Clamp owns CCS, I don't. Just borrowing some characters and adding new ones.

Gamble

Chapter 10 – The Conversation

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Here is another Chap, my second for this month. Enjoy guys and don't forget to leave a comment! :-)

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"Hmmmp!" Sakura, sore from sitting the whole day, stretched her body to relax. The opening of the shop is two days from now. She had to stay behind to finish the preparations. Tomoyo assigned her in charged of everything.

She glanced at the wall clock and saw that it was nearly midnight. She sighed at the time and looked around her now fully furnished and decorated office. She then tidied up her desk before reaching for her purse. She was closing the office door when her phone rang.

"Hello?"

"Sakura it's me."

His gentle and husky voice made her heart leap.

"Hey. What's up?"

"I was wondering why you weren't home so I checked the apartment and found it empty. I figure you might still be at the office."

She cut him off. "Yes I am. And I'm about to leave right now so I'm hanging up."

"Wait."

"What?"

"I'd like to drive you home. And you can't say no. I'm parked in front of your office right now." He nervously laughed.

"What?!" Sakura instantly turned off the phone and rushed outside. She nodded at the security guy at the entrance. His black Mercedes was indeed there with a smiling Syaoran leaning against it.

"Hi! You wouldn't mind, would you?"

He slid his hands inside his pockets. Sakura rolled her eyes.

"I'd be a moron to say I don't need a ride because I badly do."

She stood a foot away from him with a brow raised.

"What's with that creepy smile and extremely joyous look?"

"Nothing. I'm just glad I get to see you tonight."

He moved and opened the door for her. Once she's settled in he went around to the driver's seat and started the engine. Sakura didn't say a word. Instead she busied herself checking the interior of the car. The theme was black and silver.

"Nice car."

He just smiled then concentrated on driving. Sakura made her self comfortable as she sat in silence. After a few minutes, she snapped.

"You're going at the wrong direction. It seems you have forgotten, I'm no longer staying at the apartment."

"But you are still renting it. And keeping it clean and tidy. Let's eat something first. I'm hungry."

He flashed a dashing smile. He turned at a corner and the apartment came into view.

"Are you serious?"

She gave him a horrified look.

"Very."

"Look Li. I don't have time for nonsense right now. All I want is a warm bath and a good night sleep. I'm awfully tired."

Syaoran shot her a serious face after parking the car in front of her apartment.

"So am I Sakura. But I'd like to spend some time with you. I'd be busy myself after tonight, probably a lot busier that you. And who knows when I'll be able to see you again."

Sakura couldn't answer. His face was so solemn her tongue momentarily lost the acid she always spits at him.

"Alright."

Syaoran smiled happily caressing her cheek.

"Thank you Sugar."

When he saw her blush he immediately went out of the car and assisted her out. He took the key from her and opened the apartment.

"I bought light snacks and your favorite ice cream flavor."

"Cookies n' cream! My favorite brand too. How did you know?"

Sakura's mouth watered at the sight on the table.

"I just know." He wiggled his eyebrows. "Meilin told me."

"I guessed."

She scooped a spoonful and put in her mouth and shivered.

"Ah! This is heavenly."

She glanced at him, "Thanks!"

"The pleasure is mine."

He started biting his burger while he enjoyed watching her eat ice cream.

"How can you be so happy when you are only eating that?"

"It's my favorite. Were you expecting me to mourn instead?"

He shook his head.

"I was just curious why you enjoyed it so much. I have my favorite food too. But I don't eat it like I've won the lottery. Other people have the same reaction but not you. You are just too overjoyed."

She lowered her head and smiled sadly. Then she sighed.

"You're pretty sharp at things like this huh?"

"Certainly."

She placed her chin on her palm, her elbow on the table.

"When I was a child my Father would usually give me presents almost everyday. One day he gave me a cone of cookies n' cream while he and mother were eating theirs. I loved it. Since that day, I would always ask Dad to buy me ice cream."

Sakura sat dreamily as she remembered the sweet moments with her father.

"Whether I'm happy, upset or hurt Dad would make me smile with this." She pointed at the ice cream. "It was a secret we share and a memory I treasured so much. Whenever I miss him or Mom I just eat this."

"Those are bittersweet memories. I'm glad I bought this."

He patted the container as if thanking it for doing a good job. She laughed.

"Thanks little guy."

She patted it as well. And both of them burst into laughter. Sakura started wiping the tears falling on her face while she calmed down. Syaoran did the same. She stood up and cleaned the table. Then she went to the living room and plopped on the sofa. Syaoran followed her with a cup of coffee. He lifted Sakura's legs and settled them on his lap as he sat on the other end of the sofa.

He turned on the TV and comfortably suspended his legs on the table. He flipped the remote looking for a news channel. He tossed the remote after finding the channel and started massaging Sakura's left foot. She flinched at first but didn't pull away her leg.

It felt good. Her tensed leg muscles started to relax. She closed her eyes as she enjoyed the sensation.

"This feels good Li. I can get used to it."

