Shared Moments
The text notification on Tifa’s phone buzzed just as she finished arranging the display of pastries for the next morning. She wiped her hands on her apron and reached for her phone, feeling a quiet thrill when she saw Aerith’s name.
Aerith: Hey, Tifa! Want to come to a rehearsal tomorrow? I’d love to show you what goes on behind the curtain.
Tifa read the message twice, her lips curving into a small smile. The thought of seeing Aerith in her element, in the world she so clearly loved, was exciting.
Tifa: I’d love to. What time should I be there?
Aerith’s response was instant, almost as if she’d been waiting for Tifa’s reply.
Aerith: Meet me at the theater at 3! Be prepared—it’s not as glamorous as the stage, but it’s where the magic starts.
Tifa spent the rest of the evening with a warm anticipation buzzing in her chest.
---
The next afternoon, Tifa arrived at the grand old theater Aerith had directed her to. Its worn exterior, with its faded signage and ivy creeping up the side, carried a kind of understated charm. Stepping inside felt like crossing into another world.
Aerith greeted her at the door with an excited wave. Dressed in soft ballet atire, her hair pulled back in a casual bun, she was stunning in a way that took Tifa’s breath away.
“Hey! You made it,” Aerith said, her voice bright as she led Tifa down the hall.
“Of course,” Tifa replied, her hands tucked nervously into her jacket pockets. “Thanks for inviting me. I’ve never seen anything like this before.”
“Well, you’re in for a treat,” Aerith said with a grin, pushing open the door to the rehearsal studio.
The space was vast and sunlit, with floor-to-ceiling mirrors reflecting the movements of dancers scattered across the room. The sound of piano accompaniment filled the air as the dancers stretched and moved, their bodies fluid and controlled.
Tifa stood near the edge of the room, trying not to feel out of place. Aerith stayed by her side for a moment, offering a reassuring smile. “Just watch for now. I’ll be up in a bit.”
As Aerith joined the other dancers, Tifa found herself captivated. The grace and discipline Aerith had displayed on stage were even more impressive up close. Every movement was precise, deliberate, yet imbued with a passion that made it seem effortless.
Aerith stumbled once during a particularly intricate sequence and let out a soft curse, quickly adjusting and trying again. Tifa admired her determination, the way she pushed through each challenge with focus and energy.
When the rehearsal ended, Aerith returned to Tifa’s side, her cheeks flushed and a towel draped around her shoulders. “Well? What did you think?”
Tifa laughed softly. “I don’t know how you do it. You’re incredible.”
Aerith blushed faintly, her smile radiant. “It’s hard work, but it’s worth it. It’s... freeing, you know? Being able to express everything through movement.”
Tifa nodded, her admiration deepening. “I can see that. You have this way of making it look so natural.”
Aerith’s gaze softened. “Thanks for saying that. Sometimes I worry I’m not good enough, but hearing it from you means a lot.”
---
A few days later, Tifa decided it was time for Aerith to meet her world.
The café buzzed with its usual energy. Barret, as loud and boisterous as ever, was behind the counter, teasing Jessica about her usual order. Elena was perched in her usual corner, typing furiously on her laptop, while Cloud and Sephiroth sat at a table near the window, sharing quiet conversation over coffee.
When Aerith walked in, the room seemed to brighten. She had an effortless charm that made people take notice, and today was no exception. Barret raised an eyebrow, Jessica glanced over her shoulder with a knowing smirk, and even Elena paused her typing to take in the newcomer.
“Tifa,” Barret called out, his booming voice breaking through the chatter. “Who’s the new sunshine?”
Aerith laughed softly, and Tifa felt her cheeks burn. “Everyone, this is Aerith,” she said, trying to sound casual. “She’s a friend.”
Aerith gave a cheerful wave. “Nice to meet you all! I’ve heard great things about this place.”
Cloud smirked knowingly. “Tifa’s been talking about you.”
“Cloud!” Tifa hissed, shooting him a glare.
“It’s fine,” Aerith said, laughing. “I’ll take it as a compliment.”
Sephiroth, seated beside Cloud, offered Aerith a polite nod. “The ballerina, right? Impressive craft.”
“Thanks,” Aerith replied warmly.
As Aerith chatted with the group, she quickly won them over with her charm and openness. Barret, always a skeptic, seemed particularly taken with her, and Jessica was already asking questions about her performances.
“You fit right in,” Tifa said as they left the café together later that evening.
Aerith glanced at her, her eyes sparkling with humor. “Your friends are wonderful. A little nosy, but wonderful.”
Tifa sighed, her cheeks pink. “They mean well.”
Aerith stopped, turning to face her. “I like them. And... I like spending time with you, Tifa.”
Tifa smiled, her heart fluttering. “Me too.”
The simple admission hung between them, and though it wasn’t grand or dramatic, it felt like the beginning of something truly special.