CardCaptors
When the Last Teardrop Falls
Part: One
Chapter: Nineteen
The class was scrambling around for the third time this week. The lines of Romeo and Juliet could be heard from across the room by the various boys and girls. Today was Wednesday, two days away from the final presentation. This short skit would count for quite a fair amount of their final grade for English. Right now the class was suppose to be working on their finishing touches for Friday. You could see from across the room Madison putting her numerous costumes up for display, while Ms. Mckenzie was sipping her coffee happily. Besides these noises that were part of everyone's daily lives, you could hear this one disturbing sound coming from the other side of the room.
"O Romeo Romeo, why art thou called Romeo? Deny thy father and refuse thy name. Or, if thou shall wilt not, be but sworn my love, and I shall no longer be a Capulet," Meilin recited in a very cracking tone that would give anyone a very good reason to plug their ears. But before Zachary could begin his lines, Meilin interrupted.
"What do my lines mean? How can I express myself, if I don't even know what I'm saying??" Meilin crossed her arms in distress.
"She is complaining about how she can't love him because they have..." Zachary began very frustrated. He waved his hands side to side trying to think of an excuse to make her be quiet. "...Family problems!!" he yelled in annoyance. Normally he would be a very patient person, but these past two days have been hell enough for him. Meilin complained about anything and everything. Little did he know that she was just doing it to bother him.
"Now she's is asking him to disobey his father, but if he won't then she's asking him to just swear his love to her, and she will marry him!!" Zachary screamed.
"Oh, okay," Meilin shrugged and sat down. Zachary glared at her for making him lose his breath that was supposed to be wasted on his next line. The class stared at the two in amazement. Zachary turned around to see the class staring.
"What???" He blurted out. The class immediately turned around to get back to work.
"Sakura, we really should practice this sometime afterschool, I don't feel ready," Li said worriedly.
"Umm...okay, why don't we practice this at your place?" Sakura suggested. Li sat there quietly, thinking about all those boxes sitting around the floor. He bit his bottom lip nervously.
"I don't think that's a good idea Sakura, would you mind if we practiced at your place instead?" Li asked worriedly. Sakura looked at him oddily but pushed the feeling out of her mind.
"Yeah, that's fine with me," Sakura shrugged. "Umm...is 6:30 okay with you?" she suggested.
"Yeah, sure, uh...6:30 is fine with me," Li smiled weakly before he began to continue reading his lines. Sakura listened closely to Li awaiting her cue, but something was still bothering her. Was there something Li was keeping from her? Why did it take so long for him to answer? And why did he sound worried? All these questions raced through her mind, making her a little uneasy. Despite all these odd emotions, Sakura was able to smack a smile on her face. She didn't want to make Li worried anymore than he already was. Sakura recited her lines after Li was done saying his. They have practiced since Monday, and every single time they did, they felt more and more confident. But confidence wasn't enough, they had to be ready. Finally the bell rang and the class was dismissed for the day. The students ran about the hallways blocking almost every path out. Most of the students went home in pairs to practice, and prepare for the final day.
"Are we going to have a background, or costumes?" Sakura asked as they sat on the bench just outside the school.
"Well, Ms. Mckenzie did mention that if we had props that we would get extra marks for it," Li shrugged. "It would be a good idea, but we don't have enough time to make any costumes or backdrops," he pointed out.
"Of course we do," Sakura grinned as she quickly flashed the Create Card in front of Li's face, and quickly made it disappear.
"That's kind of like cheating," Li smiled.
"Okay okay, we'll use the Create Card for the background, and get our costumes from Madison," Sakura suggested.
"Madison?" Li asked nervously.
"What's wrong with Madison?" Sakura asked in confusion.
"I remember what she made for you...and Kero," Li quivered when he thought of Kero's costumes.
"Be nice," Sakura punched him on the arm playfully. Li grinned and kissed her lightly.
"Look, I better get going, I have some things to take care of at home alright?" Li hugged her.
"Uh, yeah, I understand," Sakura smiled weakly thinking about what could possibly be so important that he wouldn't tell her? "But I'll see you at 6:30 right?" she asked worriedly. Li looked into her eyes and found a little sadness peeking through. He knew Sakura just as much as Madison did, and he could tell when she was sad. It hurt Li inside, but he knew that he couldn't tell her. Yet anyway. Li pulled Sakura into a protective embrace and kissed her on her forhead. He let out a deep breath, wanting to tell her so much now, just to end the pain. He could hear Sakura breathing, but could gather up enough courage to say anything. Fearing that he may say the words that would scare her away.
"I'll see you at 6:30," Li finally pulled away from the embrace. Sakura nodded and kissed him gently. As Li walked away his hand slowly slid down her arm, not wanting to let go. It slid down her arm, then her hand, and finally let go after running past her finger tips. Sakura waited until he turned a corner before heading home.
____________________________________________________________
Li shut the door behind him and stood there motionless for a few moments before sliding down onto the floor. He felt weak and useless. What happened to all his courage and strength? Why couldn't he tell Sakura that he was going back home? He hasn't seen his family in a long time, and he did miss them. Besides, he was also going home to continue his training. It wasn't fair!
"Ugh!" Li moaned in annoyance. "Why does this have to be so hard!" he complained as he messed his hair up in frustration. After a few minutes of thought Li finally got up and headed to his room. He looked around and stared at the various boxes laying around his room. He was able to pack most of his portable furniture, books, and fighting gear. The only thing left in his room was Sakura's stuffed animal that was seated on his night table. He slowly made his way towards his bed and sat down across from the stuffed animal with wings. He stared at it for a few moments before picking it up.
"I was suppose to leave right after we captured all the cards but..." Li thought aloud still staring at the stuffed animal. "But I felt like there was one more thing I had to do," he sighed and leaned back against the headboard. He held the animal high into the air as if it were a baby.
"So I decided to stay, but when I was offered private training back home, I had to go back!" Li said happily explaining everything to the stuffed toy. He then turned his attention to the world outside and grew sad.
"But I didn't count on falling in love..." Li confessed and sighed sadly. He knew that he had to go back home, and please his clan. If he finished his training, he would bring his family great honor and pride. He has changed a lot every since he moved to Japan. He was now open, happy, kind, generous, and sensitive. But there was still a part of him that he continued to carry with him along his life journey. He still had a job to do. He knew he had to go home, finish his training in order to be recognized as the Li Clan leader. When he was growing up, this is all he every wanted. This was his dream, or so he was told. But now, things were different. He didn't know what he wanted anymore. If he told his mother why he wanted to stay, she would just say that he was being blinded by the colors of love. She knew about Sakura, but she would never understand if he told her that he wanted to stay with her. He knew what he had to do, and he intended to go through with it. Now he could feel the emotions that he used to have when he first arrived here in Japan. He felt proud, noble, and strong. But soon those emotions began to fade again as he caught gaze of the smiling bear beside him. He couldn't leave Sakura. He couldn't break his promise to her. He would never leave her alone! Not now! Not ever!
"What do I do?" Li asked softly as he lay flat on his bed. "What do I do..." he repeated.
