Author's note: Sorry for the late update. I've been very busy to do this
fic. I hope you all understand. Just want to thank everybody for patiently
waiting for this chapter and also for reviewing. I'm not too sure about the
grammars because I didn't proofread this chapter because I don't have time.
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
THE VALENTINE'S DANCE
**SAKURA**
I stared at my reflection in the mirror absent-mindedly. I think I've been in this same position for several minutes now. I guess, I'm still thinking some things over and wondering whether my decision to go to that Valentine's party is right.
"Oi,Sakura...is something bothering you? You look a little troubled." Kero asked worriedly as he floated beside me.
"Nothing. I'm perfectly fine."
"Somehow, you don't convince me. Hmmmm...maybe that gaki did something to you, huh?"
My eyes followed Kero as he flopped down infront of my vanity mirror. I couldn't help thinking how he almost got close to figuring out what's been really troubling me for days now.
"I'm just wondering whether I look okay in this dress." I frowned. "I feel funny."
"Oh, that's all?" He raised an eyebrow. "My, Sakura-sama...you don't have anything to worry about! You look really beautiful. That outfit really looks good on you. Perfectly different from all those stuffs you used to wear before."
"You think so? But I still feel awkward wearing this." I glanced at my dress, which Tomoyo created just for me.
To be honest, the dress itself is not bad at all. It is actually simple but still, it's very elegant which I really like. You know me, I'm not really into extravagant or sexy dresses. And because of that, Tomoyo designed this dress with simplicity in mind. The sleeveless dress is pastel pink in color and falls up to the ankles of my feet. It is made of soft fabric, which is similar to silk, that made the dress flow freely and gracefully for just even the slightest movement that I make. Not only that, the material of the fabric which Tomoyo used shimmers faintly even under the light of the moon, and for a final touch, she even added intricate beadwork along the hem of the dress. I could tell from the pattern alone that she labored it for several days. The dress indeed is a work of art and friendship. It would certainly be a pity if it could not be worn on the day it is intended for.
"Nah. You'll get used to it. So who are you going to that dance with?"
"Eriol."
Kero's small eyes bulged somewhat exaggeratedly. "Eriol? I thought you're going with that gaki! So...he likes you, eh? Oh well, I guess he's way better for you than that kid. Although, he smiles kind of creepy if you know what I mean."
I would take it that you guys are surprised that I've finally decided to go with Eriol today at the dance. Actually, going to the dance itself must've been a surprise already. I never would've thought that I'm going to dance myself. I know what all of you must be thinking but no...Tomoyo didn't convince me until she coaxed me into attending, what they say, 'the big event'. I think she gave up on that plan a long time ago. But still, I could never be sure...anyway, the point is, it was not something like that. In fact, I even volunteered freely to go to the dance today which sure made a lot of people surprised. The girls were even more astounded when they found out that Eriol's going to be my partner. And I bet, Syaoran overheard that fact when I announced it yesterday to my friends after school. Oh, in case you're wondering, we're still not on speaking terms with each other. I guess I 'm still pretty mad at him. Honestly, this is our first big fight ever since we became good friends and it pains me not to be able to talk to him. A part of me wants to go up to him and tell him that we can be friends again but another part of me, which is ruled by my pride and bruised feelings, didn't want to. God knows how much I love my bestfriend and how I've even learned to love him more over the past few days, but I guess...all those words he said to me last Thursday really hurt me. All the jealousy, pain and confusion U have kind of get all mixed-up and I just blew up. And that defiant side of me made me do this crazy thing of going to that dance with Eriol. All those words that Syaoran hurled at me serves as a challenge for me to prove that I could look just as pretty as any other girl that he sees.
"Anyway, who's the unfortunate girl that the gaki's going out with? That is, if anybody will go out with him," Kero said hastily.
"I would prefer it if you'll call him by his name and not 'gaki'," I corrected. "I'm pretty sure someone will go out with Syaoran."
"Who? Tomoyo?"
I chuckled softly. "Are you crazy? No, not Tomoyo...some other classmate of ours. Anyway, why do you suddenly seem so interested on Syaoran's date?"
Kero scoffed. "No, I'm not interested on what's happening on his life! I just don't have anything to talk about."
"Then could we just talk about something else?"
"Gladly."
With a critical look at myself, I brushed my hair half-heartedly, unsure if I'm doing it right. With a frustrated sigh, I put down the brush aside after combing my hair with it.
"I should've let Tomoyo come here and do my hair. I think I'm not doing any progress with this."
