Author's note: *slowly pushes chapter forward with a 10 meter stick to avoid angry rocks thrown by waiting readers.* Enjoy! *Hides away immediately*

-oOo-

Chapter 36: Truth

Waiting Area

Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Kowloon, Hong Kong

July 20, 2009

3:43 AM

The hand that was gripping his tightened considerably. Touya looked at Sakura who was holding on to him as if her life depended on it. They were huddled together on one of the chairs in the hospital. Small tremors shook her frame and Touya knew she was trying her best to appear calm. Her grip gave her away though. As soon as Sakura got off the plane, Touya immediately told her what happened. Jin had been left to deal with the authorities while Touya accompanied Sakura to the hospital Li had been rushed to. They had spent the past few hours sitting silently, waiting for any news. The Li sisters had been scarce, probably staying by their brother's side.

Touya could read his sister so well. She was angry at herself for being unable to be by Xiao Lang's side right now. He had no idea what happened but he knew that now wasn't the moment to pry. Sakura's nerves were frazzled as it is. Touya watched as another tear fell down her face. She wiped it hastily away.

He wrapped his arm over her shoulder and pulled her close. "Everything will be all right, Sakura."

Her tremors became more pronounced and her grip became even tighter. "I can't help but be afraid, Niisan. If he dies and I…" Her choked on her own words.

"He won't," he reassured her immediately. Touya did not want Sakura to go through the hell she went through years ago. "Everything will be fine. They'll call you to see him in a while so don't worry."

Sakura simply nodded and moved closer into her brother's embrace. Touya lost track of the time they stayed like that. He only remembered gripping Sakura's hand with just as much intensity as hers.

After who knows how long, Fuutie finally came to them. "Sakura?"

Sakura looked up at the voice immediately. Recognizing who it was, she stood up right after. "Fuutie-san."

Touya stood up as well.

Fuutie held both Sakura's hands and smiled. "He's stable now."

The breath of relief that Sakura let out left her weak in the knees so Touya had to support her. "Thank you," she whispered.

"Would you like to see him?" Fuutie asked.

Sakura gave her a pained smile. "…No. I'm all right."

Fuutie seemed surprised at her answer. "Are you sure?"

Sakura nodded. "I'm fine just knowing he's pulled through." She tried her best to smile but both Fuutie and Touya knew she was forcing herself. "Besides, he might not want to see me anyway."

"I disagree."

Both women looked up to stare at Touya. Touya would not allow Sakura to lie to herself anymore.

"Niisan?" she asked in confusion.

He looked down at her and met her green eyes. "I think you'd be the first person he would want to see."

Sakura stared at her brother for a few seconds before speaking. "But-"

Touya silenced her by placing his hand on top of her head. "Sakura, he stopped a plane just to see you. Heck, I' m sure Jin is still being investigated by the authorities and is facing a few years in prison just so you two could talk it out. I'll be damned if I let Jin's hard work go to waste."

The tears started to fall from Sakura's eyes again. "But I…"

Touya was not going to let Sakura run away. He wiped her tears away with his free hand. "You want to talk to him, right? It's no use lying to me. I can see right through you, Sakura. I always have."

Sakura's bottom lip was trembling. Touya could see her fear. However, Touya also knew that this was the right thing to do. Sakura and Xiao Lang needed to talk things out. Touya was going to give them the chance. Like always, he'd deal with the consequences when they came.

When Sakura spoke, uncertainty laced every letter of her words. "Can I really? Can I go see him? Visiting hours are over and-"

Touya cut her off. "I can call great-grandfather and he'd buy the hospital in a second. You can do whatever you want then."

Sakura looked down to the floor and whispered, "Will he really want to see me? I lied to him. I don't deserve a chance to-"

He wanted to sigh in exasperation at his sister's stubbornness. It was as if she wanted to suffer. "Sakura. I saw him." He lifted her face so she'd be looking into his eyes. "Believe me. He will want to speak with you."

Sakura still looked a bit unsure as Touya turned the both of them to face Fuutie. "I've talked to the staff and they'll let you stay, Sakura. You don't have to worry about anything," she told them.

Touya signaled one of the Amamiya attendants over. They had been watching Touya and Sakura from afar. One of Sakura's attendants rushed to them carrying a brown paper bag and a red thermos bottle. Touya thanked her as he took the bag and offered it to Sakura.

She took the offered bag on instinct and looked up at Touya in confusion. "Niisan?"

He smiled to reassure her. "It might get cold during the night. Make sure you get some sleep. It's past 3 and you've not slept a wink. There's a fleece blanket in the bag. It also has a toothbrush and a change of clothes. I had someone get them from the hotel." He then offered the thermos jug. "Warm milk. It'll help you relax. You're already exhausted so get some sleep all right? "

"Niisan…" Sakura could not find the words to answer. Instead, she just hugged her brother tight. "You're the second most amazing and perfect person in this whole world, Niisan."

He smiled as he returned Sakura's embrace. "I know."

Fuutie looked at them with a smile on her face. As soon as Touya let Sakura go, she said, "I'll walk you to his room."

Sakura held on to her brother's hand as they were led to the room where Xiao Lang was resting.

"If an apology isn't the first thing he says, call me and I'll give him a reason to stay in the hospital for a few more weeks," Touya told her.

Sakura managed a weak smile. "Yes, I'll keep that in mind."

-oxoxoxoxoxoxoxox-

In front of room 325-C

Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Kowloon, Hong Kong

July 20, 2009

4:29 AM

Sakura could feel her heart racing as they opened the door to Syaoran's room. Her brother had left them as soon as they stopped in front of the door. Sakura felt herself unsteady without her brother to support her. She found her hands shaking so she balled them into fists so as to control them. The held her breath as they walked in.

Syaoran was in a bed farther in, his eyes closed. A man, his doctor presumably, was right beside him looking at the read-outs of the different machines he was attached to. Sakura felt herself losing strength as she looked at his face. He looked slightly pale. She was too far away to see any real changes. She had to stop herself from running to his side.

"Good evening, Doctor." Fuutie greeted the man as they walked in. "How is he?" Fuutie asked as she walked to her brother's side.

Sakura walked closer as well, her eyes trained on Syaoran's face.

"Better," the doctor replied to Fuutie's question. "This has happened before so I know exactly what procedures to do. He's rather delicate, isn't he?"

Fuutie nodded. "Yes. It's not permanent damage or anything, is it?"

The doctor smiled at Fuutie and then Sakura. "No, he just overworked his heart a little. He pushed himself a little far today. He must have been desperate to batter his body like this. Even after I told him to always take into account his weak constitution."

Fuutie nodded and gestured to Sakura. "Doctor, this is Sakura Kinomoto."

The doctor smiled at Sakura warmly.

"Sakura, this is Dr. Fei Ng, he's Xiao Lang's personal doctor."

Sakura gave a deep bow. "Thank you for taking good care of him all this time, Sir."

Dr. Ng nodded and laughed. "I will definitely scold Xiao Lang later."

"Eh?" Sakura was a bit surprised at the doctor's words.

"It won't do making such a lovely young girl worry," he answered.

"I wasn't-"

He stood up and placed a hand on Sakura's shoulder. "No need to explain. There truly is nothing to worry about," he reassured her again. "Please get some rest as well, yes? You look like you really need it."

"Thank you," Sakura said, her relief audible in her voice.

Thank goodness nothing's wrong.

He smiled at Sakura once more before turning to Fuutie. "Fuutie, a word?"

Fuutie nodded. "Make yourself comfortable, Sakura," she said before following the doctor out.

Sakura waited until the sound of their footsteps died away before turning to Syaoran. He looked exactly the same as he did when they had last spoken.

Why aren't you waking up?

