Midgar Burning Chapter 47
Title: Midgar Burning
Authors: silence_laughs and calvi_sama
Pairing: Cid x Vincent
Rating: NC-17 (eventually), most certainly R
Disclaimer: We do not in any way own, nor profit from, the characters and/or locations of FFVII, that would all be SquareEnix. Also any other references to persons or products mentioned herein are purely coincidental *coughs*, and where they are not then they belong to their respective writers, producers, directors, or other individuals/companies listed under that sneaky little thing called a "copyright".
Warnings: Adult themes, blood, some violence, language, kidnapping, torture, mentions of abuse, murder, and above all else...yaoi, the 'inappropriate to minors' kind, the 'makes us sit up past our bedtimes reading' kind, 'cause lets face it folks, it just wouldn't be the same without it! >:3
Summary: Even as Cid fights to show Vincent it’s okay to love again, Vincent’s enemies are moving in. Can Cid secure a place in Vincent’s heart before their world falls apart?
A/N: Two things folks: 1) This is an RP and 2) This fic is AU. The usual players here: silence = Cid, and all in Cid's world, and yours truly = Vincent, and all in Vin's world. Easiest way to say it. ^^ This fic is a 'novel'-form piece (ie multi-chapter) that is darker than what we normally write, and out of our comfort zone in the fact that we normally prefer to stick to canon-type stuff. But I got the idea from ani_mama 's artwork (more specifically this picture), persuaded silence to "go along with it", and it's been going 'full steam ahead' since then, and quite grown on us. We hope you all like it! Icon art provided by silk_weaver .
** Super special author's note: I apologize for the font inconsistency. Given a preference, I would chose this font that you're reading now because my eyes are old and I hate squinting. LJ, however, is ridiculous and refuses to make things easy. I hate it and want to kick it in the face. Y'all are lucky so much of this thing was posted here first otherwise you'd be over at AO3 reading it! **
Chapter 47
Cid woke up the next morning very unsure of where he was. The bed was stiff and unpleasant, the smell was like the hospital, the sheets were white and had no cigarette burns on them, and Vincent was in another bed, but in the same room… Oh. Well, there’s that solved. His back crackled unhappily when he got up, but he was smiling as he made his way over to Vincent. “’wake yet?” he whispered.
“Hard not to be,” Vincent muttered, reaching over to hit the button that raised his bed. The last couple of days he spent in and out of a pain-filled delirium. Now, as he began his third day, the discomfort had finally moved down to a manageable level and he no longer required painkillers. They had removed his catheter and feeding tube yesterday and he was now eating semi-solid foods, and he found that he rather wanted that rotten tube back. The food was that horrible. His IVs had been discontinued and he was now on his own to heal. Cid had never left his side, and for that he had been grateful. He had a little more range of movement, though his lungs were still not functioning as they should and it pained him to put too much weight on them. “How is your back?”
“Aw, s’fine, just not used t’sleepin’ there. Y’sound a lot better this mornin’.” And, though he knew Vincent had the ability to press the button to call a nurse, he had to ask, “Need anything?”
Vincent smiled at Cid’s thoughtfulness. “I feel a little better actually, but my chest is still tight.” He held out his hand and when Cid took it he squeezed it. “I never thanked you for being here for me. It couldn’t have been easy…I couldn’t have been easy to deal with.” He blushed a little. “You’re all I need. But I have to ask if you feel any better. I heard you in the bathroom last night, and it sounded rather…painful.”
“I wouldn’t be anywhere else,” Cid said warmly, squeezing in return. “But we’re gonna hafta start callin’ Tseng in t’bring us real food,” he said, averting his eyes. “I, uh, m’sorry y’had t’hear that last night. Just…that sauce didn’t agree with me, I reckon.” He gave a theatrical shudder. “R’mind me t’live outta the vendin’ machines from now on.”
Vincent laughed, though hoarse, it was a cheerful sound. “Cid, if you were immune to this food I would consider you some sort of mutant. I’ve seriously considered asking them to put the feeding tube back in.” He mirrored Cid’s shudder. “If I have to eat any more jello, I will absolutely refuse to eat.” He squeezed Cid’s hand again as he continued to grin up at him. “We’ll eat better, even if I have to have Tseng sneak it in here, you’re right.”
Cid grinned and sat in the chair. He had noticed that it now constantly bore an impression of his backside, and the thought amused him. It also made him want to take it home. “So what’s on t’day’s agenda? Same ol’ stuff?” Though it was true that he would rather be here with Vincent than anywhere without him, Cid was growing a bit restless, and he could only imagine that it was worse for Vincent. “Maybe we’ll see if they’ll let us take a walk around, even if I gotta roll ya. Th’doctor said ever’thing’s lookin’ a lot better, an’ y’ve gotten a lot stronger. Hell, y’re off all the important shit. I’ll roll ya around in th’bed an’ y’won’t even hafta move.”
Vincent winced as he remembered the unwanted attention of the other doctors. “While that idea is most appealing, Cid, I don’t want to call any more attention to myself.” He grew thoughtful. “But perhaps there is a more…isolated, part of the hospital we might wander down. I’d like to see if I can walk, even if it’s only for a short distance.”
“That, uh, that’s a good point,” Cid said, also wincing. “Well…much as I’m sure y’re sick o’ seein’ ‘im, I reckon we’d hafta call in Bugenhagen t’find out if there’s anywhere we c’n go. Should I get ‘im t’bring a flowery hat an’ some sunglasses so they don’t recognize ya?” he asked, only half-joking.