She tried joking. He didn't respond. He continued what he was doing while watching the reporter on TV even though he didn't understand a word. His focus was on Sakura and her slightly arched body. She slightly curved her body to give him a better hold on her other foot. Her lips were slightly parted, her eyes closed. That night her innocence and vulnerability surfaced. She soon went into slumber.

Syaoran slowly stood up. He lifted her from the sofa and transferred her sleeping form unto her bed. Surprisingly, the movement didn't awaken her. He covered her and sat at the side of her bed.

He stared at her face for a brief moment. He then kissed her cheek and slightly brushed her lips with his. It was quick but had a huge effect on him. He may really be falling for her and he is falling fast and hard. He sighed at the thought. What was he supposed to do now?

The next morning…

Sakura moaned at the smell of hot cocoa coming from the kitchen. Her sleepiness drifted away as her taste buds reacted to the sweet aroma. She opened her eyes and nearly fell off the bed in shock. This was definitely her room but she wasn't in the condo.

She went straight to the kitchen and was greeted by a fresh looking Syaoran Li in his suit.

"Hoe! What are you doing Li? What is going on?"

He chuckled. He placed a hot cup of cocoa on the table.

"Relax Sugar. Here. Drink while it is still hot. I made it special."

She slapped her forehead. "I fell asleep didn't I? And you carried me to my room? And we… you slept… we…"

"Yes you slept on the sofa last night and I carried you to your room. And no we didn't sleep togethr. I slept at my place and woke up early to be here. So here I am at your service."

Sakura was clearly overwhelmed. Things always turn at another direction whenever she was dealing with Syaoran Li. The things he just said made her speechless.

"You still look beautiful even after waking up. The sight is just perfect."

Syaoran beamed after the comment.

"Oh my God!" Sakura, without another word, ran back inside her room and looked at the mirror. Her hair messy, her make up smeared and her top crumpled and unevenly tucked in her pencil-cut skirt. She bit her lip, gently chewing it. She hurriedly fixed herself before going back to the kitchen.

Syaoran was seated behind the table, a plate with bacon, scrambled egg and two slices of toast; a cup of coffee on his right and another plate of freshly pealed oranges. There is another plate with the same contents opposite his.

"Let's dig in. You don't want to be late on our busiest day."

Without a choice, Sakura pulled the chair opposite him and silently ate hers, slightly smiling. He definitely is a good cook. He made an ordinary breakfast into something someone would look forward to eat. The hot cocoa too tasted the same, sweet and delicious.

"Thanks!"

"My pleasure. Done eating?"

He asked as he stood up.

"Yes."

"I'll wash this up while you prepare. I'm sure you have something you can wear to the office today."

Sakura stopped at her tracks and looked at him confused.

"With the time now, it is impossible for me to drive you over the condo before dropping you off to your office. I have a meeting to catch."

He smiled apologetically.

"Oh no! You don't have to do that. I can ride a cab. I don't want to take more of your time."

She sounded like a dutiful wife. She blushed at the thought. Syaoran grew fond of watching her blush so many times since last night. She really looked beautiful.

"You're really beautiful when you blush. I enjoy the sight so much."

"Oh fuck!"

She automatically turned around and went back to her room. She hurriedly took a bath. Applied little make up and wore a knee-length ruffled body-fit dress. She bun her hair carelessly leaving some strands freely falling on the said of her face.

Syaoran whistled when she came out.

"Hey Beautiful, ready?"

Without a word she handed him the key to the apartment and went out. She didn't wait for him to open the car door. She immediately sat in and fastened her seatbelt. The ride to her office was a quiet one. No one dared to start a conversation.

"Thanks Li."

Sakura said as Syaoran parked in front of the Glass House. "I owe you a lot now. Thanks again."

She instantly kissed him without planning it. Syaoran immediately wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her closer. He can't be contented with just a peck on the check. He wanted more. The kiss deepened both feeling the hunger from within. She laced her hand on his hair as he crushed her towards him. They parted breathlessly.

"I'll call you when I get the chance. I can't pick you up tonight but I'll try tomorrow morning." He kissed her again. "Take care of yourself, okay?"

Sakura nodded before they kissed again. It was a good thirty second kiss. She felt like she floated somewhere after the series of kiss. He was such a good kisser. She went out of the car, still breathless.

"Thanks again. Drive safely."

"I will. See you soon Sugar." With that, Syaoran drove off.

Sakura, with her legs feeling heavy and her body afloat, walked slowly inside the Glass House. She greeted the people inside without recognizing their faces. She knew every single one of them yet she couldn't identify who is who.

Tomoyo was already seated on the couch when she entered her office.

"Good morning. Looks like someone got a pretty fancy ride."

"Hey Tomoyo. You're early today."

"I'm always early Sakura." She crossed her legs elegantly as her smile became devilish. "Would you care telling me who is the mystery guy?"

"I don't like that look boss. And there is no mystery guy." She sat behind her desk looking out her window.

"And I don't like you calling me 'boss' Sakura." She tapped the side of the couch with her long nails. "Who's the guy?"

"He is Meilin's brother, Syaoran. He came back with some business to attend to."

This alarmed Tomoyo. She sure was glad this Meilin girl left Japan and leaving a vulnerable Sakura in her care. It made her job easier. But if the brother was back, Meilin might come back as well. It might mess up her plans.