____________________________________________________________
"So dad's working late tonight Tori?" Sakura asked again as she pulled the platter of cookies out of the oven.
"Yeah, why?" Tori asked suspiciously as he finished eating his puto.
"Uh, no reason, just wondering," Sakura smiled and placed each cookie carefully onto the plate.
"Sure," Tori gave her the eyebrow and took a sip of his taho.
"How about you, are you going out tonight?" Sakura asked hopefully. Tori quickly put his glass on the counter and stared at Sakura.
"Okay, what time is the brat coming over?" Tori crossed his arms wanting her to spill everything.
"Who said Li was coming over?" Sakura picked up a cookie nervously.
"Aw come on Sakura, it's so obvious!" Tori rolled his eyes at his pathetic sibling.
"No I'm serious, what makes you think that he's coming over?" Sakura asked and took a bite out of the cookie.
"Okay fine, why are you making all these cookies?" Tori questioned. As soon as he said cookie, Sakura slowly stopped chewing the cookie she was eating and put it down.
"Because...I saw it in the pantry and I couldn't help myself," Sakura replied hesitantly.
"Okay, sure, right," Tori shook his head sadly. "Fine, let's say I bought that, then why do you keep on asking why dad's working late tonight? Or if I'm going out tonight?" he grinned curious on how she was going to get herself out of this one.
"I...uh...I...was just...curious, that's all," Sakura nodded her head. Tori gave her a very odd look.
"Smooth," Tori slouched his shoulders.
"What? Can't a daughter be curious about her own family's schedule?" Sakura argued. Tori sweatdropped at her last remark.
"Okay whatever," Tori rolled his eyes and headed towards the front door.
"So...are you going out tonight?" Sakura asked once more. Tori did an anime fall.
"Yes, I am," Tori replied in annoyance.
"Oh, okay," Sakura smiled watching her brother leave.
"Yeah, and one more thing," Tori began as he grabbed the doorknob.
"What is it Tori?" Sakura asked as she walked towards Tori. He took a few steps out the door before answering.
"Don't let the brat get up your shirt," Tori laughed and closed the door. Sakura stood there with her arms crossed for a few moments before heading upstairs.
"Hey Kero," Sakura greeted as she threw her bag onto the floor. There was no reply.
"Still at it Kero?" Sakura laughed thinking about the new game he had. Still no reply. Sakura turned around and stared at her room. There was no sign of Kero, and the cards were still on her desk. But the t.v was still on. Sakura slowly made her way to the t.v. There was a message written instead of a code for one of Kero's games. It read.
"Sakura, I'm off to Madison's place. She's got Zylon Warrior's 3!!"
Sakura shook her head sadly, but still laughed. 'That's Kero for you,' she thought. Sakura looked around the house and began to pick up all the mess before Li arrives.
_____________________________________________________________
Li walked slowly to Sakura's house with his hands inside his pockets. He smiled slightly as the birds flew by him. The leaves on the trees began to grow again. It was beutiful. He sighed as a gentle breeze blew across his face placing his hair infront of his eyes.
'It's going to be hard leaving this place,' Li thought and looked around at the houses. He then caught sight at a small tree that began growing cherryblossom buds and walked over to it. He smiled and touched one of the tiny buds.
"It's going to be hard leaving you too...Sakura..." Li lowered his head slowly and continued to walk towards her house.
_____________________________________________________________
Sakura was laying on her bed reviewing her lines one last time before Li's arrival. But she was having a very hard time concentrating on the sentences. She was still thinking about what Li said.
'Why did he sound like he was hding something from her?' Sakura thought in frustration. Maybe he wasn't hiding anything from her. Maybe she was just being paranoid. Yeah, that's it...it's got to be! Sakura crossed her arms in annoyance and totally left the script alone to concentrate on her problem. A few minutes later her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Sakura quickly jumped off her bed and ran downstairs to open the door.
"Uh, hi Sakura," Li greeted and gave her a hug.
"Hi Li, come on in," Sakura smiled and moved to the side to let the boy in. Li nodded and took off his shoes.
"I hope you're hungry, I made some cookies," Sakura yelled from the ktichen.
"Yeah, you read my mind Sakura," Li side smiled and headed towards the kitchen. "It really smells good in here," he sniffed.
"Ha! Maybe we should just eat and forget about our play," Sakura laughed.
"Maybe," Li shrugged and grabbed a cookie. He gobbled it down in an instant.
"Like it?" Sakura laughed and watched Li rub his stomach happily.
"Great!" Li smiled and grabbed a few more cookies to munch on.
"Okay okay, let's bring it into the living room, we have work to do you know," Sakura put her hands on her hips and headed towards the living room. Li followed with the platter of cookies. They worked on their performance for about an hour before taking a dinner break.
"It's almost 8:00pm Li, want to go through it one more time?" Sakura suggested and cleared her plate.
"Yeah, sounds good," Li nodded in agreement and placed his plate into the sink.
"This time I'm going to the top of the stairs and you stay right below me," Sakura instructed and ran up the stairs.
"You mean right here?" Li asked and stood at the bottom of the stairway.
"No, that's too far, stand at the side of the stairway right under me," Sakura pointed to the right of the stairs. Li nodded and walked over saying his lines. When it was Sakura's turn the only thing he could do was stair right at her. She was so beautiful! Just standing up there waving her arms around really helped her say the lines with more passion! She had so much fire in her soul! Li couldn't help himself any longer, he had to do something. He quickly climbed up the railing and stole a kiss from his Juliet. Sakura was shocked but returned the kiss anyway. She brought her hand up and placed his on his cheek bringing him closer to her.
"Sorry I just couldn't help myself," Li apologized when they parted. "You were just, so beautiful!" he explained.
"It wasn't in the script," Sakura teased. She then grinned at him. "But keep talking," she smiled and kissed him once more. Li climbed over and continued to kiss her. Sakura leaned against the wall beside the stairs and wrapped her arms around Li. Li had his arms around her waist but slowly moved them up her back as the kiss became more intense. Sakura ran her hands through his hair as he kissed her neck gently. The kisses became slower and slower until it all came to an end. Sakura sat in his lap oe step below Li. Li had his arms around Sakura's neck from behind. She was leaning back on him. They sat there in eachother's embrace for awhile talking about their final plans for the assignment.
"I think we're ready now," Sakura laughed thinking about what just happened.
"Yeah," Li laughed along. They kissed eachother lightly before Li stood up.
"Well, I better get going," Li sighed and helped Sakura up. Sakura nodded and walked with him to the door.
"Well thanks for coming over," Sakura smiled and kissed him once more.
"No problem," Li grinned and headed onto the driveway. Sakura waved goodbye and watched him turn the corner before closing the door.
One week later...
