Cloud and Marlene... Just wondering

[Unlucky]

Cloud is pretty much a second father to her, however she can also see him as a good friend too.

I agree. I finally understand that a person can be a father figure and a friend both at the same time and I think that best describes Cloud's relationship with Marlene.

As for Denzel, he does have some of Cloud's traits, but he has already shown himself to be stronger than our favorite blonde swordsman

I know, but somehow I get the impression that Denzel is more fragile as a child compared to Marlene, though he does show a strong side. I think he'll do fine as long as Tifa continues to be a good mom and if Cloud doesn't mess up with their family set-up in the future.

Despite this, my father is a good man and he once told us that he will not repeat the mistake of his father.

That's exactly my point-- a lot of factors can determine whatever happens to a child but it depends hugely on how the child handles these situations in his own ways.