"Aaaaaawwww...you're being hard on yourself, Sakura. You are certainly prettier than what you think. And having a date today at your school's dance just goes to show that a guy likes you. And Eriol's not a pretty bad guy, if I may say so."
I just kept silent at Kero's last comments. I could've corrected him regarding what he thought about Eriol but I'm really not in the mood to explain. As long as Eriol and I both know that this date is nothing but just pure friendship, that's all that matters.
"You're absolutely right, Kero." I took another glance at my reflection before standing up. "I look perfectly okay and I shouldn't be too hard on myself. So now, I'm going downstairs and wait for Eriol. Besides, he could be here any minute now."
"Be sure to have fun, okay?" Kero reminded me.
"I hope so. And thanks for all your kind words." I smiled. "Don't worry, I'll bring some cookies for you when I get back, how about that?"
"Really?!?" Kero jumped up and down. "Yay! You're the best Sakura!"
I couldn't help giggling at the sight of a yellow-winged creature prancing around enthusiastically.
"You don't have to be over-excited by it. Anyway, I'm going downstairs now. See you later."
"Take care!" I heard him called out after I closed the door before me. With a sigh, I went downstairs and braced myself for whatever reaction I'm going to get, most especially from my brother.
"Konbanwa, Sakura!" Yukito greeted as soon as he saw me. "Wow, you sure look really beautiful tonight! You look so grown-up! Don't you think so, Touya?"
My brother just glanced at me. "I guess so."
I sat down carefully on the couch across the two of them. I was kind of surprise that Yukito's here today, even though he's almost always on our house everyday. But I thin I'm even more surprised to found out that they are not yet eating their dinner. Usually, after my brother comes home from school, he immediately raids the refrigerator for something to eat. And the loud rumbling of Yukito's stomach even made me wonder more on why they still haven't decided to eat.
"Aren't you guys hungry?" I finally asked them.
"Now that you've mentioned it, well...we are a bit hungry but you're brother here insisted that we wait for you and see for ourselves who's going to be your da-"
"We're going to eat later." Touya cut off, giving Yukito a somewhat knowing look.
"Yeah, right." I raised an eyebrow.
"Sister complex." I faintly heard Yukito muttered under his breath while Touya rolled his eyes.
I managed to make a small smile as I watched the affectionate taunting between the two. Seeing them like that kind of reminds me of my own bestfriend, Syaoran.
I felt a small ache in my heart just thinking about him. I must admit that I missed him already but I was too hurt by those words he said to me...or maybe is it because I found out that he didn't like me?
Fortunately, an expected knock from the door broken my sad thoughts. Tonight should be one night I should enjoy and thinking about him will not do me any good at all.
"I'll get it." Touya immediately offered before I could even speak a word.
I casually watched my brother's reaction as his face shifted from a crumpled glare to that of astonishment.
"Konbanwa, Touya-san. Hmmm...is Sakura already ready?"
"Yeah..." Touya said slowly. "Come in, she's at the living room."
"Arigatou."
"You're Eriol, right?" Touya asked, before Eriol could even enter the door. From the sound of his voice, I'm pretty sure he is expecting somebody else.
"Yes."
I greeted Eriol with a smile as soon as he saw me. Out of the corner of my eyes, I saw Touya and Yukito exchanged curious glances.
"Sakura, I must say that you look absolutely wonderful tonight." Eriol praised me in such a way that I couldn't help feeling confident about myself.
"You look good yourself." I answered back truthfully. The dark blue tuxedo that he's wearing certainly brought out his features. Not to mention how he looked even more sophisticated at that attire.
"A corsage?" I couldn't help uttering in surprise as Eriol took a step beside me and show me the corsage.
"Of course. Something like this is just right for a lady like you." Eriol smiled at me.
"Arigatou."
Touya cleared his throat loudly. "I don't mean to be rude but shouldn't you guys be going now?"
"Well, we are going now...isn't that right, Eriol?"
"Oh, yeah."
"Enjoy yourselves." Yukito added.
I took a glance at Eriol and a newfound determination is built inside of me. Kero was right, Eriol is not a pretty bad guy to become my partner...in fact, he's even more than that. I know that a lot of girls have crushes on him and for Eriol to choose me as his date must mean that I am special.
Eriol offered his hand to me. "Should we go now?"
I took a deep breath before answering him. This is it. It's now or never. Will I continue to go to that dance with him?
An image of Syaoran flashed through my mind.
"Sure. We should go now. We really shouldn't be late." I answered, crossing my fingers.