She sat down beside him and reached for his hand under the covers. It felt cold. She tried to warm it up in her hands.

"If you don't wake up soon, I'll be really worried. I won't be able to sleep at night and I'll blame myself for everything. I won't eat either. Do you hear me?" She moved his hand closer and rested her forehead against it. "I'll end up in a really bad state."

Please, please just wake up.

-oxoxoxoxoxoxoxox-

Main lobby

Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Kowloon, Hong Kong

July 20, 2009

4:45 AM

An unfamiliar sound grabbed Touya's attention for a second. It took him a while to realize that it was the phone his great-grandfather had given him earlier. He took it out of his pocket, looked at the caller ID and answered the call. "Great-grandfather? What is it?"

"Is Sakura well?" came his grandfather's voice from the other line.

"Yes, she is. She'll be staying over at the hospital for a while. I got her everything she needs."

There was a slight pause before his great-grandfather spoke again. "I see."

Realizing the pause meant something else, Touya decided to ask about it. "What is it?"

He could almost hear the smile in his great-grandfather's voice. "You approve of how things are going?"

Somehow, Touya wasn't surprised that he was thinking like that. "I guess," he answered simply. There was silence on the other line. He grew flustered the longer it stretched. "What?" he asked after a few seconds.

His great-grandfather only laughed. "It's nothing. I'll have someone help Uzuki out of the fix he got himself into."

Knowing there was more to the Amamiya head's silence, Touya let it go for now. "Thank you very much. I'm heading home." He ended the call and was about to head out of the hospital when he saw a familiar silhouette waiting for him. "Mizuki-san," he greeted as soon as he was a few steps from her.

She greeted him with a smile. "You never cease to amaze me." Touya only raised an eyebrow in question. She laughed at his expression. "I saw everything."

"Oh, really?" Touya replied a little dejectedly.

Kaho's eyes looked at him with fondness. "You look… defeated."

He grimaced at the word she used. "Resigned, more like."

She smiled at him again. "I see. It must have been difficult for you."

Touya only shrugged. "Truthfully, if I didn't see how desperate he was to stop Sakura from leaving, I would have made sure they never meet again."

"Xiao Lang barely saved his skin then," she answered with a little laugh.

"Barely."

"Is that the only thing that made you change your mind?" she asked.

Touya knew their conversation was going to go into this. Instead of diverting the issue like he did with almost anyone else, Touya decided to just be truthful to her. She would know immediately if he was lying anyway. "To me, Sakura has always been what mattered most." He placed his hands in his pockets and looked at a spot right behind Kaho. "We all did what we could for her. I can keep them apart and keep Sakura isolated but in the end, he's the only one who can make a difference. I would continue acting like a fool if I forced myself not to acknowledge that. I decided to trust in Sakura. I'll trust her feelings and in how she'll be true to them. If I end up with a disagreeable brother-in-law then I can just get back at him in some way. Probably by showing their kids how much better a man Uncle Touya is compared to their father."

"That's an interesting thought." Kaho could not quite hide her amusement. "You were saying something about stealing away something important from him. Have you given up on that?"

Touya smiled wryly. That had slipped his mind and he was glad Kaho and brought it up again. "Oh, no. I'm starting right now actually."

"Oh?"

"Would you like to join me for early morning coffee?" he asked with his most charming smile.

Kaho returned his smile. "I would love to."

-oxoxoxoxoxoxox-

Inside Room 325-C

Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Kowloon, Hong Kong

July 20, 2009

4:56 AM

The world seemed to spin the moment Xiao Lang opened his eyes. The ringing in his ears did not stop.

"Are you feeling well, Xiao Lang?"

He turned to the voice and the image of his doctor appeared. Still disoriented, he could only say, "Where?"

Dr. Ng smiled at him. "Your usual hospital room."

There was something urgent he had to do but he could not remember it. "Why?"

"You collapsed in the airport."

At the mention of the word, memories of the last few hours assaulted him. He had no time to be idling here.

I have to go to Sakura.

"You should be glad-"

He surprised the doctor when he started ripping out the needles attached to his body. Dr. Ng tried to restrain him.

"What are you doing?" he demanded.

"I can't stay here," Xiao Lang answered with gritted teeth as he tried to push off the doctor. It was a losing battle, however. He just felt so weak.

"Calm down, Xiao Lang!"

He continued to struggle despite his feeble strength. "I have to go to Sakura! I can't just lie here."

The doctor pushed him back down on the bed. "Calm down! You'll wake your guest."

Upon hearing those words, Xiao Lang looked wildly about the room. His eyes rested on a familiar tuft of brown hair and saw a figure curled up on the sofa by the window. He recognized her immediately. Relief flooded through him and he stopped fighting against the doctor.

She's here. Calm down. Sakura hasn't left you yet.

The doctor also sighed in relief as soon as Xiao Lang stopped struggling. He proceeded to carefully reattach everything Xiao Lang had removed. "It won't do to make a girl cry, Xiao Lang," he reproached him gently. "Fuutie told me she was sobbing outside for hours because she was worried about you."

Xiao Lang could not imagine just how much pain he caused her. She was still here though, that meant something. The guilt started to eat at him but he brushed it away from his mind temporarily. He could not stand being even just a few feet away from her. He needed to be closer. "Can I move around, doctor?"

Dr. Ng did not stop what he was doing. "In a bit."

Xiao Lang nodded in response, his eyes trained on Sakura.

He did not remove his gaze from her sleeping form even as the doctor asked, "What were you thinking pushing yourself like this after I expressly told you not to, hm?"

"I would have lost her if I didn't," he answered. He had a gut feeling that had he not stopped that plane, he would have lost her forever.

Dr. Ng smiled as he worked. "I'm a bit amazed. So it was actually true."

He finally tore his gaze away from Sakura and looked up at the doctor in confusion. "What do you mean?"

"You're a regular here Xiao Lang and some of the nurses fancy you. It wouldn't be weird for them to be gossiping." The doctor moved to his other side and studied the read-outs for a few seconds before continuing. "Anyway, rumors have been swirling about you and a lady love. A lot of the nurses were heartbroken when they found out."

Xiao Lang looked back at Sakura, impatient to be at her side again. "Will this take any longer?"

"To see you so desperate to be at a woman's side-" Xiao Lang glared at up at him, cutting his sentence short. "I didn't mean to insult you or anything, Xiao Lang. Besides, she seems like a good girl. I look forward to getting to know her better. Knowing Li standards, she must be someone of very high quality. Fuutie looked like she absolutely adored her. "

He watched her form again and smiled morosely. "I'm the one who can't match up, really."

"Is that how things are?" the doctor asked in disbelief.

"Yes. She's too good for anyone. I am extremely blessed that I can stay with her."

And despite that, I still had the nerve to hurt you the way I did. How can I ever ask for your forgiveness?

He was relieved she was here but after the worry of her disappearing wore off, fear was now setting in. He did not know how much damage he had caused and if he could still repair it. He was sure that from then on, things would be different between the two of them. In addition, there was still the matter of Shuichi Kimura's heart inside him. Their relationship which had been so simple and right was now fraught with complications. She was here now but that did not mean she was letting everything go back to the way it was. It was her nature to worry about other people. She was worried for him but Xiao Lang knew it was the way she was. It didn't mean anything. They both had to talk it out.

I have to explain my side properly. I have to make her understand. I can't let her leave me. Not ever.

As if reading his thoughts, the doctor said, "Do your best, Xiao Lang. You have people who will be rooting for you."

"I know," he smiled genuinely. The doctor made him feel better.

That's right. I'm not the only one who'll be miserable in she left. My mother, my sisters, Kaho, Eriol… She's become a part of my life already. I'm sure that even just a little, I've become part of hers, too. I don't intend to change that fact.

