CardCaptors
When the Last Teardrop Falls
Part: One
Chapter: Eight
The next day was rather silent. Sakura and Li maintained a short distance towards eachother. Li was still embarrassed about what happened, and Sakura was a little confused about the whole ideal. The first two periods of the day went by slowly, and finally the last period rolled around.
Driing! Driing!
"Alright, class dismissed," Mr. Terada announced as he waved his hands into the air. The class scrambled around packing up their things to go home. Li left right away, trying to avoid any contact from Sakura. Sakura saw this, and grew sad. She left the room, following Li. Then Madison caught up to her.
"Sakura!" Madison called after her friend.
Sakura took one last look at Li, and slowly turned around. "Hi, Masdison," Sakura smiled weakly.
"What's up between you and Li?" Madison asked as she looked at Li up ahead, and then back at Sakura.
"Nothing!" Sakura reminded, assuming Madison was teasing again.
"I can see that," Madison backfired putting her hands on her waist.
"Huh?" Sakura scratched her head.
"You guys seem kind of, well...distant," Masdison concluded slowly as she tried to look for the right words.
"Oh, uh...it's nothing," Sakura smiled.
"Sure," Madison replied giving her the eyebrow.
"Well, you see I've been having these weird feelings, and I don't know what they mean," Sakura struggled to find her words.
Madison began to walk to a bench, not too far away. Sakura followed, they both sat down.
"Well, what kind of feelings?" Madison asked seriously. "Are they like your dreams you used to have when you were still after the Clow Cards?" she added.
"No, not really, I can't seem to explain it," Sakura sank her face into her hands.
"Well, what do these feelings do to you?" Madison popped another question.
"They make me feel sad, and lonely," Sakura replied lifting her head up. "As if, something is missing," she added.
"Oh, I see," Madison replied trying to understand what Sakura was going through.
"But the thing is, I don't know why they make me feel this way," Sakura said in frustration.
"But what does this have to do with Li?" Madison asked still confused.
"Well, he said he's been having the same feelings," Sakura replied, hoping that they could find an answer to her problem.
"Oh I see, why don't you talk to him about it?" Madison suggested.
"Um, I don't think that's such a good idea Madison," Sakura replied nervously.
"Why not?" Madison asked surprised.
"Well, yesterday after school, something happened and I uh..." Sakura mumbled.
"Oh, nevermind I don't want to know," Madison jumped in. "I'll talk to Li alright?" she concluded.
"Would you?" Sakura's eyes brightened. Madison nodded and smiled. "Thanks," Sakura hugged her friend who was now suffocating.
"Alright, talk to ya later," Madison smiled and ran to Li's apartment.
"Good luck," Sakura sighed and headed home.
Madison ran as fast as he legs could carry her. She was practically burning up the pavement below her. 'I hope Li was walking slowly,' Madison thought. She ran down the street of their school, past her house, through the park, and up his street. She spotted Li turning the last corner, and began to run faster.
"Li!!" Madison yelled hoping to catch his attention. Li slowly turned around to see who it was.
"Oh, hey Madison," Li greeted. "Whoa, catch a breath will ya!" he added as he saw Madison panting his way. "Let's sit down huh?" he smiled and guided her to a spot in the park. There were only a few leaves left hanging on the branches. The lucky few that were still there were in light shades of red, orange, and yellow. They sat down under a tall orange tree across the street from Li's appartment.
"So, what was the hurry?" Li asked after Madison caught her breath.
"Uh, promise not to get mad?" Madison asked nervously. Li thought about the question for awhile. He stared at Madison and saw that she was serious.
"I guess," Li shrugged.
"Well, what's going on between you ans Sakura?" Madison asked very seriously. Li was shocked at the question and was silent. He stared at the ground for awhile, before bringing out the courage to answer the question.
"Nothing," Li shook his head sadly.
"Something must be going on because you two are extremely distant," Madison pointed out.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Li crossed his arms.
"I know that you aren't the type of person who easily opens up to people, but-" Madison began. Li stood up and turned in the opposite direction so Madison wouldn't see his face. Madison stood up and was silent, hoping Li would say something.
"Li please, I know that even though we've known eachother for two years there is no way you'd trust me," Madison continued, still talking to Li's back. "But, trust me now," she added. Li slowly turned around to look at Madison's face, and see if she was being sincere. She was. Her eyes looked like Sakura's yeasterday. They looked like they were going to fill with tears, she was pleading for an answer. But why did she care so much?
"Why do you want to know?" Li asked still looking at the ground.
"It isn't just me that wants to know," Madison smiled weakly. Li then looked straight at her with hope in his eyes.
"Sakura?" Li asked hopefully. Madison nodded with a slight smile. Li then turned away and was silent.
"What does she care," Li groaned.
"Please Li, just tell me," Madison begged. "Sakura said she's been having these feeling she couldn't understand or explain," she continued. "Have you been having something like that too?" she concluded.
Li was still silent. He didn't want to answer, but he didn't want to go straight to Sakura just yet. It seemed like Madison was the only way he could let Sakura know what really happened yesterday.
"Yes," Li replied reluctantly.
"What are these feelings like?" Madison asked a little less stressed out.
"They take total control of your feelings and emotions," Li began softly. "There is a sadness inside that can't seem to be filled," he continued as he turned to face Madison. "And I feel like something is missing, but I don't know why I feel this way," he concluded now staring into Madison's eyes.
"Don't worry Li," Madison patted Li's shoulder. "One day, you'll figure out what it is, I promise," she smiled and began to walk home.
"Is Sakura mad at me?" Li asked nervously.
Madison smiled. "No, she isn't,"
"That's good," Li sighed in relief. He began to walk to his building.
"Oh Li!" Madison called after him.
"Yeah?" Li turned around to look at Madison.
"Thank you," Madison smiled. Li was silent, and slowly began to smile too.
"Anytime," Li concluded and went inside the building. Madison took a deep breath and headed home.
"Sakura, can you please stop walking around in circles!" Kero yelled from the window. "You're making me dizzy!"
"Why hasn't Madison called yet!" Sakura crossed her arms still walking laps around her room.
"I don't know!" Kero stomped his feet on Sakura's desk. "But making me dizzy won't help," he pouted.
"Fine," Sakura groaned as she threw herself onto her bed.
"Thank you," Kero sighed in relief.
Sakura stared at the phone for a few moments. As each second passed by, she changed her position on the bed.
"Madison!!!" Sakura yelled impatiently.
"She can't hear you Sakura!" Kero complained as he covered his ears.
"Ugh!!" Sakura rolled around on the bed.
"A minute hasn't gone by yet, calm down!" Kero yelled as he locked himself in the drawer.
Sakura ignored Kero remark and stared at the clock, then back at the phone. She did this for quite awhile.
Ring! Ring!
Sakura jumped up and quickly picked up the phone.
"Hello?" Sakura answered anxiously.
"Hey there Sakura," Madison greeted happily.
"What took you so long!?" Sakura asked beaming with anger.
"I didn't know you cared that much Sakura," Madison teased.
"Who cares, what did he say?" Sakura asked putting the phone closer to her ear.
"Well he isn't mad at you, he's just confused," Madison assured her.
"Why is he confused?" Sakura asked as she sat up on her bed.
"Because of those feelings he's been having," Madison explained.
"Oh, what feelings exactly," Sakura asked as she thought of her own feelings.
"Just a feeling he can't control or understand, they're kinda like yours," Madison explained even further. "So whatever he did to you yesterday, he didn't mean it, he didn't even know what came over him," she concluded.
"Oh okay," Sakura sighed in relief, but at the same time in disappointment.
"Do you feel better?" Madison asked hopefully.
"Much better," Sakura smiled. "I think I'll go talk to him in person though," she concluded.
"What?!" Madison asked in shock. "Tonight?!"
"Yeah, I'll go right now," Sakura bit her lip.
"Good luck," Madison replied nervously.