It's been a week since that famous "Romeo and Juliet" presentation. Of course Li and Sakura received the highest mark in the class for it. Everyone knew how they would act it out, but Ms. Mckenzie said that they also received some of the marks because of their beautiful costumes and backgrounds. Sakura felt bad about that because they had used the Create Card to help them out with it. But Li convinced her not to say anything. Meilin and Zachary's was a complete disaster! First the backdrop fell in the middle of Meilin's lines. Zachary then explained to the class that it was because of her cracking voice. Ms. Mckenzie let them try it one more time. This time Meilin fell of the balcony but Zachary moved aside to let her fall. Luckily she was only a few feet off the ground. Of course Meilin complained to Zachary begging for a good reason why he didn't catch her. He simply said that he didn't see her. But deep inside, everyone knew it was because he found her annoying. Li sighed and stared out the window. He wasn't very happy today. He slowly glanced at the empty seat infront of him. He let in another deep breath longing to hear the sound of her voice once more. Or just to be able to smell that beautiful scent of spring cherryblossoms in her hair. But it was no use. Sakura Kinomoto was home, sick in bed. She did mention at some point last week that she was feeling a little bit ill. But he didn't listen. Instead he dragged her outside along the beach when the night was cool. Now she's sick, and it was all his fault.
'Why didn't I listen?' Li shook his head sadly at the thought. Madison who was working rather hard caught sight of the depressed Li. She too sighed and stared at the empty seat beside her and knew what Li was thinking.
"Li! Psst Li!" Madison whispered across the aisle. Li quickly looked around the class and saw Madison staring right at him.
"Yeah?" Li leaned forward towards Madison's direction.
"Don't worry about Sakura, I'm sure she's fine," Madison tried to make him feel better.
"But it was my fault that she's sick in the first place," Li pointed out.
"What makes you think that?" Madison asked in confusion.
"Sakura told me that she was feeling a little ill last week, but I dragged her out on the beach anyway," Li smacked himself on the forehead.
"Oh I see," Madison nodded and glanced at the clock at the front of the room. "Look, there is only five minutes left in class, why don't you make it up to her?" Madison suggested.
"Huh? How?" Li asked all confused.
"Go over to her house after school and make her some soup," Madison shrugged.
"Hey, there's an idea," Li smiled and leaned back in his seat. Madison laughed and turned back around to face the front. Li waited patiently tapping his fingers on his desk until the bell rang. Li quickly packed up his books and ran out the classroom towards his locker.
"Hey can I come with you?" Madison asked when she caught up to Li.
"Uh sure, why not," Li shrugged and began to walk towards Sakura's house.
"So where are you going to get the soup?" Madison asked trying to start a conversation.
"I thought that I might stop by a store along the way," Li replied casually.
"Oh," Madison nodded. There was a period of silence.
"Okay Madison, spill it," Li broke the silence.
"Have you told her yet?" Madison blurted out almost immediately after he asked her to spill it.
"No," Li replied calmly.
"But Li, you're leaving in less than a week!" Madison pushed him back.
"Yes I know," Li shook his head.
"Well??" Madison waved her arms around.
"We've already had this conversation Madison," Li rolled his eyes and continued to walk.
"Well we wouldn't be having this conversation if you would just tell her!" Madison crossed her arms after she caught up to Li.
"I told you, I'll tell her," Li shoved his hands in his pocket.
"Fine! You know what? I'm not going to ask you anymore because from now on you're on your own on this," Madison finally gave up. "Ill just pray that you'll find the courage to tell her, or that fate is on your side," she concluded.
"Don't worry Madison," Li replied trying to calm her down. "Sakura means everything to me, and I won't hurt her," he reminded.
"You seem confident," Madison pouted.
"I try," Li shook his head and entered the store.
__________________________________________________________
Sakura coughed uncontrollably in her bed. Kero flew to her side and took her temperature.
"How am I doing doc?' Sakura tried to sit up but only fell back down.
"Well, you don't have a fever anymore, but take it easy Sakura," Kero warned.
"Don't worry about me, I'm feeling better," Sakura smiled weakly.
"Right, you can't even sit up properly," Kero laughed and dipped the thermometer in a glass of water.
"Hey, I'm trying Kero," Sakura pouted helplessly.
"Yeah well, don't try too hard, your birthday is on Saturday," Kero reminded.
"Right," Sakura sighed. There was a moment of silence.
"What are you thinking of?" Kero asked noticing the silence.
"Li, I miss him," Sakura smiled.
"Sure, isn't he the one that made you sick?" Kero asked picking up two tablets from her night table.
"No, it wasn't his fault," Sakura argued.
"If you say so," Kero shrugged and popped the tablets into her mouth. "Here take it with the water," he said pointing to the other glass of water. Sakura just stared at him, like she was about to laugh.
"Hey, I can take your temperature and give you your medicine, but a glass of water is a little out of my league," Kero pouted. Sakura laughed a and drank the water.
"There, now go back to sleep," Kero yawned and dragged the blanket up to Sakura's chin.
"Thank you Kero," Sakura smiled and closed her eyes.
"Shh...rest now," Kero whispered and snuggled up beside her. Soon they were both asleep and didn't hear the door open downstairs.
________________________________________________________
"Oh hi Li, Madison," Mr. Kinomoto greeted the two at the door.
"Good afternoon Mr. Kinomoto," Li and Madison greeted.
"Oh please do come in," Mr. Kinomoto smiled and headed towards the kitchen.
"Is Sakura okay?" Li asked worriedly.
"Yes, I took the day off just to make sure," Mr. Kinomoto nodded.
"Can we go see her?" Madison asked eagerly.
"Yes, you can check if she's awake," Mr. Kinomoto pointed tpwards the stairs.
"Okay, thanks," Madison smiled adn walked towards Sakura's room.
"Aren't you going up with her Li?" Mr. Kinomoto asked in confusion.
"Not just yet, I was wondering if I could make some soup for Sakura," Li replied shyly.
"Oh I see, sure go ahead," Mr. Kinomoto smiled and moved aside.
"Thank you," Li nodded and gathered all the things he needed.
"I'm glad you brought some soup, I was just about to go out and buy some," Mr. Kinomoto sat down near the kitchen and began to talk to Li.
"Oh really? Well, I guess you're just in luck," Li smiled and began mixing the soup.
"Are you good at making soup Li?" Mr. Kinomoto asked in curiosity.
"Well, I don't know," Li scratched his head nervously.
"Aw now you're just being modest Li," Mr. Kinomoto laughed.
"Ha! Well Meilin seems to like my soup," Li laughed.
"Now there you go Li, no need to be nervous around me," Mr. Kinomoto patter Li on the shoulder.
"Oh I'm not nervous Sir," Li shook his head confidently.
"It's no use trying to fool me young man," Mr. Kinomoto continued to laugh.
"I suppose so," Li sighed in defeat.
"I think you're a good man Li, a very bright young man who knows his values," Mr. Kinomoto complimented. "And that's the type of guy that I want for Sakura," he added.
"Really Sir?" Li asked in shock.
"Yes," Mr. Kinomoto nodded. "I don't think you'd remember such a conversation but, do you remember when we last had a talk?" he asked.
"Oh yes Sir," Li nodded.
"I told you before that there would be no need of approval on my behalf, and don't ever worry about Tori," Mr. Kinomoto reminded.
"Yes I understand, he's just trying to be an older brother," Li shrugged.