"All done," Doctor Ng proclaimed as he straightened himself to his full height.

"Thank you, I'm sorry for causing trouble."

The doctor helped Xiao Lang sit up. "Go to her. You look like a pitiful puppy wanting to go to its master."

Xiao Lang let the quip pass. It was true after all.

I have nothing to say to that.

Xiao Lang moved his legs slowly while the doctor helped him stand up. "Take your drip with you and try not to push yourself too much. Take your time moving. Don't push yourself."

"Doctor, you sound like my sisters," Xiao Lang griped.

"Well, seeing as my head will roll if I let anything happen to you, I think my being a mother hen right now is excusable."

Even Xiao Lang did not know exactly what his sisters would do if something happened to him but he knew it was nothing good. "I understand. I'm sorry for worrying you."

He helped Xiao Lang move to Sakura. He placed a chair by her side and helped Xiao Lang down onto it. "Will you be all right sitting here?"

Xiao Lang nodded in response, his attention focused on Sakura's sleeping face. He frowned when he saw how swollen her eyes had become.

I wonder how longs she's been crying. I'm such an idiot.

He cupped her face and felt the remnants of her dried tears.

Can I think that you cried because you were afraid to lose me? Do I still have the right to hold you?

What he had done was sure to have reached her family by now. They had threatened him not to hurt her. If they decided to make a move to get even, Xiao Lang had no intention of running away. He deserved anything they would do to him. However, he would never allow them to take her away from him. They could take anything from him and he would not raise a hand in protest. But if they took her, Xiao Lang knew he would go insane.

You're the only thing I refuse to give up.

Moving slowly so as not to remove the needles attached to him, Xiao Lang knelt and moved himself even closer to her. He was close enough to hear the sound of her exhaling. She was curled up in the sofa in an uncomfortable position. Xiao Lang was sure she was having a fitful sleep. As if confirming his thoughts, Sakura mumbled something unintelligible and tossed to one side. Her hand moved up to scratch her head causing her hair to obscure her face. Xiao Lang brushed the stray strands away, unable to endure not seeing her face.

He saw her eyebrow scrunch up before her eyes slowly opened. Xiao Lang smiled in greeting. Her eyes snapped open in a second and she bolted to a sitting position.

"What are you doing?" she cried out as she scanned his entire body. She rushed to kneel by his side, her hands trying to help him up. "You should be resting!" she scolded harshly. She scanned the room and frowned. "Why isn't anyone here to-"

The concern he heard in her voice erased whatever reservations he had about holding her. He pulled her towards him and buried his face in the crook of her neck. The force he was using was enough to crush her but he couldn't control himself. He wanted to keep her by his side using any means possible. "I'm sorry," he whispered.

He said the words over and over again, losing count of how many times he actually said them.

If I have to say them a million times, I'll do it.

Xiao Lang felt her relax in his hold despite the strength he was using to hold her. He held onto her for a long time, not caring about anything else.

"You just saved yourself from a few weeks of hospital fees," she whispered into his ear and the feel of her lips as she brushed them against the shell of his ear sent shivers down his spine. He forced himself to release her. She met his questioning gaze squarely and smiled weakly. The sight of it made Xiao Lang's heart stop. "My brother said if you don't apologize to me first then he'd beat you up bad."

Completely forgetting everything else, Xiao Lang only moved to smash his lips against hers. He bared everything to her. He had no words to explain himself so he hoped she would understand everything in this kiss. The kiss was neither sweet nor playful. It was desperate and sloppy. There was no room for finesse. Xiao Lang was aware that he could be hurting Sakura but she didn't seem to mind. She was kissing him back with just as much desperation. Almost like this was the last time they would ever kiss. Only when his need for air became too great did he actually pull away. Their foreheads rested against each other as they both gasped for air, their arms around each other.

"I'm sorry," he said once more, his eyes staring into hers.

Sakura cupped his face in both her hands and Xiao Lang leaned into her touch. "You shouldn't be up, you know?" she whispered back.

"You were too far away," he reasoned.

She smiled at him. "If I go nearer would that be all right?"

Xiao Lang only nodded wordlessly, his mind still blank from the kiss they just shared.

She smiled wider and helped him up. They walked to the bed slowly and Sakura helped him lie back down. Xiao Lang did not loosen the grip he had on her arm. He was still afraid that she might leave him. She got a few pillows to support his back. If she was burdened with Xiao Lang limiting her movements by holding on to her, she didn't show it. After she was satisfied he was comfortable, Sakura pulled up a chair and sat right beside him.

"Are you feeling better?" she asked.

"I am because you're here," Xiao Lang replied honestly.

I only need to be where you are.

He met her eyes and poured every ounce of sincerity into his words. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry for not listening. I'm sorry for the words I said. I'm sorry for manhandling you." He tightened his grip on her hand. "For everything I did that hurt you, I'm sorry."

Sakura was silent as she listened to him. It stretched for minutes after he had spoken. Xiao Lang did not dare break it for fear that doing so would send her away. She was thinking about everything he had just said. He waited patiently without complaint, his eyes greedily taking in the sight of her.

"All you've done in the last twenty-four hours is make me cry" she whispered.

"I'm sorry," Xiao Lang answered in a voice just as soft.

There was really nothing else he could say. She was speaking the truth. Xiao Lang felt as if he'd swallowed a barb. He tried his best to keep his composure despite his desire to just pull her close to him and forget all else.

Sakura took a deep breath before continuing. "I was terrified. If something happened to you and our last conversation had been like that, I'd be miserable for the rest of my life." She paused for a few moments and Xiao Lang held his breath. When she spoke again her voice was full of emotion. "I was hurt, worried and terrified. I felt like my head and my heart were going to explode because of the things I was feeling. If it wasn't for my brother I'd be a wreck. I would have had a mental breakdown already."

What have I put you through?

She didn't sense his distress upon hearing her words. He saw tears streaming down her face but he stopped himself from wiping them away. He didn't think he had the right to touch her right now.

Oblivious to his inner struggle, Sakura continued. "Do you know the worst thing about it? Part of me actually hated you as well. I tried to ignore it but the voice never left my head. You knew what happened to me before. You knew how hurt I was. You know what I went through after! Why in the world would you want me to experience all of that again? What were you thinking… pushing yourself like that. What if something had really happened to you? What if you really died? Do you know how that would have affected me? Just thinking about it scares me. I thought it was a fitting revenge. After everything I did and all my lies it would just be fair if you take it out of me that way!"

He felt as if the world just turned on his head. Sakura just said the words he had hoped never to hear from her. He tried to speak but the words would not come. All he could do was to stare at Sakura as she tried to rein in her emotions. She surprised him when she leaned her forehead on the hand she had been holding. Xiao Lang felt the wetness of her tears as they pressed against his skin.

"Don't you ever…ever do that to me again." Sakura's voice was almost inaudible.

There was a myriad of emotions infused into those words and from it Xiao Lang finally understood what she was feeling. Xiao Lang had been anguished and terrified at the thought of losing her. Only now did he realize that Sakura felt the exact same way. Whatever hesitation he felt at holding her again disappeared. His own hurts were unimportant. Right now, he had to comfort the woman in front of him – the woman who had become everything to him.

He tightened the hold he had on her hand. "Never again" he said simply.

I'll never hurt you again.

He felt more of her tears fall before she said, "You're really okay? Everything's all right? Nothing's wrong?" she asked it the smallest of voices.

"Yes. I'm not leaving. I'll be by your side all my days." he said to reassure her. His words may not mean as much now but he intended to let his actions show how serious he was from then on.

I've been given another chance with you. There's no way I'll make light of it.

He hoped that just being here with her would reassure her that he wasn't going anywhere.

