PART II
Burnt Orange
Disclaimer: I don't own CCS.
"Will you marry me?"
They were the fateful four words many women longed to hear since they were little girls watching romance movies at sleepovers, and reading tales of love beneath their bedsheets. Now at long last, Sakura had heard them issue from the mouth of the man she had fallen completely in love with; and he was down on his knee, looking up at her, his eyes holding a hint of fear she could not understand.
Did he not realise that from the moment she had seen that pink box in his hand, she was his until the end of time itself? That the tears pooling at her bottom lashes were ones of unimaginable happiness? This entire weekend he had been so sweet to her - even more than usual. Yet, she had never suspected that he would propose this evening. These overwhelming emotions, welcomed as they were, choked the one word she longed to say, "Yes."
She wanted to shout it to the heavens but the thrill of knowing Syaoran wanted her forever, coupled with the beauty of the pink diamond shimmering up at her, tied her tongue. It was only when she saw Syaoran's shoulders droop and the ring lower in his hand, did she force herself to speak because she realised that he thought her silence meant she was saying "No."
Sakura heard herself say "yes," but Syaoran did not appear convinced. His hesitant gaze was questioning her. Unsure. And then she was shouting "YES" with all her might, a grin blazing across her face. Syaoran's eyes had lit up and even he started exclaiming "Yes! Yes!" When he slid the ring onto her finger, fresh tears streamed down Sakura's cheeks.
The next thing she knew, she was rolling around on the ice, her lips locked with Syaoran's. And as crazy as it sounded, all she could think was, I hope he doesn't catch a cold. Then, they were on their backs, gazing up at the night sky. Syaoran took out his smartphone and took a picture of them. Then another. Somehow, it turned into a photoshoot where they made funny faces, serious faces and kissing poses.
Suddenly, he switched to Video Mode and laid his head against hers.
"What just happened, Sakura?" he asked, smiling warmly at her.
She laughed and looked at him. Realising that he really wanted an answer, she said, "You asked me to marry you."
"And what did you say?"
"Well I thought about it for a little while."
"A LONG while," complained Syaoran, looking at the camera.
She looked at him through the phone display.
"No! I'm joking! I'm sorry I took so long to speak. I was stunned," she apologized. "It was a lot to take in. But you were sweet and romantic with the proposal... I said yes."
And she shyly flashed her ring for the camera.
"You're not disappointed that it wasn't extravagant?" asked Syaoran, a hint of worry in his tone.
"No. Of course not. It was perfect. I can't believe you chose to do it out here in the cold!"
"I didn't plan this."
"You didn't?"
"No," he said. "I've had your ring on me every day since I collected it from the jeweler. Just waiting for the right time."
"How long was that?"
"Remember the evening you told me you wanted a pink diamond?" he asked.
"Yes…"
"I had it on me then."
Sakura put her hand over her mouth. Her brows turned up and she started to cry again.
"Don't cry," said Syaoran, kissing her cheek.
"I can't help it," she mumbled, through her tears. "Sometimes I wasn't sure if you still wanted to-"
She hugged him tight and buried her face in his coat. He abandoned his video and held her tight.
"I was nervous to ask," he admitted. "I shouldn't have made you wait."
"It's okay. I'm not waiting anymore."
He gave her a smile that thanked her for her understanding. Then he pressed a tender kiss to her forehead. Syaoran ended the video and sat up with her.
"Tomoyo-chan's rubbing off on you," Sakura said, gesturing to his phone.
"I wanted something to show the grandkids," he told her, stowing the phone in his jeans pocket.
"Grandkids?"
A light flush coloured his cheeks.
"Well…" he said, looking off into the distance. "If we are to have five kids, I think it's reasonable to expect that we'll have a lot of grandkids."
Sakura smiled so wide her cheeks ached. She hugged Syaoran's arm and rested her temple on the tip of his shoulder. He kissed the top of her head.
"Ready to head back?"
She nodded.
"I'm ready."
Syaoran carried her back to the apartment and when they stepped inside, they simultaneously helped each other out of their coats, kissing each other lovingly every chance they got. They walked hand in hand to the living room and halfway there, Sakura was in a fit of giggles because Syaoran was littering her neck with kisses. She pulled away from him and ran to the sofa. She tried to catch her breath but her belly was tight with laughter. Syaoran followed and sat next to her, composed, but with mischievous eyes.
The back of Sakura's head was on the sofa arm, her hand on her belly and she was chuckling. Syaoran grabbed her by the waist and pulled her up to straddle his lap. Already, the way he touched her felt different. There was a sense of ownership in the way his fingers gripped her flesh that had not been there before - one that left her breathless. And when he pressed his mouth to hers, and grabbed the back of her head... as his kiss burned through her soul... as she trembled on top of him, she dared not doubt that she was his in every way. Sakura gripped his chin and passionately returned the slow, possessive kiss, her hips rocking sensually atop his lap. An excited, heated moan issued from Syaoran's mouth and she smiled, because he was learning that he was just as much hers, as she was his.
Syaoran clutched her upper arms tight, and pulled back, panting as hard as she was. His eyes were dark and his eyelids were heavy. He bit his bottom lip, tilted his head back, and took deep, steadying breaths. His hands slid down her body to settle on the outside of her thighs. Tonight, Sakura resisted the urge to tease him about his restraint.
"Who should we tell first?" she asked, in an attempt to distract him from his thoughts.
"Your father," said Syaoran, hoarsely. He cleared his throat. "I'll remain in Japan and we'll see him after he returns home from work tomorrow. I'll call Mother from his house. Then we'll tell our siblings, closest family members and closest friends. Mother will mail out official engagement announcements after that."
"Of course you'll be a pro at these things..." she said.
Syaoran sat up straight, smiling gently.
"I've been involved in a lot of weddings," he told her. "This will be by far, the most exciting one."
"You get more and more charming every day," she said, wrapping her arms around his neck.
"I'm learning from the best," he grinned.
When Sakura and Syaoran arrived at the Kinomoto residence the following evening, she made sure to keep her left hand out of sight as they waited for her father to make tea. Syaoran had been his typical self-assured self, right up until the moment that her father had opened the front door of the house. Now, he had become mute and he was completely on edge. Throughout the short car ride there, they had decided that he should break the news of their engagement, but now he seemed unable to move or speak.
Fujitaka came into the living room with a tray of tea and assorted desserts. He poured the tea and sat back in his chair, teacup in hand, a big smile on his face. There was a lengthy moment of silence with Sakura discreetly nudging Syaoran's knee with her own, and looking at him pointedly, and he looking back at her in a daze. Quickly, he whispered, "You do it."
