The Reunion

Chapter 3

Whether she liked it or not, Eloise decided to help Rufus. She had the pride of an ex-SOLDIER and she lived for a long time among proud and honourable men so she couldn't go back on her word. Cloud found her right when she was getting ready.

"So you're actually going to help Rufus,"

That wasn't a question but a statement that surprised even the most apathetic man. Cloud crossed his arms and leaned against the doorframe with a grin.

Eloise was moving around without much of an aim. She didn't have to do anything but leave the house. She was fully prepared for a battle and had the dormant mako energy that she had not used in a long time due to mental and emotional risks. Besides, she didn't really have a sword anymore so she had to use an electric rod which was funny considering Eloise used to be Cloud's trainer.

"What have you done with your sword? It's been a while since you last used it." Cloud asked. He couldn't see exactly what she was doing because she had her back turned to him.

"I don't have one anymore," she muttered.

Cloud wasn't sure he heard that right. He took a few steps towards her but stopped when she suddenly faced him. She looked completely normal.

"I lost it. It's probably destroyed somewhere in the desert." She said and blinked innocently walking right past him. Cloud watched her with a confused expression.

Eloise was walking down the stairs when she felt a sudden pain in her abdomen. It wasn't that strong but she still had to take a seat for a moment.

"Not now. It's been a few weeks. I don't want it now." Eloise groaned.

She was holding onto herself, swaying back and forth. Cloud watched her with worry. A few seconds later, she got up and walked out like nothing happened in the first place. He could understand why Tifa wanted to keep an eye on her.

Since Eloise still had her own motorcycle, she didn't even bother with the so-called bodyguard who came to give her a ride. She rolled her eyes and started the engine, not happy that Shinra ordered someone to watch her. The bodyguard kept close but at one point on the way, he took a turn and went somewhere else.

Thankfully, Reno and Rude were patrolling the company since Shinra had to leave for a congress and Tseng accompanied him for the ride. The rest of the turks were around, surveying the roads. Eloise noticed the extreme measures taken and understood that this stalker must be pretty serious.

"So you came, huh? I'm a little surprised. Did he make you agree with only a dance?" Reno asked with a shadow if a smirk as soon as she stopped between him and Rude.

Eloise stared at the red-haired man in front of her with a poker face. He was a good friend but Eloise was not in a state of mind that allowed her to be as easy-going as she used to.

"Sure. A dance." She replied, not wanting to overcomplicate her reason for helping. Reno smiled happily and leaned against his motorbike. "I've done worse for less. You know that." She added.

"You bet. Oh, you should come around the company sometimes. It's really fun. The new recruits are playful and we got some girl soldiers this time around," He started looking genuinely happy. He really wanted to get her back to whoever she was before. "At least, let's go for a drink sometimes. You and I, like old times. We can visit Sector 8. It's still standing."

"You won't back down no matter what, huh?" She chuckled and patted his shoulder. "Alright. You got yourself a date, then."

Reno's smile widened at the thought of hanging out with her. She may actually relax and enjoy her life again. Or maybe not, but Reno was optimistic.