[The inside of the Gainsborough is as warm and inviting as he'd always imagined it would be. A perfect reflection of its residents. It kind of reminds him of some of the homes back in Gongaga, not in terms of appearances, but how lived-in and comfortable and welcoming they are; it's easy to envision a family within, enjoying a meal, kids running on the creaky steps, a mom in the kitchen cooking or cleaning and gently reminding them to be careful. It's been years since Zack considered any of that, having gotten used to the cold and impersonal accommodations provided by Shinra.

It hits him with a hard pang of nostalgia. It has been a really long time.

He blinks back any potential teard and swallows hard just in time for Aerith's approach. He smiles, tries for the confident and easygoing one he's known for but it doesn't come...and it's okay. She's seen him at very low points before, back in the church after Angeal...

Zack shakes his head slightly, his expression subtle but still fond.]

I've been laying down -- or up -- asleep for a long time.

[Between the lab and the convalescent clinic here in Midgar, he thinks he should be afraid of laying down ever again. But this is fine.]

But yeah -- I can tell ya everything and we can sit and talk, yeah? Anywhere's fine. Upstairs on the bed, outside in the garden, down here... It's up to you.