"Me?" whispered back Sakura.
Fujitaka's smile widened.
"I see you said yes."
Sakura and Syaoran gasped.
"How did you know?" they asked simultaneously.
Fujitaka chuckled.
"It's written all over you both, clear as day. And Sakura-san, you're wearing gloves indoors."
Timidly, she peeled off her gloves and extended her left hand. Her father leaned over the table, set his cup down and took a hold of her hand. His brows lifted slightly and he looked up at her. She could see the awe in his eyes.
"This... is a ring many men would love to give the women of their dreams," he remarked.
Straightening his back proudly, Syaoran said, "That diamond deserves her."
Sakura laughed.
"I think you have it backwards."
"No I don't," said Syaoran, making her elbow him playfully.
"Congratulations to you both," said Fujitaka, getting to his feet.
Sakura and Syaoran stood and he hugged them both in turn, giving Syaoran a few pats on the back.
"Were you nervous?" he asked him.
"Yes. But it was a success in the end."
Fujitaka pulled him in for another hug.
"I'm certain your father would be proud of your courage."
Syaoran appeared taken-aback for a moment. But then, he gave a small bow.
"Thank you, Kinomoto-sensei."
"Who else have you told?" asked Fujitaka.
"You're the first person," answered Syaoran. "I'll call my mother now and inform her."
They sat down and Syaoran called Li Yelan via videocall.
"Xiao Lang," she greeted when the call began. She was sitting at a desk and looking expectantly at him.
"Good evening, Mother," he said to her in Japanese. "I'm calling because I have something important to tell you."
"What is it?"
Syaoran looked over at Sakura. She came into the video frame and grinned.
"Good evening, Li-san."
"Good evening, Sakura-san," said Yelan. "Please tell me my procrastinating son has finally proposed."
Syaoran's chin fell against his chest and Sakura laughed. She held up her left hand and showed her ring.
"He did!"
A small smile graced Yelan's lips.
"Congratulations," she said. "I'm pleased with this news. I will liaise with Kinomoto-sensei to send out the engagement announcements. What date have you decided for the wedding? And which location for the venue?"
"Huh?" said Sakura, squinting in confusion at Syaoran.
"Mother, Sakura can discuss all of that with you at the reunion or perhaps even after that," he told her. "We've been engaged for less than 24 hours."
"And what were you two doing all day that you were not able to discuss such vital matters?"
Sakura went red and Syaoran looked up sharply at Fujitaka.
"Nothing," he said, shaking his head, even as he remembered making out with Sakura just before they came over. "Absolutely nothing!"
"In any case, you two consider the answers to my questions and let me know as soon as possible." She tilted her head and peered at the back of Syaoran. "Are you at Sakura-san's apartment?"
"No. We are with Kinomoto-sensei."
Yelan seemed to come alive.
"Is that so? Give him your phone. I would like to speak to him."
"Ah..."
"Be quick about it Xiao Lang," she said. "Kinomoto-sensei must have better things to do than watch you think a million thoughts."
Frowning slightly, Syaoran handed his phone to Fujitaka and he and Yelan greeted one another like old friends. He raised a brow at Sakura and she shrugged. Fujitaka and Yelan congratulated each other on the engagement of their children and got into a conversation that made them forget that said children were present. After ten minutes, Sakura gestured to Syaoran and they stood up. She led Syaoran up to her room and they sat on her bed, smiling and blushing at one another.
"I can't believe we're engaged," she said.
"I can't believe you said yes."
"You're silly," said Sakura. Then, "Telling people makes it seem even more real doesn't it?"
Syaoran nodded in agreement.
"Did Mother seem more excited with talking to your father than she did with our engagement?"
An amused expression on her face, Sakura answered, "A little."
"She normally does not warm up to people so fast. Must be the Kinomoto magic."
Sakura gasped.
"I almost forgot. I have to tell onii-chan!"
Syaoran winced.
"Do you have to though? Now?"
"Yes! You said siblings after parents."
She called her brother on video call. When the call began, he was peering into the screen, his eyes made more piercing by his face mask.
"Hoe-eeee… are you in surgery?"
"Yes, kaiju. The nurses have more important things to do than hold my phone. What do you want?"
"Maybe this isn't a good time…"
"Just spit it out." He tipped forward. "Are you in your room at home?"
"Yes."
He squinted.
"Is someone next to you?"
"Oh," she said, her voice going high. "Yes actually. Funny story..."
Syaoran edged his shoulder out of the frame as Touya's eyes narrowed.
"You're at home... with him... and you're calling me…"
His eyes widened and he stuck a bloody scalpel at the phone screen.
"Kinomoto Sakura, are you and that gaki-?"
"Engaged? YES! Thank you so much for your kind words onii-chan! You're the best! Please have a successful surgery! Goodbye!"
She clicked the screen off and puffed out. Syaoran slapped a hand over his face.
"Anyone else you want to torture me with today?" he asked.
"He didn't even speak to you!" Sakura said in her defense.
"But I know what's coming anyway..."
She smiled apologetically.
"How about we call Tomoyo-chan! We'll get a better response."
Tomoyo answered almost immediately in her pixie-like voice, "Good evening, Sakura-chan! You look absolutely beautiful."
"Thank you Tomoyo-chan. You look pretty too. Are you still in South Korea?"
"Yes. I'm returning to Tomoeda next week."
"Okay, well... Syaoran-kun and I have something to share with you." She pulled Syaoran into the video frame and flashed her ring. He made to pull away just as she said, "We're engaged!"
Tomoyo's mouth fell open and her brows crinkled.
"En... engaged...?"
"Yes. Aren't you happy for us?" Sakura beamed. "I'm so happy!"
"I am so happy too…" said Tomoyo, her voice monotone. She looked over at Syaoran, an uncharacteristic solemnness in her gaze. "You did not tell me that you were going to propose this weekend."
"I had to?" he asked, raising a brow.
"Certainly not," she said. "All I would have done was record that beautiful moment for all eternity. Now that memory is fading and not backed up on my servers."
She clutched a hand to her chest and rocked forward as though all the air had escaped her lungs.
"Tomoyo-chan are you okay?" asked Sakura.
"Yes, Sakura-chan. Congratulations on your engagement. It is my greatest hope that Li-kun will be selfless enough to inform me of your wedding date, so that I may share in your joy and capture that once-in-a-lifetime event. I must go lie down. Please excuse me."
Tomoyo bowed her head and ended the video call. Syaoran clicked his tongue.
"I think you just unhinged that girl."
"You mean 'we'," said Sakura.