After a long while Sakura was finally able to compose herself. She straightened herself and looked into his eyes once more. "I'm sorry I kept it from you for so long. I'm sorry I lied. I'm sorry I couldn't be honest with you. I'm sorry I hurt you. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm-"

He reached out to brush his fingers across her cheek. "Please stop," he pleaded.

"I'm sorry," she said again.

He cupped her face with one hand while his other held on to hers with bruising force. "We're even now. I've hurt you and you've hurt me. No one owes anyone an apology any more. We can move forward from here."

"Yes, move forward." She looked down at their intertwined fingers for a second before meeting his eyes again. "I had intended to tell it to you yesterday. I was finally able to gain the courage to come clean. Unfortunately, things turned out the way they did so…"

He was happy that Sakura had no intention of keeping it from him but at the same time, he felt dismayed at what had happened. If only he'd not seen that file then he'd have heard everything from Sakura's own lips. He was sure he would have reacted differently had that been the case

So you had no plans of keeping me in the dark. Had things been different, I would not have hurt you.

He was a bit saddened by the fact he had hurt her but he was somehow glad for it. He understood his feelings for her better now. His hidden insecurities had come out and he had dealt with them. But best of all, he now knew that Sakura felt for him just as strongly as he did for her. No woman would be willing to stay with a man who had treated them so badly. The fact that she had stayed with him despite believing that he hated her told him that Sakura cared for him deeply. They were both hurt but he knew they were stronger because of it. Their future wasn't going to be a walk in the park but their devotion to each other would see them through.

They stared at each other for a long time, the silence comfortable for them. They were basking in the presence of each other. Xiao Lang reluctantly broke the silence. He now knew everything but for some reason, he wanted to hear everything from Sakura. He didn't want to know what a flimsy piece of paper told him. He wanted to hear what Sakura had wanted to tell him.

"May I hear it?" She knotted her eyebrows in confusion and he released her hand only to cup her face in both hands. "Everything you wanted to say. I want to hear it."

She placed her hands on top of his own and relished the closeness they were sharing now. She gave his hands a little squeeze and he released her. She placed his hands down on the bed between them, her fingers still laced through his. She smiled and Xiao Lang waited with bated breath until she finally spoke.

"I first met Shu when I was in my first year of college…"

He listened without word as she spoke. Sakura did not hide anything from him. She described how she met Shuichi Kimura, how they became friends and so much more than he had expected. She even told him of the feelings she had felt during those times. Jealousy ate at him but he kept it at bay. There was no use being jealous now. She exposed her very soul to him and words could not describe how he felt as he listened to her. She was revealing everything that he did not know about her. When they had gotten together, Xiao Lang had wanted to know everything about her. However, there was a part of him that felt the distance from her no matter how close they were. Everything was different now. Having bared themselves to each other, they were free to love each other away from all the shadows. He had never felt as close to her as he did this moment.

He listened as she described the accident that they were in and how much the accident changed her. She wanted him to understand and Xiao Lang did his best to listen. His heart ached at the things she told him - of her broken and in pieces. She had told him about it a long time ago and Xiao Lang thought he understood. He realized that he had been deluding himself. Sakura had been far more hurt than he thought. She told him about the depression, the grief and the desire to end it all. This Xiao Lang understood. He had stood on that same precipice long ago. She was revealing all her darkness and Xiao Lang drank it in in the same way that she drank his. Knowing what he did and being able to put everything into context, he knew he could be someone who could stand by her side.

"…And then I met you." she finally said. "I've known you when you seemed broken and I've seen you move past everything. I've seen you change yourself and move forward. Maybe that's one reason I liked being around you so much. You always seemed to look forward. For me who's spent years looking back, I wanted that for myself."

Xiao Lang had an epiphany at that moment. Sakura Kinomoto was not the perfect girl he had always thought her to be. After everything, Xiao Lang's illusion of her was broken. She was not someone who should be on a pedestal. She needed people just as much as any other person. She had suffered tragedy and the beauty she exuded now was because she had accepted her own past.

His thoughts were interrupted when she laughed. "You were always by my side now that I think about it. Before I noticed, it already felt so natural for you to be there."

Xiao Lang could not help but smile. He understood what she was saying. He felt that way about her. He could not state a time and place where she had become special to him. She had always been special. Everything that happened between them just seemed to cement just how special she was to him.

Lean on me from now on. Let me be your main pillar of support. I'll be with you always.

He continued to listen silently as Sakura continued speaking. She told him of how she found out about his heart and how it affected her. She explained her conflicted feelings at the time.

So that's why you distanced yourself from me.

Xiao Lang remembered those times vividly especially the confusion he saw in her eyes at the time. Her discovery had been hurting her and she explained how best she tried to deal with it. She then spoke of the dinner they had right before she had pushed him away. He remembered how she had been acting odd after he took a call from Eriol. Before he could ask his question, she was already answering them. She described how she had met Shuichi Kimura's parents and how they had said some confusing things. She told him how those few things urged her to go to them and find out the truth. She got to the truth eventually but it was not what she had been expecting.

"I stayed away from you because I didn't know what I wanted. I love Shuichi but I was unsure about how I felt for you. That day I disappeared, I went to him." She laughed without mirth. "I asked him for an answer that I knew I would not get. I broke once again that day."

Her tears were threatening to fall and Xiao Lang leaned in to kiss her cheek.

"I'm listening" he said to encourage her.

She smiled and kissed him on the lips gently. Xiao Lang had to viciously control the urge to ravish her.

"I went home in a daze and there you were. You held me despite how I tried to push you away. And then you told me once again that you loved me. I had resolved to leave you the moment I left Shuichi, did you know that?"

"What?" Xiao Lang blurted out in alarm.

Sakura smiled to reassure him. "I reasoned that with my feelings as confused as they were. I shouldn't drag you into the emotional rollercoaster I was in knowing how you felt about me. But then…when you said you loved me… I felt really happy. Really, really, happy. It confused me even more. But then Tomoyo helped me realize that pushing you away was the wrong thing to do."

It was the first time Xiao Lang knew just how much he owed Tomoyo Daidouji.

I'm going to give Tomoyo a very generous present in the near future.

She then moved on to describe how she had been those days when they were apart. Xiao Lang remembered how miserable he had been during those days not knowing what happened to Sakura. He understood that it had been necessary. He didn't feel any resentment towards her for all the things that had gone wrong between them. Again, everything had been necessary. Besides, she was with him now. Why should he complain?

"A lot of people helped me during that time. I came to understand my feelings better."

"Do you know when you realized that I was the one you loved?" he teased her.

The smile that graced her features and stole the breath from his lungs. She looked beautiful and radiant. "I had no intention of keeping any of this from you. I can't count the number of times I wanted to tell you but it always slipped my mind. Sometimes, when I do remember, I was always afraid to broach the subject. You just make me so happy, Syaoran. I got cold feet whenever I thought of you being angry. Well... you did get angry when you found out. I didn't want you to learn it that way. I wanted to be the one to come clean. I didn't want to lose the happiness you always gave me. I'm really sorry."

Having understood everything, there was only one thing Xiao Lang wanted to know.

"Do you love me now?" he asked her seriously.

Sakura nodded, traitor tears making their way down her face. "I do. So much," she choked out. Her emotions were threatening to explode.

That's all I need to know.

"May I hold you, please?"

"Would it be okay? What if the nurses come and-"

Xiao Lang rolled his eyes. "My family owns this hospital. What I say goes Sakura."

Sakura pouted. "I meant with your health and all."

He gave her an innocent smile. At least, as innocent as he could manage. "I'm feeling a bit chilly and this blanket isn't doing anything for me."