He gave Cid a droll stare. “No, I doubt that will be necessary. But yes, let’s talk to Bugenhagen.” He shut his eyes with a sigh, excited at the prospect of actually walking for the first time in three, very long, very painful days.
After a conversation with a mildly exasperated and ultimately resigned Bugenhagen, Cid and Vincent found themselves being escorted to a wing that was closed in preparation for renovation in the coming weeks. The power was still connected and everything was still intact, but the rooms were empty of furniture and the halls empty of people. Cid had half a mind to ask if they could just move Vincent into one of these rooms so he could be left alone.
“I’ll be back for you in half an hour,” Bugenhagen promised, or perhaps threatened, considering the look he shot at Cid. “Move slowly, and don’t let go of him, Mr. Highwind.”
“You got it,” Cid assured him, and made a big deal of checking the brakes to make sure they were locked before attempting to ease Vincent onto his feet.
Bugenhagen took one more look at them, then walked away, shaking his head and rolling his eyes as he exited the hall. “When y’re ready, Vincent,” Cid said, backing away a few steps to avoid hovering. Tseng had brought clothes for Vincent the day before, and seeing him in his usual attire made him seem twice as capable on its own. Still, Cid knew that he’d be wobbly at best for a little while. “But don’t take off too fast, ‘kay?”
Vincent nodded, biting his lip as he worked his way onto his feet. Even with Cid’s help it had taken a little bit of time and had left him breathless. Clutching his chest, he wheezed for a minute until breathing became a little easier. He was grateful to Tseng for bringing his clothing, as he wouldn’t be caught dead in the open-backed hospital gown. He’d be damned if he was going to show off his ass to the population at large. But his clothes were restrictive, and he had left his shirt open, having discovered that buttoning it made him feel too trapped. He teetered a little, and had a brief moment of panic when he couldn’t straighten up all the way because of the painful pulling in his chest, which left him hunched over like an old man. “Cid…” he gasped, reaching out to the blond. He needed to lean on something or he was going to fall flat on his face.
“I’m right here,” Cid said quietly, hurriedly taking Vincent’s outstretched arm and placing it over his own shoulders, feeling it slide further along as Vincent gradually stood up straighter. “Looks like I’m a good height after all, huh?” After debating for a moment over which would be the easiest way for him to help Vincent take a few steps, Cid decided that it would be best to stay just as he was, at least until Vincent directed him differently. Better for him to not fall at all than fall and hope for Cid to catch him.
Vincent gave a lopsided grin. “So it would appear. Just let me stand here a moment. Gods it feels good to stand up again.” After several minutes he cautiously withdrew his arm from around Cid’s shoulder, and nearly regretted it as the tightness returned. It was as though the muscles of his chest just couldn’t hold him upright. Clutching Cid’s arm helped, and leaning heavily on Cid, he began to walk. One painful step at a time, they slowly made their way down to the end of the hallway to stop in front of the large window there. It had taken about ten minutes with Vincent having to stop every two or three steps, but they made it. “It would seem that I am going to need one of my canes until I can get enough strength to hold myself up.” He said breathlessly, his limbs trembling from the exertion and conspicuous lack of oxygen.
Cid regarded Vincent fondly and said earnestly, “Shit, I think y’done good, what with bein’ in th’condition you was in.” Again, when he looked out this window, he saw nothing but city. He was so tired of it, and if not for Vincent, he would have gone somewhere else as soon as he’d been “removed” from his job. Then again, if not for Vincent, he would likely still have his job. Not that he wanted it, of course. He wanted to know what happened next, where each of them went after this, and then remembered that Vincent still had obligations. Surely he wouldn’t be cast aside now? Not after they’d come to care for each other so strongly in such a short amount of time. But just the same…what became of Cid now? The meeting with Fair the night before last had only served to make him more unsure and more frightened. He looked at Vincent again, and the doubt washed away. In front of him was a man he could and did trust with his life…and with his heart. “Hey.”
Vincent, lost in different thoughts -mainly those centered around where the business went now that ShinRa was dead- and staring out the window as well, turned his head without looking away. “Mm?”
Cid kept one arm ready to stabilize Vincent should he appear unsteady, and the other hand rose to cup his cheek and turn him more completely away from the window. When his eyes finally ceased their staring out the window and focused on Cid, the younger man reached up to press his lips against Vincent’s carefully, hand sliding around to the back of his head and letting its fingers weave into the dark hair. His eyes closed after a few seconds of careful contact with Vincent’s, but he made no move to deepen the kiss. He hoped deliriously that Bugenhagen would come back early and find them like this.
Sighing into the kiss, Vincent snaked his arms around Cid’s waist and deepened the kiss as much as he could manage. Few things in life were as good a long, lazy kiss in Vincent’s newly re-evaluated opinion. Pulling back after a quick ‘last kiss’, he grinned sleepily. “What was that for?”
Cid grinned back. “Because,” he said, and leaned forward to rest his head against Vincent’s shoulder. “Because I missed ya, an’ I’m glad t’have ya back, an’ I love ya, an’ I’m damned proud of ya right now. Plus y’looked like you was thinkin’ too much, an’ kissin’s a sure cure fer that.” After a few minutes of resting that way, both of them again looking out the window, he pulled back and gazed at Vincent. “Ready t’walk back, or y’need me t’bring the chair over t’you?”
Vincent tossed his head back and laughed delightedly. “That is a lot of reasons, Mr. Highwind, and you are absolutely right. Kissing is a most effective way to stop active thought processes.” But at the mention of walking back down the hallway, he blanched and then flushed. The thought of making the short journey was not appealing, and he honestly did not believe he could make it. It embarrassed him to say it but, “I cannot make it that far, Cid. If you would be so kind as to bring the chair, I would be grateful.”