"You're a very good kid Li, but why do you look disturbed?" Mr. Kinomtoto inquired. Li quickly looked at Mr. Kinomoto to see if he was serious. He was. Did he know?
"What do you mean Sir?" Li asked nervously.
"You seem to have something on your mind, just like you did the day we had that chat," Mr. Kinomoto asked very seriously.
"Well I don't know..." Li shook his head.
"Last time I asked you what was on you mind, you also didn't know what to say," Mr. Kinomoto began. "But eventually you told me how you felt about my daughter," he continued. Li looked up at him sadly. But they way Li stared into Mr. Kinomoto's eyes was like a son staring at a father. For advice. For guidence.
"Nothing has changed since then Li," Mr. Kinomoto finished. Li turned off the stove and poured the soup into a small bowl for Sakura. He turned around slowly to look at Mr. Kinomoto.
"I'm going back home," Li confessed. Mr. Kinomoto gasped for a moment and lowered his head sadly.
"I understand," Mr. Kinomoto sighed. "We'll miss you,"
__________________________________________________________
"Yeah he was staring out the window all day worrying about you Sakura," Madison laughed.
"Aw...I feel a little bad," Sakura smiled slightly.
"Yeah well not as bad as he felt, he thought it was all his fault that you were sick in the first place!" Madison informed.
"Oh I see why," Sakura nodded.
KNOCK! KNOCK!
"Come in," Sakura sat up in her bed. Li rushed into her room and quickly placed the bowl of soup on her night table. As soon as the bowl was placed on the table Li waved his hands around in the air for them to cool down.
"What's wrong Li?" Sakura asked worriedly.
"The mitts slipped when I was carrying the soup upstairs," Li replied in a high-pitched voice. The girls laughed.
"Hey, it really burns!" Li whined still fanning his hands.
"Here let me fix it," Sakura smiled. Li walked towards her and knelt beside her bed.
"What are you going to do?" Li asked worriedly.
"Give me your hands," Sakura grinned. Li did as he was told and gave both hands to Sakura. She placed a light kiss on each hand. Then one light kiss on his lips.
"Feeling better?" Sakura smiled.
"Is that a trick question?" Li asked teasingly. Sakura play punched him on the shoulder.
"Yeah, I feel better," Li laughed. Madison giggled at the kawaii sight.
"As much as I'd like to stay, I better get going," Madison smiled and waved to the couple.
"Thanks for visiting me Madison," Sakura thanked.
"No problem," Madison shrugged. "Li, Mission Impossible 2," she grinned and closed the door behind her. Li shook his head sadly knowing that the first impossible mission was telling Sakura how he felt, and now this new mission was telling her that he was leaving.
"What did she mean by that?" Sakura asked in confusion.
"I have no idea," Li lied. "Here, have some soup," he said changing the subject. Sakura sat up straight and tried to pick up the bowl.
"No let me get it," Li offered and quickly picked up the bowl and held it infront of her.
"Thank you Li," Sakura smiled and drank a spoonful of soup.
"Well, it's the least I can do for making you sick in the first place," Li sighed.
"Li, it's not your fault," Sakura shook her head.
"But if I didn't drag you out that night, you would be sick Sakura," Li slouched.
"But I had fun that night Li, with you," Sakura brought his head back up to look at her.
"You always know how to make things better don't you?" Li laughed.
"Well, not everything," Sakura smiled.
"Yeah, well, you fixed my hands," Li reminded waving his hands infront of her. Sakura laughed and kissed him.
"Well I better not kiss you too much, you might get sick and then I'll have to take care of you," Sakura laughed. Li then thought of his empty apartment. He couldn't let Sakura see that!
"Yes well then I won't let you come over," Li pouted.
"Why not?" Sakura asked in confusion. 'Is it that thing he's hiding from me again?' she thought.
"Uh..." Li mumbled. "Because...I...I have to be a man!" Li finally answered and began to show off his muscles. Sakura laughed uncontrollably as Li began to do different flexing poses. Sakura then jumped out of bed and pounced on Li.
"Hey! You're supposesd to be sick!" Li screamed in shock.
"Yes well, laughter is the best cure," Sakura crossed her arms proudly still ontop of Li.
"Oh really? Well then take this!" Li laughed and began to tickle Sakura.
"No! No! Li! Don't! Please!" Sakura begged between laughs.
"What? I'm curing you!" Li laughed still tickling Sakura.
"I'm cured! I'm cured!" Sakura continued to laugh uncontrollably.
"Okay okay, fine you win," Li shook his head and stopped tickling her.
"Your turn!" Sakura blurted out and tried to tickle Li. Buthe was too fast and caught her hands.
"What are you doing??" Li asked in shock.
"I'm trying to cure you!" Sakura replied still trying to tickled him.
"But I'm not sick!" Li pointed out still pushing her hands away from him.
"Yes you are! You're sick in the head!" Sakura laughed. Now they began wrestling eachother, with Li trying to push Sakura away, and Sakura trying to tickle Li. Finally the battle ended with Sakura as the winner who was now ontop of Li waving her arms around proudly.
"I win! I am the master!" Sakura crossed her arms confidently.
"I just let you win," Li sighed and put his arms behind his head.
"Sure you did," Sakura rolled off of him and crawled over to her bed.
"Okay enough," Li sighed and walked over to Sakura. He scooped her off her feet and carried her onto her bed. Li placed her on the bed gently and slowly put the covers up to her chin.
"Rest now, you don't want to have a relapse," Li whispered.
"But I'm okay Li, really!" Sakura insisted.
"Just rest, there is nothing to do anyway," Li laughed while picking up the small mess around the room. "I better get going now," he sighed after picking up all the mess.
"Alright," Sakura smiled. Li walked over to her and gave her a small peck on the lips.
"I hope to see you at school tomorrow," Li smiled placing some loose hair behind her ear. Sakura nodded and let go of his hand which she held firmly. Li slowly headed towards the door but stopped when Sakura called out his name.
"Thank you," Sakura finished. Li turned around and smiled.
"Good bye Sakura," Li smiled weakly and closed the door behind him. Sakura stared outside the window for a few moments and waited to hear the door close downstairs. When it finally did Sakura closed her eyes and slept peacefully.
~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~
Okay okay I hope you all enjoyed this chapter (despite the fact that it was totally weird) But I
just want all of you to know that when I wrote this I still had my writer's block with my, so I'm
very sorry. Oh and what took me so long to write it? Uh...I had exams about two weeks ago so yeah
I was busy. And I guess another reason why it's taking me so long to write my chapters is because
ALL my reviews were deleted in the chaptering process. And my reviews (you readers) is what inspires
and motivates me to write. Now that they're all deleted I feel all weird. And it's a shame too
because I had almost 600 reviews. I swear! But honestly, I hope you all enjoyed this chapter
because it's going to be the last "happy" chapter. If you know what I mean.
In the next chapter it's Sakura's birthday party! Oh joy! *waves a tiny white flag* but I really
don't have much to say without giving the chapter away. So I guess you'll have to read it youself.
Oh and the next chapter is kinda like the "last" chapter. Depending on how you look at it.
