turned and started walking towards the locker room.

    Tseng followed. "Why don't you take a swim with me?"

    "Me? I just finished. I'm an old man! I can't do any more laps! I might keel over!"

    "An old man?! You're 24!!"

    "I sit behind a desk all day. I'm not used to movement." He smiled as he opened his locker. "But you go ahead. Take a swim. Continue your never ending quest to become Sephiroth."

    "You're still ratting on me because I decided to grow my hair out? It's just to my shoulders, not my waist. And besides...." the young Turk leaned onto the adjoining locker with a dreamy sigh. "I could never have a body like that."

    Reeve chuckled as he began to dry himself off with his towel. "You don't look too bad," he joked. "You might even attract girls with those muscles."

    Tseng smiled but said nothing as he silently observed Reeve drying himself off.

    Reeve stole a few looks over at his friend, feeling slightly uncomfortable. Is he checking me out? He thought frantically. No... Tseng would never do that. He knows better. "What?" Reeve joked, pulling his shirt over his head and closing his locker. "Can't think of a witty reply?"

    The half smile remained on Tseng's lips as he said in all seriousness, "You look good, Reeve. Really."

    The two men met eyes.

    "Thanks," Reeve replied, a little breathless.

    Tseng broke the eye contact and he looked away with a shy smile. "Look, why don't you stop by my office later and we can celebrate my birthday."

    "Sure," Reeve agreed. Grin reappearing he added, "But if you're expecting me to bring something alcoholic, dream on. You're still under age for that."

    "You said it yourself." Tseng's smiled reappeared full force as he headed towards the pool. "The legal thing's never stopped me before."

    Reeve just laughed.

    That's when he heard familiar voices arguing from inside. He froze to listen.

    "Get off me, Scarlet," Tseng ordered, sounding fed up. "What would Reeve think?"

    "He doesn't have to know," she purred. "Now come, Tseng. There's no use in pretending you don't want me."

    "No, Scarlet, actually---" Tseng yelped in surprise, startling Reeve, who dropped one of the glasses.

    Thankfully he had been smart and brought plastic. At lightning speed he picked it up and walked into the office. He knew *exactly* what she had done to make Tseng yelp. And he also knew she would be pleasantly surprised.

    "Reeve!" Tseng called out thankfully, zipping up his pants and getting away from Scarlet.

    "Scarlet." Reeve glared at her.

    The older woman was besides herself. "I don't get it!" she exclaimed, jaw nearly on the floor. "What the hell is wrong with you?"

    "I'm gay," Tseng said in all seriousness.

    Her eyes narrowed. "Well...." her eyes focused on Reeve. "Reeve....come see me later."

    He barely nodded and watched in amazement as she left, slamming the door behind her.

    "I'm sorry, Reeve," Tseng rushed. "She came in her muttering things about how I was finally legal and was trying to come onto me."

    "It's all right, Tseng," Reeve answered absently, eyes glued to the door in shock. "Sephiroth was right. She really *is* a whore."

    "I'm sorry.... He isn't usually wrong, Reeve," Tseng pointed out.

    Reeve spun suddenly and placed the bottle and glasses on the desk. "Look, I lied. I brought champagne."

    Tseng chuckled. "Reeve...are you trying to get me drunk?" He winked.

    No... Reeve thought, pouring his glass to the brim. I'm trying to do it to myself.

    Reeve was pretty woozy by the time he headed for Scarlet's room. He couldn't believe she had gone after Tseng--his best friend of all people--*and* she had the nerve to say he'd never find out.

    Mumbling profanities he knocked on Scarlet's door and leaned against the wall, suddenly tired. Scarlet answered the door in her underwear. "Oh. Hello, Reeve."

    "What the hell was that back there?!" he exclaimed, ignoring the face that she was scantily clad. "Why were you trying to bed Tseng? I thought we were...you know..."

    "Reeve, Reeve, Reeve," she sighed. "You're not saying you want to leave me, do you?"

    "Give me one good reason why I shouldn't."

    She grinned and pulled him inside. As soon as he was inside he knew she had won. And he hated himself for being so weak.

    "Oh, I believe I can give you more than one."

    She shut the door.

    Tseng asked where he was going, and he had told him the truth.

    "Oh," Tseng had said, frowning a little. "You don't seem to sure about this."

    Reeve had shaken his head, avoiding his friend's eyes. "Yeah well..."

    "I'll be here," Tseng   had said suddenly, putting a hand on Reeve's shoulder and squeezing slightly. "I'll be here, Reeve, if you want to talk to me. Just call me, okay?"

    Reeve had only nodded slightly, glad for the reassurance.

    Now here he was, standing outside his old house. It had been a long time since he had actually been back here. Still, the house, and the materia shop, looked exactly the same, as though he hadn't left at all.

    With trembling fingers he knocked, contemplating turning back and going back home as his heart beat wildly in his chest. I'm crazy, he thought, don't this out of nowhere. I've never been so compulsive.