“That ain’t a problem,” Cid assured him, and regretfully released Vincent. “Y’ll be all right standin’ there, right?” At Vincent’s nod, Cid walked briskly down the hall, retrieved the chair, and parked it next to Vincent. He even remembered to set the brake again before gesturing grandly for Vincent to take his seat. “Unless y’wanna just stand here a little longer?”
Vincent shook his head as he eased himself down into the chair, actually falling the short distance and when his ass hit the seat he winced at his felt it in his lungs. “No,” he gasped as he got comfortable. “As much as that idea appeals to me, I’m tired and would like to lie down again.” Actually a good portion of the pain had returned and he didn’t even want to sit up anymore.
“Sure thing,” Cid said, but took his time in getting them out of the hallway. It wouldn’t do for Bugenhagen to return and find them gone. Luckily, they met him on the way out, and he followed them back to the room.
“So, how did it go?” he asked, and then noticed Vincent’s tired expression. He chuckled a bit, obviously sympathetic. “Well, no one can blame you for being exhausted. Didn’t fall, though, did you?” was the next question, complete with an accusatory glare directed at Cid.
“’Course not. Y’said not t’let ‘im go, an’ I didn’t. I wouldn’t’a let ‘im fall.” Back in the room, Cid parked the chair next to the bed and asked, “Need anything else b’fore y’go back? Bathroom ‘r anythin’?” He had a feeling that Bugenhagen was waiting with a syringe of the pain-dulling mako, and once that happened, Vincent would be less able to communicate his needs. It hadn’t ended so well last time; Vincent had suffered a bad reaction to a pill he had been given -Bugenhagen was attempting to lessen dependence on the mako- and had nearly vomited all over Cid. Cid had caught on just in time and had been able to roll Vincent toward the trash can. Vincent had then immediately returned to rambling at Cid about motorcycles with airship engines. He would hate to see anything similar happen today. It would also probably be best to call Tseng about food before Vincent was made loopy again, but then, Cid was kind of interested to see how Tseng would handle talking to Vincent while Vincent rattled on about purple bunnies. He made a mental note to put that call on speakerphone.
Vincent shook his head and struggled out of the chair and back into bed. Once he was seated he shrugged out of his shirt. The most liberating thing, he had found, had been the retrieval of the catheter so he could at least piss by himself again.
Dr. Bugenhagen’s lips thinned as he observed the slightly grayish hue to Vincent’s face. Placing two fingers under the man’s chin he tilted his face up toward him. He shook his head, removing the stethoscope from around his neck and placing the buds in his ears. “I’m not liking your color, Mr.Valentine, and your lips are blue, which means you’re not getting enough oxygen. We’ll have to put you back on it.” He paused as he placed the cool disc on Vincent’s chest: left side, right side, then on his back. He returned it to the man’s chest. “Can you try and take a deep breath for me?”
Vincent tried but he only got about a halfway before pain made him wince and double over, gasing. Dr. Bugenhagen shook his head again, placing a steadying hand on Vincent’s back. He glanced at Cid then back at Vincent. “You have arrhythmia, and the fact that you cannot take a full breath of air concerns me. I’ll give you something for the pain and I’d like for you rest a while.” Dr. Bugenhagen removed a syringe from his coat pocket and inserted it into the portacath in Vincent’s arm. “I’ll be back to take you for another series of scans and in the meantime I’d prefer it if you remained quiet and calm. You’re a ways from walking anymore I’m afraid, Mr. Valentine.”
Sinking back into the bed after first lifting his legs onto it, Vincent nodded. He shut his eyes and thought about how much this sucked, sighing and smiling a little when the injected painkillers began taking effect. As his mind began to fuzz out into loopyville again, Dr. Bugenhagen deftly slipped the oxygen tubing onto his face and under his nose.
“M’sorry,” Cid murmured, placing his hand on Vincent’s forehead. “I shouldn’t’a suggested it.” He took his usual seat in the chair and smiled softly. “Y’ll be better t’morra.” If Bugenhagen did indeed plan to be back shortly for more tests, this was perhaps not the best time to call Tseng. But then, he did say he wanted Vincent to rest a while, and it would probably take time to get things together. Cid nodded and flipped open his phone. “A’ right, Vincent. I shoulda asked you this b’fore he gave ya that, but whaddaya want fer dinner? M’gonna go ahead an’ call Tseng now so ‘e don’t get mad later.”
“No,” Vincent sighed, and rolled his head over to look at Cid. “I’m glad you…did. I enjoyed that time with you…felt normal.” He had begun to sweat a little and he squirmed, trying to get more comfortable. It was stuffy in the room, he was convinced of it. “Food is good,” he sighed, finally finding a spot and shutting his eyes. It was more comfortable that way, and he was tired of arguing with them anyway.
“Okay,” Cid said agreeably, and punched in Tseng’s number.
“Tseng,” came the reply.
“Hey. So we were wonderin’ if y’d mind bringin’ us some real dinner t’night. We’d keep eatin’ here, only Vincent’s tired o’ the crap they’re shovin’ down his throat, an’ I have a problem keepin’ it down m’self. I tried askin’ what he wants, but he just says ‘food.’ You wanna try?”
Tseng chuckled on the other end of the line. Sounds like Vincent, he thought. “I can try, but I doubt I’ll have much more luck. Let me speak to him.”
Cid hit the speaker button, knowing that Vincent would have difficulty holding the phone anyway. He set it near Vincent’s shoulder and turned the volume up so Tseng would be able to hear Vincent’s quiet words. “There y’are,” he said, and sat back happily.