"Thanks," Sakura nodded. "Bye,"
"Bye," Madison replied and hung up her phone.
Sakura quickly hung up her phone and grabbed her jacket. She took one look at herself in the mirror, and headed downstairs.
"Where are you going in such a hurry?" Tori asked from the table.
"Uh...nowhere to your concern," Sakura shook her head as she put on her shoes.
"Oh, Chinese brat," Tori rolled his eyes and tuned himself out.
"Two years Tori, TWO!" Sakura reminded and opened the door.
"Two, three, one hundred, they're all the same to me," Tori gave a fake salute and left it at that.
"Ugh!" Sakura grumbled and closed the door. As soon as she stepped outside a sudden chill came over her. 'Okay, it's cold,' Sakura shivered. She began to make her way to Li's appartment. As she walked she stared at the different color leaves, and how it complimented the colors of the sunset. It was quite beautiful actually, the colors of Tomoeda were the best during this time of the year. Soon her mind filled with other thoughts as she neared her destination. 'What will I say?' Sakura thought nervously. She got into the elevator and pushed his floor number. 'Should I apologize first?' she continued to ask herself. 'But he might ask, what for?' she warned herself. She thought of different things to say and ask Li, but before she knew it she was standing right infront of his door. This was it.
Knock! Knock!
'What the?!' Li thought as he lay comfortably on the couch with no shirt on. (Ooo girls, he's topless!)
"I told you," Li began to yell. "I'm not home Meilin!!!" he concluded as he shut his eyes.
"Umm...it's not Meilin," Sakura muffled through the door.
"Sakura?!" Li yelled surprised. He quickly jumped off the couch and ran to open the door.
"Hi," Sakura blushed as Li opened the door.
"What are you doing here?" Li asked as soon as the door flung wide open. Sakura was silent, and just blushed. Li stared at her in confusion, and was silent.
"Uh...is it something I said?" Li asked quietly.
"No," Sakura replied staring at the ceiling. "But nice boxers," she blurted out.
"HUH?!" Li yelled as he looked down. "Darn it!" he squeeled and ran about. "Make yourself at home!" Li yelled as he ran to his room.
"Sure," Sakura laughed as she closed the door behind her. She walked to the couch in the living room, took a seat, and waited patiently.
Li came back in wearing a sleeveless orange shirt, with red fighter pants. (For those people who watch DBZ it's like Goku's pants: pretty sexy huh? well guess what? Sakura thought so too!) Sakura gazed adoringly at the tall figure before her.
"Uh, Sakura?" Li asked waving his hands infront of her face.
"Oh! Hey Li," Sakura smiled after she snapped out of her "thoughts."
"I'm very sorry you had to see that, back there," Li apologized nervously as he took a seat beside her.
"No, no that's alright," Sakura blushed. 'think happy thoughts....'
"So, did you want something?" Li asked as he calmed down. 'Or want to SAY something,'
"Actually I did," Sakura slowly replied as he turned her attention towards Li. "I just wanted to apologize for yesterday,"
"No! I should be the one apologizing, really!" Li quickly jumped in. 'I can't believe she apologized before I did!'
"It's okay, I mean, you didn't even know what you were doing," Sakura smiled.
"Right," Li grumbled. 'Note to self: never tell Madison ANYTHING,'
"Well, I'll say it anyway," Li said turning his whole attention to her.
"Huh?" Sakura asked in confusion. Then Li took her hands, and cupped them in his own.
"Sakura," Li began clutching her hands. "I'm sorry," he concluded. Sakura was surprised at this, and just stared at him. She then slowly began to smile.
"It's okay Li," Sakura smiled and wrapped her arms around Li's neck to give him a hug. "I should've stayed and listened to you, instead of walking away," she concluded and rested her head on Li's shoulder. Li blushed and wrapped his arms around her waist.
"I should've done what I did in the first place," Li said assuring her it wasn't her fault. "That feeling just, took over me."
Sakura began to smile again. "Kind of like if you're drunk?"
"Yeah, kind of like if I'm drunk," Li laughed and let go of his hug. Sakura noticed this and slowly let go of her grasp.
"Well, I better get going, it's getting pretty dark," Sakura said without even looking out the window.
"Yeah, well it always does during this part of the year," Li added. Li led her to the door and Sakura followed. They stood there for a few moments silent.
"Yeah, well, uh....bye," Sakura quickly said and gave him a small kiss on the cheek. Then she ran down the hall, out of sight.
"Bye..." Li said softly holding his cheek. He closed the door and leaned against it for a few moments before going back to his room.
* * *
Seven weeks later....
"Okay children," Ms. Mckenzie waved trying to get the attention of the class. Finally the class settled down. "I know that tomorrow is the last day before the winter break, but-" she was interrupted by the class' loud cheers. "BUT!" she yelled as the class quickly shut their mouths. "But, we still have plenty of work to do before then," she reminded.
"So, what are you going to do for the break Sakura?" Madison whispered across the aisle.
"I don't have anything planned yet," Sakura whispered leaning sideways to Madison.
"Well I have a feeling something really cool is going to happen this break," Madison smiled with excitement in her eyes.
"Why is that?" Sakura asked leaning forward with great interest.
"I don't know, I just have a feeling," Madison smiled and leaned back in her seat. Sakura blinked in confusion and leaned back in her seat as well. Li, who heard the whole conversation leaned forward also in great interest.
"How much longer to winter break?" Li asked trying to make conversation.
"Uhh...well...I think this Friday is the last day of school," Sakura replied a little confused that Li didn't know in the first place.
"Oh, alright," Li thanked and leaned back in his chair. 'Just one more day,' Li thought happily. Sakura got fed up with talking, so she decided to pass Li a note. Li could hear some sort of scribbling coming from Sakura's direction but thought nothing of it until...
BONK!
'Owie!' Li thought as he scratched his head. Sakura giggled, then turned silent. Li looked on his desk to see what had hit him. There he found a big ball of paper. He quickly turned his attention to Meilin, but he only saw her working. 'Who the?' Li thought as he unwrapped the note.
The note read:
Hey it's me, the pretty girl infront of you! *Don't you be looking elsewhere* Yep you guess it, Sakura! Well, I was wondering what you were doing over the break.
Li sat in his seat for awhile wondering what he should do with the note. He was really bad at these type of things, because he only cared about Clow Cards, and school work. He then realized there was more to the note:
Well, don't just sit there! Write back silly!
Li laughed at the piece of paper before him. He was quite surprised that Sakura would be able to anticipate on his reaction. But then again, she had known him for quite some time now. He quickly smiled and wrote a reply. Soon he finished up and threw it right infront of Sakura, despite his location. Sakura was surprised that Li could throw the note back right in front of her even though he was at a disadvantage. She then smiled and read the note:
Hmm...I didn't know you cared so much Sakura. I know you want to ask me out so, I think it's better if you ask me in person. Oh as for what I'm doing for the break, well I have nothing planned, yet.
P.S
You know you wanna ask me out, so don't deny it!
Sakura frowned and slowly crushed the paper. She took out a new one and began to scribble once again. Li could hear her frustration and tried his best not to crack up. His thoughts were interrupted by a loud and painful...
BONK!!
"Ugh!" Li moaned in pain. When he became calm again, he began to open the paper. It read:
You are so full of yourself!!! What makes you think I want to ask you out huh?! Ugh!! Nutcase I swear.
I was asking you because I wanted to know who was staying here, and if they had something planned or not, that's all. PURE curiosity. Ugh! Sometimes I wish you stayed the same as when I first met you, really.
Li smiled at her reply. He knew Sakura hadn't changed a bit since he met her. She still couln't take a joke. It was just like her relationship with Tori. He always teased her, and it always worked. Li began to grin and slowly leaned forward.