    When the door opened it took all his energy not to pass out as the blood rushed to his head, making him incredibly dizzy. "Dad...."

    His father blinked back at him, clearly shocked. "Reeve?"

    "Yeah, it's me." He was unsure of what else to say. "Hello."

    "Why did you come here?"

    Reeve frowned as the dizzy feeling continued. Clearly his father was not happy to see him. "I came because...because...because this is my home." He stammered, unsure of why that question had been posed in the first place.

    "That city is your home now. Not this little town." His father's voice was so cold it could have froze molten lava.

    "Huh?" the word slipped past his lips. "Why--"

    "Go home, Reeve." His father went to shut the door. "You don't belong here."

    Reeve fumed, suddenly coming alive and he stuck out his hand to stop the door from closing. "Why do you hate me? Why? What did I ever do except try and succeed? I don't understand!" He felt tears brimming in his eyes, but he held them back.

    His father's eyes narrowed. "I think *you're* the one who doesn't understand, Reeve. But you will. Just remember you named it after her." He shoved his son's hand away. "Now leave here. Maybe I'll have the stomach to speak with you another time." With those words the door was slammed shut.

    Reeve stood like a statue, chin quivering as the sound of the slamming door echoed in his ears. Why? Why can't he just *tell* me?! Just remember you named it after her... Of course I did! How could I ever forget!! He was too confused to yell and too sad to cry. Finally rediscovering movement, he did what he was told and turned to go home.

    What does he mean I don't understand. Is he bashing my city? I worked hard on it! Everything is fine! Just fine! Stupid bastard. He's just jealous. Jealous that he's stuck in that shitty materia shop his whole life where I've rose to better things.

    He rode the elevator back up to his office and nearly rammed right into Tseng.

    "Oh, hello, Reeve." He smiled for a moment, but then frowned when he saw Reeve wasn't smiling back. "What's wrong?" He walked into the elevator and shut the doors. "What happened when you went home, Reeve?"

    The older man turned away from him, looking down at the city he had built. "Is it bad, Tseng?"

    "Is what bad?"

    "My city. It isn't bad, is it?"

    Tseng hesitated and placed his hands on Reeve's shoulders. "Are you all right, Reeve?"

    "There's something wrong, isn't there?" Reeve turned, pushing the young man away from him. "Why won't anyone tell me what it is?" Tears burned in his eyes as they narrowed. "What are all you bastards hiding from me?! What's the big secret?! Huh? What is it?"

    Tseng blinked, his own eyes filling with tears at Reeve's sharp words. "I...I...it's just that..." he removed a few folded pages from his pocket. "Maybe you better read this, Reeve."

    Reeve snatched it from his friend's hand and unfolded it quickly, his eyes gliding ravenously over the page. "The Midgar report?! Why didn't I get this? I build the fucking thing and I don't even get the god damn report on it."

    Tseng sniffled quietly and said, "please, Reeve. Just read it."

    He did. Reeve read it, his anger subsiding as his inside froze. As he finished he couldn't believe all he had just absorbed. His shaking hands dropped the the papers and he looked at Tseng for support. "Tseng....why....why is everyone so poor? I thought...I thought Shinra was going to take care of them...." His eyes pleaded with his friend, as though he alone had all the answers.

    Tseng shook his head slowly. "I....I don't know, Reeve. I can't answer that question."

    "They're.....suffering?" Reeve turned back to the window and looked down at the city he had built. Just remember you named it after her, his father had said. I think *you're* the one who doesn't understand. "I...." He ran a shaky hand through his hair. "I...I never thought for a second...." he looked over his shoulder at the young Turk, eyes dripping silent tears. "They....they lied to me?"

    Tseng moved quickly, hugging Reeve tight, resting his head against his back, arms around his waist. "It will all get better, Reeve. You'll talk to them. They'll see. They'll fix it. Everything will be like you wanted it. Just like you dreamed it."

    Reeve stared down at Midgar, and even though it was blurry behind the tears he could see the poverty. How can anyone be happy living in this? "Aw, shit," he growled, angry with himself. "This is my fault. I haven't been paying attention."

    "You're a good person, Reeve," Tseng said, "you have to watch out for the people. You're the only one who will."

    Reeve had a sinking feeling that Tseng was right. He covered the younger man's hands absently with his own, eyes still having a blurry focus on the city below. And suddenly, for the first time since he stepped foot inside the building, Reeve was not happy to work for Shinra.

    "Oh, the population is growing rapidly," President Shinra had said. "It's hard to care for everyone. But don't worry, Reeve. We'll get on it right away."

    "Gya haa haa!" Heidegger had laughed in his face. "They're happy! After all, they have the Shinra army to protect them."

    "Don't get so strung up on it, Reevy," Scarlet had purred. "Have one of those cigarettes I gave you. Everything's fine."

    He felt defeated.

    But maybe, there was a nagging voice in the back of his mind, but maybe everything will get better, just as Tseng said it would.