"No. You," clarified Syaoran. "I had nothing to do with whatever that was."
"But married couples share everything," said Sakura, blinking up at him like a wet puppy.
"Lady, I'm not your husband."
Sakura pouted and he leaned back on her bed with a smirk.
"You're mean," she told him. "She'll be fine though. Right?"
"Who knows," said Syaoran. "Just don't expect me to eat anything she serves me for a year. At least."
Sakura rubbed his arm sympathetically.
"I'll wait for you to tell your sisters before I tell anyone else," she said to him. "Tell me when you do."
He hugged her to his side.
"I will."
Later that evening, after they had bid farewell to Fujitaka, Syaoran suggested that he and Sakura take a short trip to Tokyo. She agreed to the impromptu excursion so he drove them into the city. At minutes to nine, they arrived at a tall building called The Grand Mandarin. He parked in the underground carpark and swiped a card at a private elevator. As the elevator rose, he clutched her hand.
"Is this one of your hotels that you mentioned before?" she asked.
"It is," he confirmed. "Actually, the other building is more of a hotel. This is better described as a condominium. There are 106 of them in this building. The one we are going to see is the one I told you I was renovating. It comprises the entire top floor."
"So... you wanted to show me the finished product?"
"Yes," said Syaoran. "It will be off the market soon and I wanted to get your opinion on everything. After, I'll take you for a late dinner."
She hugged his arm.
"I'm sure you don't need my opinion though. Knowing you, it's immaculate."
"Nevertheless, it'll be good to get your womanly perspective."
The elevator dinged open and Syaoran led her into the lofty foyer with its massive crystal chandelier and recessed lighting. The walls were all off-white and the floors were a dark hardwood. His hand on the back of her waist, Syaoran led her throughout the 3-storey penthouse suite. He showed her the interior spaces which included two living rooms that had wood-burning fireplaces, a home office, fully-equipped gym, a library, and a maid's quarters. There was also a sauna, a 50-feet swimming pool and, a large wrap around terrace and garden which overlooked the city.
Forty minutes later, as they stood on the terrace, Sakura said, "This place is amazing! Everything feels ultra-luxurious. And that chef's kitchen - the oven is actually a double wall oven, even baking, self-cleaning technology. I was tempted to buy one for my apartment but it would have been too bulky in the space. That one has at least a seven cubit capacity too. I'm so jealous. Do people rent these condos or purchase them?"
"Both," said Syaoran, thoroughly enjoying her reaction. "Are you considering making an offer?"
"Maybe," she said, with a sultry, flirtatious flare.
"You can't pay with that," he told her. "But it can definitely help negotiations."
Sakura hit him on his arm.
"Ugh," she said. "I hope you don't talk to your customers like that."
"Only you," he assured. "Are you going to make me an offer?"
"Mmm... 20 million?" she proposed.
Her offer made Syaoran forget he was playing.
"That barely covers the cost of materials for the first floor."
"Fine. 60 million."
Syaoran pinched the bridge of his nose.
"Did you just multiply by 3?"
"Well you have three floors here," said Sakura. "If my offers aren't good, tell me where to start then."
"It's valued at 328 million," said Syaoran. "You can start there."
"So much?!" exclaimed Sakura, but when Syaoran raised a brow, she said, "I... wow. Only so much? You know, it's out of my price range, but I think it's worth the money especially in the city. Yup. The garden alone makes you feel like you're in the countryside."
"It took me two years on a waitlist before I could get the architect to remodel everything," Syaoran told her as he surveyed the fully-furnished penthouse. "Initially, this was going to be used for short-term stays by royalty, businessmen and political officials - they tend to travel with large entourages. Hence the seven bedrooms."
"You've changed your mind on that?" asked Sakura.
"Yes," answered Syaoran.
"Well I'm sure it'll sell or rent quickly. I think the walls need some art though. Or is it meant to be this... neutral?"
"No. I thought it best the owner choose her own pieces," he said.
"Good idea! I'm sure she-"
Sakura paused and squinted at Syaoran who was watching her pointedly as he held in a smile.
"Syaoran-kun..."
"Come," he told her, just as her mind was processing what he had left unsaid. "There's one room I neglected to show you."
"There's more?" she murmured.
"Yes, my love."
He took her by the wrist and led her to the second floor. She gazed at everything with new eyes and suddenly, she felt out of place. Who was she to live such a ridiculously lavish lifestyle? She did not have the pedigree to live in a place like this. She would not know how to act. Not one bit. Like, what did one dress like every day when you lived in a place like this. Gowns for loungewear? Some fear she could not decipher set her heart racing as she looked at Syaoran coolly walking along the hallways, not enraptured by the luxurious furnishings of the penthouse at all. When you practically grew up in a Chinese palace, she supposed barely anything made you wonderstruck.
He stepped aside at a set of tall double doors. They had passed them earlier, she remembered, but there had been so much to see she had not asked what was behind the doors.
"I handpicked everything in this room," he told her. "Whatever you don't like, I'll change."
He gestured to her to open the doors and she tentatively placed her hands on the vertical handles of the doors. They were plated with gold and cold to the touch. She pushed the doors open and her eyes lit up.
"Since you are a boss lady now," said Syaoran. "You should have a boss' home office."
Sakura almost choked on her laughter.
"Did you just say "boss lady?""
Syaoran seemed confused.
"Yes," he said, uncertainly. "Isn't that what they call it?"
"Yes, that's what they call it," she assured him.
He had shown her another home office earlier but this office was far prettier than what she now realised was his own office. One of the walls had floor to ceiling windows that overlooked the city. There was a solid wooden desk with intricate gold metal legs, a pastel pink executive chair, a conference table with six white chairs, a mini bar, and various bookshelves and cabinets.
There was a picture frame on the office desk and Sakura went to it. A picture of her mother and father was nestled within the frame.
"Kinomoto-sensei gave it to me, " Syaoran told her. Then he opened one of the desk drawers, and pulled out a black folder. "He gave me some other ones too, if you wanted to switch them out. Or you can hang them all. This one is my favourite."
It was a picture of two-year old Sakura sitting on her mother's lap. Sakura hugged him tight around his torso.
"Thank you Syaoran-kun. It's perfect."
"I had a custom computer built for you with all the accounting software you would need. But it hasn't arrived yet. And like I said, you can choose your own art-"
"Syaoran-kun!" she said, looking up at him, her gaze tender and her voice cracking. "I said it's perfect."
He shifted self-consciously.
"I'll stop rambling," he said. "Sit in the chair."
He ushered her into the pink chair and she grinned, caressing the wood top of the desk.
"How do you feel?" he asked.