"Aw, I love you too Sakura," Li teased and leaned back in his chair comfortably. Sakura began to steam up and quickly turned red, but she was able to control herself from punching Li out cold. Her emotions were soon interrupted by a very annoying sound coming from the right of her. She slowly turned her head to see what could be making such a wracket. There she saw Madison giggling away and turning red with awe. The word "Kawaii" was written all over her face. Sakura wanted to punch the two of them out, but they were saved by the bell.
Driing!! Driing!!
Madison and Li quickly picked up their things and walked out of the classroom laughing. Sakura stayed in her seat and burned up. A few moments later, she picked up her stuff and stomped all the way to lunch. By the time she got into the cafeteria Madison and Li were sitting and had already began to eat their lunches. As soon as Sakura stormed in their direction they quickly quieted down their laughs, to a simple chuckle.
"You guys are soooo unfair!" She whined as she took her seat next to Li.
"What did I do?" Madison complained as she put her hands into the air.
"You are supporting him by laughing along," Sakura pointed out.
"But it was sooo cute," Madison giggled.
"See you're supporting him again," Sakura swung her hands in defeat.
"Aww...come on Sakura, be a sport," Li grinned as he put his arms around her. Masdison began to giggle a little louder when Li's put his arm on Sakura. Sakura stared at the arm in double defeat.
"Even though you won't admit it, I love you too," Li teased as he removed his arm. Madison couldn't take it anymore and began to crack up like there was no tomorrow. And for Li, there just may be no tomorrow.
"Did you just say you loved Sakura?!" Meilin yelled as she ran to the trio.
"I uh..." Li stuttered nervously. Madison was still laughing, but when she saw Meilin's angry face she laughed even more and began to roll on the floor.
"Um, is there a fire drill that I don't know about?" Meilin asked cluelessly. Sakura and Li sweat dropped at her stupid remark.
"Well did you say you loved Sakura?" Meilin asked sadly.
"I was jus-" Li tried to assure her.
"But Li, you remember OUR destiny back in-" Meilin began, but stopped when Li ran out of the cafeteria. "-Hong Kong..." Meilin faded out as she stared at Li's shadow. The rest of the group gazed at Meilin. ' 'Destiny? Li and Meilin? Destiny?!' Sakura and Madison thought at the same time.
"Okay, destiny?!" Madison blurted out after a long period of silence. "Have I missed something people!?!" she stomped her feet on the ground in frustration. Meilin slowly turned at Madison with tears in her eyes.
"I don't want to talk about it anymore," Meilin said sadly. She then turned to Sakura, and clutched her hands into a fist as tight as possible.
"It's all your fault Sakura!!" Meilin cried and ran out of the cafeteria with tears streaming down each cheek.
"My, fault?" Sakura asked softly.
"That girl blames you for everything," Madison put her hands on her waist in disbelief. "Just talk to Li later okay?" she shook her head as she packed up her lunch.
"Yeah, I'll do that," Sakura sighed still staring at the exit where Meilin ran through. They quietly made there way to class.
The rest of the day was pretty silent. Li nor Meilin said a word. They both just minded their own business and kept quiet. Sakura stared at the clock the whole time, waiting for school to end. Finally the bell rang. Li went ahead, while everyone else was still loading their homework into their bags. Sakura tried to pack her bag as fast as possible, but it wasn't fast enough, Li had already left the building. Sakura stormed out of the room, into the halls, through the doors, across the track, and past the field. Snow slowly began to fall from the sky. Sakura looked up and the snow worriedly. Finally she caught sight of Li, and began to pick up the pace.
"Li!!" Sakura yelled. "Li! Wait up will ya!" she screamed. Li pretended that her couldn't hear her so he kept on walking. Sakura noticed this and stoped running.
"Li, I know you can hear me," Sakura began softly. "So please, please stop and talk to me," she continued trying to catch her breath. "Please," she begged. Li hated to see Sakura suffer, and he couldn't bear to hear or see her beg for anything. He stopped walking, and slowly turned around to look at her. As soon as he turned around he saw Sakura. There were small snowflakes falling onto different parts of her hair, she was beautiful. He then caught a glimpse of her eyes. They were sad, and looked like they were going to let a few teardrops fall. He couldn't bear to see her like that.
"What do you want from me?" Li asked quietly.
"I want to know what happened between you and Meilin," Sakura replied as she began to walk towards him.
"Why?" Li asked sadly.
"Because I need to know, I have to know," Sakura begged.
"Why are you doing this to me?" Li asked a little annoyed, but not enough to scare Sakura away. "You know I can't refuse anything from you," he added softly.
"Then just please tell me what I want to know," Sakura asked as if the answer would scar her for the rest of her life. Li stood there motionless for awhile. Finally he lifted his head up and began to look at Sakura.
"I guess you would have to find out sooner or later," Li looked at her straight in the eyes. They took a seat out on a park bench under some shelter that was usually used for rainy days, and just stared at the ground for a few moments.
"You wanted to know about Meilin and I right?" Li asked reluctantly.
"Yes," Sakura nodded sadly. Li took in a deep breath and cleared his throat.
"Back home, Meilin's family and my family have known and trusted eachother for the longest time," Li began quietly. "And because of this, when we were born, Meilin and I were destined to be married," he continued as he closed his eyes shut. "But I don't love her Sakura!!" he blurted out in anger. He sat there rocking back and forth holding his stomach in pain and frustration. Sakura felt sorry for Li and hugged him with his head laying on her shoulder.
"I'm sorry Li, I didn't know," Sakura apologized as she held him tighter in her arms. They stayed there in that position for quite some time, just enough to let the feeling pass. Sakura slowly took a peek at her watch.
'Darn, Tori is going to kill me!' Sakura thought as she bit her lip. She then looked at Li, almost sleeping in her arms, and smiled. 'Maybe just a little longer,' she sighed and held him closer.
Li rested his head on Sakura's shoulder for awhile longer, then realized what was going on. 'What am I doing?' Li thought in shock. 'You're just asking to be turned down again,' he thought in disappointment. Li let the moment go and sat up straight.
"Uh, I think you better go..." Li suggested as he sat on the other end of the bench. At first Sakura was surprised, it was like she did something wrong.
"Huh?" Sakura asked to confirm her thoughts.
"Well, Tori might get angry," Li replied looking in the opposite direction.
"Oh, okay," Sakura agreed sadly. She was a little confused, and hurt inside, but she knew she had to be strong. "Uh, see you tomorrow...I guess," Sakura concluded as she began to walk home. Li was silent, and just waited for Sakura to turn the corner before he made his way home.
"Yeah...tomorrow," Li sighed trying not to cry. He then made his way home.
* * *
"...and that's the whole story," Sakura concluded sadly.
"That's why Meilin is so..." Madison thought about the correct word. "How do I put this delicately?" she paused. "Uh...POSSESIVE over Li," she concluded happily. Sakura just glared at her.
"What? I'm serious!" Madison shrugged.
"Why am I taking this so badly Madison?" Sakura asked in frustration. Madison began to grin, and at the same time moved a little closer to Sakura.
"Okay, my mistake," Sakura quickly said after realizing what she had just done. "Don't answer that question,"
"But you know you like Li, so just tell him," Madison put her hands on her hips, awaiting an answer.
"There is nothing to tell him," Sakura pouted.
"Oh, really?" Madison said looking behind Sakura.
"Yes, really," Sakura nodded her head confidently.
"Too bad," Madison sighed. "Here's you chance," Madison smiled still looking behind Sakura.
"What?" Sakura asked nervously.
"Hey Sakura," a familiar voice greeted behind her.
"Gulp,"
"What's wrong Sakura?" Madison teased. Sakura gave Madison the evil eye and slowly turned around.
"Hi Li," Sakura smiled nervously.
"Is there something wrong?" Li asked a little worried.
"No, nothing is wrong..." Sakura shook her head.
"Oh," Li replied sadly. "It's what I said yesterday, isn't it?"
"No, no no!" Sakura tried to assure him. "It's not that, really!"
"Don't lie to me Sakura," Li grinned.
