Cloud blinked a few times at what Denzel whispered, letting out a breath of a laugh. He couldn't blame him for the suggestion - really, Cloud wanted to do just that, but it was probably a little too much for him. He wasn't exactly the romantic storybook type.

Nodding lightly at Marlene's assurance that Rex was just happy to see him, Cloud stepped by, squeezing Shelke's shoulder gently, knowing she wouldn't like a hug.

Finally, he reached Tifa and tilted his head at her a little. "...Tifa." Without another word, he simply pulled her forward, hugging her. A little too personal in front of the children, perhaps, but he needed to assure himself of just how things were.