"Like Li Xiao Lang," she smirked. "Baddest boss there is."
He blushed, but before he could respond, a message came in on his phone. He read it and sent a text back.
"Work," he told her.
He leaned back against her desk and held out his hand. She placed hers in it and his fingers enveloped her own.
"I can hardly wait to start living in this space with you. And come home to you."
He said it with such sincerity... Sakura was amazed that she had not melted all over the office floor.
"When we first met, you told me that you felt the world was a scary place," he said to her. "That there were many choices and you did not know which to make. But you never have to worry about anything anymore. I will always be here for you and I will always take care of you and support you."
"I'll do the same for you," she told him, meaning that with every fibre of her being.
His phone chimed again and he read another message.
"Give me a moment."
He walked off to the windows and made a call. She did not understand what he was saying as he was speaking English, but he did not appear particularly pleased.
"Is everything okay?" she asked when he returned to her five minutes later.
"It will be. I have to go to New York in the morning. Motivate some of my executives. When I'm done I'll head back to Hong Kong. And as usual, I will see you the following weekend."
As they headed back to the first floor, Sakura said, "You know, a part of me didn't believe you'd actually move to Japan."
"Why?" asked Syaoran.
"Because the headquarters of Li Corp is in Hong Kong. And because of your family. Do they know you're moving?"
"Not yet."
She stared at him.
"Then you don't know how they feel about you moving."
"It doesn't matter. I've decided to move and I've already had your name added to the Deed."
"What?" asked Sakura, still reeling over the fact that his family did not know their prized CEO was not going to be stationed in Hong Kong.
"The Deed for this penthouse," said Syaoran. "I had your name added to it. You have to sign to be a co-owner with me."
"Why did you do that?" asked Sakura. "We're going to be married right? Isn't it like... mine too?"
Sakura did not know why, but she really did feel like a gold-digger asking that question. Syaoran did not answer right away and she wondered if he was thinking the same thing.
"That's what you said before," she added, so he knew she was not being greedy.
He smiled and it might have been her own apprehensions, but it did not quite reach his eyes.
"Yes. You're right," he said. "However, I realise being back here in Tokyo like this could bring up memories. I don't want you to feel like a guest or a courtesan. I believe that signing a Deed would make you feel more secure and make things more equitable. This way, we both have a say on what we do with the penthouse and we have to agree before we make certain decisions concerning it. It wouldn't be my property anymore. It will be ours."
"This is... a lot to take in," said Sakura. "But I understand. Thank you for being thoughtful."
"I also put your name on the Deed of the house in Hong Kong. I know you said you'd never enter it again but I had good memories there and it's where I've been living. I'm not usually sentimental but I can't get rid of it. Maybe one day, you'll sign the Deed."
She gave a nod as he looked wistfully at her. She could not say that she would return to the house but she was fine with him keeping it.
As promised, Syaoran took her to dinner. She enjoyed being in the restaurant with him - one filled with people of his social status - but already, she felt a need to be perfect and pristine. Sure, she had mingled with high society before, but what was expected of her then was far different to what would be expected of her when she got married. Li Yelan had made that quite clear. It was horrifying to think that at some point, she could do something to seriously embarrass Syaoran. She had already been taking advanced etiquette classes from a woman referred to her by Amamiya Masaki. If Syaoran noticed that she dined with more grace now, he did not mention it. She was not sure she wanted him to notice. That would mean that she had been quite unrefined before - by Li standards.
As they exited the city after dinner, she said, "I've been meaning to ask you something."
"Ask away," said Syaoran.
"If we're going to live in Tokyo, we might run in to um... past clients of mine."
Syaoran looked over at her, his expression unreadable.
"I expect so."
"I was wondering how you would feel about that?"
It was a while before he answered.
"People will talk but it's not the first time I'll have such trite attention and it won't be the last. After a few months, there will be something new to talk about. And, I've already warned Matsushita about maintaining her confidentiality."
"You spoke to her?" said Sakura.
"Of course I spoke to her," said Syaoran. "You don't have to worry about any of those courtesan pictures from her website surfacing. I made her wipe your existence from her records. And I had Eriol's tech expert Akizuki make sure of it."
Sakura had secretly harbored fear of her past job popping up. But that Syaoran had already intervened on her behalf without consulting her - she did not know whether to feel relieved or disturbed.
"Did you do it for me or for you?" she asked.
"I did it when you left the Hikaru House," said Syaoran. "So you tell me."
Sakura looked down at her knees. She had not even been thinking that far ahead at that time.
"You never said anything."
"It was my way of making things up to you. I thought when we said goodbye at the Diamond Palace, that it really was goodbye. I was not looking for your gratitude or some indebtedness to me. All I wanted was for you to have a fresh start."
It was a strange realization to Sakura that he had cared that much at that time when she thought he did not.
"I don't mind having some pictures for my own collection," he said, staring suggestively at her through the corner of his eyes.
"You're dirty."
"Model for me sometime. I'll take your pictures."
She shook her head.
"Please?" he asked.
"You're serious?"
"Yes."
"Sometime," she promised.
He gripped her thigh and flashed a smirk.
"I can't wait."
Driving out of Tokyo, slow pop music playing on the car stereo, and her impish love by her side, Sakura took comfort in the familiarity of the situation, for everything coming now, was the unknown.
Syaoran strolled onto the living room balcony and set his hands on the railings. The skies were a clear blue and the weather was warm - a stark contrast to Japan. It had been ages since he had looked out at the South garden of the mansion that had once been his home. He breathed in deeply, the sweet scent of the orchids and peonies below filling his nostrils. His gaze softened and he looked over to his left.
"Meilin."
She too had been looking out at the balcony. She had made no indication that she had noticed his appearance but she had gone quite still at the mention of her name.
"Xiao Lang," she murmured.
Turning fully, he said, "I appreciate you seeing me on such short notice."
She nodded.
"You look well," he said, his gaze gliding over her curvy form, clad in a yellow qipao dress, and embroidered with white flowers. A slit came up the right side of her leg, hinting at the skin beneath. It was the 3/4 length sleeves that kept the dress elegant. In another life, he would not have hesitated to compliment her. "It's been quite a while since I've seen you in person but I see you everywhere else. On magazine covers. Television. I saw that your perfume was launched last month. It's called Red Kiss, is it not?"
"Yes," she said. "It sold out in less than 24 hours."
"Congratulations. I know it was important to you."
There was a motion behind them. Two maids were arranging tea on the living room table. After they left, Syaoran continued to speak.
"I thought that you had thrown Li hospitality out the door because it was me visiting."