**SYAORAN**
I never would've imagined that I'd end up going to this dance after all. But certain circumstances made me do so. I know I shouldn't be here today, right this very minute at school, attending this party, but something on my mind kept telling me to changed my mind..tThat I SHOULD attend the dance, despite the fact that I don't want to. And of course, even if I really didn't want to go, I'm left with no choice. I already have a partner to the dance and I just couldn't tell my partner that I didn't want to go just because I don't feel like it. That would be so insensitive of me. Yes, you heard it right...I have a partner. I don't know what got into my mind but I finally had the guts to asked Hana out. And it just happened out of a rush that I practically didn't know that I was already asking Hana to be my date and that she finally agreed to go with me. A few days ago, I would've been ecstatic to found out that I'm going to the dance with my crush but considering what happened between Sakura and I...I know I don't have anything to be happy about. Who will be happy to know that your bestfriend is so angry at you for being such a jerk? I know I'm not happy. And when Sakura announced yesterday that she's going out with Eriol crushed my heart even more. I just can't figure out why she's going out with that guy! But I know I don't have a right to stop her, it's her life anyway. She could just go with Eriol for all I care. But who am I kidding? I know, how I am so affected to found out that Eriol's going to be her date that's why I immediately asked Hana out without even thinking. Right after learning that she's going to the dance with him, I made a pact to myself that I'm going to this dance no matter what. With or without a partner. But now, with anxiety getting the best of me, I don't think that I am still that determined to be here. I don't know if I even want to be here!
"Hey, Syaoran?"
A gentle nudge sent me back to reality. I looked meekly at Hana to see her staring curiously at me.
"Is there something wrong?" Hana asked.
"N-Nothing." I mumbled. I decided to smile a little at her, it's the least I could do especially after being lost in my thoughts for a few minutes now. I know how she must be regretting why she decided to go out with me. After all, I've been a complete bore.
I took a glance at Hana and shook my head. Here I am, with my crush and she's looking so gorgeous beside me, and all I do is think and wander off my mind? I am a fool!
"Hey, I saw Tomoyo and our other classmates! Should we join them?"
I hesitated at her question. Should we really join them? I know that Sakura's with Tomoyo and I don't know if I have the nerve to see her right now but after all, they're also Hana's friends. I guess it really can't be helped.
I gulped. "Sure."
As soon as we approached our classmates, I was relieved and surprised at the same time to found out that Sakura's not yet here.
"Hey, guys!" Hana greeted warmthly.
"Hello Hana, Syaoran!" A chorus of voices answered back.
"Wow, you all look so great! So, the gang's complete already huh? All of you sure arrived on time," Hana commented.
"Not all are present. Sakura and Eriol are not yet here." Yamazaki corrected.
"They are a bit late, I think." Tomoyo frowned. "The original plan is that I'm going to arrived with them because I will fixed-up Sakura but they declined at the offer. I think Eriol offered to escort Sakura alone."
I couldn't help frowning at that fact.
"Eriol's so romantic. I heard he even rented a limo and a driver to fetch them." Naoko informed us.
"So all of you really decided to go to this dance, huh?" I asked, changing the subject. I really don't want to hear how great their Eriol is.
"Of course! And I must say, I'm loving every minute of it!" Rika answered.
"The school really prepared for it as we can see. The decorations alone must've cost a fortune." Hana observed.
Tomoyo looked around. "And almost everybody is here already! I guess everyone must've been excited that they couldn't help but be punctual."
"I see you guys are having such a great discussion."
"Eriol!" Tomoyo exclaimed.
I felt my heart jolt at the fact that Eriol's here already. Which means that...
"Sakura! Oh my god, you look simply gorgeous!" Hana exclaimed.
Judging from the looks of people around us, and also from our friends' faces, I know she must've look really pretty.
"Konbanwa, everyone." Sakura greeted silently.
When I finally caught sight of her, I knew I'm already lost. I felt so short of breath because of her beauty that I felt my jaw drop. And I'm not exaggerating. She really looks gorgeous.
"That dress really fits you," Naoko commented.
"Tomoyo designed it for me."
"And Eriol looks so great, too." I heard Chiharu said.
My eyes watched her silently as she talked. Why didn't I notice it before? I was wrong to say that Hana is the most beautiful girl I ever saw because somebody else is far more beautiful than she is. And she's standing right before my very eyes. Too bad, that I didn't notice it sooner.
When Sakura glanced at me briefly, for a fleeting moment, our eyes met. At that instant, I longed to reach out and talk to her but she immediately averted her gaze from me. Instead, she smiled sweetly at Eriol...and he smiled sweetly back at her.
I felt so hurt but I knew that it is my own fault why all of this happened. I was a jerk to her and I deserved to feel like this. I am so stupid not to notice and admit what I really want after all.