"I'd never lie to you," Sakura smiled and kissed him on the cheek. Li blushed and headed to class.
"WHAT WAS THAT ABOUT?!" Madison screamed as soon as Li was out of sight. Madison was gasping for air from holding her breath the whole time. She was in complete shock.
"That was nothing," Sakura waved the thought away.
"If that was nothing, I wonder what something looks like," Madison grinned happily.
"Don't even start with me Madison," Sakura warned as she pointed her finger at her face and walked off to class.
"Nothing to tell him huh?" Madison grumbled as she followed Sakura to class.
As soon as Sakura and Madison entered the room, everyone was staring at them in surprise and shock. Meilin of course was beaming with happiness.
"That was a pretty long time in the washroom girls," Ms. Mckenzie said suspiciously.
"Well...we...I...uh..." The two studdered as they took their seats.
"Never mind girls, I don't want to know," Ms. Mckenzie smiled.
"Great, now I have to catch up on the work I missed," Sakura mumbled to herself.
"You guys were only gone for ten minutes," Li whispered to Sakura.
"Well you missed some of class too," Sakura reminded.
"I didn't miss enough," Li rolled his eyes as he leaned back in his chair.
"Hey Sakura," Madison whispered not taking her eyes off the front of the room.
"Yeah?" Sakura replied leaning towards her right.
"In my hand," Madison said shaking her hand a little.
"Oh, right," Sakura said secretively. She took the note that was in her hand, and leaned back in her seat. She waited a few moments, just in case anyone suspected anything. Then she slowly unwrapped the note. It read:
I have a brilliant idea! Why don't you spend some time with Li, before he "marries" Meilin!
Sakura stared at the note in shock for a few more seconds then thought of what to write. Li heard some movement coming from Sakura. He then listened carefully to hear exactly what it was. When he heard that it was scribbling he quickly covered his head for cover, in case it was for him.
BONK!
"Ow!" Madison screamed as the note hit her face. The whole class stared at her as if she were a freak. She slowly looked down at her desk, to find a huge ball of paper waiting to be unwrapped. She quickly read it:
Well, I think spending time with Li would be a pretty fun and interesting thing to see so, why not. But I'm not doing it because he's going to marry Meilin! IF he marries Meilin!
Madison laughed at the response and struggled to write her reply. After she was finished she slowly compressed the note back into a sphere, trying to avoid as much noise as possible. Finally she threw the note back to Sakura. It read:
If you say so...*cough*Juliet*cough* well when are you going to ask him? I think you should ask him after class! Right after class!
Sakura rolled her eyes at her relentless friend, and slowly wrote her response. Li was getting more and more paranoid each time the note flew across the aisle. When Madison recieved the note, she eagerly read it's contents. Sakura wrote:
Well I'll ask him if he wants to hang our during the break, but I won't ask him out in the way YOU'RE sick mind turns! Just keep that in mind Madison...
Madison pouted in disappointment after she finished reading the note. Then she sighed in defeat as she wrote her last response. Li was now biting his nails nervously as he watched Madison write her response to Sakura. He looked at the two girls back and forth, one after another. Finally Madison passed the note back to Sakura. Madison wrote:
Fine, I'll give you that much. But I'm telling you, one day Sakura, one day...
Sakura sighed in relief as she read the last response from Madison. Li was sweating in suspence behind Sakura still biting his nails nervously. Suddenly the bell rang.
Driing! Driing!
"Alright, class dismissed!" Ms. Mckenzie announced happily. "Have a wonderful and safe winter break!" she concluded as the students ran excitedly out of the classroom.
"Go now Sakura!" Madison said pushing Sakura towards Li.
"Madison, I'm only asking him if he wants to hang out, so I don't uinderstand why you have to be so pushy," Sakura replied trying to stop Madison from pushing her into anyone.
"Well, you have to start from somewhere," Madison insisted.
"Ugh! Fine!" Sakura yelled in defeat. Sakura slowly approached Li who was standing outside waiting for the two girls.
"Hi Li," Sakura smiled as she walked out of the building.
"Hey Sakura, Madison," Li greeted them one at a time. Madison nudged Sakura as oon as they were close to Li. Sakura groaned and nudged Madison harder, making Madison squeal out a small yelp.
"So Li, do you know if you have anything planned for the break yet?" Sakura asked hopefully.
"Nope, not a thing," Li replied staring at the sky that looked like it was going to fill with snowflakes anytime soon.
"Well, I was wondering if you wanted to hang out with me for awhile," Sakura suggested as she took a step closer to Li.
"Gulp," Li swallowed blushing.
"What do you think?" Sakura asked taking another step closer to Li.
'Just answer before she takes another step closer to you,' Li warned himself. "Uh, yeah why not," Li shrugged.
"Great," Sakura smiled happily. "If it snows a lot tonight, maybe we can make a snowman or go sledding tomorrow," she shuggested.
"Yeah, I bet with all your training, you haven't done any of those," Madison teased.
"Yeah...well..." Li mumbled in embarrassment.
"There's always a first Madison," Sakura pointed out trying to make Li feel better. The two just stared at her in shock and wonder.
"Well I better get going," Sakura said breaking the silence. "It's betting pretty cold," she concluded.
"Well you two need sleep for tomorrow anyway," Madison reminded. Li and Sakura just glared at her.
"Yeah, well just call me tomorrow okay Sakura?" Li asked as he got ready to leave.
"Don't worry about it," Sakura nodded in agreement. "Just pray for lots of snow," she joked and left. Li and Madison then began to make their way home too.
'Snow, snow snow snow...' Li chanted at the sky. Madison saw him staring at the sky in a praying position.
"You like her don't you?" Madison asked seriously. This caught Li's attention and made him a little more nervous.
"You never give up," Li laughed still walking home.
"Not on love anyway," Madison smiled at the sky.
"Can't wait until you find one," Li sighed.
"Someday," Madison smiled.
"But right now I'm concentrating on what's here to stay," Madison pointed out confidently.
"Right," Li smiled weakly.
"Don't worry Li, you can tell her tomorrow," Madison teased.
"Tell her what?" Li asked pretending he didn't know.
"Don't even try that on me Li," Madison replied looking at Li as if she were talking to an idiot. "I'd probably buy it from Sakura, but not you," she concluded.
"Some friend," Li laughed.
"There is no way you can't like her," Madison argued.
"Why not?" Li asked a little interested to hear her answer. Madison then stopped walking and looked at Li straight in the eyes.
"Because she brings out the best in you Li," Madison said turning to him. Li stood there for a moment thinking about what Madison had just told him. Of course she was right, but he wouldn't let her know that.
"The best in me huh?" Li asked almost laughing. "Like what?" he asked crossing his arms.
"I bet you nobody in China could make you smile or laugh, let alone make you smile, laugh, and even BLUSH the way Sakura makes you do all three," Madison concluded confidently. Li just stared at her motionless and slowly felt his jaw sink to the ground. He never really looked at it that way. Madison was right.
"You're weird," Li shook his head as he began to walk again.
"You're a liar," Madison said catching up to him. "You're a liar in denial, which isn't the best of combinations,"
"Look there is your house," Li changed the subject as he pointed to Madison's house.
"Smooth," Madison laughed making her way to her house. Snow slowly swayed it's way down from the sky to the earth below. It was a beautiful sight. Li waved good-bye and walked home.
"Li!" Madison called after him.
"Yeah?" Li turned around.
"Looks like your prayers have been answered," Madison grinned.
"Looks like it," Li smiled going along with Madison. He then turned around to continue his way home.
~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~
Okay this chapter wasn't exactly what you readers want but, i have to save some for the
later chapters. whoa, do i have something in store you!
In the next chapter Li and Sakura go out for the first time during the break. Ooo...where
are they going? Is Li finally going to make that move?! Hmm...how about Sakura. Li also goes
through an "interview" with Mr. Kinomoto. And Kero knows something that will change everything.
But why doesn't he tell anyone? Stay tuned!