Suddenly the reception over the phone took on a cavernous quality and Tseng rolled his eyes. He was on speaker. “Vincent? Are you there?”
Vincent frowned. “Tseng?” He opened his eyes and looked over towards the sound. He startled a little when he saw the phone. “Oh, you’re in there. Cramped even for you. How is it are you?” He was having a tough time talking.
“Uh…” Tseng paused as he deciphered what Vincent had said. “I’m fine. How are you feeling?”
“Sleepy.” Vincent replied. “How’s Aphis?”
“Who? Oh-“ Tseng chuckled again. “Aerith is fine, and says hello.”
“Tell ‘er ‘lo back.”
“I will. Cid says that you and he are growing rather tired of hospital food. Can I bring you anything?”
“Turtles,” Vincent mumbled.
Silence. “What? Vincent, what are you talking about?”
“What?” Vincent shook his head and tried to focus a little better.
“Are. You. Hungry? Can I bring you anything?” Tseng said caught between amused and irritated.
“Hungry.”
“Well, that’s on the right track anyway.” Tseng muttered, then tried one last time. “Vincent!”
Vincent jumped at the suddenly loud voice. “What!”
“Niisan, if you’re hungry, then tell me what you want, and I’ll bring it to you.”
“Peanut jelly,” Vincent managed.
“Got it, Cid?” Tseng called.
“Y’don’t gotta yell,” Cid said, laughing. “An’ I don’t s’pose there’s anywhere that sells peanut butter’n jelly. Unless ‘e wants peanut jelly, but that’s a whole other story. Anyway, if you or Aerith c’d whip up a couple sandwiches for us, that’d be great.” He grinned. “I guess y’couldn’t tell, but he’s glad t’hear from ya. Aren’t ya, Vincent?”
“Yeah,” Vincent said smiling a little. “Say hi for me, will you, Cid?”
Cid grinned and decided to humor Vincent. “Hey, Tseng, Vincent says hi.” He turned to Vincent. “How was that?”
Vincent sighed drowsily. “Thanks.”
On the other end of the line Tseng’s reply was wry. “I just spoke to him, Cid.”
“Well,” Cid retorted, “he wanted me t’tell ya hi, so I did. That so wrong?” He leaned over and kissed Vincent’s forehead. “Get some sleep, Vincent. Y’re tired,” he whispered, and then said proudly to Tseng, “He walked a little t’day. Did pretty damned good, but it wore ‘im out.”
“He shouldn’t be up at all,” Tseng said, mildly horrified. “But that is impressive,” he admitted reluctantly. “How is he now? He didn’t hurt himself, did he?”
“Course not. I w’s right there with ‘im. But really, y’can’t blame ‘im fer wantin’ t’get up after so long. He ain’t the layin’ around kind.” Cid paused, reflected upon his words, and grinned. “Well, not when ‘e has t’be anyway. It’s a whole diff’rent thing when that’s all ‘e wants t’do. Ain’t it, Vincent?” he asked, noticing that the other man was now staring at the phone again. Speaking of lying around…Cid gave a mental sigh. He had been planning to start hitting the gym again. Maybe he’d get up earlier tomorrow morning and use the hospital’s.
“No, he most certainly is not the ‘laying around kind’,” Tseng sighed. “What did the doctor have to say about his newly acquired mobility?”
At that, Cid hung his head a little. “He said it’d prob’ly be a while before he lets ‘im try it again. Got ‘is breathin’ all messed up an’ shit. Too much strain an’ whatnot, y’know? He really was glad t’be able t’move, though. Hey, Vincent, yer Tseng wants t’know if y’enjoyed yer walk.”
Vincent opened his eyes and smiled brilliantly at Cid, now thoroughly under the effects of the painkillers. “Yep, got a cookie too.”
Tseng sighed. “He shouldn’t have tried it to begin with. Keep him resting, Cid, or he’ll never get out of there.”
“Y’c’n say that all y’want, but I have a hard time tellin’ ‘im no.” Cid smiled fondly back at Vincent, now petting his hair and chuckling as Vincent closed his eyes and relaxed against his hand. “I also know that he’s damned stubborn, an’ he won’t heal if ‘e don’t want to. An’ th’only reason I c’n see ‘im not wantin’ to is t’get back at somebody, prob’ly me, fer not treatin’ ‘im right while he was tryin’a get better. Or somethin’. Makes sense t’me.” He sighed and picked up the phone, turning off the speaker function as he did. “Look, I’ll ask ‘im again what ‘e wants t’eat when ‘e comes off th’drugs. They’re gonna run a few more tests ‘cause th’oxygen still ain’t runnin’ th’way it should, so that’ll prob’ly take up most o’ the day.”
Cid grimaced as he realized that meant he would be spending most of the day alone. “Thanks fer, uh, bein’ there an’ all.” Vincent appeared to be asleep, or close to it, but Cid wanted to make sure. “Anything else y’wanna tell Tseng, sugar?” he asked quietly with the mouthpiece covered.
“Mmm,” Vincent murmured as he allowed the painkillers to drift him off into sleep.
“I guess that’s a no,” Cid whispered. “I’ll let ya go fer now, then, an’ call ya back if he’s changed ‘is mind.”
“All right,” Tseng replied. “Take care of him, Cid.” Tseng said by way of a goodbye, and hung up the phone.
“I will,” Cid said, still smiling as he closed his phone and set it on the table. “I will.”