= I really wanted to tell you how beautiful you are, Sakura but...I can't. = I thought with a sad smile. She looks so happy to be with Eriol that I couldn't break that happiness by just talking to her. I know how she'll get even more angry at me because I even have the guts to talk to her.
"May I have this dance, Hana?" I asked my date, as soon as another new song blasted out of the speakers. I've decided to at least do something other than stare at Sakura because I just couldn't bear to see her with Eriol. I have to do something else to at least get my mind off her. Even for just a while.
"Of course." Hana smiled sweetly.
As I led Hana to the dance floor, I couldn't help glancing at Sakura's beautiful face. I was surprised to see that she's looking back at me, and to know that she's staring at me, makes me blush that I quickly looked away.
I hold Hana's hands and closed my eyes. I want to shut off everything around me. I imagined that this is Sakura I'm dancing with, the one I'm holding. And that little thought made me for a moment, at least a little bit happy.
When I opened my eyes and saw her dancing with Eriol so close to us, I knew I was just dreaming. She got somebody else, not me.
= Why did it have to took such a long time for me to realize that I care deeply for you, Sakura? =
"Why do I have the feeling that something is not right?" Hana whispered at me.
"Huh?"
"See?" She chuckled. "You're lost in your own thoughts again."
"Gomen nasai. I know I haven't been very attentive but there are just some things on my mind and thatâE""
"Ssssshhhh..." She gently placed a finger on my lips. "You don't have to explain. I know what you must be feeling."
I looked at her in surprise. "You do?"
Hana nodded. "I know. And all I can say to you is that, you have to be true to yourself. Don't be afraid to take a risk. Most importantly, don't be afraid to love."
"Why are you saying all of this?"
"Because I am your friend." And with that, she smiled at me affectionately before placing her head on my shoulder.
I am really surprised at her words that I can't help wondering if I am that obvious about what I feel for Sakura. Am I too transparent? But Hana sure makes sense, though.
I couldn't help smiling at her advice.
= Don't be afraid...don't be afraid... = I repeated over an over in my head.
I've never been afraid about anything in my life and I know I shouldn't be afraid right now. I know I shouldn't be afraid to express what I really feel and most important of all, I should first and foremost admit to my own self what I really feel for my bestfriend.
"Thanks, Hana. Thanks for enlightening me." I replied gratefully as I squeezed her hand gently.
I stole another glance at Sakura, still dancing with Eriol and I was surprised once more to found out that she's looking at me. But before she looked away, I caught a glimpse of her somewhat frowning at me. I guess, she must've really disliked me to frown like that.
Well, surprisingly, although I thought the party's going to go on and on until I would drop dead from boredom, I was caught unaware that the time flew very fast. With all the dancing and a bit talking around, the party is already nearing its end. And boy, was I really relieved at that. I really wanted to get away from here so I could do some serious thinking.
"True to its tradition, just like any dances, we're also going to have our very own King and Queen of the Night," Terada Sensei announced at the stage, along with some excited hush and murmurs from the crowd.
"And of course, the King and Queen will have the honor to dance for us the last dance to conclude this very successful party."
I watched in boredom as the principal walked to the stage and handed an envelope to him.
"And now, I have here the names of our King and Queen of the night!"
I rolled my eyes as some excited shrieks came from the students. I really can't just figure out what's so exciting about it.
"I'm going out to take a break." I told Hana before going outside to catch some fresh air."
"Don't you want to know who's going to win?"
"I'm not interested."
While I was walking halfway throughout the crowd, I heard Terada Sensei still talking.
"And our King of the night is none other than..." He paused deliberately.
"It's Eriol, I'm sure." I heard some girls whispering and I couldn't help once more but frown.
= Eriol...so what? He could be the King as long as he wants to. = I thought disdainfully. I really don't care.
"Is none other than Syaoran Li!"
A loud shriek and giggle suddenly filled the whole gym and I felt like a deer caught in headlights when the spotlight loomed at me. I was so surprised that I couldn't help staring at everybody.
"Hey Syaoran, whoa! You're the king!" Yamazaki shouted suddenly appearing out of nowhere.
I felt somebody pushing me gently as the crowd suddenly parted in acknowledgement of me. I felt myself blushing as I felt all eyes starring at me. I suddenly felt like a fool standing alone at the middle of the gym.
"Congratulations, Mr. Li! And now for your Queen..."
I heard another round of excited shriek from the crowd.
"Is Sakura Kinomoto!"