When the Last Teardrop Falls
Part: One
Chapter: Eight
The next day was rather silent. Sakura and Li maintained a short distance towards eachother. Li was still embarrassed about what happened, and Sakura was a little confused about the whole ideal. The first two periods of the day went by slowly, and finally the last period rolled around.
Driing! Driing!
"Alright, class dismissed," Mr. Terada announced as he waved his hands into the air. The class scrambled around packing up their things to go home. Li left right away, trying to avoid any contact from Sakura. Sakura saw this, and grew sad. She left the room, following Li. Then Madison caught up to her.
"Sakura!" Madison called after her friend.
Sakura took one last look at Li, and slowly turned around. "Hi, Masdison," Sakura smiled weakly.
"What's up between you and Li?" Madison asked as she looked at Li up ahead, and then back at Sakura.
"Nothing!" Sakura reminded, assuming Madison was teasing again.
"I can see that," Madison backfired putting her hands on her waist.
"Huh?" Sakura scratched her head.
"You guys seem kind of, well...distant," Masdison concluded slowly as she tried to look for the right words.
"Oh, uh...it's nothing," Sakura smiled.
"Sure," Madison replied giving her the eyebrow.
"Well, you see I've been having these weird feelings, and I don't know what they mean," Sakura struggled to find her words.
Madison began to walk to a bench, not too far away. Sakura followed, they both sat down.
"Well, what kind of feelings?" Madison asked seriously. "Are they like your dreams you used to have when you were still after the Clow Cards?" she added.
"No, not really, I can't seem to explain it," Sakura sank her face into her hands.
"Well, what do these feelings do to you?" Madison popped another question.
"They make me feel sad, and lonely," Sakura replied lifting her head up. "As if, something is missing," she added.
"Oh, I see," Madison replied trying to understand what Sakura was going through.
"But the thing is, I don't know why they make me feel this way," Sakura said in frustration.
"But what does this have to do with Li?" Madison asked still confused.
"Well, he said he's been having the same feelings," Sakura replied, hoping that they could find an answer to her problem.
"Oh I see, why don't you talk to him about it?" Madison suggested.
"Um, I don't think that's such a good idea Madison," Sakura replied nervously.
"Why not?" Madison asked surprised.
"Well, yesterday after school, something happened and I uh..." Sakura mumbled.
"Oh, nevermind I don't want to know," Madison jumped in. "I'll talk to Li alright?" she concluded.
"Would you?" Sakura's eyes brightened. Madison nodded and smiled. "Thanks," Sakura hugged her friend who was now suffocating.
"Alright, talk to ya later," Madison smiled and ran to Li's apartment.
"Good luck," Sakura sighed and headed home.
Madison ran as fast as he legs could carry her. She was practically burning up the pavement below her. 'I hope Li was walking slowly,' Madison thought. She ran down the street of their school, past her house, through the park, and up his street. She spotted Li turning the last corner, and began to run faster.
"Li!!" Madison yelled hoping to catch his attention. Li slowly turned around to see who it was.
"Oh, hey Madison," Li greeted. "Whoa, catch a breath will ya!" he added as he saw Madison panting his way. "Let's sit down huh?" he smiled and guided her to a spot in the park. There were only a few leaves left hanging on the branches. The lucky few that were still there were in light shades of red, orange, and yellow. They sat down under a tall orange tree across the street from Li's appartment.
"So, what was the hurry?" Li asked after Madison caught her breath.
"Uh, promise not to get mad?" Madison asked nervously. Li thought about the question for awhile. He stared at Madison and saw that she was serious.
"I guess," Li shrugged.
"Well, what's going on between you ans Sakura?" Madison asked very seriously. Li was shocked at the question and was silent. He stared at the ground for awhile, before bringing out the courage to answer the question.
"Nothing," Li shook his head sadly.
"Something must be going on because you two are extremely distant," Madison pointed out.
"I don't know what you're talking about," Li crossed his arms.
"I know that you aren't the type of person who easily opens up to people, but-" Madison began. Li stood up and turned in the opposite direction so Madison wouldn't see his face. Madison stood up and was silent, hoping Li would say something.
"Li please, I know that even though we've known eachother for two years there is no way you'd trust me," Madison continued, still talking to Li's back. "But, trust me now," she added. Li slowly turned around to look at Madison's face, and see if she was being sincere. She was. Her eyes looked like Sakura's yeasterday. They looked like they were going to fill with tears, she was pleading for an answer. But why did she care so much?
"Why do you want to know?" Li asked still looking at the ground.
"It isn't just me that wants to know," Madison smiled weakly. Li then looked straight at her with hope in his eyes.
"Sakura?" Li asked hopefully. Madison nodded with a slight smile. Li then turned away and was silent.
"What does she care," Li groaned.
"Please Li, just tell me," Madison begged. "Sakura said she's been having these feeling she couldn't understand or explain," she continued. "Have you been having something like that too?" she concluded.
Li was still silent. He didn't want to answer, but he didn't want to go straight to Sakura just yet. It seemed like Madison was the only way he could let Sakura know what really happened yesterday.
"Yes," Li replied reluctantly.
"What are these feelings like?" Madison asked a little less stressed out.
"They take total control of your feelings and emotions," Li began softly. "There is a sadness inside that can't seem to be filled," he continued as he turned to face Madison. "And I feel like something is missing, but I don't know why I feel this way," he concluded now staring into Madison's eyes.
"Don't worry Li," Madison patted Li's shoulder. "One day, you'll figure out what it is, I promise," she smiled and began to walk home.
"Is Sakura mad at me?" Li asked nervously.
Madison smiled. "No, she isn't,"
"That's good," Li sighed in relief. He began to walk to his building.
"Oh Li!" Madison called after him.
"Yeah?" Li turned around to look at Madison.
"Thank you," Madison smiled. Li was silent, and slowly began to smile too.
"Anytime," Li concluded and went inside the building. Madison took a deep breath and headed home.
"Sakura, can you please stop walking around in circles!" Kero yelled from the window. "You're making me dizzy!"
"Why hasn't Madison called yet!" Sakura crossed her arms still walking laps around her room.
"I don't know!" Kero stomped his feet on Sakura's desk. "But making me dizzy won't help," he pouted.
"Fine," Sakura groaned as she threw herself onto her bed.
"Thank you," Kero sighed in relief.
Sakura stared at the phone for a few moments. As each second passed by, she changed her position on the bed.
"Madison!!!" Sakura yelled impatiently.
"She can't hear you Sakura!" Kero complained as he covered his ears.
"Ugh!!" Sakura rolled around on the bed.
"A minute hasn't gone by yet, calm down!" Kero yelled as he locked himself in the drawer.
Sakura ignored Kero remark and stared at the clock, then back at the phone. She did this for quite awhile.
Ring! Ring!
Sakura jumped up and quickly picked up the phone.
"Hello?" Sakura answered anxiously.
"Hey there Sakura," Madison greeted happily.
"What took you so long!?" Sakura asked beaming with anger.
"I didn't know you cared that much Sakura," Madison teased.
"Who cares, what did he say?" Sakura asked putting the phone closer to her ear.
"Well he isn't mad at you, he's just confused," Madison assured her.
"Why is he confused?" Sakura asked as she sat up on her bed.
"Because of those feelings he's been having," Madison explained.
"Oh, what feelings exactly," Sakura asked as she thought of her own feelings.
"Just a feeling he can't control or understand, they're kinda like yours," Madison explained even further. "So whatever he did to you yesterday, he didn't mean it, he didn't even know what came over him," she concluded.
"Oh okay," Sakura sighed in relief, but at the same time in disappointment.
"Do you feel better?" Madison asked hopefully.
"Much better," Sakura smiled. "I think I'll go talk to him in person though," she concluded.
"What?!" Madison asked in shock. "Tonight?!"
"Yeah, I'll go right now," Sakura bit her lip.
"Good luck," Madison replied nervously.