End Note: It's filler stuff. Nothin' wrong with a slightly fluffy moment. Another chapter will follow shortly when my urge to throw the computer out the window goes away. ^.^
Authors: silence_laughs and calvi_sama
Pairing: Cid x Vincent
Rating: NC-17 (eventually), most certainly R
Disclaimer: We do not in any way own, nor profit from, the characters and/or locations of FFVII, that would all be SquareEnix. Also any other references to persons or products mentioned herein are purely coincidental *coughs*, and where they are not then they belong to their respective writers, producers, directors, or other individuals/companies listed under that sneaky little thing called a "copyright".
Warnings: Adult themes, blood, some violence, language, kidnapping, torture, mentions of abuse, murder, and above all else...yaoi, the 'inappropriate to minors' kind, the 'makes us sit up past our bedtimes reading' kind, 'cause lets face it folks, it just wouldn't be the same without it! >:3
Summary: Even as Cid fights to show Vincent it’s okay to love again, Vincent’s enemies are moving in. Can Cid secure a place in Vincent’s heart before their world falls apart?
A/N: Two things folks: 1) This is an RP and 2) This fic is AU. The usual players here: silence = Cid, and all in Cid's world, and yours truly = Vincent, and all in Vin's world. Easiest way to say it. ^^ This fic is a 'novel'-form piece (ie multi-chapter) that is darker than what we normally write, and out of our comfort zone in the fact that we normally prefer to stick to canon-type stuff. But I got the idea from ani_mama 's artwork (more specifically this picture), persuaded silence to "go along with it", and it's been going 'full steam ahead' since then, and quite grown on us. We hope you all like it! Icon art provided by silk_weaver .
** Super special author's note: I apologize for the font inconsistency. Given a preference, I would chose this font that you're reading now because my eyes are old and I hate squinting. LJ, however, is ridiculous and refuses to make things easy. I hate it and want to kick it in the face. Y'all are lucky so much of this thing was posted here first otherwise you'd be over at AO3 reading it! **
Chapter 47
Cid woke up the next morning very unsure of where he was. The bed was stiff and unpleasant, the smell was like the hospital, the sheets were white and had no cigarette burns on them, and Vincent was in another bed, but in the same room… Oh. Well, there’s that solved. His back crackled unhappily when he got up, but he was smiling as he made his way over to Vincent. “’wake yet?” he whispered.
“Hard not to be,” Vincent muttered, reaching over to hit the button that raised his bed. The last couple of days he spent in and out of a pain-filled delirium. Now, as he began his third day, the discomfort had finally moved down to a manageable level and he no longer required painkillers. They had removed his catheter and feeding tube yesterday and he was now eating semi-solid foods, and he found that he rather wanted that rotten tube back. The food was that horrible. His IVs had been discontinued and he was now on his own to heal. Cid had never left his side, and for that he had been grateful. He had a little more range of movement, though his lungs were still not functioning as they should and it pained him to put too much weight on them. “How is your back?”
“Aw, s’fine, just not used t’sleepin’ there. Y’sound a lot better this mornin’.” And, though he knew Vincent had the ability to press the button to call a nurse, he had to ask, “Need anything?”
Vincent smiled at Cid’s thoughtfulness. “I feel a little better actually, but my chest is still tight.” He held out his hand and when Cid took it he squeezed it. “I never thanked you for being here for me. It couldn’t have been easy…I couldn’t have been easy to deal with.” He blushed a little. “You’re all I need. But I have to ask if you feel any better. I heard you in the bathroom last night, and it sounded rather…painful.”
“I wouldn’t be anywhere else,” Cid said warmly, squeezing in return. “But we’re gonna hafta start callin’ Tseng in t’bring us real food,” he said, averting his eyes. “I, uh, m’sorry y’had t’hear that last night. Just…that sauce didn’t agree with me, I reckon.” He gave a theatrical shudder. “R’mind me t’live outta the vendin’ machines from now on.”
Vincent laughed, though hoarse, it was a cheerful sound. “Cid, if you were immune to this food I would consider you some sort of mutant. I’ve seriously considered asking them to put the feeding tube back in.” He mirrored Cid’s shudder. “If I have to eat any more jello, I will absolutely refuse to eat.” He squeezed Cid’s hand again as he continued to grin up at him. “We’ll eat better, even if I have to have Tseng sneak it in here, you’re right.”
Cid grinned and sat in the chair. He had noticed that it now constantly bore an impression of his backside, and the thought amused him. It also made him want to take it home. “So what’s on t’day’s agenda? Same ol’ stuff?” Though it was true that he would rather be here with Vincent than anywhere without him, Cid was growing a bit restless, and he could only imagine that it was worse for Vincent. “Maybe we’ll see if they’ll let us take a walk around, even if I gotta roll ya. Th’doctor said ever’thing’s lookin’ a lot better, an’ y’ve gotten a lot stronger. Hell, y’re off all the important shit. I’ll roll ya around in th’bed an’ y’won’t even hafta move.”
Vincent winced as he remembered the unwanted attention of the other doctors. “While that idea is most appealing, Cid, I don’t want to call any more attention to myself.” He grew thoughtful. “But perhaps there is a more…isolated, part of the hospital we might wander down. I’d like to see if I can walk, even if it’s only for a short distance.”
“That, uh, that’s a good point,” Cid said, also wincing. “Well…much as I’m sure y’re sick o’ seein’ ‘im, I reckon we’d hafta call in Bugenhagen t’find out if there’s anywhere we c’n go. Should I get ‘im t’bring a flowery hat an’ some sunglasses so they don’t recognize ya?” he asked, only half-joking.