She laughed and chills went down his spine at the sound. He moved a little to the side so he could accommodate her. Eventually, she was lying beside him, her head resting on his chest. She let out a contented sigh and Xiao Lang brushed away the strands of hair covering her face.

"You can sleep. You look exhausted."

"I got an hour of sleep," she mumbled, her eyes already starting to droop.

"I'm sorry for worrying you," he said as he combed his fingers through her hair.

".. so long as … this will be … the last." Her body finally gave in to exhaustion. He knew she was seconds away from sleep.

"I love you," he whispered.

"love … too." He felt her breath even out and he smiled.

You're back with me now… the place where you rightly belong.

Having her close like this made him content. He didn't need anything else.

Xiao Lang was so pre-occupied staring down at Sakura that he did not hear the door open. He only realized they were no longer alone when his sister spoke up.

"I see you've worked things out." Fuutie looked at him with a smile on her face.

"Fuutie" he greeted. He immediately remembered how he had treated her the last time they were together. "I apologize for how I acted."

I should have trusted you as well, sister.

After hearing Sakura's account, he finally realized how much he really owed his sisters, Eriol, Kaho and Tomoyo Daidouji. He had always thought they were interfering with his business but despite their plotting they really helped him when it came to Sakura. They were partly responsible for the happiness he was experiencing with Sakura right now.

I'm going to make it up to all of you one day.

Fuutie made her way to his side and sat on the chair Sakura had been using earlier. She examined Sakura for a few seconds before saying, "You should apologize to Sakura."

Xiao Lang smiled wryly. "Already did. Profusely, I might add."

She pat Sakura's head a few times before sitting back down in the chair. "That's good to hear. She was truly worried for you. It was a good thing her brother was there. She was inconsolable."

Xiao Lang could imagine how she looked like. She had already seen her that way before after all.

He looked down at her once again just to be certain that she really was by his side once more. "I can't believe I almost lost her."

Fuutie let out a little laugh. "It's refreshing to see that Xiao lang Li could also act so stupid."

Xiao Lang chuckled as well. "Never again, Fuutie. That was a one time thing only."

"I know."

Silence enveloped them and Xiao Lang went back to looking at Sakura. Fuutie remained silent at their side. As grateful as he was that his sister was here with him right now, he wanted to be alone with Sakura. He tried to think of a nice way to send Fuutie away but he remembered that bluntness always got through to his sisters the best.

Looking up to face his sister, Xiao Lang said, "I'm grateful you're here Fuutie but you're kind of in the way."

Fuutie blinked her eyes a few times, apparently not believing what she just heard. "Excuse me?"

Xiao Lang used his head to gesture towards Sakura. "I actually want to be alone with her so…" He trailed off knowing his sister would get the hint.

Fuutie raised one of her eyebrows and smiled slyly. "Fine, I understand."

"Thank you."

"Just so you know, the surveillance is on. I'd hate to explain to mother why an incriminating recreational video of you would be circulating a few days from now."

Xiao Lang rolled his eyes at his sister's blasé remark. "Don't expect too much, Fuutie. I'm under contract, remember?"

Fuutie laughed heartily as she remembered the ridiculous contract he had signed with the Amamiyas.

"Right." She stood up, caressed his cheek with a touch that did not last more than one second before excusing herself.

Xiao Lang waited for a few minutes before turning back to Sakura. He positioned himself so he could cradle her head on his shoulder. When he could feel her breath by his neck, he rested his cheek on her head and reveled in the fact that they were together again. For good this time.

-oxoxoxoxoxoxoxox-

Inside Room 325-C

Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Kowloon, Hong Kong

July 23, 2009

1:33 PM

Sakura watched Syaoran as he tried to stand. He insisted he do so, his reason being his legs dying due to inaction. The moment the Li sisters came to visit, Syoaran had been treated like an invalid. Sakura sat back and watched silently as the Lis bickered for hours, Syaoran insisting that he was fine while the Li sisters insisted otherwise. Syaoran's family acted as if he had just survived a life and death ordeal – which he did, really – but which Syaoran refused to acknowledge. In the end, the argument was ended when Yelan told him to remain immobile in his bed. It was a command he did not like. Still, since his mother had asked him, he could not refuse.

Today was the day he was finally going to be discharged. He told them he was ready to leave after a few hours of their reunion but his sisters threatened to disown him if he stepped outside of his room. Touya was nice enough to allow Sakura to stay with him for as long as he was in the hospital, even going to the trouble of having someone bring her everything she needed. The Li sisters were grateful as well because, they reasoned, their brother always behaves perfectly when he was with Sakura. This seemed true because no matter how frustrated he was with his family, and you could see it in his eyes, Syaoran just grudgingly accepted anything they asked of him when Sakura was around.

Sakura honestly did not mind any of the drama. She could be with Syaoran and that made up for anything. They were almost always with his sisters but those few moments when they were alone were always wonderful.

"Are you all right to be standing up? Should I ask the doctor to help you?" she asked. She didn't bother to disguise the worry she felt.

Syaoran reached out for her and she immediately went to his side. She offered him her body for support but he didn't actually lean on her. In fact, it seemed as if she was the one leaning on him. He didn't seem to mind anything else so long as she kept close

A loud cough came from behind them and Sakura immediately tried to pull away. Syaoran didn't allow her, however. Syaoran only acted clingy when they were alone together so his action made her forget that they weren't the only people in the room.

She chanced a glance behind them and saw Fuutie and Shiefa sitting in a corner of the room, small smiles on their faces. "If you didn't need us, all you had to do was ask us to leave," Shiefa said, her smile becoming bigger.

"Don't mind us," Fuutie added.

Sakura was so embarrassed that she hid behind Syaoran. Before Syaoran could retort, the door opened revealing Yelan Li and Feimei. They immediately sensed the awkward atmosphere in the air. Yelan raised an eyebrow in question.

This is seriously embarrassing.

Syaoran let Sakura go easily and walked to his mother. "I'm sorry," he said simply.

Yelan Li cupped his cheek with one hand and smiled. "Xiao Lang," she said in greeting.

"I'm sorry for worrying you again, Mother."

Yelan gave a nod, smiling. "Are you well now?"

"Better than ever," he answered.

Yelan lowered her hand and walked to Sakura. Sakura gave a deep bow to greet her.

"Welcome, Sakura," she said as she reached for Sakura's hands.

"Good afternoon, Yelan-san. Ah, Mrs. Li," she corrected herself immediately.

His mother smiled at her. "No need to be too formal, You may call me as you like."

Sakura returned the smile. "All right then, Yelan-san."

Yelan Li nodded before turning back to her children. "Good day, Fuutie, Shiefa."

The other two Li women returned the greeting. Yelan Li looked around her, inspecting the room for anything amiss. They were heading back home to the Li Main House in a few moments. Once she was satisfied that everything was all right, she turned back to her son.

"See if everything is ready. I want to speak with Sakura for a few moments."

Oh no, I'm starting to get nervous.

"Yes, mother." It was obvious that Syaoran did not want to leave Sakura but he acquiesced to his mother's request.

Without question, all the other people in the room slowly filed out, Fuutie giving Shiefa a hand as she walked. Yelan and Sakura watched them leave. Once the door closed, Yelan looked back to Sakura.

"Everything is well between the two of you?" she asked.

She didn't bother wondering why Yelan knew of their situation. "Yes, Ma'am," she just answered. She didn't elaborate either. Sakura was sure the Li sisters had already informed their mother of everything that transpired between her and Syaoran.

Yelan invited Sakura to where Fuutie and Shiefa were sitting. She sat down with a relieved sigh. "I'm glad it didn't turn out for the worse."

"Yes."

"I was surprised to see Xiao Lang in such a state when I reached home. I believe it was just a few hours after you had your argument."