"Thanks," Sakura nodded. "Bye,"
"Bye," Madison replied and hung up her phone.
Sakura quickly hung up her phone and grabbed her jacket. She took one look at herself in the mirror, and headed downstairs.
"Where are you going in such a hurry?" Tori asked from the table.
"Uh...nowhere to your concern," Sakura shook her head as she put on her shoes.
"Oh, Chinese brat," Tori rolled his eyes and tuned himself out.
"Two years Tori, TWO!" Sakura reminded and opened the door.
"Two, three, one hundred, they're all the same to me," Tori gave a fake salute and left it at that.
"Ugh!" Sakura grumbled and closed the door. As soon as she stepped outside a sudden chill came over her. 'Okay, it's cold,' Sakura shivered. She began to make her way to Li's appartment. As she walked she stared at the different color leaves, and how it complimented the colors of the sunset. It was quite beautiful actually, the colors of Tomoeda were the best during this time of the year. Soon her mind filled with other thoughts as she neared her destination. 'What will I say?' Sakura thought nervously. She got into the elevator and pushed his floor number. 'Should I apologize first?' she continued to ask herself. 'But he might ask, what for?' she warned herself. She thought of different things to say and ask Li, but before she knew it she was standing right infront of his door. This was it.
Knock! Knock!
'What the?!' Li thought as he lay comfortably on the couch with no shirt on. (Ooo girls, he's topless!)
"I told you," Li began to yell. "I'm not home Meilin!!!" he concluded as he shut his eyes.
"Umm...it's not Meilin," Sakura muffled through the door.
"Sakura?!" Li yelled surprised. He quickly jumped off the couch and ran to open the door.
"Hi," Sakura blushed as Li opened the door.
"What are you doing here?" Li asked as soon as the door flung wide open. Sakura was silent, and just blushed. Li stared at her in confusion, and was silent.
"Uh...is it something I said?" Li asked quietly.
"No," Sakura replied staring at the ceiling. "But nice boxers," she blurted out.
"HUH?!" Li yelled as he looked down. "Darn it!" he squeeled and ran about. "Make yourself at home!" Li yelled as he ran to his room.
"Sure," Sakura laughed as she closed the door behind her. She walked to the couch in the living room, took a seat, and waited patiently.
Li came back in wearing a sleeveless orange shirt, with red fighter pants. (For those people who watch DBZ it's like Goku's pants: pretty sexy huh? well guess what? Sakura thought so too!) Sakura gazed adoringly at the tall figure before her.
"Uh, Sakura?" Li asked waving his hands infront of her face.
"Oh! Hey Li," Sakura smiled after she snapped out of her "thoughts."
"I'm very sorry you had to see that, back there," Li apologized nervously as he took a seat beside her.
"No, no that's alright," Sakura blushed. 'think happy thoughts....'
"So, did you want something?" Li asked as he calmed down. 'Or want to SAY something,'
"Actually I did," Sakura slowly replied as he turned her attention towards Li. "I just wanted to apologize for yesterday,"
"No! I should be the one apologizing, really!" Li quickly jumped in. 'I can't believe she apologized before I did!'
"It's okay, I mean, you didn't even know what you were doing," Sakura smiled.
"Right," Li grumbled. 'Note to self: never tell Madison ANYTHING,'
"Well, I'll say it anyway," Li said turning his whole attention to her.
"Huh?" Sakura asked in confusion. Then Li took her hands, and cupped them in his own.
"Sakura," Li began clutching her hands. "I'm sorry," he concluded. Sakura was surprised at this, and just stared at him. She then slowly began to smile.
"It's okay Li," Sakura smiled and wrapped her arms around Li's neck to give him a hug. "I should've stayed and listened to you, instead of walking away," she concluded and rested her head on Li's shoulder. Li blushed and wrapped his arms around her waist.
"I should've done what I did in the first place," Li said assuring her it wasn't her fault. "That feeling just, took over me."
Sakura began to smile again. "Kind of like if you're drunk?"
"Yeah, kind of like if I'm drunk," Li laughed and let go of his hug. Sakura noticed this and slowly let go of her grasp.
"Well, I better get going, it's getting pretty dark," Sakura said without even looking out the window.
"Yeah, well it always does during this part of the year," Li added. Li led her to the door and Sakura followed. They stood there for a few moments silent.
"Yeah, well, uh....bye," Sakura quickly said and gave him a small kiss on the cheek. Then she ran down the hall, out of sight.
"Bye..." Li said softly holding his cheek. He closed the door and leaned against it for a few moments before going back to his room.
* * *
Seven weeks later....
"Okay children," Ms. Mckenzie waved trying to get the attention of the class. Finally the class settled down. "I know that tomorrow is the last day before the winter break, but-" she was interrupted by the class' loud cheers. "BUT!" she yelled as the class quickly shut their mouths. "But, we still have plenty of work to do before then," she reminded.
"So, what are you going to do for the break Sakura?" Madison whispered across the aisle.
"I don't have anything planned yet," Sakura whispered leaning sideways to Madison.
"Well I have a feeling something really cool is going to happen this break," Madison smiled with excitement in her eyes.
"Why is that?" Sakura asked leaning forward with great interest.
"I don't know, I just have a feeling," Madison smiled and leaned back in her seat. Sakura blinked in confusion and leaned back in her seat as well. Li, who heard the whole conversation leaned forward also in great interest.
"How much longer to winter break?" Li asked trying to make conversation.
"Uhh...well...I think this Friday is the last day of school," Sakura replied a little confused that Li didn't know in the first place.
"Oh, alright," Li thanked and leaned back in his chair. 'Just one more day,' Li thought happily. Sakura got fed up with talking, so she decided to pass Li a note. Li could hear some sort of scribbling coming from Sakura's direction but thought nothing of it until...
BONK!
'Owie!' Li thought as he scratched his head. Sakura giggled, then turned silent. Li looked on his desk to see what had hit him. There he found a big ball of paper. He quickly turned his attention to Meilin, but he only saw her working. 'Who the?' Li thought as he unwrapped the note.
The note read:
Hey it's me, the pretty girl infront of you! *Don't you be looking elsewhere* Yep you guess it, Sakura! Well, I was wondering what you were doing over the break.
Li sat in his seat for awhile wondering what he should do with the note. He was really bad at these type of things, because he only cared about Clow Cards, and school work. He then realized there was more to the note:
Well, don't just sit there! Write back silly!
Li laughed at the piece of paper before him. He was quite surprised that Sakura would be able to anticipate on his reaction. But then again, she had known him for quite some time now. He quickly smiled and wrote a reply. Soon he finished up and threw it right infront of Sakura, despite his location. Sakura was surprised that Li could throw the note back right in front of her even though he was at a disadvantage. She then smiled and read the note:
Hmm...I didn't know you cared so much Sakura. I know you want to ask me out so, I think it's better if you ask me in person. Oh as for what I'm doing for the break, well I have nothing planned, yet.
P.S
You know you wanna ask me out, so don't deny it!
Sakura frowned and slowly crushed the paper. She took out a new one and began to scribble once again. Li could hear her frustration and tried his best not to crack up. His thoughts were interrupted by a loud and painful...
BONK!!
"Ugh!" Li moaned in pain. When he became calm again, he began to open the paper. It read:
You are so full of yourself!!! What makes you think I want to ask you out huh?! Ugh!! Nutcase I swear.
I was asking you because I wanted to know who was staying here, and if they had something planned or not, that's all. PURE curiosity. Ugh! Sometimes I wish you stayed the same as when I first met you, really.
Li smiled at her reply. He knew Sakura hadn't changed a bit since he met her. She still couln't take a joke. It was just like her relationship with Tori. He always teased her, and it always worked. Li began to grin and slowly leaned forward.