When the Last Teardrop Falls
Part: One
Chapter: Nineteen
The class was scrambling around for the third time this week. The lines of Romeo and Juliet could be heard from across the room by the various boys and girls. Today was Wednesday, two days away from the final presentation. This short skit would count for quite a fair amount of their final grade for English. Right now the class was suppose to be working on their finishing touches for Friday. You could see from across the room Madison putting her numerous costumes up for display, while Ms. Mckenzie was sipping her coffee happily. Besides these noises that were part of everyone's daily lives, you could hear this one disturbing sound coming from the other side of the room.
"O Romeo Romeo, why art thou called Romeo? Deny thy father and refuse thy name. Or, if thou shall wilt not, be but sworn my love, and I shall no longer be a Capulet," Meilin recited in a very cracking tone that would give anyone a very good reason to plug their ears. But before Zachary could begin his lines, Meilin interrupted.
"What do my lines mean? How can I express myself, if I don't even know what I'm saying??" Meilin crossed her arms in distress.
"She is complaining about how she can't love him because they have..." Zachary began very frustrated. He waved his hands side to side trying to think of an excuse to make her be quiet. "...Family problems!!" he yelled in annoyance. Normally he would be a very patient person, but these past two days have been hell enough for him. Meilin complained about anything and everything. Little did he know that she was just doing it to bother him.
"Now she's is asking him to disobey his father, but if he won't then she's asking him to just swear his love to her, and she will marry him!!" Zachary screamed.
"Oh, okay," Meilin shrugged and sat down. Zachary glared at her for making him lose his breath that was supposed to be wasted on his next line. The class stared at the two in amazement. Zachary turned around to see the class staring.
"What???" He blurted out. The class immediately turned around to get back to work.
"Sakura, we really should practice this sometime afterschool, I don't feel ready," Li said worriedly.
"Umm...okay, why don't we practice this at your place?" Sakura suggested. Li sat there quietly, thinking about all those boxes sitting around the floor. He bit his bottom lip nervously.
"I don't think that's a good idea Sakura, would you mind if we practiced at your place instead?" Li asked worriedly. Sakura looked at him oddily but pushed the feeling out of her mind.
"Yeah, that's fine with me," Sakura shrugged. "Umm...is 6:30 okay with you?" she suggested.
"Yeah, sure, uh...6:30 is fine with me," Li smiled weakly before he began to continue reading his lines. Sakura listened closely to Li awaiting her cue, but something was still bothering her. Was there something Li was keeping from her? Why did it take so long for him to answer? And why did he sound worried? All these questions raced through her mind, making her a little uneasy. Despite all these odd emotions, Sakura was able to smack a smile on her face. She didn't want to make Li worried anymore than he already was. Sakura recited her lines after Li was done saying his. They have practiced since Monday, and every single time they did, they felt more and more confident. But confidence wasn't enough, they had to be ready. Finally the bell rang and the class was dismissed for the day. The students ran about the hallways blocking almost every path out. Most of the students went home in pairs to practice, and prepare for the final day.
"Are we going to have a background, or costumes?" Sakura asked as they sat on the bench just outside the school.
"Well, Ms. Mckenzie did mention that if we had props that we would get extra marks for it," Li shrugged. "It would be a good idea, but we don't have enough time to make any costumes or backdrops," he pointed out.
"Of course we do," Sakura grinned as she quickly flashed the Create Card in front of Li's face, and quickly made it disappear.
"That's kind of like cheating," Li smiled.
"Okay okay, we'll use the Create Card for the background, and get our costumes from Madison," Sakura suggested.
"Madison?" Li asked nervously.
"What's wrong with Madison?" Sakura asked in confusion.
"I remember what she made for you...and Kero," Li quivered when he thought of Kero's costumes.
"Be nice," Sakura punched him on the arm playfully. Li grinned and kissed her lightly.
"Look, I better get going, I have some things to take care of at home alright?" Li hugged her.
"Uh, yeah, I understand," Sakura smiled weakly thinking about what could possibly be so important that he wouldn't tell her? "But I'll see you at 6:30 right?" she asked worriedly. Li looked into her eyes and found a little sadness peeking through. He knew Sakura just as much as Madison did, and he could tell when she was sad. It hurt Li inside, but he knew that he couldn't tell her. Yet anyway. Li pulled Sakura into a protective embrace and kissed her on her forhead. He let out a deep breath, wanting to tell her so much now, just to end the pain. He could hear Sakura breathing, but could gather up enough courage to say anything. Fearing that he may say the words that would scare her away.
"I'll see you at 6:30," Li finally pulled away from the embrace. Sakura nodded and kissed him gently. As Li walked away his hand slowly slid down her arm, not wanting to let go. It slid down her arm, then her hand, and finally let go after running past her finger tips. Sakura waited until he turned a corner before heading home.
____________________________________________________________
Li shut the door behind him and stood there motionless for a few moments before sliding down onto the floor. He felt weak and useless. What happened to all his courage and strength? Why couldn't he tell Sakura that he was going back home? He hasn't seen his family in a long time, and he did miss them. Besides, he was also going home to continue his training. It wasn't fair!
"Ugh!" Li moaned in annoyance. "Why does this have to be so hard!" he complained as he messed his hair up in frustration. After a few minutes of thought Li finally got up and headed to his room. He looked around and stared at the various boxes laying around his room. He was able to pack most of his portable furniture, books, and fighting gear. The only thing left in his room was Sakura's stuffed animal that was seated on his night table. He slowly made his way towards his bed and sat down across from the stuffed animal with wings. He stared at it for a few moments before picking it up.
"I was suppose to leave right after we captured all the cards but..." Li thought aloud still staring at the stuffed animal. "But I felt like there was one more thing I had to do," he sighed and leaned back against the headboard. He held the animal high into the air as if it were a baby.
"So I decided to stay, but when I was offered private training back home, I had to go back!" Li said happily explaining everything to the stuffed toy. He then turned his attention to the world outside and grew sad.
"But I didn't count on falling in love..." Li confessed and sighed sadly. He knew that he had to go back home, and please his clan. If he finished his training, he would bring his family great honor and pride. He has changed a lot every since he moved to Japan. He was now open, happy, kind, generous, and sensitive. But there was still a part of him that he continued to carry with him along his life journey. He still had a job to do. He knew he had to go home, finish his training in order to be recognized as the Li Clan leader. When he was growing up, this is all he every wanted. This was his dream, or so he was told. But now, things were different. He didn't know what he wanted anymore. If he told his mother why he wanted to stay, she would just say that he was being blinded by the colors of love. She knew about Sakura, but she would never understand if he told her that he wanted to stay with her. He knew what he had to do, and he intended to go through with it. Now he could feel the emotions that he used to have when he first arrived here in Japan. He felt proud, noble, and strong. But soon those emotions began to fade again as he caught gaze of the smiling bear beside him. He couldn't leave Sakura. He couldn't break his promise to her. He would never leave her alone! Not now! Not ever!
"What do I do?" Li asked softly as he lay flat on his bed. "What do I do..." he repeated.