~~~~~~~~~~~
Author's note: Thanks for reading the fic. Feel free to e-mail me for any comments or suggestions. I really hope I could do the next chapter asap but let me just say I'm still not too sure about my time but I promise I will finish this one. ^__^
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
THE VALENTINE'S DANCE
**SAKURA**
I stared at my reflection in the mirror absent-mindedly. I think I've been in this same position for several minutes now. I guess, I'm still thinking some things over and wondering whether my decision to go to that Valentine's party is right.
"Oi,Sakura...is something bothering you? You look a little troubled." Kero asked worriedly as he floated beside me.
"Nothing. I'm perfectly fine."
"Somehow, you don't convince me. Hmmmm...maybe that gaki did something to you, huh?"
My eyes followed Kero as he flopped down infront of my vanity mirror. I couldn't help thinking how he almost got close to figuring out what's been really troubling me for days now.
"I'm just wondering whether I look okay in this dress." I frowned. "I feel funny."
"Oh, that's all?" He raised an eyebrow. "My, Sakura-sama...you don't have anything to worry about! You look really beautiful. That outfit really looks good on you. Perfectly different from all those stuffs you used to wear before."
"You think so? But I still feel awkward wearing this." I glanced at my dress, which Tomoyo created just for me.
To be honest, the dress itself is not bad at all. It is actually simple but still, it's very elegant which I really like. You know me, I'm not really into extravagant or sexy dresses. And because of that, Tomoyo designed this dress with simplicity in mind. The sleeveless dress is pastel pink in color and falls up to the ankles of my feet. It is made of soft fabric, which is similar to silk, that made the dress flow freely and gracefully for just even the slightest movement that I make. Not only that, the material of the fabric which Tomoyo used shimmers faintly even under the light of the moon, and for a final touch, she even added intricate beadwork along the hem of the dress. I could tell from the pattern alone that she labored it for several days. The dress indeed is a work of art and friendship. It would certainly be a pity if it could not be worn on the day it is intended for.
"Nah. You'll get used to it. So who are you going to that dance with?"
"Eriol."
Kero's small eyes bulged somewhat exaggeratedly. "Eriol? I thought you're going with that gaki! So...he likes you, eh? Oh well, I guess he's way better for you than that kid. Although, he smiles kind of creepy if you know what I mean."
I would take it that you guys are surprised that I've finally decided to go with Eriol today at the dance. Actually, going to the dance itself must've been a surprise already. I never would've thought that I'm going to dance myself. I know what all of you must be thinking but no...Tomoyo didn't convince me until she coaxed me into attending, what they say, 'the big event'. I think she gave up on that plan a long time ago. But still, I could never be sure...anyway, the point is, it was not something like that. In fact, I even volunteered freely to go to the dance today which sure made a lot of people surprised. The girls were even more astounded when they found out that Eriol's going to be my partner. And I bet, Syaoran overheard that fact when I announced it yesterday to my friends after school. Oh, in case you're wondering, we're still not on speaking terms with each other. I guess I 'm still pretty mad at him. Honestly, this is our first big fight ever since we became good friends and it pains me not to be able to talk to him. A part of me wants to go up to him and tell him that we can be friends again but another part of me, which is ruled by my pride and bruised feelings, didn't want to. God knows how much I love my bestfriend and how I've even learned to love him more over the past few days, but I guess...all those words he said to me last Thursday really hurt me. All the jealousy, pain and confusion U have kind of get all mixed-up and I just blew up. And that defiant side of me made me do this crazy thing of going to that dance with Eriol. All those words that Syaoran hurled at me serves as a challenge for me to prove that I could look just as pretty as any other girl that he sees.
"Anyway, who's the unfortunate girl that the gaki's going out with? That is, if anybody will go out with him," Kero said hastily.
"I would prefer it if you'll call him by his name and not 'gaki'," I corrected. "I'm pretty sure someone will go out with Syaoran."
"Who? Tomoyo?"
I chuckled softly. "Are you crazy? No, not Tomoyo...some other classmate of ours. Anyway, why do you suddenly seem so interested on Syaoran's date?"
Kero scoffed. "No, I'm not interested on what's happening on his life! I just don't have anything to talk about."
"Then could we just talk about something else?"
"Gladly."
With a critical look at myself, I brushed my hair half-heartedly, unsure if I'm doing it right. With a frustrated sigh, I put down the brush aside after combing my hair with it.
"I should've let Tomoyo come here and do my hair. I think I'm not doing any progress with this."
"Aaaaaawwww...you're being hard on yourself, Sakura. You are certainly prettier than what you think. And having a date today at your school's dance just goes to show that a guy likes you. And Eriol's not a pretty bad guy, if I may say so."