"It's formality, isn't it?" she said. "We both know you don't care if there is or isn't tea."
Syaoran inclined his head forward.
"That's true. But the formality must always be upheld."
She smiled, no doubt remembering how Wei would always say that exact phrase when they were young. A silence slowly swelled between them. Neither suggested they sit and drink the tea before it ran cold.
"I see you've been dating," said Syaoran, suddenly.
The corners of Meilin's lips twitched.
"You've been seeing a lot."
"Anything serious?" he asked.
"I'm not going to discuss my dating life with you."
Syaoran scowled.
"A yes or no response isn't a discussion."
"Why do you care?" asked Meilin, her long hair whipping behind her with the passing wind.
"I don't," said Syaoran, but he realised his tone sounded petulant. Quickly, he corrected himself. "I mean I do. Of course, I do. Wanting you to be happy isn't a crime."
"Now you want me to be happy?"
He sighed, a tiredness settling in his body.
"I'm trying to make small talk Meilin. You know I'm bad at it. You can help."
She scoffed but said nothing.
"Perhaps I should explain my reason for visiting?" he asked.
"Please do," said Meilin.
"I was in Japan a few days ago," said Syaoran. "While I was there, I asked Sakura to marry me."
Meilin's lips parted and she drew in a sharp breath.
"She said yes," finished Syaoran.
She remained silent.
"The family should have the formal announcement by next week," continued Syaoran. "I wanted you to know before then. I expect everyone will bombard you with calls and messages. I didn't want you to be caught off guard."
"Is that all?" she asked, with no trace of emotion in her voice.
"No," said Syaoran, feeling a bit cautious now. "She will be at the reunion."
Meilin stood up straight and gripped the balcony tight with her left hand.
"She's not a member of this family."
"She will be. This year."
Her eyes widened in horror.
"It took years before you even formally proposed to me. Now you're remarrying just over a year of us-"
Her body snapped back round to face the garden. Lines appeared on her smooth forehead as she stared ahead of her.
"It's no surprise you got what you wanted," she said.
Syaoran took a step towards her.
"Meilin, I didn't come here to hurt you. One of us was always going to move on to this step first."
"It was always going to be you Xiao Lang. Why pretend otherwise?"
He looked out at the vast compound, unsure of what to say next.
"Do you know why I asked you to build me this house?" asked Meilin.
"It was your dream house," answered Syaoran. "From since we were teenagers."
"I wanted you to prove your love for me," said Meilin. "You never showed your love. Not the way I wanted you to. So I asked for this house. One day, you came home, hugged me from behind, and told me you would build it. I was ecstatic when you agreed. I thought it meant something. Did it ever mean anything to you?"
How could he tell her that it meant staving off their wedding for a few more years? That it had been an excuse.
Get married? We're still building our home.
Meilin's sad gaze let him know she understood, that for him, it was just bricks and stones.
"I think I'll leave," she said.
"You know you don't have to," said Syaoran. "As per the agreement, you can stay here for three years. Two now... but I won't hold hard and fast to that clause if you need more time."
A tear slipped from her eyes. He shifted uneasily. He instinctively wanted to go to her, but he was not sure if he was allowed to comfort her anymore.
"You speak as though we have no past," she said. "Like all we are is a business transaction. It's insulting."
"That's not what -"
"- I don't want to stay," said Meilin.
"Where do you want to go? To your parents' house?"
"I'll buy my own place."
"You'll be wasting money."
"I don't care."
"You've never been responsible for a home. Why willingly take on that stress at this time? I provide everything here."
"Does she know that?" asked Meilin. "Have you told her?"
Syaoran's eyes narrowed.
"Where are you going with this?"
"I'm curious to know how open you are with your one true love."
"She knows I had a prenuptial agreement. She's smart. She must suspect it contains some manner of spousal support."
"Are you going to give her an agreement too?"
Syaoran felt the muscles in his shoulders harden.
"That's not your business."
Meilin's face lit up in victory.
"So you are. Suddenly, she doesn't seem special after all. What would be her reaction I wonder, when the romance is ruined? No matter how Wei and Aunt Yelan say it's to protect us women, to make divorce simpler, do you know what us women understand when we read one? You might as well say to our faces, "You're disposable. And when I'm ready to dispose of you, I want it to be quick. And don't you think you're taking my money with you. You will get what I deem you're worthy of, and not a penny more." That's what she'll understand too when she has to sit down, read how much you think she's worth, and sign in agreement."
Syaoran had never hated his ex-wife, but she was dangerously close to having his hands around her neck.
"Meilin, do I need to worry about you at the reunion?"
"Do you mean my behaviour towards her?"
"Obviously," he said.
"You think I'm going to play the part of the jealous, crazy, obsessive ex who's pining for you?"
"I don't think of you that way," Syaoran told her. "However, I know our cantankerous relatives will seek to pit you against her that weekend. I am asking you to simply be decent. That's all I want. The others will take their cue from you on how to behave."
"I know we're finished, Xiao Lang," she said. "And I have moved on. In a way, I am relieved. I did not realise how draining trying to get you to love me had been. It was difficult the first four months. Did you read the articles? In the tabloids?"
"I saw some things. Rumors. Speculations."
"They bulldozed me, Xiao Lang. In print, on the talk shows, everywhere. They blamed everything on me. Hardly anything scathing about you - their certified Prince of Hong Kong. I never once said a word about Kinomoto Sakura. I wanted to, believe me. I wanted to reveal every sordid detail. But I didn't. Because I still care about you and maybe, I had hoped that we could reconcile. I didn't go into a rage then, when I most wanted to. Do you think I'm going to lose my mind at a family reunion? Over her? Not a chance."
"Good," he said.
"I did wonder," said Meilin, her demeanour becoming less hostile. "Why you never called to see if I was okay? After all, I was bearing the burden of our divorce by myself and though I'm not blameless, you were a big part of the reason we divorced in the first place."
"I didn't want to fight," he said, even though the truth was that he had been mourning Sakura's departure from him. There had been no space in his mind for Meilin. "I thought calling would lead to one, and I didn't want to make things worse. Besides, Mother said she was supporting you and that you were fine."
"Surprisingly, my own mother helped me more than anyone," said Meilin. "We're closer now. One good thing that came out of it all."
"And your father?"
"Disappointing as usual."
Syaoran grimaced. Of course that man would not be empathetic.
"Had I known how you really were... I would have reached out."
"Are you saying that so I would be nice to her?"
"No I mean it," he said, and he really did.
She took two steps towards him. They were inches apart. Her red-brown eyes penetrated his, searching for a lie, and for a moment they were both breathless.