____________________________________________________________
"So dad's working late tonight Tori?" Sakura asked again as she pulled the platter of cookies out of the oven.
"Yeah, why?" Tori asked suspiciously as he finished eating his puto.
"Uh, no reason, just wondering," Sakura smiled and placed each cookie carefully onto the plate.
"Sure," Tori gave her the eyebrow and took a sip of his taho.
"How about you, are you going out tonight?" Sakura asked hopefully. Tori quickly put his glass on the counter and stared at Sakura.
"Okay, what time is the brat coming over?" Tori crossed his arms wanting her to spill everything.
"Who said Li was coming over?" Sakura picked up a cookie nervously.
"Aw come on Sakura, it's so obvious!" Tori rolled his eyes at his pathetic sibling.
"No I'm serious, what makes you think that he's coming over?" Sakura asked and took a bite out of the cookie.
"Okay fine, why are you making all these cookies?" Tori questioned. As soon as he said cookie, Sakura slowly stopped chewing the cookie she was eating and put it down.
"Because...I saw it in the pantry and I couldn't help myself," Sakura replied hesitantly.
"Okay, sure, right," Tori shook his head sadly. "Fine, let's say I bought that, then why do you keep on asking why dad's working late tonight? Or if I'm going out tonight?" he grinned curious on how she was going to get herself out of this one.
"I...uh...I...was just...curious, that's all," Sakura nodded her head. Tori gave her a very odd look.
"Smooth," Tori slouched his shoulders.
"What? Can't a daughter be curious about her own family's schedule?" Sakura argued. Tori sweatdropped at her last remark.
"Okay whatever," Tori rolled his eyes and headed towards the front door.
"So...are you going out tonight?" Sakura asked once more. Tori did an anime fall.
"Yes, I am," Tori replied in annoyance.
"Oh, okay," Sakura smiled watching her brother leave.
"Yeah, and one more thing," Tori began as he grabbed the doorknob.
"What is it Tori?" Sakura asked as she walked towards Tori. He took a few steps out the door before answering.
"Don't let the brat get up your shirt," Tori laughed and closed the door. Sakura stood there with her arms crossed for a few moments before heading upstairs.
"Hey Kero," Sakura greeted as she threw her bag onto the floor. There was no reply.
"Still at it Kero?" Sakura laughed thinking about the new game he had. Still no reply. Sakura turned around and stared at her room. There was no sign of Kero, and the cards were still on her desk. But the t.v was still on. Sakura slowly made her way to the t.v. There was a message written instead of a code for one of Kero's games. It read.
"Sakura, I'm off to Madison's place. She's got Zylon Warrior's 3!!"
Sakura shook her head sadly, but still laughed. 'That's Kero for you,' she thought. Sakura looked around the house and began to pick up all the mess before Li arrives.
_____________________________________________________________
Li walked slowly to Sakura's house with his hands inside his pockets. He smiled slightly as the birds flew by him. The leaves on the trees began to grow again. It was beutiful. He sighed as a gentle breeze blew across his face placing his hair infront of his eyes.
'It's going to be hard leaving this place,' Li thought and looked around at the houses. He then caught sight at a small tree that began growing cherryblossom buds and walked over to it. He smiled and touched one of the tiny buds.
"It's going to be hard leaving you too...Sakura..." Li lowered his head slowly and continued to walk towards her house.
_____________________________________________________________
Sakura was laying on her bed reviewing her lines one last time before Li's arrival. But she was having a very hard time concentrating on the sentences. She was still thinking about what Li said.
'Why did he sound like he was hding something from her?' Sakura thought in frustration. Maybe he wasn't hiding anything from her. Maybe she was just being paranoid. Yeah, that's it...it's got to be! Sakura crossed her arms in annoyance and totally left the script alone to concentrate on her problem. A few minutes later her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. Sakura quickly jumped off her bed and ran downstairs to open the door.
"Uh, hi Sakura," Li greeted and gave her a hug.
"Hi Li, come on in," Sakura smiled and moved to the side to let the boy in. Li nodded and took off his shoes.
"I hope you're hungry, I made some cookies," Sakura yelled from the ktichen.
"Yeah, you read my mind Sakura," Li side smiled and headed towards the kitchen. "It really smells good in here," he sniffed.
"Ha! Maybe we should just eat and forget about our play," Sakura laughed.
"Maybe," Li shrugged and grabbed a cookie. He gobbled it down in an instant.
"Like it?" Sakura laughed and watched Li rub his stomach happily.
"Great!" Li smiled and grabbed a few more cookies to munch on.
"Okay okay, let's bring it into the living room, we have work to do you know," Sakura put her hands on her hips and headed towards the living room. Li followed with the platter of cookies. They worked on their performance for about an hour before taking a dinner break.
"It's almost 8:00pm Li, want to go through it one more time?" Sakura suggested and cleared her plate.
"Yeah, sounds good," Li nodded in agreement and placed his plate into the sink.
"This time I'm going to the top of the stairs and you stay right below me," Sakura instructed and ran up the stairs.
"You mean right here?" Li asked and stood at the bottom of the stairway.
"No, that's too far, stand at the side of the stairway right under me," Sakura pointed to the right of the stairs. Li nodded and walked over saying his lines. When it was Sakura's turn the only thing he could do was stair right at her. She was so beautiful! Just standing up there waving her arms around really helped her say the lines with more passion! She had so much fire in her soul! Li couldn't help himself any longer, he had to do something. He quickly climbed up the railing and stole a kiss from his Juliet. Sakura was shocked but returned the kiss anyway. She brought her hand up and placed his on his cheek bringing him closer to her.
"Sorry I just couldn't help myself," Li apologized when they parted. "You were just, so beautiful!" he explained.
"It wasn't in the script," Sakura teased. She then grinned at him. "But keep talking," she smiled and kissed him once more. Li climbed over and continued to kiss her. Sakura leaned against the wall beside the stairs and wrapped her arms around Li. Li had his arms around her waist but slowly moved them up her back as the kiss became more intense. Sakura ran her hands through his hair as he kissed her neck gently. The kisses became slower and slower until it all came to an end. Sakura sat in his lap oe step below Li. Li had his arms around Sakura's neck from behind. She was leaning back on him. They sat there in eachother's embrace for awhile talking about their final plans for the assignment.
"I think we're ready now," Sakura laughed thinking about what just happened.
"Yeah," Li laughed along. They kissed eachother lightly before Li stood up.
"Well, I better get going," Li sighed and helped Sakura up. Sakura nodded and walked with him to the door.
"Well thanks for coming over," Sakura smiled and kissed him once more.
"No problem," Li grinned and headed onto the driveway. Sakura waved goodbye and watched him turn the corner before closing the door.
One week later...