I just kept silent at Kero's last comments. I could've corrected him regarding what he thought about Eriol but I'm really not in the mood to explain. As long as Eriol and I both know that this date is nothing but just pure friendship, that's all that matters.
"You're absolutely right, Kero." I took another glance at my reflection before standing up. "I look perfectly okay and I shouldn't be too hard on myself. So now, I'm going downstairs and wait for Eriol. Besides, he could be here any minute now."
"Be sure to have fun, okay?" Kero reminded me.
"I hope so. And thanks for all your kind words." I smiled. "Don't worry, I'll bring some cookies for you when I get back, how about that?"
"Really?!?" Kero jumped up and down. "Yay! You're the best Sakura!"
I couldn't help giggling at the sight of a yellow-winged creature prancing around enthusiastically.
"You don't have to be over-excited by it. Anyway, I'm going downstairs now. See you later."
"Take care!" I heard him called out after I closed the door before me. With a sigh, I went downstairs and braced myself for whatever reaction I'm going to get, most especially from my brother.
"Konbanwa, Sakura!" Yukito greeted as soon as he saw me. "Wow, you sure look really beautiful tonight! You look so grown-up! Don't you think so, Touya?"
My brother just glanced at me. "I guess so."
I sat down carefully on the couch across the two of them. I was kind of surprise that Yukito's here today, even though he's almost always on our house everyday. But I thin I'm even more surprised to found out that they are not yet eating their dinner. Usually, after my brother comes home from school, he immediately raids the refrigerator for something to eat. And the loud rumbling of Yukito's stomach even made me wonder more on why they still haven't decided to eat.
"Aren't you guys hungry?" I finally asked them.
"Now that you've mentioned it, well...we are a bit hungry but you're brother here insisted that we wait for you and see for ourselves who's going to be your da-"
"We're going to eat later." Touya cut off, giving Yukito a somewhat knowing look.
"Yeah, right." I raised an eyebrow.
"Sister complex." I faintly heard Yukito muttered under his breath while Touya rolled his eyes.
I managed to make a small smile as I watched the affectionate taunting between the two. Seeing them like that kind of reminds me of my own bestfriend, Syaoran.
I felt a small ache in my heart just thinking about him. I must admit that I missed him already but I was too hurt by those words he said to me...or maybe is it because I found out that he didn't like me?
Fortunately, an expected knock from the door broken my sad thoughts. Tonight should be one night I should enjoy and thinking about him will not do me any good at all.
"I'll get it." Touya immediately offered before I could even speak a word.
I casually watched my brother's reaction as his face shifted from a crumpled glare to that of astonishment.
"Konbanwa, Touya-san. Hmmm...is Sakura already ready?"
"Yeah..." Touya said slowly. "Come in, she's at the living room."
"Arigatou."
"You're Eriol, right?" Touya asked, before Eriol could even enter the door. From the sound of his voice, I'm pretty sure he is expecting somebody else.
"Yes."
I greeted Eriol with a smile as soon as he saw me. Out of the corner of my eyes, I saw Touya and Yukito exchanged curious glances.
"Sakura, I must say that you look absolutely wonderful tonight." Eriol praised me in such a way that I couldn't help feeling confident about myself.
"You look good yourself." I answered back truthfully. The dark blue tuxedo that he's wearing certainly brought out his features. Not to mention how he looked even more sophisticated at that attire.
"A corsage?" I couldn't help uttering in surprise as Eriol took a step beside me and show me the corsage.
"Of course. Something like this is just right for a lady like you." Eriol smiled at me.
"Arigatou."
Touya cleared his throat loudly. "I don't mean to be rude but shouldn't you guys be going now?"
"Well, we are going now...isn't that right, Eriol?"
"Oh, yeah."
"Enjoy yourselves." Yukito added.
I took a glance at Eriol and a newfound determination is built inside of me. Kero was right, Eriol is not a pretty bad guy to become my partner...in fact, he's even more than that. I know that a lot of girls have crushes on him and for Eriol to choose me as his date must mean that I am special.
Eriol offered his hand to me. "Should we go now?"
I took a deep breath before answering him. This is it. It's now or never. Will I continue to go to that dance with him?
An image of Syaoran flashed through my mind.
"Sure. We should go now. We really shouldn't be late." I answered, crossing my fingers.
