Disclaimer: I don't own FFVII

A/N: Another Cloti. Except this is in Cloud's pov. Hope you all like it!

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"No giving up!" You say as you give me strength to keep moving forward.

Your words mean more to me than anyone else's. Because I know the meaning behind them, what you're really telling me. Although I may never admit it, even to myself, I know I'm scared. Scared of not being there to protect those I love... To protect you. I don't want to make that mistake again.

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I sit at the edge of the water. Aeris had saved us all once again. I had died, and she and Zack brought me back. I look through the roof to see that its already dark out. I've been here all day and should get back home before Tifa worries.

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I put the kickstand on the Fenrir and walk inside. Tifa's there asleep with her head over her folded arms. After a second of hesitation, I pick her up, careful not to wake her, and head to her room.

As I lie her on the bed, her eyes open slightly.

"Cloud?" She whispers. I know she wouldn't be able to see me nod in the dark, so I answer her.

"I'm here."

With my keen vision, I see her smile, and hear her sigh in contentment. As I pull away to leave, she startles me by snapping her eyes open and grabbing my arm. "No," She says, with a tremble in her voice.

I become worried. "Tifa?"

"Stay with me. Don't go." I try to force down the heat that had successfully crawled up my cheeks and lie next to her.

"I'm here." I repeat.

I feel her shake her head against my chest as we're under the covers. "No," She mumbles, with a strain.

"No, I mean, stay with me. Don't go away anymore." I frown and pull her closer to my chest. I don't want her to give up on me. Not anymore. I don't want our family to be filled with doubts of my returning. I'm here to stay.

"I'm not going anywhere Tifa." I kiss the top of her head and breath in the smell of strawberries and rum. I can almost feel her smile as she seeks my hand, while squeezing it tightly. It makes my heart swell and explode with fireworks. Just by her touch; And I like the feeling.

"I'm home."

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As before, no flames please!