[ It was difficult to watch Cloud turn his gaze away when he finally finally felt as though he could pour out all of his feelings towards him. It had been something so long overdue— starting from the moment he became friends with Cloud. He knew there was something special about him; a fire that no matter how small refused to extinguish. He was a fighter, a good one too, yet still someone who Zack wanted to protect more than anything. At first those feelings may have been no more than a need to nurture and get him to safety, eventually with more time spent together he couldn't shake away the other thoughts.

But then there was also Aerith.

The question caused Zack to widen his eyes in response, a sudden lack of breath stopping him from speaking.

That's right. They had talked about her and what happened in the cafe. There was no denying his affection (both inward and outward with how much he talks about her), so blurting this all out right now probably would be confusing. But still— ]

You know Aerith means everything to me. [ He begins, trying to push forward his best grin all while taking a step forward. He wanted to let Cloud know that he was here. That he wasn't going to run away and that he was determined to express himself. ]

But you— you do, too. I can't really explain it or when it all started but when I look at you? [ He chuckles under his breath, feeling the warm in his cheeks grow brighter. ] You make me feel like I can do anything!

[ Zack feels himself getting a little bolder, and as he approaches the blonde he'll reach forward in attempt to take his hand. ]

I... I really like you, Cloud. Like a lot.