"Is your friend coming back?" She asked without hesitation.

"Li said she'd come soon. He isn't sure when though." Sakura answered without realizing Tomoyo's panic.

"Why is that?"

"He said Meilin needs to settle some things with their mother. I didn't ask for specific details though. Knowing that Meilin will visit soon is a relief."

"I see."

Tomoyo stood up and walked towards her window. The scenery outside was a marvel. It was a mini garden with a small waterfall surrounded by bonsai trees and multi-colored flowers. There were some tables and chairs for the customers and employees to relax.

"Will she be staying at the apartment when she comes back?"

Sakura looked at her in awe. She sounded upset.

"I do not have an answer to that. I didn't ask Li about it."

Tomoyo turned around. "I'm sorry. I'm in no position to question you about that. I'm just worried Sakura."

"I understand. You need not to worry. I'm fine with the way things are now." She assured her.

"I'm glad to her that." Tomoyo smiled at her. "I should be at my office now. I'll be out later for an important meeting. I'll send Eriol to pick you up."

"No, I can manage. I think I won't be leaving the office early. I only have a day and a half to complete the preparation. We can't fail or commit mistakes."

Tomoyo nodded. "I'll see you tonight then."

She kissed her cheek before leaving the office.

"We need to talk Meilin." Yelan, with overpowering authority stopped her daughter from walking out of the room.

Meilin, without turning back answered, "I need to be somewhere else Mother. I have to go."

"You are not leaving this room until I say so."

Meilin rolled her eyes in annoyance before settling in a couch. "This better be worth my time.", she murmured to herself.

"Your brother, before he left, asked me to permit you to come back to Japan." Meilin's stare instantly flew at her direction. "And he made me promise to do so."

Meilin held her breath awaiting her next words. It came after a pause.

"I've come to a decision. If you wish to come back to Japan, you can. You can stay there for good if you wish too on one condition."

"What is it Mother?"

Meilin hyperventilated at the rush of blood due to excitement.

"You have to take over the company in Japan, a complete take over to all of our businesses and transactions. And you must earn profit of at least 30% within a year of running the business without the help of your brother."

"Mother, you seem to be asking for something so impossible." Meilin panicked after hearing her condition. "You very well know I have no experience running the business nor do I have the interest to be in it."

Yelan's mouth curved a little. "This conversation seems to be over. You can leave now." She went behind her desk to continue with her paperwork.

"Mother." Meilin slowly approached her desk. "What if I can't profit at all? What if the business goes bankrupt even before a year passes after taking over? That would be a great loss to our company. Are you not worried about the consequences?"

Yelan removed her glasses and leaned back to her chair.

"There you go again. The endless 'what ifs'. You will not allow the business to go bankrupt and you will do everything it takes to bring that profit within a year Meilin. That's all you have to worry about."

"But Mother."

"No buts. Think it over. Come see me once you've made your decision."

Meilin walked out of the room, shoulders down, spirit fallen. Nothing was ever easier for her when it comes to her mother. There was always a condition, consequences. It always ended up with her not having any other option but to obey.

Leaving Hong Kong and hiding in Japan were the first and probably the last stunt she can pull against her mother. The journey was tough. She was about to give up when she met Sakura. She helped her to stand on her own, live and adapt. Survive at all costs. She managed to pull through with Sakura's help. It was only her and no one else.

"Yes?" Sakura answered her phone.

"Hello Sugar." It was Syaoran and his sweet, husky voice.

"Would you quit calling me that? And how did you fucking come up of such nickname anyway?" She questioned him ultimately pissed at the moment.

"Did I call at a bad time?" Concern was evident in his voice.

"Yes. But before you hang up, answer the damn question."

"What question?" Syaoran tried teasing her while getting amused at her interest with her pet name.

"What the hell Li! Why do you even bother calling if you have nothing sensible to say? Just answer the question and get over it!"

"Don't get so worked up over something trivial. I'll answer your question on our next meeting. This is probably not a good time. I'm hanging…"

"Alright. Fine! Just… Arggg… I can't believe you are making me do this right now." She breathed heavily before continuing. "Why do you keep calling me Sugar?"

Syaora chuckled on the other line. "I bet you are blushing right now. I'd love to…"

Sakura canceled the call. She was so pissed at him making fun of her. It doesn't matter if he did not answer. She'd make sure that next time she saw him she gets it. She continued reviewing the reports that came in today but the unanswered question kept bugging her. She slammed the folder on her desk and dialed his number. He answered after the first ring.

"I so fucking hate you Syaoran Li! Would you just answer the freaking question?" She nearly shouted over the phone.

Surprisingly, Syaoran didn't find it funny. Guilt attacked him.

"You like anything sweet. ANYTHING. So I figured it would be better to call you Sugar. It's cute and sweet just like you."

"That's it? That's all you can say?"

She felt it wasn't enough. After all her bothersome thoughts that's all the answer she would get?

"That's all there is to it Sakura."

She sighed in defeat. "I guess that's it then. I'll hang up now. Thanks, anyways."