It's been a week since that famous "Romeo and Juliet" presentation. Of course Li and Sakura received the highest mark in the class for it. Everyone knew how they would act it out, but Ms. Mckenzie said that they also received some of the marks because of their beautiful costumes and backgrounds. Sakura felt bad about that because they had used the Create Card to help them out with it. But Li convinced her not to say anything. Meilin and Zachary's was a complete disaster! First the backdrop fell in the middle of Meilin's lines. Zachary then explained to the class that it was because of her cracking voice. Ms. Mckenzie let them try it one more time. This time Meilin fell of the balcony but Zachary moved aside to let her fall. Luckily she was only a few feet off the ground. Of course Meilin complained to Zachary begging for a good reason why he didn't catch her. He simply said that he didn't see her. But deep inside, everyone knew it was because he found her annoying. Li sighed and stared out the window. He wasn't very happy today. He slowly glanced at the empty seat infront of him. He let in another deep breath longing to hear the sound of her voice once more. Or just to be able to smell that beautiful scent of spring cherryblossoms in her hair. But it was no use. Sakura Kinomoto was home, sick in bed. She did mention at some point last week that she was feeling a little bit ill. But he didn't listen. Instead he dragged her outside along the beach when the night was cool. Now she's sick, and it was all his fault.
'Why didn't I listen?' Li shook his head sadly at the thought. Madison who was working rather hard caught sight of the depressed Li. She too sighed and stared at the empty seat beside her and knew what Li was thinking.
"Li! Psst Li!" Madison whispered across the aisle. Li quickly looked around the class and saw Madison staring right at him.
"Yeah?" Li leaned forward towards Madison's direction.
"Don't worry about Sakura, I'm sure she's fine," Madison tried to make him feel better.
"But it was my fault that she's sick in the first place," Li pointed out.
"What makes you think that?" Madison asked in confusion.
"Sakura told me that she was feeling a little ill last week, but I dragged her out on the beach anyway," Li smacked himself on the forehead.
"Oh I see," Madison nodded and glanced at the clock at the front of the room. "Look, there is only five minutes left in class, why don't you make it up to her?" Madison suggested.
"Huh? How?" Li asked all confused.
"Go over to her house after school and make her some soup," Madison shrugged.
"Hey, there's an idea," Li smiled and leaned back in his seat. Madison laughed and turned back around to face the front. Li waited patiently tapping his fingers on his desk until the bell rang. Li quickly packed up his books and ran out the classroom towards his locker.
"Hey can I come with you?" Madison asked when she caught up to Li.
"Uh sure, why not," Li shrugged and began to walk towards Sakura's house.
"So where are you going to get the soup?" Madison asked trying to start a conversation.
"I thought that I might stop by a store along the way," Li replied casually.
"Oh," Madison nodded. There was a period of silence.
"Okay Madison, spill it," Li broke the silence.
"Have you told her yet?" Madison blurted out almost immediately after he asked her to spill it.
"No," Li replied calmly.
"But Li, you're leaving in less than a week!" Madison pushed him back.
"Yes I know," Li shook his head.
"Well??" Madison waved her arms around.
"We've already had this conversation Madison," Li rolled his eyes and continued to walk.
"Well we wouldn't be having this conversation if you would just tell her!" Madison crossed her arms after she caught up to Li.
"I told you, I'll tell her," Li shoved his hands in his pocket.
"Fine! You know what? I'm not going to ask you anymore because from now on you're on your own on this," Madison finally gave up. "Ill just pray that you'll find the courage to tell her, or that fate is on your side," she concluded.
"Don't worry Madison," Li replied trying to calm her down. "Sakura means everything to me, and I won't hurt her," he reminded.
"You seem confident," Madison pouted.
"I try," Li shook his head and entered the store.
__________________________________________________________
Sakura coughed uncontrollably in her bed. Kero flew to her side and took her temperature.
"How am I doing doc?' Sakura tried to sit up but only fell back down.
"Well, you don't have a fever anymore, but take it easy Sakura," Kero warned.
"Don't worry about me, I'm feeling better," Sakura smiled weakly.
"Right, you can't even sit up properly," Kero laughed and dipped the thermometer in a glass of water.
"Hey, I'm trying Kero," Sakura pouted helplessly.
"Yeah well, don't try too hard, your birthday is on Saturday," Kero reminded.
"Right," Sakura sighed. There was a moment of silence.
"What are you thinking of?" Kero asked noticing the silence.
"Li, I miss him," Sakura smiled.
"Sure, isn't he the one that made you sick?" Kero asked picking up two tablets from her night table.
"No, it wasn't his fault," Sakura argued.
"If you say so," Kero shrugged and popped the tablets into her mouth. "Here take it with the water," he said pointing to the other glass of water. Sakura just stared at him, like she was about to laugh.
"Hey, I can take your temperature and give you your medicine, but a glass of water is a little out of my league," Kero pouted. Sakura laughed a and drank the water.
"There, now go back to sleep," Kero yawned and dragged the blanket up to Sakura's chin.
"Thank you Kero," Sakura smiled and closed her eyes.
"Shh...rest now," Kero whispered and snuggled up beside her. Soon they were both asleep and didn't hear the door open downstairs.
________________________________________________________
"Oh hi Li, Madison," Mr. Kinomoto greeted the two at the door.
"Good afternoon Mr. Kinomoto," Li and Madison greeted.
"Oh please do come in," Mr. Kinomoto smiled and headed towards the kitchen.
"Is Sakura okay?" Li asked worriedly.
"Yes, I took the day off just to make sure," Mr. Kinomoto nodded.
"Can we go see her?" Madison asked eagerly.
"Yes, you can check if she's awake," Mr. Kinomoto pointed tpwards the stairs.
"Okay, thanks," Madison smiled adn walked towards Sakura's room.
"Aren't you going up with her Li?" Mr. Kinomoto asked in confusion.
"Not just yet, I was wondering if I could make some soup for Sakura," Li replied shyly.
"Oh I see, sure go ahead," Mr. Kinomoto smiled and moved aside.
"Thank you," Li nodded and gathered all the things he needed.
"I'm glad you brought some soup, I was just about to go out and buy some," Mr. Kinomoto sat down near the kitchen and began to talk to Li.
"Oh really? Well, I guess you're just in luck," Li smiled and began mixing the soup.
"Are you good at making soup Li?" Mr. Kinomoto asked in curiosity.
"Well, I don't know," Li scratched his head nervously.
"Aw now you're just being modest Li," Mr. Kinomoto laughed.
"Ha! Well Meilin seems to like my soup," Li laughed.
"Now there you go Li, no need to be nervous around me," Mr. Kinomoto patter Li on the shoulder.
"Oh I'm not nervous Sir," Li shook his head confidently.
"It's no use trying to fool me young man," Mr. Kinomoto continued to laugh.
"I suppose so," Li sighed in defeat.
"I think you're a good man Li, a very bright young man who knows his values," Mr. Kinomoto complimented. "And that's the type of guy that I want for Sakura," he added.
"Really Sir?" Li asked in shock.
"Yes," Mr. Kinomoto nodded. "I don't think you'd remember such a conversation but, do you remember when we last had a talk?" he asked.
"Oh yes Sir," Li nodded.
"I told you before that there would be no need of approval on my behalf, and don't ever worry about Tori," Mr. Kinomoto reminded.
"Yes I understand, he's just trying to be an older brother," Li shrugged.
