[ cloud is silent -- there's an ache that pulsates deep within his chest, and he turns his head away again, blinking as the quiet looms over them both.

but he turns back -- this is something he has to face. he's... something he has to face. zack deserved that little, that much from him. so he peers into his eyes, mako gaze reflecting his own, the same poison binding them together.

his body moves on its own. two hands set at zack's waist, holding him in place. slowly, he pulls him into his embrace; zack is taller, so he has to nose into the crook of his shoulder. but it's alright. this was alright. ]

...I'm glad you're here.

[ it's said quietly, practically lost in the fabric of his shirt. ]

With us. With... me. [ his cheek rests against his neck, eyes fluttering shut. ] And I don't--

...I don't want to lose you again. I'm... scared of that. So scared, I don't know what to do sometimes...