"Aw, I love you too Sakura," Li teased and leaned back in his chair comfortably. Sakura began to steam up and quickly turned red, but she was able to control herself from punching Li out cold. Her emotions were soon interrupted by a very annoying sound coming from the right of her. She slowly turned her head to see what could be making such a wracket. There she saw Madison giggling away and turning red with awe. The word "Kawaii" was written all over her face. Sakura wanted to punch the two of them out, but they were saved by the bell.
Driing!! Driing!!
Madison and Li quickly picked up their things and walked out of the classroom laughing. Sakura stayed in her seat and burned up. A few moments later, she picked up her stuff and stomped all the way to lunch. By the time she got into the cafeteria Madison and Li were sitting and had already began to eat their lunches. As soon as Sakura stormed in their direction they quickly quieted down their laughs, to a simple chuckle.
"You guys are soooo unfair!" She whined as she took her seat next to Li.
"What did I do?" Madison complained as she put her hands into the air.
"You are supporting him by laughing along," Sakura pointed out.
"But it was sooo cute," Madison giggled.
"See you're supporting him again," Sakura swung her hands in defeat.
"Aww...come on Sakura, be a sport," Li grinned as he put his arms around her. Masdison began to giggle a little louder when Li's put his arm on Sakura. Sakura stared at the arm in double defeat.
"Even though you won't admit it, I love you too," Li teased as he removed his arm. Madison couldn't take it anymore and began to crack up like there was no tomorrow. And for Li, there just may be no tomorrow.
"Did you just say you loved Sakura?!" Meilin yelled as she ran to the trio.
"I uh..." Li stuttered nervously. Madison was still laughing, but when she saw Meilin's angry face she laughed even more and began to roll on the floor.
"Um, is there a fire drill that I don't know about?" Meilin asked cluelessly. Sakura and Li sweat dropped at her stupid remark.
"Well did you say you loved Sakura?" Meilin asked sadly.
"I was jus-" Li tried to assure her.
"But Li, you remember OUR destiny back in-" Meilin began, but stopped when Li ran out of the cafeteria. "-Hong Kong..." Meilin faded out as she stared at Li's shadow. The rest of the group gazed at Meilin. ' 'Destiny? Li and Meilin? Destiny?!' Sakura and Madison thought at the same time.
"Okay, destiny?!" Madison blurted out after a long period of silence. "Have I missed something people!?!" she stomped her feet on the ground in frustration. Meilin slowly turned at Madison with tears in her eyes.
"I don't want to talk about it anymore," Meilin said sadly. She then turned to Sakura, and clutched her hands into a fist as tight as possible.
"It's all your fault Sakura!!" Meilin cried and ran out of the cafeteria with tears streaming down each cheek.
"My, fault?" Sakura asked softly.
"That girl blames you for everything," Madison put her hands on her waist in disbelief. "Just talk to Li later okay?" she shook her head as she packed up her lunch.
"Yeah, I'll do that," Sakura sighed still staring at the exit where Meilin ran through. They quietly made there way to class.
The rest of the day was pretty silent. Li nor Meilin said a word. They both just minded their own business and kept quiet. Sakura stared at the clock the whole time, waiting for school to end. Finally the bell rang. Li went ahead, while everyone else was still loading their homework into their bags. Sakura tried to pack her bag as fast as possible, but it wasn't fast enough, Li had already left the building. Sakura stormed out of the room, into the halls, through the doors, across the track, and past the field. Snow slowly began to fall from the sky. Sakura looked up and the snow worriedly. Finally she caught sight of Li, and began to pick up the pace.
"Li!!" Sakura yelled. "Li! Wait up will ya!" she screamed. Li pretended that her couldn't hear her so he kept on walking. Sakura noticed this and stoped running.
"Li, I know you can hear me," Sakura began softly. "So please, please stop and talk to me," she continued trying to catch her breath. "Please," she begged. Li hated to see Sakura suffer, and he couldn't bear to hear or see her beg for anything. He stopped walking, and slowly turned around to look at her. As soon as he turned around he saw Sakura. There were small snowflakes falling onto different parts of her hair, she was beautiful. He then caught a glimpse of her eyes. They were sad, and looked like they were going to let a few teardrops fall. He couldn't bear to see her like that.
"What do you want from me?" Li asked quietly.
"I want to know what happened between you and Meilin," Sakura replied as she began to walk towards him.
"Why?" Li asked sadly.
"Because I need to know, I have to know," Sakura begged.
"Why are you doing this to me?" Li asked a little annoyed, but not enough to scare Sakura away. "You know I can't refuse anything from you," he added softly.
"Then just please tell me what I want to know," Sakura asked as if the answer would scar her for the rest of her life. Li stood there motionless for awhile. Finally he lifted his head up and began to look at Sakura.
"I guess you would have to find out sooner or later," Li looked at her straight in the eyes. They took a seat out on a park bench under some shelter that was usually used for rainy days, and just stared at the ground for a few moments.
"You wanted to know about Meilin and I right?" Li asked reluctantly.
"Yes," Sakura nodded sadly. Li took in a deep breath and cleared his throat.
"Back home, Meilin's family and my family have known and trusted eachother for the longest time," Li began quietly. "And because of this, when we were born, Meilin and I were destined to be married," he continued as he closed his eyes shut. "But I don't love her Sakura!!" he blurted out in anger. He sat there rocking back and forth holding his stomach in pain and frustration. Sakura felt sorry for Li and hugged him with his head laying on her shoulder.
"I'm sorry Li, I didn't know," Sakura apologized as she held him tighter in her arms. They stayed there in that position for quite some time, just enough to let the feeling pass. Sakura slowly took a peek at her watch.
'Darn, Tori is going to kill me!' Sakura thought as she bit her lip. She then looked at Li, almost sleeping in her arms, and smiled. 'Maybe just a little longer,' she sighed and held him closer.
Li rested his head on Sakura's shoulder for awhile longer, then realized what was going on. 'What am I doing?' Li thought in shock. 'You're just asking to be turned down again,' he thought in disappointment. Li let the moment go and sat up straight.
"Uh, I think you better go..." Li suggested as he sat on the other end of the bench. At first Sakura was surprised, it was like she did something wrong.
"Huh?" Sakura asked to confirm her thoughts.
"Well, Tori might get angry," Li replied looking in the opposite direction.
"Oh, okay," Sakura agreed sadly. She was a little confused, and hurt inside, but she knew she had to be strong. "Uh, see you tomorrow...I guess," Sakura concluded as she began to walk home. Li was silent, and just waited for Sakura to turn the corner before he made his way home.
"Yeah...tomorrow," Li sighed trying not to cry. He then made his way home.
* * *
"...and that's the whole story," Sakura concluded sadly.
"That's why Meilin is so..." Madison thought about the correct word. "How do I put this delicately?" she paused. "Uh...POSSESIVE over Li," she concluded happily. Sakura just glared at her.
"What? I'm serious!" Madison shrugged.
"Why am I taking this so badly Madison?" Sakura asked in frustration. Madison began to grin, and at the same time moved a little closer to Sakura.
"Okay, my mistake," Sakura quickly said after realizing what she had just done. "Don't answer that question,"
"But you know you like Li, so just tell him," Madison put her hands on her hips, awaiting an answer.
"There is nothing to tell him," Sakura pouted.
"Oh, really?" Madison said looking behind Sakura.
"Yes, really," Sakura nodded her head confidently.
"Too bad," Madison sighed. "Here's you chance," Madison smiled still looking behind Sakura.
"What?" Sakura asked nervously.
"Hey Sakura," a familiar voice greeted behind her.
"Gulp,"
"What's wrong Sakura?" Madison teased. Sakura gave Madison the evil eye and slowly turned around.
"Hi Li," Sakura smiled nervously.
"Is there something wrong?" Li asked a little worried.
"No, nothing is wrong..." Sakura shook her head.
"Oh," Li replied sadly. "It's what I said yesterday, isn't it?"
"No, no no!" Sakura tried to assure him. "It's not that, really!"
"Don't lie to me Sakura," Li grinned.