Sakura could only respond with a tight-lipped smile.

"You are the only person who could ever get any kind of true reaction from him. He always kept everything inside, that boy. It's hard to imagine he could grow up the way he did. If you saw him as a child you'd wonder where all that mischievousness went!" Yelan looked as if she was recalling a fond memory. "Did you know, Xiao Lang was one of the haughtiest most boisterous little boys in existence. he just could not keep still. If you say no to him, he'd throw a tantrum that would last for hours."

Now that's something I want to see.

Sakura couldn't quite imagine him like that. He was always so serious and proper most of the time. Although he did have his arrogant streaks. Sakura could see him as the mischievous little boy Yelan was describing him to be. It seemed fitting somehow.

"After he met you, traces of the little boy he used to be resurfaced. Somehow, meeting you made him find his old self. Although he's more spontaneous and unrestrained, he's still the model of propriety and discipline. I'm sure that in the long run, he'll find who he really is again."

"I hope so, too."

The duality of his personality had been so stark that the way he acted made it seem like he had several personalities. Sakura remembered many times where he denied his true self just so he could match what they wanted of him. Sakura wanted to get to know the real him and not his brainwashed personality. She believed the Syaoran she knew now was the true Syaoran

Yelan seemed pleased at her answer. "Xiao Lang can be a handful and there's so many things he doesn't understand but I hope you can help him from now on."

"I'll try my best," she answered sincerely.

Yelan gave her a beautiful smile. She reached for Sakura's hand. "Thank you, Sakura." She gave it a little squeeze. "There are so many things I want to thank you for and so many things I would like to talk to you about in the future. Please stay with us longer so I can get to know you better than even Xiao Lang."

It was a gesture of welcome. Sakura returned the smile Yelan gave her. "I'd love that."

-oxoxoxoxoxoxoxox-

Bar

Aria

Tokyo, Japan

July 24, 2009

8:22 PM

"Those two are going to be the death of me," Tomoyo said as she downed another shot.

They were currently in a bar in Tokyo, supposedly celebrating Xiao Lang's recovery. She and Eriol had been together when the news about Xiao Lang broke. Needless to say, the both of them had lost their wits. What made things more difficult was that Fuutie told them what transpired between the couple right before the incident occurred. Tomoyo was worried not only for Xiao Lang's condition but also for Sakura's. Her cousin's heart could be so fragile at times. She hadn't heard anything from the Amamiya side so she had been with Eriol for the past few days getting her information from Xiao Lang's sisters.

Just like the past few days, Eriol was again her companion. She noticed that that was the norm these days. She always found herself around him some way or other. He was sitting beside her in the counter, a hand cradling his drink. He looked charming holding his glass. Tomoyo was a bit intrigued because so far, only models were able to accomplish that feat. He always tilted his glass and his body in a way that gave off this debonair feel. She'd been to quite a number of drinking parties but Eriol was one of the people who made it look sophisticated. Or downright sexy if you use the modern vernacular.

Tomoyo was careful to hide the fact she was checking him out. Or had been consistently checking him out rather. They had been together for days and he just seemed to be a smarter dresser as the days passed.

"Oh?" he responded nonchalantly. His reaction was somewhat expected. of the two of them, he was usually the one who had a calm head while Tomoyo would be the one blowing up.

"You should have been terrified," she told him as she poured herself another glass.

Eriol looked composed as always. "I was afraid for Xiao Lang's condition but with regards to Sakura, I knew he would have seen his mistakes eventually. I was actually expecting it to take a little longer given his tendency for being stupid of his own feelings but I'm glad he realized it quickly."

"It's better he did so early. If the Amamiyas had gotten word of it we'd be experiencing World War III."

He chuckled and took a sip of his drink. "I'm certainly glad that Touya was able to see Xiao Lang in a better light."

They found out the role Touya played in their reconciliation and Eriol had been pleasantly surprised. Truthfully, he was expecting Touya to be the one to draw first blood.

"He may approve of Xiao Lang now but I don't know about actually liking him," Tomoyo said with a shrug. "I think he still wants to flay Xiao Lang and feed his rotting carcass to starving vultures."

"What a nice description," he said with a little laugh.

Tomoyo just shook her head. "You don't know the kind of person Touya is. Touya will always do the right thing no matter what he feels about it personally."

"That's an interesting way to put it." Eriol refused to believe some people like him existed.

Tomoyo laughed. "Touya's elevated the moral high road to dizzying heights."

"But he still dislikes Xiao Lang." Eriol was slowly getting interested in the enigma that was Touya Kinomoto. He had started to get interested when he saw how partial his cousin was towards him.

"Dislike is a very mild term. Touya probably loathes everything about Xiao Lang. From his clothes… to his body… down to the very DNA in his cells."

"That's extreme." He didn't imagine the word psychopath would apply to someone like Touya Kinomoto.

"He doesn't play around when it comes to people he cares about. Remember, he hit Xiao Lang without hesitation even if Xiao Lang has the power to get him thrown out of Hong Kong permanently."

Eriol smiled at the recollection. "What a sister complex."

"Sakura eats it up though." Tomoyo took another swig, ignoring the pointed look Eriol was giving her. It was a silent warning to not drink so much. "I don't disapprove of Touya's actions. I would have joined him in his crusade to bring Xiao Lang down had he asked for it."

Her declaration took Eriol by surprise. "Would you have?"

"Sakura is family," she reasoned. "Besides I see where Touya is coming from. If someone was trying to steal away one of the most important people in your life, how would you feel?"

Eriol thought about it for a second. "I wouldn't like it. But then again, if they really made them happy, why should I get in the way?"

"And that is why the Amamiyas are not out for blood."

"Xiao Lang makes Sakura happy, is that it?"

Tomoyo nodded. "The moment he makes her unhappy is a very sorry day for everyone."

"I'll definitely let Xiao Lang know." He eyed her silently before asking, "Are you sure that's all there is to it?"

"What?"

"Sakura's happiness is your utmost priority? " he asked.

Tomoyo looked at the bottom of her empty glass. "I already told you this before. Sakura has always made us happy. I want to make her happy."

"Simple as that?"

Tomoyo turned to face Eriol. "Simple as that," she replied.

Eriol smiled and emptied his glass. "I definitely have to get to know you better. The way you think is fascinating."

"Plenty of time for that," she said with a smile.

He returned her smile in kind. "True. Plenty of time in the world."

-oxoxoxoxoxoxoxox-

Porch

Kinomoto Residence

Tomoeda, Japan

August 2, 2009

9:01 AM

The finger that was hovering on top of the doorbell stayed like that for a few more seconds. Sakura looked to the man standing beside her and saw Syaoran waiting patiently. He smiled at her in encouragement but it did little to ease the knots in Sakura's stomach. Even Syaoran in his glorious aesthetic perfection, Fuutie forced him to dress his best for the occasion, did nothing for her. In truth, his appearance scared her even more. Syaoran went to extreme lengths to seem absolutely perfect today. He had his hair trimmed, his shoes were so shiny you could practically use them as a mirror, there was no sign of lint on his expensive suit and he was perfect down to his cuticles which were perfectly groomed and manicured. He must have considered this visit a big deal if even he went to such lengths to appear the way he did.

"I'm getting nervous," she admitted finally.

She didn't understand why she was feeling like this at all, Her family had already seen her with Syaoran. They already knew they were officially together. Then again, this would be the first time Syaoran would be facing her family after their little incident 2 weeks back. Syaoan had been too busy after he was released from the hospital that he could only come back to Japan now. He immediately called Sakura and requested for this meeting. He had planned on doing it sooner but so many things held him back.

Syaoran seemed amused at her plight. "What did you just say?"

"I said I'm getting really nervous," she repeated.