He gave Cid a droll stare. “No, I doubt that will be necessary. But yes, let’s talk to Bugenhagen.” He shut his eyes with a sigh, excited at the prospect of actually walking for the first time in three, very long, very painful days.
After a conversation with a mildly exasperated and ultimately resigned Bugenhagen, Cid and Vincent found themselves being escorted to a wing that was closed in preparation for renovation in the coming weeks. The power was still connected and everything was still intact, but the rooms were empty of furniture and the halls empty of people. Cid had half a mind to ask if they could just move Vincent into one of these rooms so he could be left alone.
“I’ll be back for you in half an hour,” Bugenhagen promised, or perhaps threatened, considering the look he shot at Cid. “Move slowly, and don’t let go of him, Mr. Highwind.”
“You got it,” Cid assured him, and made a big deal of checking the brakes to make sure they were locked before attempting to ease Vincent onto his feet.
Bugenhagen took one more look at them, then walked away, shaking his head and rolling his eyes as he exited the hall. “When y’re ready, Vincent,” Cid said, backing away a few steps to avoid hovering. Tseng had brought clothes for Vincent the day before, and seeing him in his usual attire made him seem twice as capable on its own. Still, Cid knew that he’d be wobbly at best for a little while. “But don’t take off too fast, ‘kay?”
Vincent nodded, biting his lip as he worked his way onto his feet. Even with Cid’s help it had taken a little bit of time and had left him breathless. Clutching his chest, he wheezed for a minute until breathing became a little easier. He was grateful to Tseng for bringing his clothing, as he wouldn’t be caught dead in the open-backed hospital gown. He’d be damned if he was going to show off his ass to the population at large. But his clothes were restrictive, and he had left his shirt open, having discovered that buttoning it made him feel too trapped. He teetered a little, and had a brief moment of panic when he couldn’t straighten up all the way because of the painful pulling in his chest, which left him hunched over like an old man. “Cid…” he gasped, reaching out to the blond. He needed to lean on something or he was going to fall flat on his face.
“I’m right here,” Cid said quietly, hurriedly taking Vincent’s outstretched arm and placing it over his own shoulders, feeling it slide further along as Vincent gradually stood up straighter. “Looks like I’m a good height after all, huh?” After debating for a moment over which would be the easiest way for him to help Vincent take a few steps, Cid decided that it would be best to stay just as he was, at least until Vincent directed him differently. Better for him to not fall at all than fall and hope for Cid to catch him.
Vincent gave a lopsided grin. “So it would appear. Just let me stand here a moment. Gods it feels good to stand up again.” After several minutes he cautiously withdrew his arm from around Cid’s shoulder, and nearly regretted it as the tightness returned. It was as though the muscles of his chest just couldn’t hold him upright. Clutching Cid’s arm helped, and leaning heavily on Cid, he began to walk. One painful step at a time, they slowly made their way down to the end of the hallway to stop in front of the large window there. It had taken about ten minutes with Vincent having to stop every two or three steps, but they made it. “It would seem that I am going to need one of my canes until I can get enough strength to hold myself up.” He said breathlessly, his limbs trembling from the exertion and conspicuous lack of oxygen.
Cid regarded Vincent fondly and said earnestly, “Shit, I think y’done good, what with bein’ in th’condition you was in.” Again, when he looked out this window, he saw nothing but city. He was so tired of it, and if not for Vincent, he would have gone somewhere else as soon as he’d been “removed” from his job. Then again, if not for Vincent, he would likely still have his job. Not that he wanted it, of course. He wanted to know what happened next, where each of them went after this, and then remembered that Vincent still had obligations. Surely he wouldn’t be cast aside now? Not after they’d come to care for each other so strongly in such a short amount of time. But just the same…what became of Cid now? The meeting with Fair the night before last had only served to make him more unsure and more frightened. He looked at Vincent again, and the doubt washed away. In front of him was a man he could and did trust with his life…and with his heart. “Hey.”
Vincent, lost in different thoughts -mainly those centered around where the business went now that ShinRa was dead- and staring out the window as well, turned his head without looking away. “Mm?”
Cid kept one arm ready to stabilize Vincent should he appear unsteady, and the other hand rose to cup his cheek and turn him more completely away from the window. When his eyes finally ceased their staring out the window and focused on Cid, the younger man reached up to press his lips against Vincent’s carefully, hand sliding around to the back of his head and letting its fingers weave into the dark hair. His eyes closed after a few seconds of careful contact with Vincent’s, but he made no move to deepen the kiss. He hoped deliriously that Bugenhagen would come back early and find them like this.
Sighing into the kiss, Vincent snaked his arms around Cid’s waist and deepened the kiss as much as he could manage. Few things in life were as good a long, lazy kiss in Vincent’s newly re-evaluated opinion. Pulling back after a quick ‘last kiss’, he grinned sleepily. “What was that for?”
Cid grinned back. “Because,” he said, and leaned forward to rest his head against Vincent’s shoulder. “Because I missed ya, an’ I’m glad t’have ya back, an’ I love ya, an’ I’m damned proud of ya right now. Plus y’looked like you was thinkin’ too much, an’ kissin’s a sure cure fer that.” After a few minutes of resting that way, both of them again looking out the window, he pulled back and gazed at Vincent. “Ready t’walk back, or y’need me t’bring the chair over t’you?”
Vincent tossed his head back and laughed delightedly. “That is a lot of reasons, Mr. Highwind, and you are absolutely right. Kissing is a most effective way to stop active thought processes.” But at the mention of walking back down the hallway, he blanched and then flushed. The thought of making the short journey was not appealing, and he honestly did not believe he could make it. It embarrassed him to say it but, “I cannot make it that far, Cid. If you would be so kind as to bring the chair, I would be grateful.”