    Tseng... Speaking of the Turk, he had been acting quite strange lately. Reeve had tried to question him about his odd behavior, but the young man had always shrugged it off saying he was fine. It was unlike Tseng not to talk about what was bothering him.

    Reeve's head were in his hands that day as he tried not to think about how maybe his father was right. About maybe how Midgar was a little bad. I'm sorry mother...

    A soft knocking at the door brought him back to reality and he looked up. "Come in," he called weakly.

    Tseng peered in and then stepped inside, gently closing the door behind him. "I need to talk to you."

    Reeve cleared his throat. "It's about time," he replied. "I wondered what was bothering you."

    But Tseng did not sit across from Reeve in the chair he usually did. Instead he came over besides Reeve and kneeled on the floor before him, eyes looking uncertain.

    "Tseng?" Reeve questioned. He went to get up, but Tseng gently pushed him back into his chair.

    "I am no longer with Sephiroth."

    Reeve was shocked. "What happened?" his jaw fell open. "I thought you were in love with him."

    The Turk shook his head slowly, looking down at the carpeting instead of at Reeve. "No... I... I never loved him. I worshipped him, but I never loved him." He swallowed, his hands gripping the carpet as he spoke. "And he never loved me. You see...we loved other people... Him, someone from the past. Me, someone I can't have."

    "Tseng..." Reeve reached down and lifted the younger man's chin and forced their eyes to meet. "What are you saying?"

    "He said I should say it. That I should come out and say and not be afraid because you wouldn't hate me for it. Sephiroth said that, at least."

    Reeve froze as the realization washed over him. He said nothing as Tseng's words hit his ears.

    "I'm in love with you, Reeve. I have been for a long time. And I just.... I just...." there were tears in his eyes again. "Gods, I can never stop crying." He wiped at his eyes before continuing. "I don't expect you to do anything, Reeve. I don't expect anything from you. I just... I just thought you should know." He hung his head. "I just hope I don't lose your friendship."

    Reeve was unable to move and he stared straight ahead feeling as if for a moment he didn't exist. "No," he said finally. "No, Tseng. You can never lose my friendship. Out of everyone in the the world....I care about you the most." He looked down at the young man. "Really."

    The young Turk wiped at his eyes. "Really, Reeve?"

    Without even thinking Reeve took one of his friend's hands in his, interlacing their fingers and meeting him eye to eye. "Yeah. Even if I can't love you like that."

    A shaky smile made it way to Tseng's lips. "Thank you, Reeve. All I need in this world is your friendship. I love you so much."

    "Come here." Reeve slid to the floor and took his friend in his arms, holding him close. Tseng buried his head in Reeve's shoulder.

    "I won't say it anymore, Reeve," he said, "I promise. I know it must make you uncomfortable. So I won't say it. But I want you to know.... That even if your family doesn't love you, I do."

    Reeve wanted so badly to tell Tseng that it didn't bother him at all, in fact, that was just what he needed to hear and he never wanted to stop hearing it. Instead he just nodded, a single droplet trickling from his eye. He didn't have the strength to admit all this, which would have probably sent any other heterosexual guy screaming down the hall, didn't bother him in the least.

    He was jerked awake, and he again realized that he had been dozing off at his desk. Was he *that* exhausted? Tseng stood in his door, looking a bit timid, a stack of papers in hand. "Oh. Hello."

    "Sorry to wake you."

    He chuckled, laughing mostly at himself. "I shouldn't have been sleeping anyway. What's that you have there?"

    "The Midgar reports." He slowly approached the other man's desk and placed the stack upon it. "I thought you might want to read it."

    Reeve stopped breathing as he glanced at the pile. "Yes. I have to read it. Thank you, Tseng."

    "I'll leave you alone." Tseng said quietly. And sure enough he turned and left.

    He could only stare at the pile as if it were a rotting corpse and not a stack of file paper. He was so tense he could barely move. What would they say this time? He had a sinking feeling the news was only worse, and not better at all. It turned his stomach to think he would have to read about it. That he would have to know that *he* caused this suffering because he believed them. He had been sucked in, just like they had.

    He nearly laughed at himself again. Here he was, coming to conclusions before even reading a word of it. Still.... If he wasn't sure of the content, why couldn't he move to read it?

    Maybe Scarlet was right. Maybe he was tense. He could feel his muscles clenched in hard knots every time he tried to move. He was so nervous.... He needed to relax, and there was only one place he could turn from that.

    He moved unsurely, reaching for the package of cigarettes that had laid almost forgotten in his desk drawer. "Just keep it," she had said. "You might want it later." Heh. If only she knew how badly.

    He lit it slowly and took a long, slow drag on it. He didn't cough as he inhaled, breathing the foul smelling smoke out and watching it disintegrate. Immediately he could feel his muscles relaxing, as if with every breath he let out he was letting out some of anxious feelings. Taking another drag he picked up the pages, and set his eyes upon the words.

    What bullshit, he thought. I've been kidding myself. If the news was so good, why didn't I get a copy?