"No."

Cloud's expression gets a little intense with that. Like a startled, angry animal recoiling at being touched.

The thought of not being alone isn't unwelcome deep down, but Cloud's reflex to cover himself and keep playing lone wolf jumps way to the fore and smothers it.

"The hell are you thinking? Take me in? Like some stupid pet? I'm not looking for charity, and they sure as hell aren't-"

Getting that worked up simply has Cloud's exhaustion crash into him. He inhales a sharp breath, swaying in place as the words die in his mouth.