"Zhu Yifeng."
Syaoran raised a brow in question.
"My boyfriend. Zhu Yifeng. It's serious. I'm not talking wedding bells. But I like him and naturally he worships me."
Syaoran smiled.
"Naturally. But I'm not familiar with his family name."
"You're such a Li," said Meilin, folding her arms. "He is in entertainment."
"That's vague."
"Actor."
"Are you serious?"
"You're judgmental as ever," said Meilin. "For someone who intends to marry his mistress."
Syaoran let her have that final dig to feel better about everything.
"I am what I am," he replied.
"No. You've changed," she murmured. She looked him over. "Since when do you wear bright colours?"
Syaoran looked down at his orange t-shirt, his cheeks heating up. He had been trying to appeal to Sakura's love of colour by allowing her to buy him some tops and shirts. He had been wearing them to get used to feeling 'loud.'
"Is there anything she can't get you to do?" asked Meilin.
"Leave her alone?" he said, half-jokingly. But then he realised, it might be too soon for that kind of humour. "Look, I have a few errands to complete today. It's best I get going. Next time we see each other, it will be at Uncle Chao's."
She nodded and he walked into the living room.
"Xiao Lang," she called as he passed the coffee table.
He paused. She followed him inside and bent over the coffee table to pour a cup of tea. He went to her and picked up the Chinese-styled cup. He raised it to his mouth but as the rim of the cup touched his lips, he could not help but detect a sly slant to Meilin's eyes.
"Drink," she said. "It's good manners to do so."
Slowly, Syaoran tipped the cup, allowing a mouthful of jasmine tea past his lips. Why was Meilin smiling? She did not just poison him, did she? Panicked, he thought, would Sakura ever find out what happened to him?
Fuck, Xiao Lang, you're being irrational. Just swallow it.
He forced the liquid down his throat and waited. One... two... three...
Meilin sat down on the sofa and poured her own tea. She took a deep drink.
"See you at Uncle Chao's!"
"Yeah," he said, rubbing at his throat.
It was a good four hours before Syaoran was sure he was not going to croak; and though he had survived that encounter, he swiftly added Meilin to his growing list of "Persons From Whom Not to Accept Food and Beverages."
"You're distracted."
"Mmm?" Syaoran shook his head and stared into the screen of his phone. He had mounted it on the patio table. "I don't mean to be. I had a lot to do today."
"Oh, then you should go to bed. It's ten-thirty. Past your bedtime."
"It's difficult to adhere to a bedtime when the most beautiful woman is looking at me."
Sakura stared in stunned silence. She looked down and smiled, pink dots on her cheeks.
"Yeah yeah," she said.
He touched his phone screen as tenderly as if he was touching her, and ran his finger along the outline of her face.
"What are your plans for tomorrow?" he asked her.
"One of the ovens at the patisserie broke down. I called a repairman to fix it. So I will be focused on that. Oh, I have to order inventory too. And in the afternoon, I have to make groceries." She glanced down at her finger. "I told my staff I was engaged yesterday. They asked questions as soon as they saw my ring. That day, I had forgotten to remove it before heading to work."
"You take it off?"
"Sometimes I go into the patisserie kitchen. What if it slips off my finger and falls into a drain? Or suppose I get robbed?"
"You're afraid of getting robbed? In Tomoeda?"
Sakura shrugged at how silly it sounded.
"Kind of. I know this ring must have cost a fortune. I just don't want to lose it."
"Is that the only reason you take it off?"
"Yup."
Syaoran understood her fears but he did not like the idea of her taking it off. He decided not to address his issue that evening.
"Who else at the patisserie have you told about our engagement?" he asked.
At first, she appeared confused but her expression quickly changed to one of scolding.
"I haven't told him yet."
"What are you waiting for?"
"You. To tell your sisters."
"Mother already informed them," he said. "Tell him."
"What did they say?" she asked.
Syaoran leaned forward. He had not given it much thought.
"Shiefa called me and congratulated me. Fanren texted. I'm sure Fuutie's preoccupied with her children. And Feimei... I'm not sure, but they know."
"Your sisters don't seem that interested."
"My sisters are busy living their lives. Weddings are a common occurrence in my family. Each announcement doesn't require a grand reaction. Don't worry about it. They're great. When they're not being annoying."
"Okay... well if you didn't tell your sisters, who did you tell? I know you told Wei-san because he called me..."
"I told Yamazaki," he said. "And..."
"And?"
Syaoran hesitated. Her words about the prenuptial agreement had been haunting him all day and he would rather not give more thought to her at the moment.
"I went to see Meilin earlier today," he admitted to Sakura, since they had an honesty pact of sorts.
"Really..." was all she said.
"I wanted to tell her about the engagement before my sisters and family found out. Surprisingly, my sisters did not tell her. But the other members of my family would be relentless when they are notified… calling her, bringing up things from the past that would hurt her feelings. Out of respect for what we once had - friendship wise - I spoke with her."
"Okay."
When Sakura failed to say another word, he asked quietly, "Are you angry that I did?"
"I... don't know how I feel."
His stomach gave an unpleasant churn. He had just gotten engaged and already he had fucked up? What had he been thinking?
"How did she take the news?" asked Sakura.
"As well as can be expected. She has a boyfriend now. I think that helped. Some actor. Zhu... Zhu... something. Fengli?"
"Zhu Yifeng?!"
Syaoran did not miss the fact that Sakura's tone bordered on excitement.
"That sounds like it. You know of him?"
"A little."
"Another one of your celebrity crushes?" he accused.
"No."
"You're holding in a smile."
She looked away.
"I'm not a big fan. I do like some of his shows though..."
Syaoran pursed his lips.
"Oh did I tell you? The interior designer called me today," she said, abruptly changing the subject. Smart girl. "I'm meeting with her tomorrow to pick out some decorations for the penthouse."
"If you need help deciding on anything, I'm sure Daidouji will assist you."
She laughed.
"Are you telling me not to bother you about interior design?"
He sent her a guilty smile.
"Maybe. It's not my strength. Just don't make it so I can't bring over an associate without feeling embarrassed and leaving them confused."
"I will do my best!"
He sat back and watched her walk around her apartment, making sure the windows and doors were locked.
"Sakura," he said. "Is what you said about Meilin all you have to say on the matter?"
She looked into the camera.
"I think so."
"There's nothing you're holding back?" he asked.
"No. At first, yes, my initial reaction was to be upset. But if I take my feelings out of it, I understand why you told her. I wouldn't want to find out from someone else, if I was her. It was the right thing to do."
Syaoran breathed easier.