**SYAORAN**
I never would've imagined that I'd end up going to this dance after all. But certain circumstances made me do so. I know I shouldn't be here today, right this very minute at school, attending this party, but something on my mind kept telling me to changed my mind..tThat I SHOULD attend the dance, despite the fact that I don't want to. And of course, even if I really didn't want to go, I'm left with no choice. I already have a partner to the dance and I just couldn't tell my partner that I didn't want to go just because I don't feel like it. That would be so insensitive of me. Yes, you heard it right...I have a partner. I don't know what got into my mind but I finally had the guts to asked Hana out. And it just happened out of a rush that I practically didn't know that I was already asking Hana to be my date and that she finally agreed to go with me. A few days ago, I would've been ecstatic to found out that I'm going to the dance with my crush but considering what happened between Sakura and I...I know I don't have anything to be happy about. Who will be happy to know that your bestfriend is so angry at you for being such a jerk? I know I'm not happy. And when Sakura announced yesterday that she's going out with Eriol crushed my heart even more. I just can't figure out why she's going out with that guy! But I know I don't have a right to stop her, it's her life anyway. She could just go with Eriol for all I care. But who am I kidding? I know, how I am so affected to found out that Eriol's going to be her date that's why I immediately asked Hana out without even thinking. Right after learning that she's going to the dance with him, I made a pact to myself that I'm going to this dance no matter what. With or without a partner. But now, with anxiety getting the best of me, I don't think that I am still that determined to be here. I don't know if I even want to be here!
"Hey, Syaoran?"
A gentle nudge sent me back to reality. I looked meekly at Hana to see her staring curiously at me.
"Is there something wrong?" Hana asked.
"N-Nothing." I mumbled. I decided to smile a little at her, it's the least I could do especially after being lost in my thoughts for a few minutes now. I know how she must be regretting why she decided to go out with me. After all, I've been a complete bore.
I took a glance at Hana and shook my head. Here I am, with my crush and she's looking so gorgeous beside me, and all I do is think and wander off my mind? I am a fool!
"Hey, I saw Tomoyo and our other classmates! Should we join them?"
I hesitated at her question. Should we really join them? I know that Sakura's with Tomoyo and I don't know if I have the nerve to see her right now but after all, they're also Hana's friends. I guess it really can't be helped.
I gulped. "Sure."
As soon as we approached our classmates, I was relieved and surprised at the same time to found out that Sakura's not yet here.
"Hey, guys!" Hana greeted warmthly.
"Hello Hana, Syaoran!" A chorus of voices answered back.
"Wow, you all look so great! So, the gang's complete already huh? All of you sure arrived on time," Hana commented.
"Not all are present. Sakura and Eriol are not yet here." Yamazaki corrected.
"They are a bit late, I think." Tomoyo frowned. "The original plan is that I'm going to arrived with them because I will fixed-up Sakura but they declined at the offer. I think Eriol offered to escort Sakura alone."
I couldn't help frowning at that fact.
"Eriol's so romantic. I heard he even rented a limo and a driver to fetch them." Naoko informed us.
"So all of you really decided to go to this dance, huh?" I asked, changing the subject. I really don't want to hear how great their Eriol is.
"Of course! And I must say, I'm loving every minute of it!" Rika answered.
"The school really prepared for it as we can see. The decorations alone must've cost a fortune." Hana observed.
Tomoyo looked around. "And almost everybody is here already! I guess everyone must've been excited that they couldn't help but be punctual."
"I see you guys are having such a great discussion."
"Eriol!" Tomoyo exclaimed.
I felt my heart jolt at the fact that Eriol's here already. Which means that...
"Sakura! Oh my god, you look simply gorgeous!" Hana exclaimed.
Judging from the looks of people around us, and also from our friends' faces, I know she must've look really pretty.
"Konbanwa, everyone." Sakura greeted silently.
When I finally caught sight of her, I knew I'm already lost. I felt so short of breath because of her beauty that I felt my jaw drop. And I'm not exaggerating. She really looks gorgeous.
"That dress really fits you," Naoko commented.
"Tomoyo designed it for me."
"And Eriol looks so great, too." I heard Chiharu said.
My eyes watched her silently as she talked. Why didn't I notice it before? I was wrong to say that Hana is the most beautiful girl I ever saw because somebody else is far more beautiful than she is. And she's standing right before my very eyes. Too bad, that I didn't notice it sooner.
When Sakura glanced at me briefly, for a fleeting moment, our eyes met. At that instant, I longed to reach out and talk to her but she immediately averted her gaze from me. Instead, she smiled sweetly at Eriol...and he smiled sweetly back at her.
I felt so hurt but I knew that it is my own fault why all of this happened. I was a jerk to her and I deserved to feel like this. I am so stupid not to notice and admit what I really want after all.