"I'd never lie to you," Sakura smiled and kissed him on the cheek. Li blushed and headed to class.
"WHAT WAS THAT ABOUT?!" Madison screamed as soon as Li was out of sight. Madison was gasping for air from holding her breath the whole time. She was in complete shock.
"That was nothing," Sakura waved the thought away.
"If that was nothing, I wonder what something looks like," Madison grinned happily.
"Don't even start with me Madison," Sakura warned as she pointed her finger at her face and walked off to class.
"Nothing to tell him huh?" Madison grumbled as she followed Sakura to class.
As soon as Sakura and Madison entered the room, everyone was staring at them in surprise and shock. Meilin of course was beaming with happiness.
"That was a pretty long time in the washroom girls," Ms. Mckenzie said suspiciously.
"Well...we...I...uh..." The two studdered as they took their seats.
"Never mind girls, I don't want to know," Ms. Mckenzie smiled.
"Great, now I have to catch up on the work I missed," Sakura mumbled to herself.
"You guys were only gone for ten minutes," Li whispered to Sakura.
"Well you missed some of class too," Sakura reminded.
"I didn't miss enough," Li rolled his eyes as he leaned back in his chair.
"Hey Sakura," Madison whispered not taking her eyes off the front of the room.
"Yeah?" Sakura replied leaning towards her right.
"In my hand," Madison said shaking her hand a little.
"Oh, right," Sakura said secretively. She took the note that was in her hand, and leaned back in her seat. She waited a few moments, just in case anyone suspected anything. Then she slowly unwrapped the note. It read:
I have a brilliant idea! Why don't you spend some time with Li, before he "marries" Meilin!
Sakura stared at the note in shock for a few more seconds then thought of what to write. Li heard some movement coming from Sakura. He then listened carefully to hear exactly what it was. When he heard that it was scribbling he quickly covered his head for cover, in case it was for him.
BONK!
"Ow!" Madison screamed as the note hit her face. The whole class stared at her as if she were a freak. She slowly looked down at her desk, to find a huge ball of paper waiting to be unwrapped. She quickly read it:
Well, I think spending time with Li would be a pretty fun and interesting thing to see so, why not. But I'm not doing it because he's going to marry Meilin! IF he marries Meilin!
Madison laughed at the response and struggled to write her reply. After she was finished she slowly compressed the note back into a sphere, trying to avoid as much noise as possible. Finally she threw the note back to Sakura. It read:
If you say so...*cough*Juliet*cough* well when are you going to ask him? I think you should ask him after class! Right after class!
Sakura rolled her eyes at her relentless friend, and slowly wrote her response. Li was getting more and more paranoid each time the note flew across the aisle. When Madison recieved the note, she eagerly read it's contents. Sakura wrote:
Well I'll ask him if he wants to hang our during the break, but I won't ask him out in the way YOU'RE sick mind turns! Just keep that in mind Madison...
Madison pouted in disappointment after she finished reading the note. Then she sighed in defeat as she wrote her last response. Li was now biting his nails nervously as he watched Madison write her response to Sakura. He looked at the two girls back and forth, one after another. Finally Madison passed the note back to Sakura. Madison wrote:
Fine, I'll give you that much. But I'm telling you, one day Sakura, one day...
Sakura sighed in relief as she read the last response from Madison. Li was sweating in suspence behind Sakura still biting his nails nervously. Suddenly the bell rang.
Driing! Driing!
"Alright, class dismissed!" Ms. Mckenzie announced happily. "Have a wonderful and safe winter break!" she concluded as the students ran excitedly out of the classroom.
"Go now Sakura!" Madison said pushing Sakura towards Li.
"Madison, I'm only asking him if he wants to hang out, so I don't uinderstand why you have to be so pushy," Sakura replied trying to stop Madison from pushing her into anyone.
"Well, you have to start from somewhere," Madison insisted.
"Ugh! Fine!" Sakura yelled in defeat. Sakura slowly approached Li who was standing outside waiting for the two girls.
"Hi Li," Sakura smiled as she walked out of the building.
"Hey Sakura, Madison," Li greeted them one at a time. Madison nudged Sakura as oon as they were close to Li. Sakura groaned and nudged Madison harder, making Madison squeal out a small yelp.
"So Li, do you know if you have anything planned for the break yet?" Sakura asked hopefully.
"Nope, not a thing," Li replied staring at the sky that looked like it was going to fill with snowflakes anytime soon.
"Well, I was wondering if you wanted to hang out with me for awhile," Sakura suggested as she took a step closer to Li.
"Gulp," Li swallowed blushing.
"What do you think?" Sakura asked taking another step closer to Li.
'Just answer before she takes another step closer to you,' Li warned himself. "Uh, yeah why not," Li shrugged.
"Great," Sakura smiled happily. "If it snows a lot tonight, maybe we can make a snowman or go sledding tomorrow," she shuggested.
"Yeah, I bet with all your training, you haven't done any of those," Madison teased.
"Yeah...well..." Li mumbled in embarrassment.
"There's always a first Madison," Sakura pointed out trying to make Li feel better. The two just stared at her in shock and wonder.
"Well I better get going," Sakura said breaking the silence. "It's betting pretty cold," she concluded.
"Well you two need sleep for tomorrow anyway," Madison reminded. Li and Sakura just glared at her.
"Yeah, well just call me tomorrow okay Sakura?" Li asked as he got ready to leave.
"Don't worry about it," Sakura nodded in agreement. "Just pray for lots of snow," she joked and left. Li and Madison then began to make their way home too.
'Snow, snow snow snow...' Li chanted at the sky. Madison saw him staring at the sky in a praying position.
"You like her don't you?" Madison asked seriously. This caught Li's attention and made him a little more nervous.
"You never give up," Li laughed still walking home.
"Not on love anyway," Madison smiled at the sky.
"Can't wait until you find one," Li sighed.
"Someday," Madison smiled.
"But right now I'm concentrating on what's here to stay," Madison pointed out confidently.
"Right," Li smiled weakly.
"Don't worry Li, you can tell her tomorrow," Madison teased.
"Tell her what?" Li asked pretending he didn't know.
"Don't even try that on me Li," Madison replied looking at Li as if she were talking to an idiot. "I'd probably buy it from Sakura, but not you," she concluded.
"Some friend," Li laughed.
"There is no way you can't like her," Madison argued.
"Why not?" Li asked a little interested to hear her answer. Madison then stopped walking and looked at Li straight in the eyes.
"Because she brings out the best in you Li," Madison said turning to him. Li stood there for a moment thinking about what Madison had just told him. Of course she was right, but he wouldn't let her know that.
"The best in me huh?" Li asked almost laughing. "Like what?" he asked crossing his arms.
"I bet you nobody in China could make you smile or laugh, let alone make you smile, laugh, and even BLUSH the way Sakura makes you do all three," Madison concluded confidently. Li just stared at her motionless and slowly felt his jaw sink to the ground. He never really looked at it that way. Madison was right.
"You're weird," Li shook his head as he began to walk again.
"You're a liar," Madison said catching up to him. "You're a liar in denial, which isn't the best of combinations,"
"Look there is your house," Li changed the subject as he pointed to Madison's house.
"Smooth," Madison laughed making her way to her house. Snow slowly swayed it's way down from the sky to the earth below. It was a beautiful sight. Li waved good-bye and walked home.
"Li!" Madison called after him.
"Yeah?" Li turned around.
"Looks like your prayers have been answered," Madison grinned.
"Looks like it," Li smiled going along with Madison. He then turned around to continue his way home.
~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~
Okay this chapter wasn't exactly what you readers want but, i have to save some for the
later chapters. whoa, do i have something in store you!
In the next chapter Li and Sakura go out for the first time during the break. Ooo...where
are they going? Is Li finally going to make that move?! Hmm...how about Sakura. Li also goes
through an "interview" with Mr. Kinomoto. And Kero knows something that will change everything.
But why doesn't he tell anyone? Stay tuned!