"Thank you for understanding. And, I'll inform you of my intentions next time."
She froze and looked directly into his eyes.
"There's going to be a next time?"
"N-no," stuttered Syaoran. "I... no. No. I meant, when I do things, I will inform you. Beforehand."
"Huh."
Sakura went to the fridge and took out a slice of cheesecake. For a moment, he watched her eat, enjoying the way the fork slid from her lips and the way she licked them after.
"Hey," said Syaoran, attempting to get back in her good graces. "I wore the orange t-shirt you got me."
"Burnt orange," corrected Sakura, with a smile.
He grinned.
"That's right. The burnt orange one."
"How did you feel?" she asked.
"Like an orange?"
She pouted.
"A nice orange!" exclaimed Syaoran, hurriedly.
"If you don't like it, you don't have to wear it."
"No. I should dress more youthful."
"You should dress in what makes you comfortable."
"It's not that I'm uncomfortable. I've always believed that dressing the way I do would make my business peers take me more seriously." He made a face that said he was in deep distress. "I am a bit good looking," he lamented.
Sakura almost choked on a piece of cake.
"A bit...?"
"If I'm trendy too it might come across as though I'm less intelligent and serious than I am. Like I'm a c-pop boy band member playing at business. But I can incorporate more colour in my daily life when we go out. I can be fashionable."
Sakura snorted and truth be told, it hurt his feelings a little bit.
"You don't have to be," she said. "I sometimes wonder how you would look in certain things. I think you look nice in the clothes I chose but I'm fine with the way you dress."
"I'm not," he said, resolutely. He was not about to have her gawking at celebrities when he could have that attention. "I want you to dress me."
"Are you sure?"
"I am."
"Then I'll keep buying your clothes."
When she had finished eating, he said, "Too many sweets at night isn't good, you know."
"It's my last indulgence for a while," she said. "Tomoyo-chan and I are starting with a personal trainer at the gym tomorrow."
"What's her name?"
"Very subtle, dear."
"I wasn't trying to be, my love."
"He goes by Hiro," said Sakura. "He assured me that for the reunion weekend I can eat what I want. But I have to get back on track after. I have to make sure I look good for our wedding. And... honeymoon."
Syaoran did not want his mind to wander to their honeymoon. If he did, he would be lost in that fantasy for days.
"Don't get on any crazy diets."
"I won't."
"And tell him keep his hands to himself."
"He's a professional."
"I'm sure he is." Syaoran folded his arms. "You won't even attempt to exercise with me but you have a strange guy training you. That's not fair."
"You make me feel self-conscious."
"How?"
"It's not your fault. It's all me. And Hiro might give me breaks. You know what breaks are, right?"
"Ha, ha," he said. "Just let me know if he gets out of bounds."
"Take a deep breath. He knows I'm engaged. And who's to say he would not crush on Tomoyo-chan?"
"Some do like the crazies."
"Hey! That's not nice."
He gave a mighty yawn.
"Okay time for bed," said Sakura. "Go on."
"I don't want to."
"Now, mister."
"If I get into bed, can we talk for a few more minutes?"
"Yes. Now go."
Smiling like he had won a prize, Syaoran grabbed his phone and walked inside the house.
Sakura looked around the lobby at the headquarters of Kenichi's tea company. She had just had a meeting with Syaoran's interior designer - an older lady with the kindest eyes. Before she left the city to head back to Tomoeda, she decided to stop by and see Kenichi. Syaoran might want him to know of their engagement for all the wrong reasons but she did believe, she should be the one to tell him. She thought she was fine with telling him, but now as she waited in the lobby, her heart raced and she briefly considered leaving.
"Kinomoto-san?"
She looked up to see a man around her age, looking down at her. She stood.
"Yes."
"Ebisawa-san sent me to escort you to his office."
She followed the young man and they boarded one of the lobby elevators. He took her to the top floor and left her to Kenichi's secretary. The secretary then led her inside his office. He was looking out the window when she entered, and for a moment, his stance reminded her of Syaoran. He turned around and smiled.
"Sakura-san."
"Kenichi-kun."
He dismissed his secretary and she returned to her desk.
"It was a pleasant surprise when you called," he told her.
"I was in the neighbourhood."
He gestured to his office's sitting area and she went over to it.
"Would you like something to drink?"
"Water, thank you."
He poured a glass for her and whiskey for himself. He handed her the glass of water and when she took it, she put her left hand underneath before she drank. She paused, her lips close to the rim of the glass. Kenichi had solidified, his gazed pinned to her hand. She hurriedly set down the glass. He sat on the chair opposite her, setting his own glass down on the table.
"There have been rumours of an engagement in my circle," he said. "Somehow, I didn't think it was you. Yet, I should have known."
The disappointment in his eyes and shoulders wrung her heart. Of course she loved Syaoran, but Kenichi was once a possibility and he clearly still desired to be. If Syaoran had not come to Japan, she was certain they would be together. And perhaps, she would be wearing a ring he gave her.
"It happened almost two weeks ago."
He nodded.
"We've spoken within that time."
"We told family first."
Kenichi tilted his head to the side, ponderingly.
"Are you sure about this? Him?"
She smiled.
"Yes. I'm going to meet his entire family soon."
"Well then," he said, brightening up and grabbing his whiskey in a toast. "I still have a chance."
Sakura chuckled.
"I'm sure they're not that bad."
He downed half the whiskey.
"Once you meet his uncles, it's over. You'll see for yourself. He asked you to marry him before you met them for a reason."
She clasped her hands in her lap and looked down at the ring.
"Please don't. I'm nervous as it is."
Kenichi left his seat and sat beside her, so close, their knees knocked.
"I'm being inconsiderate," he said. "Can you blame me? You know how I feel about you. A ring does not change that."
He made to reach for her chin but she gently pulled away.
"I love Syaoran," she told him. "I'm going to marry him. You can't just... touch me like that. It's wrong."
"You're not married yet," he said. But then he exhaled softly. "Because it's what you wanted, I'll tell you congratulations. But I still believe we would make a better couple."
"Why? Because we're both Japanese? Because the elitist Li's won't accept me?" she said, half-jokingly.
She gave an anxious chuckle, but her laughter faltered. Kenichi was looking at her, a gentle expression on his face. He reached for her left hand and held her fingertips. Her heart started to race again the longer she looked into his eyes.
"This feeling between us," he told her. "This is why I think we will make a better couple. Before I said things to make you upset with me, I was snide at times. Because I was jealous of the hold Li had on you. I wish now that I had focused on this feeling. Perhaps then, you would be wearing my ring instead of his."
"Kenichi..."
He shook his head.