“That ain’t a problem,” Cid assured him, and regretfully released Vincent. “Y’ll be all right standin’ there, right?” At Vincent’s nod, Cid walked briskly down the hall, retrieved the chair, and parked it next to Vincent. He even remembered to set the brake again before gesturing grandly for Vincent to take his seat. “Unless y’wanna just stand here a little longer?”
Vincent shook his head as he eased himself down into the chair, actually falling the short distance and when his ass hit the seat he winced at his felt it in his lungs. “No,” he gasped as he got comfortable. “As much as that idea appeals to me, I’m tired and would like to lie down again.” Actually a good portion of the pain had returned and he didn’t even want to sit up anymore.
“Sure thing,” Cid said, but took his time in getting them out of the hallway. It wouldn’t do for Bugenhagen to return and find them gone. Luckily, they met him on the way out, and he followed them back to the room.
“So, how did it go?” he asked, and then noticed Vincent’s tired expression. He chuckled a bit, obviously sympathetic. “Well, no one can blame you for being exhausted. Didn’t fall, though, did you?” was the next question, complete with an accusatory glare directed at Cid.
“’Course not. Y’said not t’let ‘im go, an’ I didn’t. I wouldn’t’a let ‘im fall.” Back in the room, Cid parked the chair next to the bed and asked, “Need anything else b’fore y’go back? Bathroom ‘r anythin’?” He had a feeling that Bugenhagen was waiting with a syringe of the pain-dulling mako, and once that happened, Vincent would be less able to communicate his needs. It hadn’t ended so well last time; Vincent had suffered a bad reaction to a pill he had been given -Bugenhagen was attempting to lessen dependence on the mako- and had nearly vomited all over Cid. Cid had caught on just in time and had been able to roll Vincent toward the trash can. Vincent had then immediately returned to rambling at Cid about motorcycles with airship engines. He would hate to see anything similar happen today. It would also probably be best to call Tseng about food before Vincent was made loopy again, but then, Cid was kind of interested to see how Tseng would handle talking to Vincent while Vincent rattled on about purple bunnies. He made a mental note to put that call on speakerphone.
Vincent shook his head and struggled out of the chair and back into bed. Once he was seated he shrugged out of his shirt. The most liberating thing, he had found, had been the retrieval of the catheter so he could at least piss by himself again.
Dr. Bugenhagen’s lips thinned as he observed the slightly grayish hue to Vincent’s face. Placing two fingers under the man’s chin he tilted his face up toward him. He shook his head, removing the stethoscope from around his neck and placing the buds in his ears. “I’m not liking your color, Mr.Valentine, and your lips are blue, which means you’re not getting enough oxygen. We’ll have to put you back on it.” He paused as he placed the cool disc on Vincent’s chest: left side, right side, then on his back. He returned it to the man’s chest. “Can you try and take a deep breath for me?”
Vincent tried but he only got about a halfway before pain made him wince and double over, gasing. Dr. Bugenhagen shook his head again, placing a steadying hand on Vincent’s back. He glanced at Cid then back at Vincent. “You have arrhythmia, and the fact that you cannot take a full breath of air concerns me. I’ll give you something for the pain and I’d like for you rest a while.” Dr. Bugenhagen removed a syringe from his coat pocket and inserted it into the portacath in Vincent’s arm. “I’ll be back to take you for another series of scans and in the meantime I’d prefer it if you remained quiet and calm. You’re a ways from walking anymore I’m afraid, Mr. Valentine.”
Sinking back into the bed after first lifting his legs onto it, Vincent nodded. He shut his eyes and thought about how much this sucked, sighing and smiling a little when the injected painkillers began taking effect. As his mind began to fuzz out into loopyville again, Dr. Bugenhagen deftly slipped the oxygen tubing onto his face and under his nose.
“M’sorry,” Cid murmured, placing his hand on Vincent’s forehead. “I shouldn’t’a suggested it.” He took his usual seat in the chair and smiled softly. “Y’ll be better t’morra.” If Bugenhagen did indeed plan to be back shortly for more tests, this was perhaps not the best time to call Tseng. But then, he did say he wanted Vincent to rest a while, and it would probably take time to get things together. Cid nodded and flipped open his phone. “A’ right, Vincent. I shoulda asked you this b’fore he gave ya that, but whaddaya want fer dinner? M’gonna go ahead an’ call Tseng now so ‘e don’t get mad later.”
“No,” Vincent sighed, and rolled his head over to look at Cid. “I’m glad you…did. I enjoyed that time with you…felt normal.” He had begun to sweat a little and he squirmed, trying to get more comfortable. It was stuffy in the room, he was convinced of it. “Food is good,” he sighed, finally finding a spot and shutting his eyes. It was more comfortable that way, and he was tired of arguing with them anyway.
“Okay,” Cid said agreeably, and punched in Tseng’s number.
“Tseng,” came the reply.
“Hey. So we were wonderin’ if y’d mind bringin’ us some real dinner t’night. We’d keep eatin’ here, only Vincent’s tired o’ the crap they’re shovin’ down his throat, an’ I have a problem keepin’ it down m’self. I tried askin’ what he wants, but he just says ‘food.’ You wanna try?”
Tseng chuckled on the other end of the line. Sounds like Vincent, he thought. “I can try, but I doubt I’ll have much more luck. Let me speak to him.”
Cid hit the speaker button, knowing that Vincent would have difficulty holding the phone anyway. He set it near Vincent’s shoulder and turned the volume up so Tseng would be able to hear Vincent’s quiet words. “There y’are,” he said, and sat back happily.
