The light of the magic fades and she's finally able to look at him again, her chest aching from the force of his words and the way he delivers them. It's clear he means everything he says and it makes her want to kick herself.

"Balthier," Aerith moves again, this time to sit on the bed beside him, her hand covering the one he rests against her cheek as her eyes lock onto his.

"If I went back I would have remembered this, and you, every day." Even if Piaget had turned out to be right, it wouldn't have mattered in the long run. Even if it was traitorous to feel that way she would have treasured their time together, and the little sliver of real life she had been allowed to enjoy. She lets his hand go to touch his cheek instead, sniffling while she searches his face before giving in and leaning forward to kiss him.

"I'll never doubt you again."