"You don't have to repeat yourself. I heard you the first time. You think you're his."
Sakura half-smiled.
"Think?"
He clasped his hands together, and stared at her as though he was trying to memorize her face.
"I'll miss you."
"What do you mean?" she asked. "We'll still talk."
"You think Li will allow that?"
Sakura frowned.
"He knows we speak. That you're my friend. I know you two have your differences but he's never said that I couldn't speak to you."
"Are you his wife yet?"
"No but... he won't tell me that."
It was Kenichi's turn to chuckle.
"I've always been attracted to your optimistic spirit." He gave a slight bow of the head. "Thank you for telling me of your engagement."
As they exchanged casual conversation for the following fifteen minutes, Sakura could not help but feel uneasy. She knew she loved Syaoran with all her heart, but after speaking with Kenichi, jitters had sprung to life within her. Indeed, she had gotten what she wanted. She was about to spend the rest of her life with one man - to be permanently committed to him in every way. She knew he was the right man but Kenichi's longing gaze kept her wondering, what if? Because despite Kenichi's words to Syaoran last year, he really had never done anything to really hurt her. He had believed in her and he had supported her.
Kenichi escorted her to the elevator and when the doors closed, Sakura leaned back against its metal wall. She looked at herself in the mirrored doors. Was it normal to feel this way? She did not think she was making a mistake. But... what if? She squeezed her eyes shut and shook her head. No relationship is perfect, Sakura, she reminded herself. She and Syaoran had been through fights, disagreements... the good, the bad... and they had compromised for each other. Their love was real. She had thought about it, and adjusting to a new life with him would be challenging she was sure, but she wanted to be with him regardless. They had survived a lot together, and she was certain that they would survive anything else thrown at them.
The day was March 26th. It was a sunny and warm spring day. Despite that fact, Syaoran turned up the dial of the car heater. Sitting in the passenger seat, Sakura held in a smile. Could this man really survive a couple winters in Tokyo? Or would he literally get cold feet and run back home to Hong Kong? Syaoran looked across at her, his eyes holding a challenging stare.
"Something you want to say to me?"
"Nope!" said Sakura.
Syaoran scoffed and turned his attention back to the road. But then he reached over and squeezed her thighs.
"You look pretty," he said, eyeing her white pants and pink floral blouse.
Relaxing into her seat, she said, "Thank you. You don't look bad yourself."
He looked down at his white shirt and jeans.
"We match a little," he said.
"We do," confirmed Sakura.
As she watched the landscape fly by, she recalled Kenichi's words about Syaoran's family. Even Syaoran did not have the kindest things to say about them in Singapore. Were they both exaggerating? Or were they speaking facts?
"Syaoran-kun, are you sure there isn't anything I should know before we arrive at your uncle's house?"
"I'm sure," he said, driving past a yellow light.
"There aren't any secret Li rules you forgot about?"
"No," he said, steering smoothly with his one free hand.
She gave him a perturbed stare.
"I find that hard to believe Syaoran-kun. Think about it some more and let me know. I don't want to get embarrassed by doing something wrong."
"Sakura it's a family reunion. Not a G20 summit."
She sighed and looked out the window. She had asked these questions in a variety of ways for the past three days, but he insisted that there was nothing to worry about. Had he forgotten how much these people had held a tight grip on him? That they were so demanding that he, with all his stubbornness, married someone he did not even want to?
She received a text on her phone.
"Otou-san just arrived at the airport. Yukito-san is dropping Touya off in fifteen minutes."
"Good. We'll be there in ten."
On the plane ride over to Hong Kong, Sakura continued to feel waves of anxiety sweeping over her. She could not eat because she felt sick with dread. Syaoran was near the windows the jet discussing some work-related matters with Ming via videocall on his laptop. Sakura's father came over to her on the sofa.
"Are you okay, Sakura-san?"
She did not have the energy to lie.
"I'm nervous about meeting everyone, but Syaoran-kun is acting as though there is nothing to be nervous about."
"Relax kaiju," he said, his tone unusually kind. "Great-grandfather said no matter what the Li's think, they believe in decorum. That they would be blatantly crude and impolite is unlikely. Especially the older ones."
"But still, they could be discreetly crude and impolite. Right?"
Fujitaka hugged her around the shoulders.
"That is a possibility. However, I believe Syaoran-san will not let you suffer through such a thing. And I won't either."
During his call, she saw Syaoran glance over at the three of them, a slight knot between his brows.
"What were your brother and father telling you earlier?" he asked her, when they were in the jet's kitchen together.
"Nothing," she said. But when he continued to watch her expectantly, she said, "They were comforting me because I was worried about meeting your family."
"Three days ago we spoke. I told you to bring Chrysanthemum flowers and cupcakes for my Aunt Lin. You did so."
"Yes..."
"That's all that's necessary," he told her. "No one is expecting anything of you beyond a gift for the hostess. They might be reserved but that's because they don't know you. You're not going to be hazed or anything like that Sakura."
"But they know about us right? Of our relationship before?"
"I'm sure they do," he said, sipping some brandy. "And I'm sure they all received our engagement announcements and know the current status of our relationship."
He kissed her cheek.
"Trust me okay? You'll have a nice weekend."
Sakura did not know how he could be so calm. He did not even seem to realise two of his sisters had not congratulated him on their engagement.
"Do you promise?" she asked him.
"I promise."
"You said if they're mean-?"
"We'll leave."
"Alright."
"Let's go buckle up," he said. "We'll be landing soon."
A/N
Hey Tomodachi!
Sorry for the wait. I was going through hell at work, (Good working environment, but the amount of work was crazy) and time flew by. I made this chapter long because it's been a while, and ya'll deserve it. :P Next chapter may be longer cuz... drama, and I don't want to go beyond Five Parts. You won't have to wait half a year for the next update though. That's a fact. Uncle Chao, Uncle Song, the Li sisters and Meilin are in the next chapter. I've already written Sakura meeting them and the ending of the chapter. There will be a Sakura/Meilin moment. I think we'll get a short POV from Uncle Chao. And lots more. Just got to finish the middle of the chapter. Hope you all are well. Thank you for your reviews.
Until Next Time,
Ja ne! ^_^
P.S I can't remember if I mentioned this, but I found some old pieces of CCS fanfic I was writing whenever I had writer's block. I don't really want them to go to waste so... in between waiting for chapters, I might post some of the stories. They won't be long or complicated because I don't have the time like in the past, but if I can post them, I will. I'm scared to do it because my imagination runs wild and I'm afraid they will turn into sagas. Sigh. But I will try to control myself. *holds fists up in determination*