Suddenly the reception over the phone took on a cavernous quality and Tseng rolled his eyes. He was on speaker. “Vincent? Are you there?”
Vincent frowned. “Tseng?” He opened his eyes and looked over towards the sound. He startled a little when he saw the phone. “Oh, you’re in there. Cramped even for you. How is it are you?” He was having a tough time talking.
“Uh…” Tseng paused as he deciphered what Vincent had said. “I’m fine. How are you feeling?”
“Sleepy.” Vincent replied. “How’s Aphis?”
“Who? Oh-“ Tseng chuckled again. “Aerith is fine, and says hello.”
“Tell ‘er ‘lo back.”
“I will. Cid says that you and he are growing rather tired of hospital food. Can I bring you anything?”
“Turtles,” Vincent mumbled.
Silence. “What? Vincent, what are you talking about?”
“What?” Vincent shook his head and tried to focus a little better.
“Are. You. Hungry? Can I bring you anything?” Tseng said caught between amused and irritated.
“Hungry.”
“Well, that’s on the right track anyway.” Tseng muttered, then tried one last time. “Vincent!”
Vincent jumped at the suddenly loud voice. “What!”
“Niisan, if you’re hungry, then tell me what you want, and I’ll bring it to you.”
“Peanut jelly,” Vincent managed.
“Got it, Cid?” Tseng called.
“Y’don’t gotta yell,” Cid said, laughing. “An’ I don’t s’pose there’s anywhere that sells peanut butter’n jelly. Unless ‘e wants peanut jelly, but that’s a whole other story. Anyway, if you or Aerith c’d whip up a couple sandwiches for us, that’d be great.” He grinned. “I guess y’couldn’t tell, but he’s glad t’hear from ya. Aren’t ya, Vincent?”
“Yeah,” Vincent said smiling a little. “Say hi for me, will you, Cid?”
Cid grinned and decided to humor Vincent. “Hey, Tseng, Vincent says hi.” He turned to Vincent. “How was that?”
Vincent sighed drowsily. “Thanks.”
On the other end of the line Tseng’s reply was wry. “I just spoke to him, Cid.”
“Well,” Cid retorted, “he wanted me t’tell ya hi, so I did. That so wrong?” He leaned over and kissed Vincent’s forehead. “Get some sleep, Vincent. Y’re tired,” he whispered, and then said proudly to Tseng, “He walked a little t’day. Did pretty damned good, but it wore ‘im out.”
“He shouldn’t be up at all,” Tseng said, mildly horrified. “But that is impressive,” he admitted reluctantly. “How is he now? He didn’t hurt himself, did he?”
“Course not. I w’s right there with ‘im. But really, y’can’t blame ‘im fer wantin’ t’get up after so long. He ain’t the layin’ around kind.” Cid paused, reflected upon his words, and grinned. “Well, not when ‘e has t’be anyway. It’s a whole diff’rent thing when that’s all ‘e wants t’do. Ain’t it, Vincent?” he asked, noticing that the other man was now staring at the phone again. Speaking of lying around…Cid gave a mental sigh. He had been planning to start hitting the gym again. Maybe he’d get up earlier tomorrow morning and use the hospital’s.
“No, he most certainly is not the ‘laying around kind’,” Tseng sighed. “What did the doctor have to say about his newly acquired mobility?”
At that, Cid hung his head a little. “He said it’d prob’ly be a while before he lets ‘im try it again. Got ‘is breathin’ all messed up an’ shit. Too much strain an’ whatnot, y’know? He really was glad t’be able t’move, though. Hey, Vincent, yer Tseng wants t’know if y’enjoyed yer walk.”
Vincent opened his eyes and smiled brilliantly at Cid, now thoroughly under the effects of the painkillers. “Yep, got a cookie too.”
Tseng sighed. “He shouldn’t have tried it to begin with. Keep him resting, Cid, or he’ll never get out of there.”
“Y’c’n say that all y’want, but I have a hard time tellin’ ‘im no.” Cid smiled fondly back at Vincent, now petting his hair and chuckling as Vincent closed his eyes and relaxed against his hand. “I also know that he’s damned stubborn, an’ he won’t heal if ‘e don’t want to. An’ th’only reason I c’n see ‘im not wantin’ to is t’get back at somebody, prob’ly me, fer not treatin’ ‘im right while he was tryin’a get better. Or somethin’. Makes sense t’me.” He sighed and picked up the phone, turning off the speaker function as he did. “Look, I’ll ask ‘im again what ‘e wants t’eat when ‘e comes off th’drugs. They’re gonna run a few more tests ‘cause th’oxygen still ain’t runnin’ th’way it should, so that’ll prob’ly take up most o’ the day.”
Cid grimaced as he realized that meant he would be spending most of the day alone. “Thanks fer, uh, bein’ there an’ all.” Vincent appeared to be asleep, or close to it, but Cid wanted to make sure. “Anything else y’wanna tell Tseng, sugar?” he asked quietly with the mouthpiece covered.
“Mmm,” Vincent murmured as he allowed the painkillers to drift him off into sleep.
“I guess that’s a no,” Cid whispered. “I’ll let ya go fer now, then, an’ call ya back if he’s changed ‘is mind.”
“All right,” Tseng replied. “Take care of him, Cid.” Tseng said by way of a goodbye, and hung up the phone.
“I will,” Cid said, still smiling as he closed his phone and set it on the table. “I will.”
End Note: It's filler stuff. Nothin' wrong with a slightly fluffy moment. Another chapter will follow shortly when my urge to throw the computer out the window goes away. ^.^