= I really wanted to tell you how beautiful you are, Sakura but...I can't. = I thought with a sad smile. She looks so happy to be with Eriol that I couldn't break that happiness by just talking to her. I know how she'll get even more angry at me because I even have the guts to talk to her.
"May I have this dance, Hana?" I asked my date, as soon as another new song blasted out of the speakers. I've decided to at least do something other than stare at Sakura because I just couldn't bear to see her with Eriol. I have to do something else to at least get my mind off her. Even for just a while.
"Of course." Hana smiled sweetly.
As I led Hana to the dance floor, I couldn't help glancing at Sakura's beautiful face. I was surprised to see that she's looking back at me, and to know that she's staring at me, makes me blush that I quickly looked away.
I hold Hana's hands and closed my eyes. I want to shut off everything around me. I imagined that this is Sakura I'm dancing with, the one I'm holding. And that little thought made me for a moment, at least a little bit happy.
When I opened my eyes and saw her dancing with Eriol so close to us, I knew I was just dreaming. She got somebody else, not me.
= Why did it have to took such a long time for me to realize that I care deeply for you, Sakura? =
"Why do I have the feeling that something is not right?" Hana whispered at me.
"Huh?"
"See?" She chuckled. "You're lost in your own thoughts again."
"Gomen nasai. I know I haven't been very attentive but there are just some things on my mind and thatâE""
"Ssssshhhh..." She gently placed a finger on my lips. "You don't have to explain. I know what you must be feeling."
I looked at her in surprise. "You do?"
Hana nodded. "I know. And all I can say to you is that, you have to be true to yourself. Don't be afraid to take a risk. Most importantly, don't be afraid to love."
"Why are you saying all of this?"
"Because I am your friend." And with that, she smiled at me affectionately before placing her head on my shoulder.
I am really surprised at her words that I can't help wondering if I am that obvious about what I feel for Sakura. Am I too transparent? But Hana sure makes sense, though.
I couldn't help smiling at her advice.
= Don't be afraid...don't be afraid... = I repeated over an over in my head.
I've never been afraid about anything in my life and I know I shouldn't be afraid right now. I know I shouldn't be afraid to express what I really feel and most important of all, I should first and foremost admit to my own self what I really feel for my bestfriend.
"Thanks, Hana. Thanks for enlightening me." I replied gratefully as I squeezed her hand gently.
I stole another glance at Sakura, still dancing with Eriol and I was surprised once more to found out that she's looking at me. But before she looked away, I caught a glimpse of her somewhat frowning at me. I guess, she must've really disliked me to frown like that.
Well, surprisingly, although I thought the party's going to go on and on until I would drop dead from boredom, I was caught unaware that the time flew very fast. With all the dancing and a bit talking around, the party is already nearing its end. And boy, was I really relieved at that. I really wanted to get away from here so I could do some serious thinking.
"True to its tradition, just like any dances, we're also going to have our very own King and Queen of the Night," Terada Sensei announced at the stage, along with some excited hush and murmurs from the crowd.
"And of course, the King and Queen will have the honor to dance for us the last dance to conclude this very successful party."
I watched in boredom as the principal walked to the stage and handed an envelope to him.
"And now, I have here the names of our King and Queen of the night!"
I rolled my eyes as some excited shrieks came from the students. I really can't just figure out what's so exciting about it.
"I'm going out to take a break." I told Hana before going outside to catch some fresh air."
"Don't you want to know who's going to win?"
"I'm not interested."
While I was walking halfway throughout the crowd, I heard Terada Sensei still talking.
"And our King of the night is none other than..." He paused deliberately.
"It's Eriol, I'm sure." I heard some girls whispering and I couldn't help once more but frown.
= Eriol...so what? He could be the King as long as he wants to. = I thought disdainfully. I really don't care.
"Is none other than Syaoran Li!"
A loud shriek and giggle suddenly filled the whole gym and I felt like a deer caught in headlights when the spotlight loomed at me. I was so surprised that I couldn't help staring at everybody.
"Hey Syaoran, whoa! You're the king!" Yamazaki shouted suddenly appearing out of nowhere.
I felt somebody pushing me gently as the crowd suddenly parted in acknowledgement of me. I felt myself blushing as I felt all eyes starring at me. I suddenly felt like a fool standing alone at the middle of the gym.
"Congratulations, Mr. Li! And now for your Queen..."
I heard another round of excited shriek from the crowd.
"Is Sakura Kinomoto!"
~~~~~~~~~~~
Author's note: Thanks for reading the fic. Feel free to e-mail me for any comments or suggestions. I really hope I could do the next chapter asap but let me just say I'm still not too sure about my time but I promise I will finish this one. ^__^