He raised an eyebrow. "Sakura, it isn't the first time I've met your father or your brother."

She knew that but today was still different. "Yes, but it's the first time that we're together."

"There was the festival," he reminded her.

Sakura shook her head. "I mean it's the first time that it's an official meeting."

"Official?" Syaoran echoed in slight confusion.

Sakura gave a nod. "Yeah, like you purposely taking out time to come and see them. Usually you're meetings are unplanned and spontaneous. It isn't coincidence anymore. You actually set an appointment."

Having understood her worries, Syaoran smiled in reassurance. "Sakura, I have to apologize for my behaviour towards you."

"But you already did," she said with a small pout.

Syaoran smiled even wider and cupped her face in his hands. "I want to apologize to your family as well… Your father most especially."

Sakura frowned. "You're always too formal."

He shrugged but did not release her. "It's the way I am"

"I know," she answered with a sigh. "I honestly don't see why you have to do this. My dad won't think bad of you or anything you know."

"Your father is a very benevolent man. I know that, however, I need to do this for myself."

Sakura did understand it a little. Syaoran felt so guilty about hurting her that he was making extra effort to show her that he was sorry. She's been receiving expensive bouquets and chocolates every single day at work and he calls her almost every hour. She tried to tell him it was getting a little excessive but he reasoned that he'd go crazy if he didn't do it. So Sakura let him do whatever he wanted to help him deal with it. For Sakura, if she could make him happy then she didn't need anything else.

"My boyfriend has a stick up his ass," Sakura grumbled.

Syaoran only laughed at her words. "Such crude language from one so fair and handsome. It ill becomes you, my dear."

Sakura rolled her eyes, "Please stop with the hack old English, Syaoran." She wanted to keep a stern face but the smile on his face was contagious.

"You're the one who can't relax."

She tried to free herself but Syaoran effectively kept her in place. "I'm just scared of what my brother might do to you. Have you spoken to each other since then ?"

It was one of Sakura's biggest fears. Her brother may have allowed them to be together now but he still had two hits. If he held back the last time he used one of those tickets then he might really disfigure Syaoran's face permanently if he took it seriously. Because of what happened between them, her brother had legitimate reasons to cash in.

"We have but we dare not go to that issue. We're professionals after all," he said with a shrug.

What he said didn't surprise her. Her brother knew how to act when he was with people. The problem now was that he would be alone with family. Her dad might think Syaoran actually deserved to get hit since her father had never really addressed the issue with her. It was almost like nothing happened. Her worry must have been obvious on her face because Syaoran let out a long sigh. She looked up to apologize but she was stopped when he kissed her full on the lips.

Her brain stopped. He swiped his tongue on her lower lip and started a languid exploration of her mouth. Sakura moaned into the kiss, goosebumps forming on her skin at just the feel of his tongue pushing against hers. Despite the fact that her dearest brother who turns into a sociopath when he sees Sakura and her boyfriend being intimate is a few meters away, Sakura could not stop herself from responding to the kiss. Kissing Syaoran was one of her favourite pastimes. Sakura was sure it was the same for Syaoran. So she ignored the danger Syaoran would be in if her brother chanced to see them in the porch. She even ignored the embarrassed looks the passer-bys gave them when they saw them. Kissing Syoran had generally that effect on her.

When he finally released her, Sakura found herself in a daze. She couldn't find it in her to wipe the smug smirk off of Syaoran's face. He knew the effect he had on her and he sometimes took advantage. Not that Sakura actually minded.

He bumped his forehead on hers gently. "Sakura Kinomoto." He called her named seriously and she snapped to attention. "You have nothing to worry about. You are in love with one of the most affluent and charming people in Hong Kong. I have a perfect family background, perfect manners, perfect social standing and most importantly, a perfect face. Truth be told, any parent would be ecstatic if their daughter brought home someone like me to meet them. I am the perfect son-in-law candidate."

Sakura tried to frown in annoyance but the impish smile Syaoan had on dissolved the frown before it could even materialize. "You're seriously immodest though."

"Well, we can't all be perfect like your father," he said with a laugh.

Sakura joined him, releasing all the tension in her shoulders. "Yeah, I guess. My brother and father are tough to beat."

She smiled at the grimace that momentarily appeared when Sakura mentioned Touya. Syaoran finally let go of her face and offered her his hand. "Sakura, everything will be fine. Trust me."

She reached for his hand and held on to it tightly. He gave her hand a reassuring squeeze.

"Although there's less that a 0.000000009% that things could go wrong, if things really go that way today, please pack your things secretly as soon as I leave. I'll call you what time we elope tonight."

Sakura could not help but laugh out loud. Whatever nervousness was completely gone. "I love you," she said as she pecked him on the lips.

Syaoran smiled and replied, "I love you, too."

They stared into each others ayes for a few moments, enjoying the presence of the other. Eventually, Syaoran said, "Shall we go in? Your father probably prepared something for us and it might go to waste if we spent the entire day out here."

"Yeah." Sakura rang the doorbell and opened the door. "We're here," she announced.

They walked to the living room and saw the two Kinomoto men sitting on the couch. Her father greeted them immediately. "Good morning Sakura, Xiao Lang."

They both bowed in greeting.

Instead of speaking, her brother's gaze was preoccupied staring at their linked hands, "I'll go get tea," he said as he stood up and headed to the kitchen.

Knowing that her brother was upset, Sakura decided to talk to him. It was a heart to heart talk that was long overdue but she wanted Syaoran and her brother to get along. "Have a seat," she told Syaoran. "I'll go help Niisan with the cups."

This worked for the both of them because Syaoran wanted time alone with her father as well. She gave them a bow before leaving to follow her sullen-faced brother. She saw him busy pouring hot water into the pot.

"Niisan," she called out.

The frown on his face transformed into a smile, "Welcome home," he greeted.

She walked and gave him a tight hug. "Are you still angry?" She put on her most pitiful face because she knew her brother was weak to it.

Touya let out an exhausted sigh, knowing full well what Sakura was doing. "Why do you ask that?"

"Well. it's really obvious when there's something you don't like."

Just like how her brother can easily read her, Sakura can also easily read her brother.

"I just don't like him," he replied truthfully.

Unsurprised with the answer, Sakura still ventured to try and help them get along. "But-"

"Hold up." Touya stopped her before she could continue. "I may not like him but that doesn't mean I don't like him for you."

Sakura was so surprised with her brother's answer that all she could say was, "Eh?"

Touya looked as if he would rather be eaten by a pack of crazed hyenas than continue talking. He still did, however. "I'm fine with the both of you. Well, the most fine I'll ever be with the thought of you two being together anyway. Don't expect me to like him as much as you do anytime soon."

Sakura could not believe what she was hearing. Then again, it was her brother she was talking to. Touya was perfect to the last hair. He wouldn't hold a grudge against anyone without reason. The fact that he was finally accepting Syaoran was because he knew how important he was to her. She tightened her hug and said, "You are the absolute second best human being in this whole world, Niisan."

Touya hugged her just as tight. "Well, Otousan is a tough opponent to beat."

"Yeah!" she said with a laugh. She let go of him and Touya patted her head a few times. "Do you need help with anything?" she asked, looking at the display of cakes and biscuits in front of her brother.

"Can you help me carry the cups?"

"Yeah, of course."

-oxoxoxoxoxoxoxox-

Living Room

Kinomoto Residence

Tomoeda, Japan

August 2, 2009

9:33 AM

The bravado he showed in front of Sakura earlier disappeared like smoke. It was funny how everything Xiao Lang held pride in with regards to is person almost became nonexistent when he was faced with Sakura's father. The man in front of him was the person Sakura considered the most amazing in this entire world. If Sakura loved him half as much as she loved her father, then Xiao Lang knew he was doing something right.