"You're a very good kid Li, but why do you look disturbed?" Mr. Kinomtoto inquired. Li quickly looked at Mr. Kinomoto to see if he was serious. He was. Did he know?
"What do you mean Sir?" Li asked nervously.
"You seem to have something on your mind, just like you did the day we had that chat," Mr. Kinomoto asked very seriously.
"Well I don't know..." Li shook his head.
"Last time I asked you what was on you mind, you also didn't know what to say," Mr. Kinomoto began. "But eventually you told me how you felt about my daughter," he continued. Li looked up at him sadly. But they way Li stared into Mr. Kinomoto's eyes was like a son staring at a father. For advice. For guidence.
"Nothing has changed since then Li," Mr. Kinomoto finished. Li turned off the stove and poured the soup into a small bowl for Sakura. He turned around slowly to look at Mr. Kinomoto.
"I'm going back home," Li confessed. Mr. Kinomoto gasped for a moment and lowered his head sadly.
"I understand," Mr. Kinomoto sighed. "We'll miss you,"
__________________________________________________________
"Yeah he was staring out the window all day worrying about you Sakura," Madison laughed.
"Aw...I feel a little bad," Sakura smiled slightly.
"Yeah well not as bad as he felt, he thought it was all his fault that you were sick in the first place!" Madison informed.
"Oh I see why," Sakura nodded.
KNOCK! KNOCK!
"Come in," Sakura sat up in her bed. Li rushed into her room and quickly placed the bowl of soup on her night table. As soon as the bowl was placed on the table Li waved his hands around in the air for them to cool down.
"What's wrong Li?" Sakura asked worriedly.
"The mitts slipped when I was carrying the soup upstairs," Li replied in a high-pitched voice. The girls laughed.
"Hey, it really burns!" Li whined still fanning his hands.
"Here let me fix it," Sakura smiled. Li walked towards her and knelt beside her bed.
"What are you going to do?" Li asked worriedly.
"Give me your hands," Sakura grinned. Li did as he was told and gave both hands to Sakura. She placed a light kiss on each hand. Then one light kiss on his lips.
"Feeling better?" Sakura smiled.
"Is that a trick question?" Li asked teasingly. Sakura play punched him on the shoulder.
"Yeah, I feel better," Li laughed. Madison giggled at the kawaii sight.
"As much as I'd like to stay, I better get going," Madison smiled and waved to the couple.
"Thanks for visiting me Madison," Sakura thanked.
"No problem," Madison shrugged. "Li, Mission Impossible 2," she grinned and closed the door behind her. Li shook his head sadly knowing that the first impossible mission was telling Sakura how he felt, and now this new mission was telling her that he was leaving.
"What did she mean by that?" Sakura asked in confusion.
"I have no idea," Li lied. "Here, have some soup," he said changing the subject. Sakura sat up straight and tried to pick up the bowl.
"No let me get it," Li offered and quickly picked up the bowl and held it infront of her.
"Thank you Li," Sakura smiled and drank a spoonful of soup.
"Well, it's the least I can do for making you sick in the first place," Li sighed.
"Li, it's not your fault," Sakura shook her head.
"But if I didn't drag you out that night, you would be sick Sakura," Li slouched.
"But I had fun that night Li, with you," Sakura brought his head back up to look at her.
"You always know how to make things better don't you?" Li laughed.
"Well, not everything," Sakura smiled.
"Yeah, well, you fixed my hands," Li reminded waving his hands infront of her. Sakura laughed and kissed him.
"Well I better not kiss you too much, you might get sick and then I'll have to take care of you," Sakura laughed. Li then thought of his empty apartment. He couldn't let Sakura see that!
"Yes well then I won't let you come over," Li pouted.
"Why not?" Sakura asked in confusion. 'Is it that thing he's hiding from me again?' she thought.
"Uh..." Li mumbled. "Because...I...I have to be a man!" Li finally answered and began to show off his muscles. Sakura laughed uncontrollably as Li began to do different flexing poses. Sakura then jumped out of bed and pounced on Li.
"Hey! You're supposesd to be sick!" Li screamed in shock.
"Yes well, laughter is the best cure," Sakura crossed her arms proudly still ontop of Li.
"Oh really? Well then take this!" Li laughed and began to tickle Sakura.
"No! No! Li! Don't! Please!" Sakura begged between laughs.
"What? I'm curing you!" Li laughed still tickling Sakura.
"I'm cured! I'm cured!" Sakura continued to laugh uncontrollably.
"Okay okay, fine you win," Li shook his head and stopped tickling her.
"Your turn!" Sakura blurted out and tried to tickle Li. Buthe was too fast and caught her hands.
"What are you doing??" Li asked in shock.
"I'm trying to cure you!" Sakura replied still trying to tickled him.
"But I'm not sick!" Li pointed out still pushing her hands away from him.
"Yes you are! You're sick in the head!" Sakura laughed. Now they began wrestling eachother, with Li trying to push Sakura away, and Sakura trying to tickle Li. Finally the battle ended with Sakura as the winner who was now ontop of Li waving her arms around proudly.
"I win! I am the master!" Sakura crossed her arms confidently.
"I just let you win," Li sighed and put his arms behind his head.
"Sure you did," Sakura rolled off of him and crawled over to her bed.
"Okay enough," Li sighed and walked over to Sakura. He scooped her off her feet and carried her onto her bed. Li placed her on the bed gently and slowly put the covers up to her chin.
"Rest now, you don't want to have a relapse," Li whispered.
"But I'm okay Li, really!" Sakura insisted.
"Just rest, there is nothing to do anyway," Li laughed while picking up the small mess around the room. "I better get going now," he sighed after picking up all the mess.
"Alright," Sakura smiled. Li walked over to her and gave her a small peck on the lips.
"I hope to see you at school tomorrow," Li smiled placing some loose hair behind her ear. Sakura nodded and let go of his hand which she held firmly. Li slowly headed towards the door but stopped when Sakura called out his name.
"Thank you," Sakura finished. Li turned around and smiled.
"Good bye Sakura," Li smiled weakly and closed the door behind him. Sakura stared outside the window for a few moments and waited to hear the door close downstairs. When it finally did Sakura closed her eyes and slept peacefully.
~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~!~
Okay okay I hope you all enjoyed this chapter (despite the fact that it was totally weird) But I
just want all of you to know that when I wrote this I still had my writer's block with my, so I'm
very sorry. Oh and what took me so long to write it? Uh...I had exams about two weeks ago so yeah
I was busy. And I guess another reason why it's taking me so long to write my chapters is because
ALL my reviews were deleted in the chaptering process. And my reviews (you readers) is what inspires
and motivates me to write. Now that they're all deleted I feel all weird. And it's a shame too
because I had almost 600 reviews. I swear! But honestly, I hope you all enjoyed this chapter
because it's going to be the last "happy" chapter. If you know what I mean.
In the next chapter it's Sakura's birthday party! Oh joy! *waves a tiny white flag* but I really
don't have much to say without giving the chapter away. So I guess you'll have to read it youself.
Oh and the next chapter is kinda like the "last" chapter. Depending on how you look at it.