"You seem scared somehow," her father commented, a small smile palying on his lips.

Xiao Lang gave a stiff nod. "Yes, I am truthfully. After all that talk about protecting her and cherishing your daughter, I went and did the complete opposite."

Fujitaka Kinomoto's reaction was not was he expected. Truthfully, he would have not been surprised if they were putting his decapitated head on a spit right now. The smile her father had on his face, the same one that had been there since they entered, confused him.

"Is that why you wanted to see us today?" he asked.

Xiao Lang gave another stiff nod. "Yes, Sir."

Her father surrised him by letting out a chuckle. It didn't seem forced. He looked like he was genuinely amused with Xiao lang. "Sakura was right. You really are too serious."

The mood made Xiao Lang hopeful. Her father was the last man Xiao Lang wanted displeased with him. Her brother was a lost cause because he hated Xiao Lang's existence the moment he saw them making out in his office that morning. Gathering his courage, he did the one thing he knew would make his family go crazy. He sat of the floor and bowed, his head touching the ground. He didn't care what other people would think of him or what they would say if they found out. It was a gesture of respect and an act of one seeking forgiveness. The Elders had long forbidden him from lowering his head but he did not live by their standards anymore.

"Xiao Lang-"

Before he could be dissuaded from continuing, Xiao Lang spoke. "I sincerely apologize for how I had treated your daughter. I was not myself then. I was overwhelmed with so many things. All of it stemmed from feelings that just spiralled out of my grasp. I probably won't be able to your trust again but I don't intend to just let our relationship-"

He stopped when he felt a hand on his shoulder.

Fujitaka sighed and knelt down so he was level with Xiao Lang. "Xiao Lang, you should already have an idea of the kind of people we are.

The kind of people you are?

"If we were angry at you, you would never be within speaking distance of Sakura."

Xiao Lang knew that but he still doubted that everything was all right. Sakura was protected by a powerful group of men who would not forgive anyone who hurt her. "Yes… I knew that but I-"

"I allowed you under my roof, I welcomed you into my home, Touya has shown immense maturity in not wanting to skin you alive in front of your family, and he's even in the kitchen making tea for you."

"Eh?"

Does this mean I'm forgiven?

Fujitaka's smile did not falter as he spoke to Xiao Lang. "What happened was between you and Sakura. You two have worked things out and no one has any right to say anything else. I was very worried when Touya called me and told me what happened but since everything is resolved, there is no room for judgement on my part. Sakura chooses to stay with you despite what happened. I trust in my daughter's decision. The fact that she chooses to stay by your side is the only assurance I need. My daughter is happy because of you. That's all I want. If you are the reason my daughter is happy then I am fine with you being together."

Those words broke the shackles that had been weighing him down for the past two weeks. He was terrified of the backlash from her family. When her father said it was all right, Xiao Lang knew that he'd weathered the biggest storm. Although her father did not say he would support him in the face of revenge from her other protectors, knowing that her father still approved of him for her was all he really needed.

"Thank you, Sir."

"However, this is the only time we'll let it go, Xiao Lang."

Once again, her father's coldness chilled him to the bone. It was not an idle threat and Xiao Lang spent a few seconds trying to look for his voice before finally answering, "Yes, Sir. You don't have to worry ever again."

Fujitaka stood up and offered Xiao lang a hand. "I'll hold you to that."

Xiao Lang accepted the hand and straightened himself. Her father's acceptance was very important to him. He only had to win over Touya Kinomoto, Junichi Amamiya and Masaki Amamiya before he could claim Sakura as truly his. When that times comes, Xiao Lang had every intention to propose to Sakura. But before that, he would go to all of them and ask for permission.

"Can I ask for Sakura's hand in marriage?"

What did you just blurt out, Xiao Lang Li?!

He forced all his facial muscles to remain impassive despite the panic he felt inside. He did not intend to make his intentions known like this but his stupid mouth just decided to run itself off. Her father looked taken aback at his question. Xiao Lang called on all his years of emotion training to try and keep a straight face instead of curling into a ball and wishing he just dried up and died.

He probably thinks I'm an idiot.

Appearing like a fool was the last thing he wanted in front of her father. Fujitaka seemed to have difficulty believing him because he looked at Xiao Lang in wonder for a long time. "I beg your pardon?" he asked eventually.

I can't go back on my words now.

"Could I please ask for her hand in marriage?" he repeated, his voice full of seriousness.

"You've known each other for a few weeks and you're asking for her hand in marriage?" he asked in disbelief.

Great going. You just ruined everything. I need to work around this.

The frown on her father's face was not a good sign. "Not immediately,of course," he said hastily. "I am seeing Sakura with the intention of marrying her. I've already said this before during our last meeting. She doesn't feel as strongly about me as I do for her but that is something I am aiming for. I just… wanted you to know beforehand."

Fujitaka stared into his eyes for what seemed like hours. "You had no intention of saying that to me just now, did you?"

Seen through perfectly.

Xiao Lang blushed a violent shade of red. "Yes, Sir." He hung his head in shame.

"Even so you still followed through."

He looked up and met her father's scrutinizing gaze. "I had not wanted to say it so early in our relationship. But I do mean every word, Sir."

Her father looked pensive and Xiao Lang waited for her father's verdict.

The smile he had on his face when they first entered was nowhere to be seen and Xiao lang did not think that was a good sign.

Finally, Fujitaka nodded and said, "I am…fine with it, I suppose." Before Xiao lang could jump in joy, her father added, "So long as Sakura accepts your proposal some years from now."

Years? Will he only give her to me after several years?

Xiao Lang deflated like a balloon. There was a condition set by her father and Xiao Lang knew he had to accept. "Yes, Sir," he replied immediately.

Knowing that Xiao Lang understood the condition, Fujitaka finally smiled nce more. "I can't say the same for her brother though. He would not oppose if it was Sakura who asked him. However, I think it best if he doesn't charge at you like a bull charges a matador if he finds out the truth from someone other than you. I suggest you ask him as well when you're much better acquainted."

"Yes, Sir."

"Try to learn some self-defense in the meantime. Rest assured he will not be selfish and say no to spite you. Touya will always put Sakura's best interests first. He will be much less amicable though once you drop the bomb on him."

I won't allow him to get another clean hit off of me.

"I'll be prepared, Sir," Determination burned in his eyes.

The memory of Touya's fist connecting with his face was still fresh in his memory. he did not want to go through that experience again.

"Then I look forward to seeing more of you in the future."

"Likewise, Sir." Xiao Lang returned the smile her father gave him.

Both men took their seats just in time for Sakura to return with a tray in hand. "We're back!" she announced happily. She scanned the room for any animosity and smiled wider when she felt none. "Sorry for taking too long."

Touya followed her, a tray also in his hands. "You'd think Sakura was already a master at tea ceremony with all the lessons we've given her." Touya laid down his tray on the coffee table and Sakura did the same but not after giving him a light shove with her shoulder.

"Niisan!" she scolded him.

The look on her face was too adorable for anyone to take her seriously though so both her father and brother burst out laughing. Sakura then turned to her father, mock hurt on her face. Fujitaka only smiled and pat her head gently.

Xiao Lang watched everything unfold in front of him. This was the world Xiao Lang was trying to squeeze himself into. Although he was still an outsider now, he was certain he could make a place for himself in their midst.

-oOo-

Author's Note: The epilogue and omake chapter are up! Please continue reading. I'm uploading a boatload of text to make up for my absence. Hopefully 20K+ words would be enough to earn your forgiveness. :D extenuating circumstances have forced me to ignore fanfiction for a long time but I've had free time so here's the end for you guys. Thanks for reading.